Why Snake Island Is Known as One of the Deadliest Places on Earth

Snake Island, Brazil (Image: X/@BiodiversidadeB)

Just 93 miles off the coast of São Paulo, Brazil, lies Ilha da Queimada Grande—more chillingly known as Snake Island. Despite its picturesque setting surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, this island is so dangerous that it's closed to the public. Home to thousands of venomous snakes, Snake Island is considered one of the deadliest places on Earth, and for good reason.

Here’s a closer look at what makes this forbidden island a terrifying hotspot for danger, science, and myth.

(Image: Canva & X/ @I_Prates)

1. Home to the World’s Deadliest Snake
Snake Island is the only natural habitat of the golden lancehead viper (Bothrops insularis), a species so venomous that its bite can kill within an hour. Its venom can cause massive internal bleeding, muscle necrosis, kidney failure, and hemorrhaging in the brain.

2. Unbelievable Snake Density
The island spans just 106 acres, yet it's estimated that there’s one snake per square meter. That’s thousands of vipers coiled across every inch of jungle and stone—making it nearly impossible to step foot without encountering one.

3. No Immediate Access to Antivenom
With no hospitals, no emergency services, and no way to reach help quickly, a single snake bite is often a death sentence. Researchers must carry their own medical supplies and always be accompanied by trained personnel.

(Image: Wikipedia)

4. Officially Banned by the Brazilian Government
To protect both humans and the endangered vipers, the Brazilian Navy has completely prohibited civilian access. Only authorized scientists are permitted to visit, and even they must obtain special permits and follow strict safety protocols.

5. Haunted by Fatal Legends
Snake Island's deadly reputation is reinforced by grim local legends. Tales include a lighthouse keeper and his family who reportedly died from multiple snake bites, as well as fishermen who accidentally landed on the island and never returned.

6. Inhospitable for Human Life
There is no freshwater source, no infrastructure, and the snake population makes human habitation impossible. Even the lighthouse on the island has been automated, and no one stays overnight.

7. Ultra-Potent Venom
The golden lancehead’s venom is estimated to be five times more toxic than its mainland cousins. This adaptation occurred due to evolutionary isolation and a bird-based diet, making its venom especially fast-acting and deadly.

8. Endangered Yet Exploited
Ironically, this deadly snake is also critically endangered, existing only on Snake Island. Its rarity and potency make it a prized target for illegal wildlife traffickers, with black market values reportedly reaching tens of thousands of dollars per snake.

(Image: X/ @BiodiversidadeB)

9. A Predator’s Paradise
Migratory birds often land on the island to rest—unaware of the lurking danger. With no large natural predators, the golden lancehead thrives here, creating a biological imbalance where the snakes are at the top of the food chain.

10. A Place of Deadly Beauty
Despite the danger, Snake Island boasts lush tropical vegetation, rocky cliffs, and unspoiled ocean views. Yet its beauty is deceiving—survival is nearly impossible here. It remains one of the world’s most mysterious and forbidden natural wonders.

Snake Island is not your typical travel destination—it’s a forbidden zone where nature rules with deadly dominance. While it lures in the curious and the brave, it’s also a reminder of why some corners of the Earth are best left untouched.