Lagos: Guided Walking Tour with Brodie from Australia

If you’re visiting Lagos in Portugal and want a meaningful introduction to this charming town, a guided walking tour led by Brodie, an Aussie expat, might just be your best bet. This 2-hour stroll offers a well-balanced mix of history, local stories, and cultural insights—all at a friendly price of just $17 per person.

What makes this tour stand out is Brodie’s personable approach and depth of knowledge. We really appreciated how he shares authentic stories that go beyond the typical tourist fare. A small group setting means lots of opportunities for questions and personalized tips, which adds real value. That said, the tour involves a moderate amount of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.

This experience suits travelers who love a mix of history and culture, and who enjoy exploring on foot while soaking up local flavor. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just curious about Lagos’s past, Brodie’s guided walk offers an engaging and accessible way to get acquainted with the city.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Insight: Brodie’s perspective as an expat adds a unique, friendly touch.
• History and Stories: Learn about major events like the Great Earthquake, the Caravel, and the Transatlantic Slave Trade.
• Cultural Exposure: Discover Portuguese food, language, and hidden gems in Lagos.
• Personalized Tips: Receive tailored suggestions for restaurants and places of interest.
• Small Group Experience: Usually limited to 6 people, creating a relaxed atmosphere.
• Affordable Value: At $17, it’s a budget-friendly way to explore Lagos with a knowledgeable guide.

The Details of the Tour

Starting Point and Orientation

The tour kicks off outside Jah Shaka surf shop, conveniently located next to 3 Monkeys Bar on Rua Cândido dos Reis. This central location makes it easy to find, and it sets the tone for a lively, friendly walk through Lagos’s historic streets.

What You’ll See and Learn

From the start, Brodie greets you with a welcoming vibe that makes small groups feel intimate. Over the next two hours, you’ll stroll through significant landmarks and hear stories that breathe life into the town’s past.

Historical Highlights: Brodie shares insights about the Great Earthquake, which devastated Lagos in 1755, transforming its architecture and urban landscape. Expect vivid descriptions of how the city rebuilt itself afterward. You’ll also learn about the Caravel, the Portuguese ship that played a pivotal role in exploration, with Brodie providing context about Portugal’s Age of Discoveries.

Explorers and Figures: The tour introduces key players like Prince Henry, the Navigator, and Dom Sebastião, whose reigns and legends are woven into Lagos’s history. These stories are not only educational but also engaging, making history feel alive rather than dry dates and facts.

Dark Chapters: Brodie doesn’t shy away from the tougher parts of history. You’ll hear about the Transatlantic Slave Trade, understanding its impact on Lagos and the broader Atlantic world. Reviewers appreciated this honest approach that adds depth to the experience.

Cultural and Local Flavors

One highlight is the cultural perspective Brodie offers. He shares stories about Portuguese explorers’ adventures and their influence on Brazil, which many visitors find fascinating. The tour also includes a taste of Portuguese food and drink, with a market visit where you get to sample local products.

Language Lesson: Brodie teaches more than 1,000 Portuguese words—fun and practical, especially if you’re planning to stay longer. You’ll leave with a handful of useful phrases that can enrich your interactions.

Hidden Gems: A real standout is the mention of lesser-known sites like the Bone Chapel, which Brodie recommends returning to after the tour. Small details like this are the kind of local knowledge that can turn an ordinary trip into a memorable adventure.

Ending at Praia da Batata

The tour concludes above the stunning Praia da Batata, offering a fantastic photo op and a chance to relax after walking through the town’s streets. From here, you can easily transition to other activities or grab a meal.

What’s Included and What to Consider

For $17, this tour provides excellent value. It includes a guided walk, historic and cultural stories, Portuguese language snippets, and a sweet Língua de Veado biscuit. Plus, you’ll get personalized tips for your stay—ideal for planning your next days in Lagos.

It’s worth noting that food and drinks aren’t included, so you might want to bring some cash if you want to sample local cuisine during the market visit or after the tour. Transportation to the start location is also not covered, so plan to arrive a few minutes early.

The Experience from Tour Reviews

Multiple reviewers mention Brodie’s friendly and relaxed style, which makes the walk enjoyable and informative. Julie praises Brodie’s knowledge and fun approach, while Karen highlights how he shares local restaurant tips and fascinating stories about Portugal’s explorers and history, including darker topics like slavery.

Beth complements Brodie’s ability to hit all the highlights without rushing, describing him as a guide who sets a good pace and makes learning fun. The small group size seems to enhance the experience, making it feel more personalized and less touristy.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This walk is perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, low-cost introduction to Lagos. History buffs will appreciate Brodie’s storytelling and insights into Portugal’s maritime past. Foodies and cultural explorers will enjoy the market taste test and language lessons.

It’s especially good for those who prefer walking over large bus tours, as it allows for a flexible, intimate experience. If you’re traveling on a budget but want a meaningful way to connect with Lagos, this tour hits the mark.

Practicalities and Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes for a moderate walk around the old town and along the beaches.
• Arrive a few minutes early at the meeting point to ensure a smooth start.
• Bring some cash for additional snacks or drinks after the tour.
• The tour is in English, making it accessible to most travelers.
• Check availability ahead of time, as starting times can vary.
• The tour is cancelable up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering peace of mind if your plans change.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, covering key sights and stories of Lagos.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside Jah Shaka surf shop on Rua Cândido dos Reis and concludes at Praia da Batata.

Is there food included?
No, but a market visit allows you to taste local Portuguese products, and Brodie shares recommendations for restaurants afterward.

Do I need to prepare anything?
Comfortable walking shoes are essential, and bringing a bit of cash can be handy for extras.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight Brodie’s deep knowledge and relaxed style, making the history engaging and accessible.

Can I learn Portuguese during the tour?
Absolutely; Brodie teaches over 1,000 Portuguese words, making it a fun language snippet session.

How much does it cost?
The tour is priced at $17 per person, offering excellent value for the depth and quality of the experience.

Final Thoughts

This guided walking tour with Brodie offers a genuinely informative and enjoyable way to start your exploration of Lagos. The combination of history, culture, and local tips makes it especially suited for travelers who want a deeper understanding of the city beyond surface-level sightseeing.

You’ll appreciate the relaxed, personable style of Brodie, who makes history come alive with stories and insights that are both educational and entertaining. The small group setting enhances the feeling of discovery and makes it easier to ask questions or get personalized recommendations.

For anyone curious about Lagos’s past—its explorers, dark chapters, and lively present—this tour provides a fantastic foundation. It’s a budget-friendly option that adds meaningful context, taste, and local flavor to your trip.

In summary, if you value authentic stories, engaging guides, and a chance to get your bearings in Lagos, Brodie’s tour is a smart choice. It’s particularly ideal for first-timers, history enthusiasts, and those looking for a friendly, informal introduction. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring your curiosity along for the ride.