Madeira is a fantastic place for full-day tours. Its rugged landscape, volcanic coastlines, lush forests, and charming villages make for memorable day trips. Whether you’re into scenic drives, off-road adventures, or sailing along the coast, Madeira offers options that fit all interests. A few favorites include the private Porto Moniz Safari 4×4 Tour for its off-the-beaten-path access and stunning waterfalls, and the Funchal Half and Full Day Private Sailboat Tour for dolphin sightings and sea breezes. These tours provide immersive ways to experience the island’s natural beauty while avoiding the hassle of planning on your own.
If you’re after a comprehensive experience, the Northwest volcanic pools and 4WD tour packs volcanic pools, waterfalls, and coastal views into one day, ideal for active travelers. For those who love a flexible adventure, the Private 4×4 Jeep Tour lets you customize your route, exploring Madeira at your pace. Keep reading to find the perfect Madeira full-day tour to match your style, budget, and curiosity.
1. Porto Moniz – Private Full-Day – Safari 4×4 Tour – NorthWest
At number 1 on our list, the Porto Moniz – Private Full-Day Safari 4×4 Tour offers a private, tailor-made experience of Madeira’s northwest. For around $447.01 per group (up to 4 people), you get a full 8 hours of exploration in a specially modified ex-army Portuguese Jeep that can handle the rugged terrain. This tour is perfect if you prefer a personalized itinerary and want to escape the crowds. The driver shares insights into Madeira’s traditions and natural history as you venture into remote valleys, volcanic landscapes, and mountain villages. Highlights include stops at Ribeira Brava, Ponta Do Sol, and Porto Moniz’s famous natural swimming pools, a must-visit for their stunning volcanic formations.
What makes this tour stand out is its off-the-beaten-path access—it’s just you, your driver, and the wild beauty of Madeira. The open-top Jeep provides great photo opportunities and the chance to feel truly immersed in nature. The reviews praise the relaxed safari vibe, knowledgeable driver, and exclusive access to hidden spots. It’s ideal for travelers who want a private, unplugged day in nature without the stress of navigating tricky roads themselves.
Bottom Line: This private safari tour is perfect for small groups seeking intimacy, adventure, and access to Madeira’s most scenic, lesser-known spots. Expect a full day of dramatic scenery and personalized attention.
2. Madeira West Island Full-Day Tour with Fanal Forest
Coming in at number 2, the Madeira West Island Full-Day Tour with Fanal Forest combines coastal drama with lush forest scenery. This tour lasts about 7 to 8 hours and uses a comfortable air-conditioned minibus, perfect for small groups of 8 to 14 travelers. The itinerary hits many of Madeira’s top natural attractions, including Cabo Girao, Europe’s highest sea cliff, and the volcanic Porto Moniz pools. It also includes the enchanting Fanal Forest, famous for its ancient laurel trees and moss-covered landscapes—an ideal spot for photos and quiet walks.
Starting from Funchal or Caniço, the tour spends plenty of time at each stop, including scenic viewpoints like Ribeira da Janela. The highlight for many is the visit to Seixal Waterfalls, where you can marvel at the cascading waters and verdant surroundings. The trip offers a good balance of sightseeing and leisure, with a traditional lunch included to fuel your explorations.
Guests mention the knowledgeable guides and the well-paced schedule, with one reviewer calling it “a long but never boring day.” It’s suited for travelers who want a rundown of Madeira’s west coast in one day, with plenty of opportunities to take photos and enjoy nature.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a full, scenic mix of Madeira’s coast, waterfalls, and forests, making it a solid choice for active travelers who want variety and comfort.
3. Funchal Half and Full Day Private Sailboat Tour
Number 3, the Funchal Half and Full Day Private Sailboat Tour, is a different way to experience Madeira’s coast. For about $676.49 per group (up to 6), you spend roughly 4 hours soaking up the sun on a private sailboat along the south coast. Besides relaxing on deck, you’ll often spot dolphins and whales in the Atlantic—an exciting highlight for wildlife lovers. You can choose to swim in the calm waters or enjoy a delicious onboard lunch, or even dine at Fajã dos Padres, a restaurant only accessible by sea or cable car.
This tour is perfect if you want a leisurely day on the water with a small group. The guides are attentive, and the boat provides a sense of exclusivity. Many reviews praise the crew’s friendliness and the scenic beauty, emphasizing the chance to see Madeira from the sea and the comfortable, intimate setting. If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic escape with potential wildlife encounters, this is a top choice.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who prefer a sea-based adventure, with privacy, wildlife watching, and the option to swim or dine at a secluded beach.
4. Volcanic Pools and Northwest 4WD Full Day Tour
Rated at 4.5/5 with 46 reviews, the Volcanic Pools and Northwest 4WD Full Day Tour is a fantastic way to spend a day exploring Madeira’s rugged northwest coastline. For about $77.79 per person, this guided tour takes you onto the island’s wild side in a 4×4 vehicle designed to access tough terrain. The itinerary includes stops at volcanic lava pools, spectacular cliffs, and waterfalls—perfect for lovers of dramatic landscapes. The tour also features visits to Serra de Agua, Ginjas, Fanal Forest, and Sao Vicente.
What makes this tour stand out is its efficient, action-packed itinerary focused on natural highlights. Many travelers appreciate the small-group atmosphere and the chance to see several key sights in one day. Reviewers love the mix of scenic stops and the opportunity to relax in natural pools, with one noting, “Nice lunch stop also,” adding variety to the adventure.
This tour is best suited for active travelers who want a quick but rundown of Madeira’s natural geology. It’s a good pick for those with limited time or shore excursions, as it hits multiple highlights without needing a full week.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature enthusiasts and active travelers wanting a diverse, scenic, and accessible introduction to Madeira’s wild coast.
5. Madeira Island: Full Day Jeep Tour – Pico do Arieiro, East
At number 5, the Madeira Island: Full Day Jeep Tour – Pico do Arieiro, East offers a full day exploring Madeira’s eastern landscapes. In about 6 hours, you visit iconic spots like Pico do Arieiro, the island’s third-highest peak, with panoramic views. The tour also includes a guided walk along the levadas (irrigation channels) through the UNESCO-listed Laurisilva Forest, and a visit to Santana, famed for its traditional thatched houses. You’ll sample local Poncha (a sugarcane spirit) and learn about island rum production, adding cultural flavor to your day.
This tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who emphasizes the natural beauty and local traditions of Madeira. Guest reviews highlight the scenic drives, with one saying, “Great time on this trip, our guide was very friendly and knowledgeable.” It also offers the chance to explore diverse terrains—from mountain peaks to lush forests—making it ideal for travelers wanting a full immersion.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded full-day trip suited for active travelers wanting scenic vistas, cultural insights, and gentle walks in nature.
6. Discover Madeira in your own way: Private full-day tour
Number 6 offers a flexible, private full-day tour customizable to your interests. Accommodating up to 7 people, this experience emphasizes sustainable travel using eco-friendly electric vehicles. You tell the guide what you want to see—be it mountain villages, botanical gardens, or coastal views—and they craft a day tailored to you.
What makes this tour unique is the personalized approach and focus on responsible tourism. It’s perfect if you want a private experience that respects the environment while exploring the island at your own pace. While specific itinerary details aren’t listed, reviews suggest a high level of attentiveness and flexibility, making it suitable for families or small groups seeking a bespoke day.
Bottom Line: This private, eco-conscious tour is ideal if you prefer a tailored experience that emphasizes sustainability and personal service.
7. Madeira: full day private tour (maximum 6 people)
Coming in at number 7, the Madeira: Full Day Private Tour (Maximum 6 People) offers an intimate, fully personalized day in Madeira. It covers iconic sights like Pico do Arieiro and Ponta de São Lourenço, a dramatic peninsula known for its rugged beauty. The tour is carefully tailored to your interests, with stops for photos, walks, and local tastings. Expect a mix of scenic drives, cultural visits, and time for relaxation.
Guests highlight the meticulous planning and customized approach, with one noting it’s a “carefully planned and tailored” experience. It’s a top pick for travelers wanting exclusivity and the flexibility to focus on their particular interests—whether that’s landscape photography, local food, or short hikes.
Bottom Line: An upscale, private option perfect for those seeking a bespoke day with maximum flexibility in a small, intimate group.
8. Madeira: Private Full Day 4×4 Jeep Tour
Finally, the Madeira: Private Full Day 4×4 Jeep Tour provides the ultimate flexible experience. For $423 per group (up to 6), you get 8 hours exploring in your own private 4×4, with no fixed route. The guide helps craft your personal itinerary, focusing on places you want to see—whether that’s coastal cliffs, forest trails, or mountain villages. This is the best choice if you want a day that’s completely tailored to your interests, leaving the planning to the experts.
Travelers who want to visit hard-to-reach locations or prefer an adventure that adapts to the weather and their mood will find this tour appealing. The emphasis is on your day, your way, with the guide taking care of the off-road driving and route selection.
Bottom Line: Perfect for independent-minded travelers who want control and exclusivity, with a focus on discovering Madeira’s lesser-known corners.
How to Choose the Right Full-Day Tour in Madeira
Making your choice depends on your preferences, budget, and how much you enjoy planning or guiding yourself. If you value privacy and off-road access, the Porto Moniz Safari 4×4 or the Private 4×4 Jeep Tour are excellent. For scenic coastal exploration with comfort, the West Island Tour offers a good balance. If relaxing on the sea appeals more, the sailing trip might be your ideal.
Consider your activity level and interests—active types may prefer the northwest 4WD or Pico do Arieiro Jeep tours, while cultural explorers might enjoy the private tailored trips. Budget-wise, tours range from around $77 for the northwest volcanic pools to over $676 for the private sailboat experience. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak summer months, to secure your preferred dates.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after a private adventure, a scenic drive, or a sea voyage, Madeira offers a full range of options to suit all travelers. For a deep dive into the island’s wildest landscapes, the northwest 4WD or Porto Moniz safari are top contenders. For a relaxed day on the water, the private sailboat delivers a memorable maritime experience. And if a personalized, eco-friendly day appeals, the tailor-made private tour is worth considering.
With such variety, it’s a good idea to think about what kind of experience will make your Madeira trip unforgettable. Book early, and enjoy your day exploring this stunning island’s natural wonders.