Desertas Islands Nature Reserve
Remote volcanic islands, a vital sanctuary for monk seals and seabirds, offering dramatic landscapes and marine wildlife encounters.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for wildlife spotting
Desertas Islands Nature Reserve
Best Time
Best for wildlife spotting
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Remote volcanic islands, a vital sanctuary for monk seals and seabirds, offering dramatic landscapes and marine wildlife encounters.
"Incredible, imposing, still well preserved, and really deserted. A big congratulations to the natural environment team!"
Book Tours Early! 📅
Limited spots available for authorized boat tours to the Desertas Islands. Book well in advance!
Pack for Adventure 👟
Wear comfortable shoes for potential disembarking and bring sun protection.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dramatic Volcanic Landscapes
Ilhas Desertas
Witness the raw beauty of narrow volcanic islands with imposing, rugged coastlines and unique rock formations.
Abundant Marine Wildlife
Surrounding waters
Keep an eye out for whales, dolphins, barracudas, and flying fish during your boat journey.
Seabird Colonies
Cliffs and nesting sites
Observe diverse seabird species in their natural habitat, a key feature of this protected reserve.
Monk Seal Habitat
Coastal caves and waters
The islands are a vital sanctuary for the endangered Mediterranean monk seal.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Boat Trip in Advance
Prepare for a Rugged Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Tours Early! 📅
Limited spots available for authorized boat tours to the Desertas Islands. Book well in advance!
Pack for Adventure 👟
Wear comfortable shoes for potential disembarking and bring sun protection.
Bring Your Camera! 📸
Capture the stunning volcanic scenery and potential marine life sightings.
Respect the Reserve 🌿
Follow all guidelines to protect the fragile ecosystem and its inhabitants.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Tours Early! 📅
Limited spots available for authorized boat tours to the Desertas Islands. Book well in advance!
Pack for Adventure 👟
Wear comfortable shoes for potential disembarking and bring sun protection.
Bring Your Camera! 📸
Capture the stunning volcanic scenery and potential marine life sightings.
Respect the Reserve 🌿
Follow all guidelines to protect the fragile ecosystem and its inhabitants.
Swim Gear Ready 🏊
Many tours offer swimming or snorkeling opportunities in the clear waters.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the dramatic, untouched volcanic landscapes and the opportunity to witness rare marine life like monk seals and dolphins. While the journey can be long for the limited time spent ashore, the unique natural beauty and the thrill of spotting wildlife make it a worthwhile expedition for many.
"For years I looked at the desert islands, get inspired by them, and drew them in various styles. Today, I see them up close. They are incredible, imposing, still well preserved, and really deserted. A big congratulations to the natural environment team that protects this natural and healthy habitat."
Lina Alves
"two and a half hour journey for twenty mins on the island and then just a small path which you cannot leave
shame really it could be great with a bit of tlc
on the plus side great rock formations and good snorkeling where the boat anchors seeing dolphins on the way back made it worth it"
Nigel Hembury
"Visible from many places on the island in different shades of light, they create an inseparable landscape for everyone looking at the endless ocean."
Lucca T.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Access to the Desertas Islands Nature Reserve is exclusively via authorized boat tours departing from Madeira. Several tour operators offer trips, often including stops for swimming and wildlife viewing.
The boat trip typically takes around 1.5 to 2.5 hours each way, depending on sea conditions and the specific tour. Some travelers found the journey to be long for the time spent on the islands.
No, independent visits are not permitted. Access is strictly controlled to protect the nature reserve, and only licensed tour operators can bring visitors.
There are no public ferries to the Desertas Islands. All access is managed through organized boat tours.
Boat trips often include opportunities to see dolphins and whales, and some tours offer swimming or snorkeling stops. The journey can be bumpy depending on the sea state.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can book tours directly through the websites of authorized operators like Bonita da Madeira or Swim Together. It's highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Tour prices vary depending on the operator and the duration of the trip, but generally range from €70 to €150 per person. It's best to check individual operator websites for current pricing.
The cost of the boat tour typically includes any necessary permits or fees for entering the nature reserve. There are no separate entrance fees payable upon arrival.
Most tours include boat transportation, a guide, and sometimes lunch or snacks. Some tours also offer opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and observing marine life.
It is highly unlikely to get tickets on the day of the tour due to limited availability and high demand. Booking in advance is essential.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Activities are limited to observing the unique volcanic landscapes, spotting seabirds, and potentially seeing monk seals. Some tours allow for swimming or snorkeling in designated areas.
Hiking is generally not permitted as it is a protected nature reserve. Visitors are usually confined to specific viewing areas or the boat.
You have a good chance of seeing various seabirds, and the islands are a crucial habitat for the endangered Mediterranean monk seal. Dolphins and whales are often spotted during the boat journey.
Yes, many boat tours stop in sheltered bays where you can swim or snorkel. The waters are known for their clarity and marine life.
The Desertas Islands are largely undeveloped. There are no tourist facilities like shops, restaurants, or restrooms on the islands themselves.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic volcanic rock formations, the rugged coastline, and any marine life sightings offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The unique, untouched landscape is very photogenic.
Yes, most tours provide good vantage points from the boat for capturing the islands' scenery and any passing wildlife.
A versatile camera with a good zoom lens is recommended for capturing both the expansive landscapes and potential distant wildlife. Waterproof protection for your gear is advisable if you plan to swim.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be mindful of the sensitive nature of the reserve and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Drone usage is typically prohibited within nature reserves to avoid disturbing wildlife and for safety reasons. Always check with your tour operator for specific regulations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Ensure you choose a tour operator that is family-friendly and offers activities suitable for children. Pack plenty of sunscreen, hats, and snacks, as amenities on the islands are non-existent. The focus is on nature and wildlife, so it's a great educational experience about marine conservation and unique island ecosystems.
🌊 Wildlife Enthusiasts
The islands themselves are a crucial seabird sanctuary, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching. The marine ecosystem is rich and diverse, making snorkeling or swimming a rewarding experience for spotting various fish species. Remember that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, but the Desertas Islands offer some of the best chances in Madeira to encounter these magnificent creatures.
📸 Photographers
Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for the sweeping island vistas and a telephoto lens for wildlife. Waterproof camera gear is advisable if you plan to take advantage of the swimming or snorkeling opportunities. The light can be intense, so polarizing filters can be useful. Remember to respect the reserve's regulations and avoid disturbing any wildlife for the perfect shot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Ecosystem of the Desertas Islands
Beyond the monk seals, the Desertas Islands are a haven for seabirds. Visitors can often spot various species nesting on the cliffs or soaring overhead. The surrounding waters are also rich with marine life, including dolphins and whales, which are frequently sighted by tour boats. The clear, pristine waters also support a variety of fish and other marine organisms, making it an important area for ecological research and conservation.
Access to the islands is strictly regulated to minimize human impact. Only authorized boat tours are permitted, and visitors are usually restricted to specific areas to ensure the preservation of the delicate ecosystem. This controlled approach is essential for maintaining the islands' status as a well-preserved natural habitat.
Experiencing the Desertas Islands by Boat
During the journey, keep your eyes peeled for marine life. Dolphins are a common sight, often playing in the boat's wake, and whale sightings are also possible, especially during certain seasons. Some tours make stops in sheltered bays, allowing passengers to swim or snorkel in the clear, refreshing waters. This is a fantastic opportunity to explore the underwater world and potentially see various fish species.
+1While the islands themselves are rugged and largely inaccessible for extensive exploration, the boat trip itself is an adventure. The dramatic scenery, the chance to see wildlife, and the refreshing sea air make it a memorable experience. It's important to note that the sea can be rough, so motion sickness medication might be advisable for some travelers.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit