Benagil Cave 2025: Essential Guidelines, Tips, and Top Tour Options

What is Benagil Cave?

Benagil Cave is the Algarve’s most famous sea cave, renowned for its impressive domed ceiling adorned with a natural skylight. Inside, visitors are treated to a golden sand beach, layers of sandstone walls, and stunning turquoise waters, presenting a mesmerizing dance of light and color.

Located in the quaint village of Benagil, the cave is easily accessible from popular towns like Carvoeiro and Portimão. Numerous boat tours depart from Portimão, offering a convenient way for visitors to explore the Algarve’s picturesque coastline. Moreover, it is situated along the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail, a renowned hiking path in the Algarve.

The Seven Hanging Valleys Trail is a 5.7km hike leading from Praia da Marinha to Vale Centeanes, with Benagil Cave positioned centrally in the small village of Benagil. Additionally, a parking area nearby ensures visitors can reach the cave effortlessly, even if they decide not to hike the entire trail.

Previously, visitors could swim or kayak from the village of Benagil to Benagil Beach; however, this is no longer permitted unless joining a guided tour.

New Rules and Regulations for Benagil Cave

To protect Benagil Cave, local authorities have implemented new measures. As a protected natural wonder experiencing increased tourism, preserving its integrity became paramount. Incidents of capsizing boats and overcrowded beaches prompted these necessary changes. Thus, limiting boat access is essential to ensure the cave’s preservation for future generations.

• Limited Access: To manage tourist flow and mitigate environmental impact, access to the caves is now restricted. It is crucial to book your tour in advance, especially during the peak season from June to September.
• Guided Tours Only: Independent kayaking and swimming are no longer permitted for safety considerations. All visits must be part of an organized boat tour with licensed operators.
• Environmental Fee: A small environmental fee is included in the tour price, supporting conservation efforts and maintaining the cave’s natural beauty.

Is Benagil Cave Open in 2024?

Yes, Benagil Cave will be open for visitors in 2024. Nevertheless, due to the new regulations aimed at ensuring visitor safety, access is only permitted through organized boat tours with licensed operators. These regulations are designed to manage tourist numbers and reduce environmental footprints.

During our visit, we noticed that the waters were quite chaotic, with kayaks capsizing and boats hurriedly waiting to enter the caves. Entering Benagil Cave was a brief experience, stretching only three to four minutes. However, our boat tour along the Algarve coast was truly delightful, showcasing stunning sea caves, arches, and soaring limestone cliffs, affirming that it ranks among the world’s most spectacular coastal regions.

Can you swim in Benagil Cave?

As per the new regulations, independent kayakers, swimming, and landing on the beach are no longer allowed. Nonetheless, organized kayaking tours remain available. We came across one tour claiming to facilitate swimming within Benagil Cave. While this information is intriguing, it is essential to verify as similar claims can often change.

This tour asserts to be the only one offering a swim in Benagil Cave. During our visit, however, no one was permitted to access Benagil Beach, making such claims questionable. Nonetheless, as things evolve, this tour may present unique opportunities, so staying informed is advisable.

Currently, Portugal Tourism is deliberating on solidifying the navigation rules surrounding Benagil Cave. Hence, booking an organized tour is the best suggestion, prioritizing safety and compliance with regulations, particularly given the hazardous conditions caused by strong currents and boat traffic near the caves.

How to Visit Benagil Cave

Our method of visiting Benagil Cave was through a boat tour, which has become the only viable option since the regulation changes. In 2024, it has been rumored that motorboats may be restricted, while others suggest that kayaks and stand-up paddleboards may also be affected. During our visit last season, both kayaking and SUPs were banned due to safety concerns.

We observed a few kayakers capsize in neighboring sea caves, highlighting the chaos that can ensue when touring without proper oversight. Therefore, the most prudent advice we can provide is to book an organized tour with licensed operators to comply with regulations and ensure a guided experience.

Given the businesses’ interests, it’s likely that motorboat tours will become more prevalent. These tours set off from various nearby locations like Carvoeiro and Portimão, conveniently integrating this natural marvel into tourists’ Algarve itineraries. Furthermore, motorboats are easier to navigate and police. We will keep you updated with any further information.

Can you Visit Benagil Cave by Land?

Currently, visiting Benagil Cave by land is not an option; its accessibility is restricted to sea routes. Nonetheless, if one wishes to view Benagil Cave from an elevated perspective, the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail offers scenic overlooks. Visitors cannot physically enter the cave from above, but they can peer down through the domed ceiling. Although there are barriers obstructing close proximity, the hike remains a beautiful endeavor.

During our visit, we noticed numerous individuals bypassing barriers for Instagram opportunities, which we strongly discourage due to the potential dangers and substantial fines involved.

Getting To Benagil Cave

By Boat Tour: As of October 2023, the only way to visit Benagil Caves is via boat tour. Various tours depart from locations along the Algarve coast, such as Benagil Beach, Carvoeiro, and Portimão.

Our Tour of Benagil Cave

We arranged our Benagil Cave boat tour through our hotel, The Tivoli Carvoeiro. Commencing our journey on the Arade River, we embarked on a zodiac tour that culminated in the Atlantic Ocean, passing through Portimão where we encountered the picturesque fishing village of Ferragudo, recognized among the 20 most beautiful villages in Portugal, and the Fort of S. João do Arade, a historic structure dating back to the 19th century.

The excursion encompassed numerous highlights, including iconic Algarve beaches like Praia da Rocha, Praia Grande, Carvoeiro, and Vale de Covo, situated directly in front of our hotel, concluding with the breathtaking Algar de Benagil. For the best views, securing a spot at the front of the boat is highly recommended. You can book a similar tour here.

We opted for the earliest morning tour starting at 10 am, arriving at Benagil around 11 am, which allowed us to enjoy the optimal lighting inside the cave.

Helpful Tips to Visit Benagil Cave

• Book in Advance: With the new restrictions around Benagil Caves, securing your tour in advance is imperative. Online bookings significantly enhance convenience.
• Choose a Small Boat: We opted for a small zodiac tour accommodating 18 passengers. Larger boats struggle to navigate the caves, so aiming for the front seats provides a superior experience.
• Choose the Right Time: Early morning tours generally have fewer crowds and the best lighting conditions for photography. Sunset options also offer magical views, with golden light filling the cave’s interior. Tides can influence entry; however, Benagil Cave is typically accessible at any time.
• What to Bring: Pack light but don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, hats, and waterproof cameras. Some tours may provide life jackets and waterproof bags, so it’s wise to confirm before departure.
• Photography: We utilized a GoPro while visiting Benagil Caves, complemented by a Sony A1 camera. Traveling via speedboat kept our equipment safe and dry, though packing a dry bag for splashes is advised.
• Stay Safe: Adhere to your guides’ instructions, don life jackets, and respect the natural environment. Swimming around the caves can pose dangers due to strong currents and boat traffic.
• Explore Nearby: After your tour, consider exploring the surrounding regions. The Algarve coast features charming villages, stunning beaches, and exceptional seafood establishments.

Should you Visit Benagil Cave in 2024?

Absolutely! A visit to Benagil Caves presents an unforgettable experience and is well worth the journey. The Algarve Coast, with its majestic sea cliffs, captivating sea caves, and limestone arches, offers stunning visuals and a remarkable boat trip. Traveling from Portimão to Praia da Marinha ranks among the most breathtaking maritime outings we’ve encountered.

With new regulations in place, responsible and sustainable experiences can be enjoyed while visiting this natural wonder. Whether you’re a nature lover, an avid photographer, or in search of adventure, the Benagil Caves are a destination worth exploring. Therefore, prepare your essentials and embark on an unforgettable journey through the enchanting Benagil Caves!