Exploring the spiritual legacy of the Virgin Mary’s apparitions in Fatima, Portugal, the 5-hour Fatima Sanctuary and Little Shepherds Village tour offers visitors a captivating journey. Through the eyes of the three young visionaries, Lucia, Jacinta, and Francisco, this immersive experience delves into the profound impact of the 1917 visions. From the serene Basilica to the intimate Chapel of the Apparitions, the tour weaves together the history, legends, and enduring significance of this hallowed site. But the true essence of the pilgrimage lies in discovering the charming Little Shepherds Village, where one can’t help but ponder the timeless messages conveyed by the Blessed Mother.
Key Points
- This 5-hour private tour takes visitors to the Fatima Sanctuary and the Little Shepherds Village, providing insights into the history and legends of the Virgin Mary’s apparitions.
- The tour includes complimentary pickup from central Lisbon, transportation in a luxury tourist vehicle, and a private driver/guide for a personalized experience.
- Visitors can explore the Basilica of Our Lady of Fatima, the Chapel of the Apparitions, and the homes of the child visionaries at the Little Shepherds Village.
- The tour offers an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the spiritual significance of the Fatima apparitions and the daily lives of the visionaries.
- The tour accommodates a maximum of 8 participants, ensuring an intimate exploration, and provides complimentary water during the tour.
Tour Details
The tour starts from £297.25 per group up to 2 people and lasts for 5 hours.
Pickup is included from central Lisbon, either from the hotel or cruise terminal, and the tour is private. This allows visitors to enjoy the sacred place of Fatima at their own pace.
During the tour, they’ll learn about the apparitions of the Virgin Mary and visit all the important sites in the area. The tour includes a private driver/guide and a tourist luxury vehicle, as well as complimentary water.
While food, drinks, and gratuities are excluded, the tour caps at 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience. Infant seats are available upon request, though baggage is limited to one suitcase and a small carry-on per person.
Highlights of the Day
During the tour, visitors will submerge in the sacred place of Fatima, learning about the apparitions of the Virgin Mary and exploring all the important sites in the area.
At the Sanctuary of Fatima, they’ll witness the stunning Basilica and the Chapel of the Apparitions, where pilgrims have flocked for decades.
The tour also includes a visit to the Little Shepherds Village, where the visionaries Lucia, Jacinta, and Francisco had their life-changing encounters with the Virgin Mary. Guests will walk the same paths the children did, gaining a deeper understanding of the profound spiritual significance of this hallowed ground.
Throughout the experience, the knowledgeable guide will provide insightful commentary, bringing the history and legends of Fatima vividly to life.
Pickup and Transportation
For this private tour, the provider offers complimentary pickup from central Lisbon locations, including hotels and cruise terminals.
Guests can then sit back and relax in the comfort of the luxury tourist vehicle as they’re transported to the sacred sites of Fatima.
The tour includes a private driver/guide who’ll ensure a seamless and personalized experience. The vehicle is equipped with water for guests, and the pickup and drop-off service makes the tour hassle-free.
With a maximum of 8 participants, this tour offers an intimate and immersive exploration of Fatima’s spiritual highlights. The transportation arrangements cater to the needs of all travelers, including those with infants who can request car seats.
Important Sites in Fatima
This tour immerses visitors in the sacred places of Fatima, where the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to three shepherd children in 1917. Guests will have the opportunity to explore the Fatima Sanctuary, the heart of this religious pilgrimage site, and learn about the profound spiritual significance of the apparitions and the subsequent devotion that has drawn millions of pilgrims over the decades.
The tour also includes a visit to the Little Shepherds Village, where the visionaries Lucia, Jacinta, and Francisco lived. Here, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the lives and experiences of these extraordinary children who played a central role in the Fatima apparitions.
| Site | Significance |
|---|---|
| Fatima Sanctuary | The site of the Virgin Mary’s apparitions, featuring the Basilica of Our Lady of Fatima and the Chapel of the Apparitions. |
| Little Shepherds Village | The humble homes and environment where the three shepherd children lived and experienced the visions. |
| Aljustrel | The village where Lucia, Jacinta, and Francisco were born and raised, offering insights into their daily lives. |
Apparitions of the Virgin Mary
According to the historical accounts, the Virgin Mary is said to have appeared to three shepherd children – Lucia, Jacinta, and Francisco – in the town of Fatima, Portugal, over the course of several months in 1917.
These celestial visions, known as the Fatima apparitions, are believed to have imparted profound spiritual messages and revealed miraculous signs that have captivated the faithful for generations.
The children reported seeing the Virgin Mary on the 13th of each month from May to October, during which she shared warnings, secrets, and requests for prayer and penance.
These apparitions culminated in the ‘Miracle of the Sun‘ on October 13th, when tens of thousands witnessed the sun appear to dance in the sky.
Visiting the Little Shepherds Village
After exploring the profound spiritual significance of the Fatima apparitions, visitors can enjoy the tranquil setting of the Little Shepherds Village. This quaint and picturesque area pays homage to the three child visionaries – Lucia, Jacinta, and Francisco – who witnessed the Virgin Mary’s celestial manifestations.
Travellers can wander through the charming streets, visit the humble homes where the seers once lived, and gain a deeper understanding of the local culture and traditions that have endured since the miraculous events of 1917.
The highlights of the Little Shepherds Village include:
- The Cabeco, the hill where the children tended their sheep and encountered the Virgin Mary.
- The Basilica of Our Lady of the Rosary, a stunning architectural gem that stands as a testament to the enduring faith of the pilgrims.
- The Centro Pastoral Paulo VI, a modern interpretation centre that provides visitors with a rundown of the Fatima story.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour includes a private driver/guide and a luxury vehicle for transportation, along with complimentary water for participants.
However, food, drinks, and gratuities are excluded from the package. This allows for greater flexibility, as guests can choose to explore the local cuisine and shops at their own pace.
The tour is limited to a maximum of 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience. Infant seats are available upon request, making the tour suitable for families.
With luggage limited to one suitcase and a small carry-on bag per person, the tour is designed for convenience and comfort.
Tour Policies and Guidelines
To ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience, the tour adheres to several policies and guidelines. Participants can expect a maximum group size of 8 individuals, allowing for a more personalized and intimate exploration of the Fatima Sanctuary and Little Shepherds Village.
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and infant seats are available upon request, catering to the needs of families. Plus, luggage is limited to one suitcase and a small carry-on bag per person, promoting convenience and comfort throughout the tour.
The key tour policies and guidelines include:
- Maximum group size of 8 participants
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Luggage limited to one suitcase and a small carry-on bag per person
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Modify the Tour Itinerary to Visit Additional Sites?
Yes, the tour itinerary can be modified to visit additional sites. The tour operator is generally flexible and willing to accommodate requests for customized tours, subject to availability and feasibility.
How Accessible Is the Tour for Individuals With Disabilities?
The tour is moderately accessible for individuals with disabilities. The private vehicle can accommodate wheelchairs, and the tour provider offers assistance. However, some sites may have limited accessibility due to the historic nature of the locations.
Does the Tour Offer Any Discounts for Group Bookings?
The tour offers a group discount, with prices starting from £297.25 for up to 2 people. This makes it an attractive option for those traveling together, providing a private experience at a lower per-person cost.
What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Fatima Sanctuary?
The dress code for visiting the Fatima Sanctuary is generally modest and respectful. Visitors are advised to wear closed-toe shoes, long pants or skirts, and shirts that cover the shoulders. Shorts and sleeveless tops are generally not appropriate.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks During the Tour?
Visitors are typically allowed to bring their own food and drinks during tours, though the tour operator may provide some refreshments. It’s best to check the tour details or ask the operator about any restrictions on outside food and drinks.
Recap
The Fatima Sanctuary and Little Shepherds Village 5H Tour offers a captivating journey through the spiritual heart of Fatima.
Visitors will enjoy the profound history and legends surrounding the Virgin Mary’s apparitions, exploring the Basilica, Chapel of the Apparitions, and the charming Little Shepherds Village.
This private tour provides a personalized experience, allowing guests to discover the enduring impact of the Fatima apparitions at their own pace.
