Discover the breathtaking natural wonders of Madeira’s western side on this immersive small-group tour. Travelers will journey from Funchal to experience the island’s dramatic volcanic landscapes and charming fishing villages, with stops at the second-highest sea cliff in Europe and the picturesque Porto Moniz rocky pools. Comfortable transportation and personalized attention make this a must-do for anyone seeking to explore Madeira’s diverse beauty. What awaits beyond the island’s lush horizon?
Key Points
- A full-day small-group tour exploring the volcanic landscapes and fishing villages of western Madeira, departing from Funchal.
- Key highlights include the second-highest sea cliff in Europe at Cape Girão, Encumeada viewpoint, and the natural rocky pools of Porto Moniz.
- Personalized service with a maximum of eight participants, and hotel pickup and drop-off included.
- Transport provided in a climate-controlled minivan, with accommodations for infant seats, foldable strollers, and wheelchairs.
- Opportunity to enjoy free time for lunch in Porto Moniz and explore Madeira’s dramatic natural beauty.
Tour Overview
The full-day small-group tour from Funchal takes visitors to explore the western region of Madeira.
Travelers will experience the island’s volcanic landscapes, sheer cliffs, and quaint fishing villages. Key highlights include Cape Girão, the Encumeada viewpoint, and the Porto Moniz rocky pools.
The tour provides free time for lunch in Porto Moniz. With a maximum of eight people, the tour offers personalized service.
Transport is provided in a climate-controlled minivan, and infant seats as well as foldable strollers and wheelchairs can be accommodated.
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Logistics
This tour provides pickup and drop-off services at hotels in Funchal only; bookings outside this area will be canceled.
The tour starts promptly at 10:00 am. Transportation is provided in a climate-controlled minivan.
The tour accommodates:
- Infant seats
- Foldable strollers
- Wheelchairs
The tour is limited to eight people, ensuring personalized service.
Food and drinks aren’t included, but gratuities are optional. Confirmation is received upon booking.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but strollers can be accommodated.
Inclusions
The tour package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a professional driver/guide to escort visitors throughout the day.
Transport is provided in a climate-controlled minivan, ensuring a comfortable journey. Infant seats are available, and foldable strollers and wheelchairs can be accommodated, making the tour accessible to families and those with mobility needs.
The cost of food and drinks isn’t included, and gratuities are optional.
Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the scenic landscapes, coastal towns, and natural wonders of western Madeira during this full-day small-group adventure.
Highlights: Cape Girão
Dominating the dramatic coastline of western Madeira, Cape Girão stands as the second-highest sea cliff in Europe, soaring an impressive 1,902 feet (580 meters) above the crashing Atlantic waves.
This geological wonder offers visitors a breathtaking panorama:
- Sweeping views of the rugged, volcanic landscape
- Glimpses of the tiny fishing village of Câmara de Lobos below
- Observation platforms and glass-floored skywalk for an adrenaline-fueled experience
- Opportunities to spot local wildlife, including seabirds and the occasional pod of dolphins
Exploring Cape Girão is a highlight of any Madeira west island tour, showcasing the island’s dramatic natural beauty.
Highlights: Encumeada Viewpoint
Nestled high in the mountains, the Encumeada viewpoint offers visitors a breathtaking panorama of Madeira’s rugged interior.
The viewing platform sits at an elevation of over 1,000 meters, providing sweeping vistas of the island’s central plateau, deep valleys, and towering peaks.
Travelers can admire the lush laurel forests and dramatic basalt cliffs that define Madeira’s unique geology.
On clear days, the views extend to the distant Atlantic Ocean.
This scenic stop offers a chance to appreciate Madeira’s magnificent natural beauty and rugged landscapes, complementing the tour’s other highlights like the Cape Girão and Porto Moniz.
- Full Day Jeep Safari East – Pico Do Areeiro – Santana – Ponta De São Lourenço
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- Full-Day Jeep Safari West – Porto Moniz – Seixal – Cabo Girão
- VipDolphins Luxury Whale Watching
- Madeira Dolphin and Whale Watching on a Ecological Catamaran
Highlights: Porto Moniz Rocky Pools
Although the volcanic cliffs and crashing waves steal much of the attention at Porto Moniz, the town’s famous natural swimming pools are undoubtedly its main draw.
Carved into the rocks by the ocean, these crystal-clear, kidney-shaped pools offer a refreshing respite from the heat.
Visitors can:
- Take a dip in the cool, rejuvenating waters
- Relax on the surrounding decks and enjoy the stunning ocean views
- Spot colorful marine life swimming beneath the surface
- Explore the network of interconnected pools and natural jacuzzis
The Porto Moniz rocky pools are a must-visit highlight on any Madeira west coast tour.
Additional Information
Beyond the enchanting Porto Moniz rocky pools, the Madeira West Island Tour offers additional features that cater to a wide range of travelers.
Pickup and drop-off are provided only at hotels in Funchal, with bookings outside this area canceled. The tour starts at 10:00 am and includes transport in a climate-controlled minivan.
Infant seats and accommodations for foldable strollers and wheelchairs are available. While food and drinks aren’t included, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller accessible.
Most travelers can participate, though children must be accompanied by an adult. Customization options are available via email.
Reviews and Ratings
The Madeira West Island Tour has garnered an overall rating of 4.6 based on 14 reviews.
Travelers consistently praise the tour for providing an excellent experience:
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Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable and flexible guides, such as Henrik and Marta, who enhance the tour with their expertise.
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The beautiful scenery of volcanic landscapes, sheer cliffs, and fishing villages captivates participants.
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Several mention the tour’s personalized service, thanks to the small-group size limit of eight people.
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One reviewer noted the tour’s ability to accommodate infants, foldable strollers, and wheelchairs, making it accessible to a wide range of travelers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Possible to Customize the Tour?
Yes, the tour can be customized. According to the additional information, customers can request customization options via email, allowing them to personalize their experience on the Madeira West Island Full Day Small-Group Tour from Funchal.
What Is the Maximum Group Size?
The tour is limited to a maximum group size of eight people, providing personalized service. The small-group format allows for a more tailored experience during the exploration of Madeira’s volcanic landscapes and coastal villages.
Can Food and Drinks Be Purchased During the Tour?
Food and drinks are not included in the tour price, but there’s free time for lunch at Porto Moniz where travelers can purchase their own meals. Gratuities are also optional.
Are Wheelchairs and Strollers Allowed on the Tour?
According to the tour overview, foldable strollers and wheelchairs can be accommodated on the tour. The tour transport is a climate-controlled minivan, so passengers in need of accessibility assistance can be comfortably included.
How Long Is the Duration of the Tour?
The tour duration is a full-day, starting at 10:00 am. It explores western Madeira’s volcanic landscapes, cliffs, and fishing villages, with free time for lunch at Porto Moniz.
The Sum Up
The Madeira West Island Full Day Small-Group Tour from Funchal offers an immersive experience into the island’s stunning volcanic landscapes and charming fishing villages. With comfortable transport, breathtaking stops, and a personalized approach, this tour provides an unforgettable day exploring Madeira’s natural wonders. The tour’s highlights, including Cape Girão, Encumeada Viewpoint, and Porto Moniz Rocky Pools, make it a must-do activity for visitors to the island.
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