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Island · Gran Roque, Dependências Federais
Cayo Madrisquí
The cay closest to Gran Roque, a few minutes by boat, with white sand beaches and shallow water. A narrow sandbar connects it to Cayo Pirata, which can be reached on foot.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Cayo Madrisquí
Madrisquí is a coral cay southeast of Gran Roque, about 19 hectares, and the closest to the village: the boat crossing takes only a few minutes. The name comes from Madriz Key, a nod to the Madriz family, former owners of the island. Because it's so close, it's the most popular cay for the first afternoon in Los Roques or for those who want a short outing.
The beaches have fine white sand and shallow, calm water, light-blue that darkens where the bottom drops. There are some vacation homes on the island, but most of the shoreline is open. Guesthouse boats drop visitors on the beach with umbrellas and chairs and return to pick them up late in the afternoon.
A narrow sandbar links Madrisquí to Cayo Pirata, to the southwest. The walk along the sand, with water on both sides, is one of the day's excursions. Pirata is known for its fishermen's huts and for lobster fishing, which usually runs from November to April.
Madrisquí is also popular for fly-fishing in the shallow, sandy-bottom areas around the island. For snorkeling, the reefs are along the edges, where the bottom changes color.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Half a day or a full beach day.
Best time
In the afternoon, on the return from longer excursions, or at any time for those wanting a beach day near the village. The sea is usually calmer from July to October.
How to get there
By boat from Gran Roque's pier in a few minutes. Guesthouses arrange transport; there are also boatmen at the pier.
Tip
Arrange the return time with the boatman before disembarking. Bring water and sunscreen, and walk along the sandbar to Cayo Pirata.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cayo Madrisquí
How long does the boat to Madrisquí take?
A few minutes from the Gran Roque pier. It's the cayo closest to the village.
Can you walk to Cayo Pirata?
Yes, via a narrow sandbar that connects the two cayos, with water on both sides.
Is there infrastructure in Madrisquí?
There are holiday homes, but little infrastructure for visitors. The guesthouses usually bring umbrellas, chairs and lunch.