Faro to Ilha Deserta: Guided Ria Formosa Eco Tour by Marine Biologist
4.9
79 Ratings
Faro
Embark on a guided eco tour from Faro to Ilha Deserta, led by a marine biologist. Explore the biodiversity of Ria Formosa Natural Park, discover the history of Faro, and indulge in birdwatching. Visit the deserted island of Ilha Deserta and enjoy its pristine beaches and authentic Algarvian cuisine. Book your adventure today!
Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Animaris Ilha Deserta Boat Tours - A Desert Island - The Perfect Getaway

Ilha Deserta, also known as Barreta, is the only uninhabited island of Ria Formosa.

Animaris offers a portfolio of memorable experiences, with Ria Formosa Natural Park as its stage, and destination to Algarve’s hidden gem - Ilha Deserta.

Visit us and discover a unique Paradise!

What's Included
  • Return on ferry
  • All taxes, fees, and handling charges
  • Experienced guide
What's Not Included
  • Food and drinks
  • Lunch
  • Gratuities
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
Additional Information

Join our Eco Tour for a captivating exploration of the intricate waterways of Ria Formosa Natural Park, starting from Faro and ending at Ilha Deserta. Our experienced guide will share fascinating insights about the diverse local wildlife, traditional regional practices, Faro’s rich history, the natural park’s appealing barrier islands, and the intriguing world of birdwatching. The park houses over 300 bird species, including several rare ones and globally acknowledged endangered species.

Your boat trip culminates at Ilha Deserta, also known as Barreta Island, an idyllic haven set amidst pristine, dune-covered beaches. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure on the island: take a stroll along the beach, hike to Portugal’s southernmost tip, or savor authentic algarvian cuisine at the Estaminé restaurant.

Your return by Ferry is included, with the timing adjustable subject to availability. This service is offered daily throughout the year.

  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
Location
Cais das Portas do Mar
Rua da Porta Nova
Also known as Cais da Porta Nova. Find our team dressed in yellow shirts :)
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(79 Ratings)
5 stars
4 stars
3 stars
2 stars
1 star
Justintw7291jv
Jun 10, 2024
Absolutely fantastic. - What an amazing experience. We booked the Sunset Tour and would book again in a heartbeat. Thomas, our skipper and guide was engaging, passionate about the natural history of the lagoon and entertained us with his fabulous knowledge and great humour. We learnt soo much, not least about the sea grass and the sea horses. Thank you Thomas for a very special evening on the water xx
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Bou1717
May 23, 2024
Great outing - We spent 2 hours with Thomas who delighted us with his explanations, a true enthusiast of this beautiful nature and this beautiful natural park. thanks again
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Gillianr257
May 13, 2024
Sunset Tour - Sunset Tour - was so informative and enjoyable. We had booked it and didn’t think what the boat may be like. We were a wee bit surprised it was a small dingy style speedboat! However once we stopped our hysterics we had a thoroughly great sunset tour. Thomas (or Tom Cruise!) was most informative and we were out for about 80 mins. Would highly recommend this tour to learn more about the lagoon and the protection of the sands, sea life and birds.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
674sergioo
Apr 24, 2024
Jokin is the perfect guide - The excursion is very worth it since you have a view of the estuary that you cannot have from land. But what made the visit worth the price and much more was the guide and pilot, Jokin, a Basque boy who is a great professional for many reasons. First, he is a polyglot and visits you in Spanish, English, Portuguese and French without neglecting any of them and always interacting with all the passengers. Second, because he has incredible knowledge of the fauna and flora and the socio-economic reality of the area and life in the estuary, with a historical and environmental perspective. Last, but not least, Jokin is an incredible communicator since in addition to his natural friendliness and permanent smile, he knows how to capture attention and tell things in an entertaining and informative way. All this is said by an English and French teacher who knows what he's talking about. 5 stars, Jokin!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Sheilara3414wh
Feb 19, 2024
Highly recommended boat trip. - Fantastic trip! Our tour guide Manuel was great, really knowledgeable and passionate about the local wildlife and environment. We watched Osprey hunting, Spoonbills scooping up their food and Cormorants skillfully manoeuvring Scorpion fish into their beaks so as to avoid the poison. Manuel told us about the large population of Seahorses in Ria Formosa and answered all our questions. He also told us a lot about Faro's history and how the Portuguese language has evolved. Amazing trip, really recommended!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
11669faq
Feb 6, 2024
The stops for bird watching and Joaquin's explanations. - The visit was excellent despite the day. It was NOT very sunny and a little cold. The explanations that the guide (Joaquin) gave us were very good and informative. He kindly answered all our questions. The walk is recommended.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
434ameliav
Jan 15, 2024
A Delightful Excursion - Our tour guide was so knowledgeable and a great captain to boot. We learned so much about the birds and the ecology of the lagoon. We had a wonderful time and would totally take this tour again.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
884elainee
Jan 15, 2024
Very informative and interesting trip - An excellent trip where we saw a good variety of bird life. Thomas, the guide, was very engaging and so passionate about the area. Really good value for money and would definitely recommend if you are in Faro.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Bethanc241
Dec 11, 2023
A guided journey - Such an amazing boat experience to understand the importance and beauty of all there is in the Rio Formosa. Our guide Jokin was intelligent, kind and approachable. He was very enthusiastic about the marine and bird life and shared his passion with us. Highly recommend!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
F5166gvpauls
May 23, 2024
Rewarding tour. - Ecological tour for €35 with Thomas as guide. Young man passionate about ornithology and who knows how to talk about it. He answers all our questions in French, which is his mother tongue. So a good moment of instruction on maritime ecology, bird life and the safeguard measures taken by the authorities. Tour to recommend without hesitation.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Select Date and Tickets
up to 15 guests
1 Adult
June 2024
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Today