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Island · Gran Roque, Dependências Federais
Cayos Francisquí
A group of three cayos northeast of Gran Roque, Francisquí de Arriba, del Medio e de Abajo, with white sand beaches, a natural pool protected by the reef and shallow corals for snorkeling.
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 Cayos Francisquí
The Cayos Francisquí form a group of three coral islands northeast of Gran Roque: Francisquí de Arriba, Francisquí del Medio and Francisquí de Abajo. They are close to the village, just a few minutes by boat, and are among the most visited cayos in the national park.
The lagoon-facing side has white sand beaches and shallow, clear water. On the open-sea side, the reef breaks the waves and creates a natural pool, an area of still shallow water between the sand and the coral rocks where you can stand waist-deep watching fish swim by.
The shallow corals around the cayos are good for snorkeling, with colorful fish, starfish and sometimes turtles. In more exposed areas, the wind attracts kitesurfers and windsurfers, mainly from January to May when the trade winds tend to blow stronger.
The guesthouse boats drop visitors off in the morning and return in the mid-afternoon. There is no natural shade besides some low plants, so the umbrella provided by the guesthouse makes a difference.
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 day of beach and snorkeling.
Best time
In the morning, when the water is calmer and clearer in the natural pool. From July to October the sea is usually calmer; from January to May the wind is stronger.
How to get there
By boat from the Gran Roque pier, in a few minutes. The tour is usually organized by the guesthouse.
Tip
Bring a snorkel mask and water shoes to walk on the corals at the edge of the natural pool without stepping on living colonies. Wear a UV-protective shirt.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cayos Francisquí
What is the natural pool of Francisquí?
An area of shallow, still water between the beach and the reef that breaks the open-sea waves. You can stand waist-deep watching the fish.
Is Francisquí good for snorkeling?
Yes. The shallow corals around the cayos have colorful fish and starfish, and turtles sometimes appear.
How many cayos form Francisquí?
Three: Francisquí de Arriba, Francisquí del Medio and Francisquí de Abajo.