Birds, Whales & Dolphins Of Madeira

Madeira combines a mild climate, lovely blue seas and panoramic vistas with ancient laurel forests that harbour endemic birds. Its warm deep seas attract an array of resident and transient whales and dolphins.

With its diversity of geological formations, rich seas and unique flora, Madeira is a haven for naturalists. It is remarkable for its variety of seabirds and for its endemic bird species and subspecies. Located on a whale migration route, as well as a feeding and calving ground, it is also ideal for dolphin and whale watching. May is an excellent time to visit as the sea is warming up, bringing both cetaceans and migrating seabirds – photographers get ready as it's extremely scenic, both on land and at sea! This is also the breeding season of the highly endangered Zino's petrel.

Although no more than 47 bird species breed in the Madeiran archipelago, approximately half of them are either endemics to Madeira. The island's seabirds, including Zino's petrel, are the main attraction for birdwatchers, thanks to several colonies of world importance.

Typical itinerary

The full itinerary detail is available on our website.

1. Day 1: Fly to Funchal & transfer to Machico; coastal birding
2. Day 2: Whale & dolphin watching excursion; Madeira Levada walk
3. Day 3: Full day birdwatching in west Madeira; Zino’s petrel night tour
4. Day 4: Birdwatching in the Funchal Ecological Park; sunset whale watching excursion
5. Day 5: Return UK

• Available^*: May: Late spring
• Group size: 12
• Price including flights from/to UK: From £995 pp
• Price excluding international flights: From £845 pp
• Included in the price/package:
  • Services of an expert leader
  • Transfers
  • Accommodation
  • Most meals
  • Guided activities
• Activities available:
  • Boat trip

Departures

This is a group trip with fixed departure dates. Please refer to our website for further information.