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Swim the Garajau Natural Reserve: Madeira’s Top Guided Swim Adventure - Funchal

Swim the Garajau Natural Reserve: Madeira’s Top Guided Swim Adventure

Caniçomoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

6–8 hours

Fitness Level

Moderate fitness required; comfortable swimming ability needed for open water conditions

Overview

Explore Madeira's protected Garajau Natural Reserve on this guided swim tour. Dive into turquoise waters, discover vibrant marine life, and savor a traditional Madeiran lunch all in a day’s adventure.

Caniço, Madeira

Galo Resort Swim Day Tour

Age 14+ • Garajau Natural Reserve! • 8 Hours • Swim with the nature! • Special moments in water

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About This Adventure

Experience the magic of swimming in the stunning Garajau partial nature reserve, where turquoise waters and vibrant marine life await. Enjoy a delicious Madeiran lunch after your swims, guided by friendly locals. This unique adventure promises breathtaking views and unforgettable moments in a protected natural paradise.

Duration: 8 Hours (9:00h - 17:00h)

What do we do

Swim in a nature reserve.

This privileged route is located in the middle of the Garajau partial nature reserve. Swimming here is absolutely magical. The Lido Galomar Bathing Complex, awarded the Blue Flag, is part of the first tourist complex in the Caniço area.

This tour starts at this pleasant beach, which is protected by the mountains, has a saltwater pool and easy access to the sea, here you will find your friendly local guides, who will accompany you on a beautiful crossing in the warm and turquoise waters of this nature reserve. Here we guarantee that your swimming will be accompanied by shoals of different species, or we will refund your money! The marine park of the Garajau partial nature reserve is a unique place to visit, with wild landscapes and breathtaking views. Afterwards, we will take you to a delicious lunch, typically Madeiran. Once everyone is energized again, we'll visit the area or take a second swim.

Highlights

  • Natural Reserve
  • Typical Lunch
  • A lot of swims!

Includes

  • Security
  • Personal accident insurance
  • Accompaniment of experienced guides

Snack

  • Swimming period : Water, nuts and bananas
  • Lunch (water only included; other drinks have an extra cost) NOTE: Vegetarian option included
  • Photographs
  • Visit the region or swim again

Excludes

  • Equipment
  • All situations not mentioned in the previous section Accompaniment with kayak (if you wish, there is an extra cost)

Adventure Tips

Bring Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Protect ocean life and your skin by using reef-safe sunscreen during your swim.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water before and after swimming to maintain energy and avoid dehydration.

Follow Guide Instructions

Stick close to your guides to ensure your safety and the protection of the reserve's delicate ecosystem.

Wear Suitable Swimwear

Choose quick-dry, comfortable swimwear and consider water shoes for rocky entry points.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Madeira rockfish
  • Parrotfish

History

The Garajau Natural Reserve was established in 1986 as Madeira’s first marine protected area to conserve its unique underwater ecosystems.

Conservation

The reserve promotes sustainable tourism and strictly enforces no-fishing zones to ensure marine species thrive undisturbed.

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Adventure Hotspots in Funchal

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Snorkel Mask and Fins

Essential

Enhances your ability to explore underwater marine life easily and comfortably.

summer specific

Reef-Safe Sunscreen

Essential

Protects your skin and helps preserve the marine environment.

summer specific

Water Shoes

Protects feet entering and exiting rocky coves and reefs.

summer specific

Light Swimwear and Quick-Dry Towel

Essential

Keeps you comfortable throughout the tour and for after-swim relaxation.

summer specific