Desertas Island Adventure with Madeira Happy Tours
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
9–10 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness to comfortably participate in swimming, snorkeling, and walking on uneven terrain.
Overview
Discover the wild allure of Portugal’s Desertas Islands on a day trip from Funchal with Madeira Happy Tours. Swim, snorkel, and spot rare monk seals in this unique natural reserve.
Desertas islands by Bonita da Madeira
Dia Inteiro • Para todas as idades • Venha nadar nesta bela Reserva Natural • com Almoço
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About This Adventure
Embark on a 9.5-hour adventure to the stunning Desertas Islands, a natural reserve teeming with rare monk seals and seabirds. Enjoy breathtaking coastal views, swim, dive, and relax at Doca, followed by a delicious meal and a guided tour. This unique experience combines nature, exploration, and relaxation in one unforgettable day.
Duração: 9h30min
Um grupo de 3 ilhas desabitadas, situadas a cerca de 24 quilómetros a sudeste da Madeira, as Desertas são uma Reserva Natural, principalmente para proteger as espécies mais raras de foca-monge, mas também conhecidas como um importante santuário de aves marinhas.
Depois de nos aproximarmos das Desertas, seguiremos ao longo da costa dando-lhe a oportunidade de apreciar as vistas. Ancoraremos na Doca, onde você poderá nadar, mergulhar e relaxar e após uma deliciosa refeição quente poderá desembarcar em uma visita guiada.
Equipamento recomendado:
- Blusão
- Câmera
- Roupa de banho
- Toalha de praia
- protetor solar
Disponível
- Mergulho
- Natação
- Almoço
Adventure Tips
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Protect your skin and the delicate marine ecosystem when swimming or snorkeling around the islands.
Stay hydrated throughout the day
This is a full-day excursion with active segments under the sun—carry water to stay refreshed.
Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes for walking
The guided shore walk includes rocky, uneven terrain around the island’s coast.
Listen to the guide’s notes on wildlife
Respect the habitats of monk seals and seabirds by following guidelines and staying at a distance.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Mediterranean monk seals
- Cory's shearwaters (seabirds)
History
The Desertas Islands have been protected as a nature reserve since 1990 to preserve their unique ecosystems and endangered species.
Conservation
Tour operators emphasize minimal disturbance to wildlife, maintaining strict guidelines to safeguard monk seals and nesting birds during visits.
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Adventure Hotspots in Funchal
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin and the sensitive marine life you’ll encounter.
summer specific
Water shoes or sturdy sandals
Ensures safe footing on slippery rocks and uneven paths.
Swimsuit and quick-dry towel
Necessary for swimming and drying off comfortably after water activities.
summer specific
Light waterproof jacket
Helps guard against sudden coastal showers and wind.
spring|fall|winter specific