Is wild camping allowed in Portugal? And what´s the best approach? We'll give you all the important information on wild camping in Portugal!
Portugal’s landscape is made for camping. Over 1000 kilometres of coastline and beautiful beaches attract more and more campers and tourists every year. In our imagination we only need to open the rear door of our camper and we're already looking directly at the sea. That's what freedom feels like. But is that actually allowed? We have compiled all the important facts about wild camping in Portugal for you!
What's the law on wild camping in Portugal?
Unfortunately, it has to be said right away that Portugal is not one of those countries where you can pitch your tent anywhere without any problems. However, there are also grey areas and tips that we would like to tell you more about.
Until 2021, standing in the wilderness was often only punishable by fines of 50€ or a dismissal. This is no longer the case with the changes to the new road traffic regulations. The reasons for this are obvious: especially in the high season the unofficial pitches from the Algarve to Porto are often full of rubbish carelessly left lying around by campers.
The regulation states that it is forbidden to stay in caravans or motorhomes between 9pm and 7am. Violations of the current rules are now subject to fines of up to €500. This is particularly expensive if you are staying in nature reserves or in areas designated as POOCs (coastal regions). These make up to a third of Portugal’s surface area. In addition, there are cities where there's a general parking ban for campervans. In such cases, you can expect a fine of up to €2000 which is unfortunately very common within Europe.
All designated nature reserves and coastal regions can be found here! You should avoid these especially in the high season.
But there's also good news: since 18 July 2021, following an amendment to Articles 48 and 50a of the StVO it is once again permitted to stay at a site with a camper or motorhome for up to 48 hours and of course to spend the night there. However, you should not necessarily choose sites in nature reserves or the POOC coastal region as there are many wild campers and they're often turned away by the authorities. So instead of beaches look for car parks or a nice place in the hinterland.
Of course, choosing the right campsites or the right region is crucial. While in the south of the country or in tourist areas such as Lisbon you can expect more frequent checks, the further north or inland you go the less problematic it becomes.
However, it's better to avoid beaches due to the protected zones as these are ususally strictly controlled. In general, it is advisable to set up a camp that is as inconspicuous as possible so as to not give the impression that you're planning to stay there for a longer period of time.
If you have concerns about camping or don’t want to take any risks you can of course visit private campsites in addition to the large official campsites. There are several of these and apps and websites on which private individuals offer their land for camping are becoming increasingly popular.
Moreover, the Portuguese are very camper-friendly people. So if you find a great spot on your route it’s best to ask the owner of the property. With a bit of luck you’ll find a campsite with an ideal location without having to worry about a potential ticket.
What do I have to watch out for when wild camping?
Wild camping is a real adventure. Travel to the most remote places possible and enjoy having nature all to yourself. This is certainly a dream come true for many people but for some it may raises concerns about the safety of the venture.
So is camping in Portugal dangerous? The answer is clearly no. Worries about robberies are unfounded. The only thing to be wary of is theft especially in towns and cities but this is advisable for pretty much all trips.
Wild animals are also rare in Portugal. When wild camping in dry areas sturdy shoes are a must to protect yourself from snakes or spiders. You should also watch out for jellyfish in the water and avoid touching them as this can be quite painful.
Otherwise, just enjoy the beautiful nature the country has to offer! And to make sure it stays that way we are particularly keen to appeal to your green thumb. Especially as a wild camper you should always make sure that you leave the campsite on your route exactly as you found it and take your rubbish with you.
How do I behave correctly when wild camping?
Most of us camp for the love of nature and the incomparable feeling of freedom. Unfortunately, in many cases this harms both nature and the local economy. Here are a few tips that you should keep in mind when wild camping.
Leave the place as clean as you found it!
Be careful not to disturb animals and nature through noise or fire!
Dispose of gray water at designated stations!
Be considerate of residents and fellow campers!
Support the local tourism and give back to your vacation destination!
Conclusion on wild camping in Portugal
It's difficult to give a clear assessment of wild camping in Portugal. The law is too complex for that and a fine of several hundred euros can easily ruin your holiday mood. However, if you're careful and follow all the tips for camping in your dream destination Portugal you're definitely on the right track to a relaxing holiday away from all the hustle and bustle.
