Luis de Camoes Garden and Grotto

The Basics

Stroll through the garden any time, and you’re likely to see locals practicing tai chi, playing chess, or walking with their caged birds. Points of interest within the park include a bronze bust of Camões, as well as a statue entitledEmbrace, which symbolizes the long relationship between China and Portugal on the Macau Peninsula. A winding path leads to a gazebo at the highest point in the park, affording views over the inner harbor.

Things to Know Before You Go

• The Luis de Camões Garden and Grotto offers a calming respite from the crowds of Macau.

• Don’t forget to bring sun protection and wear comfortable walking shoes, as the park is Macau’s largest.

• Entrance to the garden is free.

How to Get There

The easiest way to reach the garden is to take bus No. 17 to Camões Garden General Station. Several other public buses stop nearby at Camões Square.

When to Get There

The garden and grotto are open daily throughout the year from 6am to 10pm. Plan to visit in the morning or on a weekend, when the garden is at its liveliest with locals gathering to socialize.

Luis de Camões and Macau

Portugal’s famous 1-eyed poet was said to have written part of his epic masterpiece,Os Lusíadas, within the grotto that now bears his name. Despite this local legend, little evidence exists that Camões ever reached Macau at all during his travels. Locals celebrate the poet each year on Portugal Day, commemorating Camões’ death on June 10.