Faro to Ilha Deserta: Guided Ria Formosa Eco Tour by Marine Biologist

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: 24 hours
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…

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
(91 Ratings)
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1 star
Missdj82
Apr 1, 2026
Worth a trip - Biologist (Tomas) definitely knew their stuff and was knowledgeable and interesting without it being too much. Visiting all the islands is a must - they are so unique and picturesque.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Paolab810
Mar 12, 2026
Interesting and informative tour around the canals and the island - Totally recommend. I chose this trip because it promised a marine biologist for a guide. Indeed Tomas was very knowledgeable and entertaining. Saw lots of birds of different types, and learnt about their behaviour. Interesting information about the habitat and the local efforts to preserve it. Had a wonderful walk around the island, then took the ferry back to Faro. This company’s eco credentials were confirmed when they fished out a large plastic sheet floating in the ocean.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
E1504vealexm
Feb 26, 2026
Fantastic day out. - A fantastic day out with Thomas — a very knowledgable and fun marine biologist. We had a great time learning about the wetlands, the birdlife, and a lot more along the way. Highly recommended.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Janet_s
Feb 14, 2026
Eco-tour of the Ria Formosa - Our guide was very knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the birds and ecology of the Ria Formosa. Thank you
Review provided by Viator
664ana_lleb
Feb 4, 2026
Discovery fauna and flora - The biologist who accompanied us spoke several languages fluently, including French, which makes the experience more accessible. His passion is perfectly communicated and makes the visit even more interesting. The friendliness and listening to the staff makes browsing reassuring. Do not hesitate to take this tour if you are interested in wildlife.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
E4639ksmichaels
Oct 5, 2025
Highly recommended! An unforgettable day in the Ria Formosa. - We had a wonderful 1,5 - 2 hour trip with the guide Joaquin - a very friendly and very competent marine biologist who knows the Ria Formosa very well, including the complex system of currents in the salt marshes. We were shown numerous bird species and other animals and were also given names in German. Overall, it was very relaxed and fun, we learned a lot and all our questions were answered. Highly recommended! Viola and Michael
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Russelld879
Sep 9, 2025
Absolutely recommend - Absolutely brilliant tour. Jokin was a fabulous guide. He is so knowledgeable about the birds and also the history and environment and friendly and funny! We all thoroughly enjoyed it.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
V9287gilouisec
Sep 5, 2025
Great boast trip - We had a wonderful tour with Jokin who was extremely knowledgeable and a great guide. Icing on the cake were the dolphins!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Igneousbrouhaha
Sep 2, 2025
Wonderful one hour trip - Absolutely fabulous sunset trip to see wildlife and learn about the wetland. Really expert guide Thomas. Highly recommend.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Travellingwizard
Oct 27, 2024
Great Experience - Simply amazing. Very knowledgeable and friendly staff. Paid 125 euros for 2 adults and 1 child and had an audio tour of the Rio Formosa and hop on hop off between the islands of Deserta, Farol and Culatra.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $53
up to 15 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).