From Olhão: 7 Valleys Hiking, Benagil Cave, Snorkeling Tour

Planning a day along the Algarve coast? This 7 Valleys Hiking, Benagil Cave, and Snorkeling Tour promises a well-rounded experience filled with breathtaking scenery, cultural sights, and water adventures. While we haven’t done it ourselves, the detailed itinerary, the glowing reviews, and the value-packed price point make it sound like a memorable way to see some of Portugal’s most iconic coastal highlights.

What we really like about this tour is its combination of gentle hikes, stunning viewpoints, and time to unwind at one of the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches. Plus, the visit to the top of the Benagil Cave offers a unique vantage point that many visitors miss from sea level. The inclusion of snorkeling gear and free time at Marinha Beach adds a relaxed, personal touch. The only consideration? It’s a full day, so you’ll want to be prepared for a fair amount of walking and outdoor activity.

If you’re someone who loves mix-and-match experiences — nature, culture, and water fun — this tour is likely to suit you well. It’s ideal for travelers who want a guided, small-group experience that balances adventure with relaxation. However, those with mobility issues, young children, or non-swimmers should note some restrictions.

Good To Know

• Beautiful coastal scenery along the Algarve’s most famous cliffs and beaches.
• Expert-guided hikes and sightseeing ensure you get local insights along the trail.
• Iconic viewpoints, like the heart-shaped rock arch at Marinha Beach, are photographic highlights.
• Varied activities including hiking, sightseeing, swimming, and snorkeling add to the fun.
• Small group size (limited to 8 participants) provides a more personal experience.
• Value for money with transportation, guided tours, snorkeling gear, and free time included.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting in Olhão — The Gateway to Adventure

Your day kicks off in Olhão, a charming fishing town with a lively market and picturesque waterfront. The guide will meet you in front of the train station at 8:20 am, a practical starting point that’s easy to find. From here, you’ll hop into a comfortable air-conditioned van, ready to leave the town behind and head towards the coast.

Benagil Cave — A Geological Marvel with a View

Your first stop is at the top of the Benagil Cave, a natural wonder over 16 million years old. Unlike the typical boat or kayak tours, this vantage point offers spectacular views of the cave’s interior from above. The guide will share stories about its formation and regional geology, adding depth to your experience. Many reviews, like Charlie’s, mention that having a guide like Claire made this part especially enjoyable, blending storytelling with sightseeing.

The Seven Hanging Valleys — A Scenic Hiking Experience

Next, the tour takes you on a 1.5 km hike along the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail. This part is particularly appreciated by visitors because of the jaw-dropping views of cliffs, ocean, and lush greenery. The guide ensures you get the best photo opportunities and explains the flora and fauna that make this region so special. The trail, while easy enough for most, demands some walking, so comfortable footwear is a must.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Marinha Beach — Iconic Views and Free Time

The highlight here is the famous heart-shaped rock arch at Marinha Beach, one of the top beaches in the world, according to the Michelin Guide. The towering cliffs and clear waters make for stunning photos, and you’ll have around two hours to relax, swim, or snorkel. Reviewers like Charlie appreciated the free time, commenting on how peaceful and beautiful the beach was, especially with provided umbrellas for shade.

Snorkeling and Relaxation

Snorkeling gear is included, and many guests find this a key part of the tour. As one reviewer noted, they loved swimming in the tranquil waters, and having the equipment provided meant they didn’t need to worry about bringing their own. The water clarity allows for good underwater viewing, perfect for spotting small fish and marine life.

Senhora da Rocha Chapel — A Peaceful Ending

The tour wraps up with a visit to the Chapel of Senhora da Rocha, perched dramatically on the cliffs. This 16th-century chapel offers a quiet moment of reflection amid panoramic views of the coastline. It’s a lovely way to end a day filled with activity and natural beauty, especially for those interested in local history and scenic vistas.

Transportation and Practicalities

The tour includes roundtrip transportation in an air-conditioned van from Olhão, making the logistics smooth and comfortable. The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, with a flexible schedule that starts around 8:30 am (depending on availability). The small group size (up to 8 people) ensures personalized attention and a more intimate atmosphere.

Meeting points are convenient, with options from Olhão, Faro, and Tavira, depending on where you’re staying — a thoughtful touch for regional travelers. The guide speaks both English and Portuguese, which helps in making the experience accessible to many.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $63 per person is quite reasonable considering the inclusions: transportation, a guided hike, visit to Benagil Cave’s top, time at Marinha Beach with umbrellas, snorkeling masks, and a professional guide. Food and drinks are not included, so bringing a small snack and some cash for additional purchases makes sense.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Wear comfortable shoes for the hike and bring swimwear already on for swimming and snorkeling.
• A small backpack with essentials like water, snacks, and sunscreen is recommended.
• The tour isn’t suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or those with mobility or medical issues, according to the provider.
• Pets are welcome, which is a delightful extra for animal lovers.

Authentic Experiences from Previous Participants

Based on reviews, travelers appreciate the knowledgeability of the guides. Charlie mentions Claire, specifically, as fun, kind, and very well-informed, which elevated their experience. The guide’s storytelling and local insights add richness to the scenic stops, turning simple sightseeing into memorable moments.

Another guest describes everything as “really perfect and unforgettable,” emphasizing the smooth organization and beautiful scenery. These reviews suggest that the personal touch from guides enhances the overall experience, making each stop more meaningful.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for those who enjoy a blend of outdoor activity and relaxation, especially if you like scenic hikes and stunning coastlines. It’s well-suited for travelers who value small-group experiences and want a guide to navigate the logistics. If you’re into photography, the viewpoints and natural formations offer countless opportunities.

However, it might not be ideal if you have mobility issues or are not comfortable with walking or swimming. The tour’s duration and physical elements mean it’s best suited for active travelers with a moderate fitness level.

The Sum Up

This Olhão-based tour offers a compelling mix of coastal exploration, cultural sights, and water activities, all at a reasonable price point. The combination of guided hikes, scenic viewpoints, and free time at Marinha Beach means you can enjoy the Algarve’s natural beauty in a relaxed, organized manner.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides like Claire make the experience personal and engaging, perfect for travelers who want more than just sightseeing — they want stories, insights, and genuine moments. The visit to the Benagil Cave top view is an exclusive perspective not offered by many sea-based tours, adding a special touch.

If you’re after a balanced day that combines adventure with downtime, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially valuable for first-timers to the Algarve or those seeking a comprehensive taste of the region’s highlights in a single day.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes roundtrip transportation in an air-conditioned van from Olhão, with options from Faro or Tavira depending on booking.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, starting around 8:30 am, depending on availability.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, swimwear already on, a small backpack with water, snacks, a towel, and sunscreen. Umbrellas are provided at the beach.

Are children allowed?
Not suitable for children under 10 years, as the activities require a moderate level of mobility and stamina.

Can I bring my pet?
Yes, pets are welcome on this tour, which is a nice feature for animal lovers.

Is snorkeling gear provided?
Yes, snorkeling masks are included, allowing you to enjoy the clear waters at Marinha Beach.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

In short, this tour from Olhão stacks up as a fantastic way to experience the Algarve’s highlights in one day — combining scenic hikes, cultural sights, and beach relaxation. It’s a great pick for travelers seeking a well-organized, authentic adventure with a local guide.

You can check if your dates are available here: