The "Funchal: Island Explorer Madeira by 4X4 North West" promises an exhilarating day of adventure for those seeking to enjoy Madeira’s stunning landscapes. Priced at €50 per person, this 8-hour tour takes participants on a thrilling off-road journey, showcasing the island’s UNESCO-protected Fanal Forest, dramatic Cabo Girão Cliff, and rejuvenating volcanic pools of Porto Moniz. With a small group size, travelers can expect personalized attention as they navigate Madeira’s rugged terrain. What secrets and surprises await those who embark on this captivating exploration?
Key Points
- Full-day 4×4 tour exploring the northwest region of Madeira, including the UNESCO-protected Fanal Forest and natural volcanic pools in Porto Moniz.
- Priced from €50 per person, with limited group size of 6 participants and hotel pickup available.
- Highlights include an off-road adventure at 1,490 meters elevation, scenic viewpoints like Cabo Girão Cliff, and a lunch and swim in Porto Moniz.
- Offers cancelation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
- Provides an opportunity to connect with Madeira’s natural beauty and explore its diverse landscapes.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The "Funchal: Island Explorer Madeira" activity is a full-day 4×4 tour that explores the northwest region of the island.
Priced from €50 per person, the tour lasts 8 hours and limits group size to 6 participants. Available in four languages, it includes pickup from Funchal or Caniço hotels.
Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The flexible booking option allows reserving a spot now and paying later.
With an impressive 5/5 rating based on 2 reviews, this tour is recommended for couples, friends, solo travelers, and families.
Looking for more options in Madeira? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary Highlights
On this full-day adventure, travelers can look forward to a coffee break in the charming town of Ponta Do Sol. Next, they’ll embark on an off-road excursion at an altitude of 1490m in Lombo do Mouro. The UNESCO-protected Fanal Forest, a centuries-old laurel forest, awaits their exploration. Scenic viewpoints abound, including the famous Ribeira Da Janela and the towering Cabo Girao Cliff. Lunch and a swim in the natural volcanic pools of Porto Moniz provide a refreshing midday respite. The tour also offers opportunities to taste traditional drinks in Serra de Água.
| Itinerary Highlights |
| — | — |
| Ponta Do Sol | Coffee break, charming city |
| Lombo do Mouro | Off-road adventure at 1490m altitude |
| Fanal Forest | UNESCO world heritage site, centuries-old laurel forest |
| Ribeira Da Janela | Scenic views, famous for imposing mountains |
| Porto Moniz | Lunch and swimming at natural volcanic pools (2 hours) |
Scenic Features
Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, captivates visitors with its centuries-old laurel trees.
The dramatic Cabo Girão, at 589 meters above sea level, offers a glass suspended platform for breathtaking views of Câmara de Lobos and Funchal.
The Véu da Noiva Waterfall cascades down the cliffs, providing a stunning sight from the viewpoint.
In Porto Moniz, panoramic perspectives of the sea coast and volcanic formations await.
The idyllic landscape of Fanal, with its centuries-old forest, exemplifies the scenic natural beauty of Madeira.
Off-Road Adventure at Lombo Do Mouro
After traversing the lush Laurissilva Forest, the off-road adventure at Lombo do Mouro begins. The 4×4 vehicle climbs the winding mountain road, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. As the group reaches an altitude of 1,490 meters, the off-road portion commences, navigating through rugged terrain and challenging slopes. This thrilling experience allows participants to connect with Madeira’s natural beauty in an exhilarating way.
| Elevation | Terrain |
| — | — |
| 1,490 meters | Rugged, challenging slopes |
| | Winding mountain roads |
The off-road adventure at Lombo do Mouro is a highlight of the Funchal: Island Explorer Madeira tour, providing an opportunity to take in the island’s stunning natural environment.
More Great Tours NearbyExploring the Fanal Forest
The Fanal Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, beckons explorers next.
This centuries-old laurel forest, shrouded in mist, offers a mystical landscape. Visitors wind through the lush greenery, surrounded by towering, twisted trees. The damp air fills the senses, and the sounds of rustling leaves and trickling streams create a serene atmosphere.
A mystical laurel forest, shrouded in mist, invites visitors to wander through its lush, towering, and serene greenery.
Sunlight filters through the thick canopy, casting a gentle glow. Guests marvel at the ancient, gnarled trunks and the verdant, fern-carpeted floor.
This primeval woodland, untouched by time, captivates all who venture into its enchanting depths.
Visiting the Natural Volcanic Pools of Porto Moniz
What awaits explorers next is the stunning natural volcanic pools of Porto Moniz. Located on the northwest coast of Madeira, these pools offer a refreshing respite from the adventure. Visitors can enjoy a 2-hour lunch and swim in the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by dramatic volcanic formations.
| Feature | Details |
| — | — |
| Pools | Natural, volcanic |
| Location | Northwest coast of Madeira |
| Activities | Lunch, swimming |
| Duration | 2 hours |
| Surroundings | Dramatic volcanic formations |
After a morning of off-road thrills, the natural pools of Porto Moniz provide a peaceful conclusion to the day’s exploration.
Capturing the Stunning Views at Cabo Girão Cliff
Where does the journey take explorers next? The tour heads to the Cabo Girão cliff, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe.
At 589 meters above sea level, this iconic landmark offers breathtaking views over the Câmara de Lobos and Funchal. Visitors step onto the glass-bottomed suspended platform for unforgettable photo opportunities, gazing down at the stunning coastline below.
The sheer scale and dramatic scenery make this a must-see destination on the Madeira tour. After soaking in the views, the group continues their exploration of the island’s natural wonders.
Tasting the Traditional Drink at Serra De Água
Heading up the mountain, the tour makes a stop at Serra de Água, where participants have the opportunity to taste a traditional Madeiran drink. The local libation, often made from sugarcane or grapes, is a chance to take in the island’s vibrant culture.
| Drink | Origin | Flavor |
| — | — | — |
| Poncha | Sugarcane | Citrusy, sweet |
| Aguardente | Grapes | Robust, fiery |
| Ginja | Cherries | Rich, tart |
Sipping the potent concoction, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for Madeira’s unique heritage and the enduring traditions that shape the island’s identity.
The Sum Up
The "Funchal: Island Explorer Madeira by 4X4 North West" tour offers an unforgettable adventure, combining exhilarating off-road exploration with the opportunity to witness Madeira’s stunning natural wonders. From the UNESCO-protected Fanal Forest to the captivating volcanic pools of Porto Moniz, this full-day excursion provides a comprehensive and personalized experience, allowing travelers to enjoy the island’s breathtaking landscapes.
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