Ilhéus das Formigas – Santa Maria Island

The Ilhéus das Formigas are located between the islands of the Eastern Group, to the north of Santa Maria Island.

Despite their beauty and distinct characteristics, they remain one of the least visited locations in the archipelago, primarily due to their isolated location relative to the islands.

This group of eight islands is situated about 60 kilometers from São Miguel Island and about 37 kilometers from Santa Maria Island. Together with the Dollabarat Reef, they form a legally protected Regional Natural Reserve, both known for their unique beauty.

History of the Islets

The Ilhéus das Formigas are believed to have been first sighted in 1431 during an exploration expedition by Gonçalo Velho Cabral.

Their location in the ocean made them a danger for passing ships, especially in days of low visibility. For this reason, in 1883, a lighthouse was proposed, but construction only began in 1895.

Due to the isolating location of the islets and numerous technical and logistical difficulties encountered during construction, the lighthouse was completed only in 1948. A few years later, in 1962, the lighthouse underwent renovations and modernization.

Characteristics

The Ilhéus das Formigas measure approximately 165 meters in length (north to south) and about 80 meters in width.

The islet is made up of eight relatively low rocks, the highest of which, known as Formigão, stands about 11 meters above sea level.

This location is of enormous ecological importance, as it supports a great diversity of marine life, including turtles and sharks, which come here to feed and reproduce.

The rocks are formed from subaerial basaltic lava flows that are 4 to 6 million years old, and they also feature more recent limestone formations. Due to its characteristics and location, the islet is uninhabitable.

Access – How to Get There

Access to the islets is by boat, departing from three ports:

• Porto da Vila do Porto (Santa Maria Island), approximately a 70-minute trip;
• Porto de Vila Franca do Campo (São Miguel Island), about 120 minutes from the islet;
• Porto de Ponta Delgada (São Miguel Island), approximately 150 minutes from the islet.

Farol das Formigas

The Farol das Formigas is located about 600 meters south of the Ilhéus das Formigas. The lighthouse tower is 19 meters tall, with its light situated 22 meters above sea level.

On certain days, the rocks are fully submerged, leaving only the lighthouse visible. It can be seen from about 12 nautical miles away.

The location does not have much infrastructure for boats, but there are two small anchorages, one to the east and another to the west, with access ramps connecting to the lighthouse.

Flora and Fauna

The fauna of the Ilhéus das Formigas is abundant, with various species that either pass by or choose to inhabit the islet. This includes turtles, sharks, and various cetaceans that come here for breeding and feeding. The importance of local fauna has led to the islets being classified as Wetlands of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention.

The flora of the Ilhéus das Formigas includes Corallina Officinalis, which has a pink and lilac color and grows in tidal areas or clinging to the rocks. Further below are kelps (the only location in the Azores with this species) found at depths of 45 to 60 meters, along with various other species crucial for the sustainability of the ecosystem.

Protection of the Area

In 1988, the Natural Reserve of the Ilhéus das Formigas was created, which includes the Ilhéu das Formigas and the Dollabarat reef.

In 2003, the Natural Reserve was reclassified as a Regional Reserve. The law protects the islets and all marine resources of the Banco das Formigas. In this area, activities such as fishing, geological or archaeological material collection without the appropriate authorization, disturbing the birds residing on the islets, and littering are strictly prohibited.

The Banco das Formigas is of utmost importance, being classified as a Site of Community Importance and is also integrated into the Natura 2000 Network, in addition to being a Marine Protected Area under the OSPAR Convention.

Diving at the Ilhéus das Formigas

The diving experience at the Ilhéus das Formigas is unique. The clear waters and the variety of marine species make it one of the best diving locations in the Azores.

However, it is recommended only for experienced divers, as it is a site prone to currents and far from shelter.

Location on the Map

Video

Aerial Photo

The featured image of this article is by Carlos Melo. Photo shared on Instagram:

 

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The Ilhéus das Formigas are an attraction worth attention, especially for those seeking a more adventurous tourism experience away from the traditional tourist route.