BETWEEN THE HUMID MOORLANDS OF MINDELO AND THE SHADOWY SLOPES OF SINTRA, WHERE WATER COMES FROM SPRINGS AND SMALL PONDS, SOME OF PORTUGAL'S MOST CHARACTERISTIC AMPHIBIANS ARE HIDDEN. OBSERVING THESE ANIMALS REQUIRES PATIENCE, SILENCE AND A CAREFUL EYE.
For two to three days, we walked discreet trails and wetlands, always alert for subtle signs of the presence of newts, frogs, toads and salamanders. Both the Mindelo Ornithological Reserve, with its temporary lagoon systems, and the dense, shady forests of Sintra, offer ideal conditions for magical encounters with amphibian life. These outings combine behavioral observation, species identification, and techniques to minimize disturbance to sensitive habitats. Ideal for those who want to learn more about Portuguese amphibians, develop night observation skills and explore natural environments of great biological richness.
Species to observe
Vila do Conde: Natterjack toad, iberian common toad, Iberian spadefoot toad, Iberian painted frog, fire salamander, bosca's newt, common parsley frog, marbled newt, palmate newt and midwife toad.
Sintra: Common toad, Lusitanian newt, Iberian ribbed newt, fire salamander, boca's newt, common parsley frog, southern marbled newt.
See program
Our destinations
Vila do Conde
Sintra

Diogo Oliveira
Trip Leader
+351 918 134 170
(Call to national mobile network)

ONWILD leader accompaniment throughout the trip;
Travel between program points;
Activities and visits described in the program;
Insurance.
INCLUDED:
Travel to the starting point;
Accommodation throughout the program;
Food throughout the program;
Personal insurance;
Unspecified activities;
Personal extras.
EXCLUDED:
TOUR SUMMARY
Destination
Vila do Conde
Sintra
Best time of the year
October to April
Duration
1 to 3 days
Participants
Min: 1 | Max: 3
Language
Portuguese and English
Physical Demand Level
Average
Tour Type
Observation
Interests
Amphibians
Not Included
Flights
Not Included
Stays
Included between program points
Travels
Why choose ONWILD
Choosing ONWILD for your wildlife watching tours in Portugal means ensuring an experience guided by experienced biologists who are passionate about biodiversity. Our tours take place in some of the best hotspots in the country, always with an ethical, educational and respectful approach to nature. In addition to species identification, we share interesting facts, behaviors and ecological context, providing a complete experience for both beginners and more experienced observers.
Trust us to guide you through the most biodiversity-rich corners and experience unique moments in contact with nature. Book your tour now and come and discover the best of the natural world in Portugal.
Necessary Equipment
The participant must come properly prepared, including:
FAQs
OTHER OBSERVATION TOURS
GET TO KNOW ME BETTER
About Diogo Oliveira
My name is Diogo Oliveira, I am a wildlife photographer, biologist, writer, speaker and environmental educator based in Portugal. Graduated in Biology from the Instituto Superior de Agronomia and Master in Conservation Biology from the University of Évora. I spend a lot of my time photographing the most fantastic animals. I have visited several countries and have collaborated with large companies, brands, NGOs and travel agencies. I like playing tennis, building Lego, watching movies and series, and I'm a big fan of Star Wars.