HIKE: Jurassic Dinosaur Trail Walking Tour at Cabo Espichel

Set out on a captivating journey through time at the Jurassic Dinosaur Trail in Cabo Espichel, Portugal. This 3.5 to 5-hour walking tour offers visitors a chance to explore 160-million-year-old dinosaur footprints and soak in the breathtaking coastal views. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour includes hotel pickup, a cheese and bread tasting, and an easy difficulty level suitable for children 4 and up. Uncover the paleontological heritage of the region and prepare to be awed by the sheer scale of the past preserved in these remarkable footprints. But the trail holds more secrets waiting to be discovered.

Key Points

• A 3.5 to 5 hour guided tour at Cabo Espichel, Portugal that explores 160-million-year-old dinosaur footprints embedded in the Pedra da Mua natural monument.
• The tour includes hotel pickup/drop-off, cheese/bread tasting, bottled water, and a local guide, and is suitable for children 4 and up.
• Highlights of the tour include breathtaking views of the Cabo Espichel promontory and the option to visit the Santuario de Nossa Senhora do Cabo Espichel.
• Guests can examine the intricate details of the fossilized dinosaur footprints and stand within the footprints of ancient giants, connecting with paleontological heritage.
• The tour is rated as an easy, level 1 difficulty and includes a 2-hour guided hike to the Monumento Natural da Pedra da Mua and a 20-minute photo stop at Praia dos Lagosteiros.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Jurassic Dinosaur Trail

The Jurassic Dinosaur Trail Walking Tour at Cabo Espichel, Portugal offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore 160-million-year-old fossilized dinosaur footprints and marvel at the breathtaking views of Cape Espichel.

Lasting 3.5 to 5 hours, the tour costs from $71.85 per person and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a cheese and bread tasting, bottled water, and a local guide.

Highlights of the tour include the Monumento Natural da Pedra da Mua, a 2-hour guided hike, and an optional visit to the Santuario de Nossa Senhora do Cabo Espichel.

Suitable for children ages 4 and up, the tour is rated as an easy, level 1 difficulty, making it accessible to most visitors.

Discovering 160-Million-Year-Old Dinosaur Footprints

Visitors on the Jurassic Dinosaur Trail Walking Tour at Cabo Espichel can marvel at the impressive, 160-million-year-old fossilized dinosaur footprints embedded within the natural monument of Pedra da Mua.

These ancient trackways offer a rare glimpse into the prehistoric past, preserving the movements of long-extinct creatures that once roamed the region.

As the guided hike progresses, guests can examine the intricate details of the footprints, learning about the different types of dinosaurs that left their mark on this remarkable geological site.

The opportunity to stand within the very footprints of these ancient giants is both awe-inspiring and humbling, allowing visitors to connect with the rich paleontological heritage of Cabo Espichel.

Breathtaking Views of Cape Espichel

Along the Jurassic Dinosaur Trail, hikers can’t help but be captivated by the breathtaking views of Cape Espichel, a dramatic coastal promontory that juts out into the Atlantic Ocean.

The rugged cliffs and sheer drop-offs offer a stunning panorama, with the deep blue waters of the ocean stretching out to the horizon. On a clear day, visitors can see as far as the Arrábida Mountains in the distance.

It’s a truly awe-inspiring sight that leaves a lasting impression on all who experience it. The hike along the Jurassic Dinosaur Trail provides the perfect vantage point to soak in the natural beauty of this remarkable landscape.

Savoring Local Bread and Cheese

Midway through the Jurassic Dinosaur Trail, hikers can savor local bread and cheese within a fossilized dinosaur footprint, providing a unique and memorable dining experience amidst the ancient landscape. As the group gathers around the massive imprint, the tour guide shares details about the Jurassic period inhabitants that left their mark millions of years ago. The opportunity to indulge in traditional Portuguese delicacies in such a setting adds a touch of wonder to the adventure. Hikers can enjoy the following local treats:

Item	Description
Bread	Freshly baked artisanal loaf from a nearby bakery
Cheese	Creamy, tangy cheese made by local producers
Wine	Optional pairing of a crisp, regional white wine
Olives	Briny, flavorful olives sourced from nearby groves
Fruit	Sweet, seasonal fruit to cleanse the palate

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Itinerary and Pickup Locations

The Jurassic Dinosaur Trail Walking Tour at Cabo Espichel begins with pickup from four convenient locations in the Sesimbra District, ensuring a seamless start to the adventure.

From there, the tour proceeds to the following highlights:

• A 2-hour guided hike to the Monumento Natural da Pedra da Mua to discover the 160-million-year-old fossilized dinosaur footprints.

• A 20-minute photo stop, visit, and optional swimming at the Praia dos Lagosteiros.

• An optional 15-minute visit to the Santuario de Nossa Senhora do Cabo Espichel for a photo stop, guided tour, and free time.

After the tour, guests are dropped off at the same four locations in the Sesimbra District, completing the immersive Jurassic journey.

Monumento Natural Da Pedra Da Mua

One of the highlights of the Jurassic Dinosaur Trail Walking Tour is the 2-hour guided hike to the Monumento Natural da Pedra da Mua, where visitors can discover the impressive 160-million-year-old fossilized dinosaur footprints. This natural monument offers a glimpse into the prehistoric past, with the well-preserved footprints providing a unique opportunity to connect with the ancient creatures that once roamed the area. During the hike, the knowledgeable local guide will share fascinating insights into the geological and paleontological significance of the site, enriching the overall experience.

Feature	Details
Location	Monumento Natural da Pedra da Mua
Highlights	160-million-year-old fossilized dinosaur footprints
Duration	2-hour guided hike
Guide	Knowledgeable local guide
Experience	Glimpse into the prehistoric past

Praia Dos Lagosteiros and Optional Swimming

After exploring the impressive dinosaur footprints at Monumento Natural da Pedra da Mua, the tour takes visitors to the stunning Praia dos Lagosteiros, where they can enjoy a 20-minute photo stop, leisurely visit, and optional swimming.

Praia dos Lagosteiros offers breathtaking views of the rugged cliffs and turquoise waters of Cape Espichel.

Visitors have the opportunity to spot local marine life, like crabs and seabirds.

Whether you choose to take a quick swim or simply soak in the serene atmosphere, Praia dos Lagosteiros provides a beautiful respite from the Jurassic wonders of the trail.

Santuario De Nossa Senhora Do Cabo Espichel

Following the visit to Praia dos Lagosteiros, the tour often includes an optional stop at the Santuario de Nossa Senhora do Cabo Espichel, a 15th-century sanctuary perched atop the dramatic cliffs of Cape Espichel.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the sanctuary, admiring its unique architectural features and learning about its rich history. The sanctuary offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding landscape, providing a peaceful respite from the hike.

After the guided tour, guests have some free time to explore the sanctuary and its grounds at their own pace. This optional stop allows travelers to enjoy the region’s cultural and historical heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Should I Wear for the Hike?

For the hike, one should wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good traction. Layered, breathable clothing is recommended, as the weather can be variable. Bringing sun protection like a hat and sunscreen is also advised.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drink?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drink for the hike. The tour includes bottled water, but you’re welcome to pack additional snacks or beverages to enjoy during the trail exploration and at the scenic spots.

Are There Any Restrooms or Facilities Along the Trail?

Yes, there are restroom facilities available along the trail. The tour includes several stops, and visitors will have the opportunity to use the facilities at these locations during the hike.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?

The tour provides all the necessary hiking equipment, so hikers don’t need to bring any special equipment. However, they may want to wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and bring sun protection and a small snack or water.

Is There a Difficulty Level for Different Parts of the Trail?

The tour has an overall difficulty level of easy, but there may be some more challenging sections along the trail. The tour operator can provide guidance on any areas that require extra caution or have different difficulty levels.

Recap

The Jurassic Dinosaur Trail at Cabo Espichel offers an unforgettable guided tour that transports visitors back in time to explore 160-million-year-old dinosaur footprints.

With stunning coastal views, a bread and cheese tasting, and suitability for all ages, this tour provides an awe-inspiring connection to the region’s rich paleontological heritage, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique and educational outdoor adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: