Northwest Terraces and Volcanic Pools 4×4 Full Day Tour

Discover the Unique Charm of Madeira with a 4×4 Full-Day Tour

The Northwest Terraces and Volcanic Pools 4×4 Full Day Tour offers an exciting way to explore Madeira’s breathtaking natural beauty. Priced at $77.79 per person, this 8-hour adventure departs from Funchal and is designed for those eager to see remote landscapes, volcanic beaches, and lush forests while riding comfortably in a rugged 4×4 vehicle. The tour is highly rated with a 5.0/5 from 76 reviews and is recommended by 99% of past participants.

The tour balances scenic drives with interesting stops, including small villages and UNESCO-listed forests. It features complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off within Funchal, making logistics simple for visitors. With most bookings made 16 days in advance, this tour suits travelers who value well-organized, immersive experiences into Madeira’s wild side.

Key Points

• Price: $77.79 per person for an 8-hour adventure
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Funchal
• Explores volcanic beaches, small villages, and the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva Forest
• Highlights include swimming in volcanic pools and visiting Porto Moniz
• Expert guides with a reputation for knowledge and humor enhance the experience
• Flexible stops weather permitting, including pools, waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints

An Excursion Through Madeira’s Rugged Terrain in a 4×4

This tour is tailored for those wanting to venture off-road and see Madeira’s less accessible areas. The 4×4 vehicle navigates dirt roads and volcanic beaches, creating an authentic adventure that captures the island’s wild beauty. Expect to spend around 8 hours experiencing a mix of scenic drives and stops at key locations.

The tour’s local guide and driver team are praised for their knowledge, humor, and friendliness. Their storytelling brings Madeira’s landscapes and history to life, making the journey as educational as it is scenic. This is a small-group experience with a maximum of 50 travelers, ensuring personalized attention and a relaxed pace.

From Serra de Água to Porto Moniz: The Full Itinerary

Starting early at 8:30 am, the tour begins with a pickup from your Funchal hotel, setting a comfortable tone for the day. The first stops include Serra de Água and Encumeada, where sweeping views mark the beginning of the adventure. The route then takes you through Sao Vicente and Ginjás, small villages that showcase traditional Madeira life, with free entrances at these stops.

Next, the tour visits Estanquinhos and Paul da Serra, offering opportunities for photos of the lush natural scenery. The journey continues to Vereda do Fanal, where you can walk through a charming forest area, though admission tickets are not included. Stops at ribeira da Janela and Ilheus da Ribeira da Janela follow, with brief visits to appreciate the rugged coastlines.

Exploring Porto Moniz’s Natural Lava Pools and Surroundings

One of the most iconic highlights is Porto Moniz, where the tour allocates 45 minutes to explore the natural volcanic swimming pools. When weather allows, visitors can swim in these warm lava pools, providing a memorable and refreshing experience. These pools are a big hit, with reviews praising the chance to bathe in the volcanic waters amid stunning surroundings.

After Porto Moniz, the tour visits Seixal, home to dramatic coastlines and waterfalls like Veu da Noiva. The stops here include Poca Das Lesmas and Miradouro do Veu da Noiva, both offering panoramic views and photo opportunities. If conditions are good, you can enjoy more time in the pools or explore the nearby scenery.

The Rich Natural Landscapes of Madeira’s Western Coast

The journey continues along Madeira’s rugged coastlines, passing through ribeira da Janela and nearby areas. These stops highlight Madeira’s volcanic origins and lush greenery. The drive along dirt tracks and narrow roads provides an authentic adventure, with the guides explaining the geology and history of each area.

The entire route emphasizes scenic viewpoints, emphasizing Madeira’s dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and volcanic formations. The stops at Miradouro Ribeira da Janela and Poca Das Lesmas allow plenty of time to admire the views or take photos.

The Laurissilva Forest and Nature Walks

A key highlight of this tour is the visit to Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Although specific walking details are limited, the guide leads visitors through this ancient, lush forest known for its biodiversity. The forest’s cool, shaded pathways offer a refreshing break from the more exposed viewpoints, with 10-minute stops at points like Fanal.

The Laurissilva Forest showcases Madeira’s unique ecological significance and offers a peaceful contrast to the rugged coastlines. It’s a favorite among nature lovers for its moss-covered trees and tranquil atmosphere.

Visiting Porto Moniz and the Volcanic Pools

The 45-minute stop at Porto Moniz is a crowd favorite, with explicit praise for the chance to swim in volcanic lava pools. When weather permits, guests take advantage of the warm waters and the scenic setting, with the pools surrounded by volcanic rock and lush greenery.

The natural swimming pools are free to enter, but visitors should be prepared for the possibility of limited swimming if weather conditions are poor. The pools are one of Madeira’s most recognizable natural attractions, making this stop a highlight of the tour.

Additional Stops at Seixal and the Waterfalls

The visit to Seixal features the Veu da Noiva viewpoint, a stunning waterfall and scenic outlook. The tour allows about 5 minutes at this stop, enough to enjoy the breathtaking vistas. Poca Das Lesmas offers another 45-minute opportunity to relax and take in Madeira’s rugged coast.

Provided the weather is right, travelers may also have the chance to swim at volcanic pools near Seixal, adding to the adventure and refreshment options. These stops showcase Madeira’s coastal beauty and waterfalls.

Practical Details: Logistics, Guides, and What’s Included

The Green Devil Safari team organizes this tour with pickup included within Funchal, and additional fees may apply for pickup outside the city or at the cruise dock. The tour features a knowledgeable, humorous local guide known for sharing insights about Madeira’s landscapes and culture, greatly enhancing the experience.

Included in the price are the driver/guide and local guide, with free hotel pickup and drop-off in Funchal. The tour does not include food or drinks, but there is an optional lunch for $18 per person. Admission tickets for stops like Fanal or the pools are generally not included, so travelers should plan accordingly.

Why This Tour Stands Out Compared to Other Madeira Adventures

Compared to other tours, the Northwest Terraces and Volcanic Pools offers a comprehensive off-road journey across Madeira’s most iconic natural sites. The expert guides earn high praise for their knowledge and humor, making the day both informative and entertaining.

The ability to swim in volcanic pools, combined with visits to small villages and lush forests, ensures a varied experience. The tour’s small-group format guarantees personal attention, and the flexibility with weather-dependent stops adds to its appeal.

The Sum Up: A Rugged and Scenic Journey into Madeira’s Natural Wonders

This full-day 4×4 tour provides an excellent way to explore Madeira’s less accessible but stunning landscapes. It combines scenic drives, nature walks, and refreshing swims in volcanic pools, making it ideal for active travelers seeking authentic natural experiences.

The value for money, knowledgeable guides, and well-planned stops make this tour stand out. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy off-road adventures, breathtaking viewpoints, and small-group intimacy. While weather can influence some stops, the overall experience remains engaging and memorable for most visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $77.79 per person for approximately 8 hours of exploration.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, complimentary pickup and drop-off within Funchal are included. Extra fees apply for pickup outside the city or at the cruise dock.

What stops are included in the itinerary?
Stops include Serra de Água, Encumeada, Sao Vicente, Ginjás, Estanquinhos, Paul da Serra, Vereda do Fanal, Ribeira da Janela, Porto Moniz, Seixal, and viewpoints like Veu da Noiva.

Can I swim in the volcanic pools?
Yes, when weather allows, the Porto Moniz natural pools and Poca Das Lesmas are available for swimming, with free entry.

What is not included in the tour?
Food and drinks are not included, though lunch is available for $18 per person. Admission to certain stops like Fanal is not included.

How long are the stops?
Most stops range from 5 to 45 minutes, giving ample time to enjoy scenic views and take photos.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The rugged terrain might require some careful supervision.

What makes this tour different from other Madeira excursions?
Its off-road focus, guided storytelling, and swimming in volcanic pools set it apart, providing a lively, engaging exploration of Madeira’s wild landscapes.

How do I book this tour?
Most bookings are made 16 days in advance through Viator or directly via Green Devil Safari, which can be contacted at +351 919 748 735 or [email protected].