Archipelago of Albrolhos, city Caravelas

архипелаг Аброльос, городок Каравелас См. Фото-галерею

It is said that the archipelago’s name comes from the ancient Portuguese navigators warning about the dangers of the region: “Open your eyes”. That is because the enormous underwater barriers of coral have always been a threat to ships and have caused many accidents.

In Abrolhos you will find numerous species of fish, shellfish, choral, sponges, etc. On dry land, sea birds, such as the white bellied booby, terns, frigates, jays and woodpeckers, are abundant. Besides the animals that inhabit the park, there are those that visit it seasonally for reproduction. This is the case for the humpback whale, the sea turtles and some migratory birds. Low, small plants predominate on the island, which is made up, basically, of grasses and herbs, with a few exotic species.

The park is open everyday. Several boats offer one-day or longer excursions to the islands. Water visibility is best from December to June, about 20 meters. There are specific tours to watch the humpback whales from July to November. Departures are subject to wind conditions all year long.

Climate
The climate is determined by air masses that predominate during the different seasons of the year. The best period is from January to March, which is the period of calm winds. The temperature varies from 24.4 to 27ºC. Visits to the park are not advised when a south wind is forecast. This is a zone covered by corals and immense reeves with crystalline water that allows the observation of submarine fauna and flora.

Actually, these reeves are included among the most interesting in The Atlantic south. It is possible to see marine turtles, dolphins, diverse shoals and, even, Yubarta whales during winter (from July to November).

When winter comes to The South Pole, a group of Yubarta whales leaves the cold south and goes to the bay so as to spend some time in less profound waters. In addition, during this époque (July - November), they form couples. This is an excellent place for diving, specially, through the remains of "Rosalina", a sank Italian ship.