Madeira Island’s southwest offers a captivating tour that showcases the region’s stunning natural beauty. The Southwest Tour provides travelers an 8-hour guided exploration, delving into scenic viewpoints, traditional fishing villages, and the historic Ponta do Pargo lighthouse. With convenient pick-up and drop-off services, as well as positive customer reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure. However, the true allure of this experience lies in the unique landscapes visitors will discover, from the charming town of Ponta Do Sol to the picturesque villages of Calheta and Prazeres.
Key Points

- Comprehensive 8-hour guided tour exploring the scenic southwestern region of Madeira Island, including visits to picturesque villages, a lighthouse, and an educational farm.
- Tour available in multiple languages (Portuguese, English, French, German, Spanish) with flexible scheduling and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- Includes pick-up and drop-off services, as well as a knowledgeable guide to provide insights throughout the experience.
- Highlights include the sunniest part of the island, a charming fishing village, an artificial sand beach, and a traditional fishing community.
- Recommendations for wearing sturdy shoes, packing sun protection, and preparing for Madeira’s changeable microclimate during the tour.
Tour Overview

The Southwest Tour of Madeira Island offers visitors an 8-hour guided exploration of the island’s southwestern region.
Priced from $43.52 per person, the tour is available in Portuguese, English, French, German, and Spanish.
Priced from $43.52 per person, the tour is available in Portuguese, English, French, German, and Spanish.
Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. An option to reserve now and pay later is also available.
The tour includes pick-up and drop-off services, as well as a knowledgeable guide.
Participants can expect to visit scenic viewpoints, traditional fishing villages, and a lighthouse during this rundown of southwest Madeira.
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Itinerary Highlights

Visitors begin the Southwest Tour by exploring Ponta Do Sol, the sunniest part of the island. They’ll enjoy views from Moledos over the charming fishing village of Madelena do Mar. Next, they’ll discover the artificial sand beach and sugar cane factory in Calheta. The educational farm in Prazeres offers a chance to interact with animals and explore aromatic herbs. The tour continues to the historic Ponta do Pargo lighthouse and the traditional fishing village of Paúl do Mar, known for its surfing. The day concludes in the banana-producing area of Madelena do Mar.
| Location | Activity |
| — | — |
| Ponta Do Sol | Sunny Part of Island |
| Madelena do Mar | Fishing Village Views |
| Calheta | Beach & Sugar Factory |
| Prazeres | Educational Farm |
| Ponta do Pargo | Historic Lighthouse |
| Paúl do Mar | Fishing Village & Surfing |
| Madelena do Mar | Banana Production |
Inclusions
This tour includes pick-up and drop-off services to ensure convenient transportation for participants.
A knowledgeable tour guide is also included, providing valuable insights throughout the experience.
Flexibility is a key feature, allowing customers to select their preferred participants and tour date.
The inclusions aim to deliver a seamless and personalized tour experience for visitors exploring the southwest region of Madeira Island.
With these offerings, the tour provides a hassle-free way for travelers to discover the island’s stunning landscapes, traditional villages, and unique attractions.
Customer Reviews
According to 9 reviews, customers have provided an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 for this Southwest Tour of Madeira Island.
Positive feedback highlighted the scenic views, quality of the tour guide, and convenience of transportation.
Suggestions for improvement include:
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Adding more activities in the fishing villages
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Considering weather conditions for potential route adjustments
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Providing more flexibility with tour timing
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Enhancing the overall experience at the Prazeres Educational Farm
Important Information
Mask-wearing or protective coverings are required for this tour. Guests should check availability and select their preferred start time and number of participants.
Weather conditions may impact the route, so flexibility is advised. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended as the tour involves moderate hiking. Bringing water, sun protection, and light snacks is encouraged.
Visitors should be prepared for changeable weather, as Madeira’s microclimate can be unpredictable. The tour operator is committed to providing a safe, enjoyable experience for all guests while adhering to local health and safety guidelines.
Visiting Ponta Do Sol
As the sunniest part of Madeira Island, Ponta do Sol offers visitors a chance to bask in the island’s renowned warm climate.
Ponta do Sol, the sunniest part of Madeira Island, offers visitors a chance to bask in the island’s renowned warm climate.
The tour’s stop in this charming town allows guests to:
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Wander the picturesque streets, taking in the colorful architecture and quaint local shops.
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Enjoy panoramic vistas of the rugged coastline and deep blue Atlantic Ocean.
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Sample fresh seafood and traditional Madeiran cuisine at the town’s inviting restaurants and cafés.
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Explore the historic center, including the 15th-century Igreja Matriz church and the charming promenade along the waterfront.
Exploring Calheta and Prazeres
From Ponta do Sol, the tour continues on to the charming town of Calheta.
Visitors explore Calheta’s artificial sand beach and sugar cane factory.
The tour then heads to Prazeres Educational Farm, where they can interact with animals and discover aromatic herbs.
Wandering through the farm, guests gain insights into Madeira’s agricultural heritage.
The scenic route showcases the island’s natural beauty, with opportunities to appreciate the picturesque fishing village of Paúl do Mar and the pebble beaches of Jardim do Mar.
Throughout the journey, the knowledgeable guide provides valuable information, ensuring an enriching experience.
Discovering Paúl Do Mar and Jardim Do Mar
After exploring the picturesque fishing village of Paúl do Mar, the tour continues to the charming Jardim do Mar, known for its pebble beaches and natural splendor.
Visitors can:
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Stroll along the tranquil seafront, taking in the breathtaking views of the rugged cliffs and the rhythmic crashing of waves.
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Admire the traditional whitewashed houses adorned with vibrant flowers, creating a quaint and serene atmosphere.
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Discover hidden pathways that lead to secluded coves, offering an opportunity to escape the crowds and connect with nature.
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Indulge in fresh seafood at local restaurants, savoring the flavors of the island’s bountiful marine life.
The Sum Up
The Southwest Tour of Madeira Island offers a comprehensive and captivating adventure. Visitors can experience the island’s stunning natural beauty, from scenic viewpoints to traditional fishing villages. With a knowledgeable guide, convenient transportation, and positive customer reviews, this tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to take in Madeira’s unique landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Food & Drink Experiences in Madeira
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