Desertas Islands

The Desertas Islands are a small, sparsely vegetated archipelago to the southeast of Madeira and administratively part of the Autonomous Region of Madeira, Portugal. The group is protected for its important seabird colonies, endemic species and as habitat for the Mediterranean monk seal.

Boat-based wildlife watching and guided day visits to Deserta Grande are the primary visitor activities; the islands offer close-up views of seabird colonies, rugged cliffs and largely unmodified coastal habitats. Access is controlled to limit disturbance to sensitive species and to preserve endemic flora and fauna.

Historically visited by fishermen and occasional settlers, the islands were formally set aside for conservation in recent decades as populations of monk seals and rare birds became a priority for protection. Restrictive management and monitoring aim to prevent disturbance and maintain biodiversity.

The Desertas lie to the southeast of Madeira’s main island in the North Atlantic and are reached by boat from ports on Madeira; they are uninhabited and managed as a nature reserve.

• Reserve status and access: The islands are a protected nature reserve with restricted access; organised day trips to Deserta Grande are permitted under strict limits to protect monk seals, seabirds and endemic flora.

What to See#

• Deserta Grande: Deserta Grande, the largest island and main destination for regulated landings and research, characterised by steep cliffs, arid slopes and nesting seabirds.
• Bugio: Bugio, a small, rocky islet at the southern end of the group with sheer cliffs important for seabird colonies and marine biodiversity.
• Ilhéu Chão: Ilhéu Chão, a low-lying islet to the north of Deserta Grande, often visited briefly by wildlife-focused day trips from Madeira.

Trips to the Desertas Islands depart from Funchal and other ports on Madeira. Only licensed tour operators may land on the islands; most visits are observation cruises that keep to designated approach distances. Visitors should book with an operator in advance and confirm permit status.

• Access is tightly controlled and landing often requires a permit; arrange a licensed boat trip from Funchal or Madeira rather than attempting an independent landing.
• Bring binoculars and a telephoto lens; the Desertas are best observed from regulated distance to protect the monk seal population.
• Wear sun and sea protection-there is almost no shade and currents around the islands can be strong.
• Respect the nature‑reserve rules: approach quietly and don't attempt to land in restricted sections-the seals and nesting seabirds need that distance.