Water-Activities & Scenic Swim with SwiMadeira at Ponta de São Lourenço
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4-5 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good general health, capable of light hiking and swimming in open water.
Overview
Swim in crystal-clear waters at Madeira's Ponta de São Lourenço with SwiMadeira, a unique adventure that combines scenic hiking and marine wildlife encounters. Discover this wild Atlantic landscape firsthand!
Ponta de São Lourenço Swim Half Tour
Age 14+ • Turquoise water & Pure Nature! • 4 Hours • Adventurous tour! • Possible to see seals!!
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About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating half-day swim tour to Ponta de São Lourenço, Madeira's untouched nature reserve. Explore stunning landscapes, dive into warm turquoise waters at Cais do Sardinha, and possibly encounter the rare monk seal. This unique adventure combines scenic hiking with unforgettable swimming in a pristine environment.
Duration: 4 Hours
What do we do
Discover Madeira's secret natural gem on this Half-day swim tour to Ponta de São Lourenço. This nature reserve is a unique place to visit, with wild and arid landscapes, with a total absence of any form of human life!
This excursion starts from one of the best cliff landscapes in Madeira. On this tour, you'll explore the long, thin peninsula at the eastern end of the island. The paths are good, but undulating.
After we will arrive at the destination, where you can dive at Cais do Sardinha, a place that preserves the name of the former owners and where we will begin our beautiful swim through the warm, turquoise waters of this nature reserve.
At sea, you might be lucky enough to see the rarest seal in the world, known in Madeira as the monk seal (Monachus monachus).
After a swimming session, we will dry off and take the boat back to Quinta do Lorde (Boat ticket included in the price).
Adventure Tips
Wear appropriate footwear
Use sturdy, water-resistant shoes for the trail and ensure they dry quickly after swimming.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Protect yourself from the sun without harming marine life; use reef-safe sunscreen.
Watch the weather forecast
Check the weather before setting out, as exposed coastal conditions can change rapidly.
Stay hydrated
Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated during the hike and swim.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Monk seals
- Dolphins
History
The Ponta de São Lourenço area has been a protected natural reserve since 1982, emphasizing conservation of Madeira’s unique Atlantic ecology.
Conservation
SwiMadeira prioritizes sustainable tourism, ensuring minimal impact on local wildlife and habitats while educating visitors about environmental preservation.
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Adventure Hotspots in Funchal
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Swimsuit and towel
Essential for comfortable swimming and drying off after water activities.
summer specific
Waterproof hiking shoes
Provide grip and protection on rocky trail surfaces.
all specific
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin while preserving marine ecosystems.
summer specific
Light snacks and water bottle
Maintain energy and hydration throughout the tour.
all specific