Go West Tour – Madeira Island Excursion

Discover Madeira’s West with a Full-Day Excursion

The Go West Tour from Madeira Happy Tours offers a comprehensive look at the western side of Madeira Island in just under 8 hours. Priced at $45.28 per person, this small-group experience is designed for those wanting to see iconic sights, enjoy spectacular viewpoints, and get insights into the island’s culture and history. The tour departs from Funchal with pickup included, making logistics straightforward. With ratings of 4.5 out of 5 from 115 reviews, and 94% recommending it, this excursion balances a well-paced itinerary with a personal touch.

This tour is perfect for travelers seeking a full-day exploration that combines scenic vistas, charming villages, and natural wonders. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy guided commentary, local food tastings, and a small-group atmosphere. While it includes a lot of stops, it’s worth noting that the tour does not include lunch or snacks, so bringing your own food is advised if you want to stay energized for the day.

Key Points

• Price of $45.28 per person for an approximately 7 hour 45 minute guided tour
• Includes pickup from central Funchal meeting points and a small group of up to 18 travelers
• Visit top western Madeira sights such as Cabo Girao, Porto Moniz, São Vicente, and Miradouro viewpoints
• Enjoy panoramic views, local drinks, and natural pools along the route
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before departure
• Guided commentary offers insights into Madeira’s culture and history

Starting at Cabo Girao’s Cliff for Stunning Vistas

The tour begins at Cabo Girao, known as Europe’s second-highest sea cliff. Here, visitors get to step onto a glass platform that extends over the edge, providing breathtaking views down to the ocean and overlooking Funchal and Câmara de Lobos. The 20-minute stop is perfect for snapping photos and taking in the dramatic scenery. Admission is free, so this is an ideal first stop for visual impact.

The vistas from Cabo Girao set an impressive tone for the day, showcasing Madeira’s rugged coastline and steep cliffs. It’s a highlight that appeals to lovers of panoramic photography and striking natural landscapes. The tour’s timing allows enough space to enjoy the views without feeling rushed.

Exploring Ribeira Brava’s Coastal Charm

Next, the route takes you to Ribeira Brava, a picturesque village by the sea. The 30-minute stop offers a chance to stroll through traditional stores and admire the historic church located centrally. This stop helps travelers experience a typical Madeiran fishing village, with its relaxed atmosphere and coastal charm.

While at Ribeira Brava, visitors can appreciate the local architecture and perhaps buy some souvenirs. The stop is brief but well-placed, giving a taste of local life away from the more tourist-heavy spots.

Overlooking the Levada Walks from Paul da Serra

A key viewpoint during the tour is Levada do Paul da Serra, where a quick 15-minute stop offers sweeping views of the famous Levada Walks. These irrigation channels are a signature feature of Madeira’s landscape, and from here, you see the lush valleys and mountainous terrain.

This stop emphasizes Madeira’s unique landscape and is ideal for those interested in the island’s natural environment. The view provides context for the famous levada hikes, even if you don’t plan to walk them.

Lunch and Relaxation at Porto Moniz’s Natural Pools

The highlight of the day might be the visit to Porto Moniz, famous for its natural swimming pools. The tour allows 1 hour 30 minutes here, during which you can enjoy the spectacular volcanic pools and the charming coastal village.

While lunch is not included, the stop provides an opportunity to relax, explore the pools, and take in the rugged coastline. Some guests bring their own snacks, as there’s ample time to unwind by the water, making it an excellent spot for both leisure and photos.

Witnessing the Veu da Noiva Waterfall

A 15-minute stop at Miradouro do Veu da Noiva presents a spectacular waterfall cascading near the ocean. This natural spectacle offers a perfect photo opportunity, especially with the water plunging down beside the cliffs. It’s a serene spot that exemplifies Madeira’s lush natural scenery.

Though brief, this stop adds variety to the day’s landscape, contrasting the coastal vistas with the power of waterfall cascades. It’s a favorite for those who enjoy nature photography.

Visiting São Vicente’s Mountain Village

In São Vicente, visitors find a charming village surrounded by mountains. The 30-minute stop allows time to appreciate the scenic setting and explore the local streets. This area is known for its breathtaking mountain views and relaxed pace.

The village’s breathtaking mountain backdrop makes it a good spot for some leisurely exploration and photo-taking. It also offers a glimpse into local life away from the tourist crowds.

Panoramic Views at Miradouro da Encumeada

The last stop, Miradouro da Encumeada, offers fantastic views between the north and south coasts of Madeira. The 15-minute stop provides a broad perspective of the island’s mountain ranges and rugged terrain.

This viewpoint caps off the sightseeing portion of the tour, giving travelers an overview of Madeira’s diverse landscape before heading back. It’s an ideal spot for reflection and scenic photos.

Logistics and Group Experience

The meeting point is at Monumental Experience, Estrada Monumental 284 in Funchal, with pickup included. The tour operates daily from 8:30AM to 9:00AM, and the group size is limited to 18 travelers, ensuring a more personal and attentive experience.

Guided by a knowledgeable driver providing live commentary and insurance, the tour offers a smooth and informative journey. Travelers should note that lunch and snacks are not included, so bringing food or planning to purchase in Porto Moniz is recommended.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The small group size allows for more interaction with the guide and a more relaxed pace. The variety of stops covers a broad spectrum of Madeira’s landscapes, from cliffs and waterfalls to villages and natural pools. The inclusion of panoramic viewpoints like Cabo Girao and Miradouro da Encumeada provides picture-perfect moments.

A key strength is the expert commentary that enriches each stop with cultural and historical insights. The spectacular views, combined with the opportunity to taste local drinks like poncha and enjoy the natural swimming pools, make this tour a well-rounded experience.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour is comprehensive, the timed stops mean some visitors might find the brief durations limiting, especially at spots like Ribeira Brava or São Vicente. Also, lunch is not included, so travelers should plan accordingly. The weather-dependent nature of outdoor stops means the experience could be affected by rain or fog, though the tour offers the flexibility of rescheduling or refunds.

The maximum group size of 18 encourages a personalized atmosphere, but it’s advisable to book well in advance, especially during peak seasons when the tour is booked an average of 47 days ahead.

Final Thoughts on the Go West Tour

The Go West Tour from Madeira Happy Tours provides a well-balanced exploration of Madeira’s stunning western landscapes. Its highlights—Cabo Girao, Porto Moniz’s pools, and mountain viewpoints—are truly memorable. The affordable price, combined with live commentary and small-group intimacy, makes it a strong choice for those wanting an in-depth day trip.

While it’s not a full hiking or activity-packed adventure, the tour offers enough variety and spectacular sights to satisfy most visitors. Accessible and informative, it suits travelers who enjoy scenic drives, cultural insights, and natural beauty in a comfortable setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included. Visitors can bring their own food or purchase in Porto Moniz.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, round-trip transfers from central Funchal meeting points are included in the tour price.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to 18 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.

Are there any physical requirements?
The tour involves some walking at stops, but overall is accessible for most travelers with no specific physical limitations listed.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, camera, sun protection, and snacks if desired, as lunch is not provided.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed, making it suitable for families or those with pets.

How are the views and photo opportunities?
Expect spectacular panoramic views at Cabo Girao, Miradouro da Encumeada, and Veu da Noiva waterfall, perfect for photography enthusiasts.