From Funchal: West Madeira Waterfalls and Fanal Forest Tour

The From Funchal: West Madeira Waterfalls and Fanal Forest Tour offers an engaging way to explore Madeira’s dramatic western coast. Priced at $34 per person and lasting around 8 hours, this guided trip takes visitors through a variety of scenic sights, from craggy sea cliffs to ancient forests and natural volcanic pools. The tour departs from Funchal and includes hotel pickup and drop-off in small groups, making it a comfortable and personalized experience.

One of the main strengths of this tour is its comprehensive itinerary, covering key coastal villages, panoramic viewpoints, the famous Porto Moniz sea pools, and the mystical Fanal Forest. The guides are praised for their knowledgeable storytelling and friendly attitude, which help bring the landscape and history of Madeira to life. While lunch and entrance fees are not included, the tour’s value lies in its mix of iconic sites and lesser-known spots, perfect for those wanting an authentic glimpse of the island’s natural beauty.

Key Points

• Affordable guided tour costing $34 for 8 hours of sightseeing from Funchal.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off in small groups for a personalized experience.
• Visiting Porto Moniz’s natural sea pools, with free time to swim or explore.
• Stops at scenic villages such as Câmara de Lobos, Ribeira Brava, and Ponta do Sol for photos and brief visits.
• Discover Fanal Forest, with a chance for a short walk through the enchanted, fog-shrouded trees.
• Highlights include waterfalls, viewpoints, and coastal drives, showcasing Madeira’s stunning west coast.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting the Day with Coastal Charm in Câmara de Lobos

The tour begins with a hotel pickup from your accommodation in Funchal, Caniço, or Câmara de Lobos. Soon, the vehicle heads toward Câmara de Lobos, a charming fishing village famous for its colorful houses and lively harbor. This spot, with a guided 20-minute tour, offers a glimpse of local life and stunning views over the Atlantic.

From here, the journey continues along the second-largest sea cliff in the world, where scenic vistas of the coastline unfold. The guides share stories about the area’s history and geography while pointing out the dramatic landscape. This stop sets the tone for a day filled with natural beauty and cultural charm.

Breathtaking Views from Cabo Girao Cliff

Next, the tour visits Cabo Girao, known as one of the world’s highest sea cliffs. The scenic views from here are truly spectacular, with the overhanging platform providing a unique perspective over the Atlantic. Visitors have about 25 minutes to take photos, soak in the scenery, and feel the wind against their face.

This spot often draws praise for its dramatic scenery and the photo opportunities it offers. The guides usually share insights about the cliff’s formation and its significance in Madeira’s landscape.

Exploring Ribeira Brava’s Historic Charm

The next stop is Ribeira Brava, a village that harbors a 16th-century church with influences from Flanders. Visitors get around 35 minutes to walk around and learn about the history behind the building and its baptism fountain. This area provides a quiet, scenic break from the coastal vistas and a chance to appreciate Madeira’s historical architecture.

The village’s quaint streets and local atmosphere often appeal to those interested in the island’s past and traditional life.

Sunny Ponta do Sol and Its Steep Valleys

Moving on, the tour reaches Ponta do Sol, renowned as one of the sunniest spots on the island. A brief 20-minute stop allows time for photos and strolling through the village nestled among steep folds in the terrain. Banana plantations overhang the village, adding to its lush, tropical feel.

This part of the tour emphasizes Madeira’s climate diversity and agriculture, with plenty of opportunities to capture scenic views from various angles.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Mystical Fanal Forest and Its Twisted Trees

Climbing up to the mountain plateau, travelers arrive at Fanal Forest, a highlight for many. The 30-minute stop offers an opportunity to photograph the 600-year-old trees and experience the mysterious atmosphere created by occasional fog. The twisted branches and the dense Laurel forest evoke an almost magical feel.

Weather permitting, visitors can opt for a 20-minute walk through the forest, adding a tactile dimension to the visit. Guides often describe the forest’s flora and fauna, enhancing the sense of discovery.

Porto Moniz’s Natural Sea Pools and Coastal Walks

After descending from the mountains, the journey reaches Porto Moniz, famous for its natural volcanic pools. Here, visitors enjoy around 2 hours of free time to relax, explore, or swim. The walk along the promenade offers views of the pools, pier, and the Atlantic beyond.

Many choose to visit the aquarium housed within the Fort of São João Batista or enjoy a lunch at a seafood restaurant nearby. The volcanic pools often draw praise from visitors who enjoy the unique experience of swimming in the ocean’s natural formations.

Viewing the Waterfalls Along the Northern Coast

Following lunch, the tour continues along the northern coastline, where cascading waterfalls tumble down the cliffs. These scenic cascades are among the most striking sights of the day, providing excellent photo opportunities and a sense of Madeira’s wild coastline.

The stops here are brief but impactful, showcasing the island’s natural power and beauty.

Discovering São Vicente’s Coastal Village

Next, the guide leads travelers to São Vicente, a charming town with white houses and an inviting park filled with native coastal plants. Visitors stay about 20 minutes to stroll the streets and enjoy the views. The town’s scenic streets and picturesque location make it a favorite for many.

This stop offers a relaxed pace and a chance to appreciate local architecture and landscape.

The Majesty of Serra de Água Mountain Landscape

As the tour concludes, a scenic drive through Serra de Água takes travelers through one of Madeira’s most breathtaking mountain areas. The diverse peaks and spectacular vistas provide a fitting end to the day’s adventure. The landscape here is often praised for its dramatic beauty and the sense of scale it imparts.

This final stretch highlights Madeira’s mountain majesty before heading back to Funchal.

Practicalities and What’s Included

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Caniço, Funchal, and Câmara de Lobos, with guides speaking multiple languages. The transportation is a comfortable vehicle, often described as a small van, which allows for a more intimate experience than large coach tours.

Entrance fees to attractions such as the Porto Moniz pools or the aquarium are not included, nor is lunch, but there are plenty of local eateries near the pools. The tour is suitable for most travelers, though those with mobility issues might find some spots challenging.

The flexibility of the tour, with reschedule options and cancellations up to 24 hours in advance, adds to its appeal.

The Experience of the Guides

Based on reviews, the guides are often highlighted for their knowledge, friendliness, and storytelling skills. Guides like Juan and Michael are praised for their insights into Madeira’s geology and culture, enhancing the overall experience. Some guides are noted for their good humor and attentiveness, making the tour feel more personal.

The small group format allows for more interaction and customization, with some reviews noting that guides are eager to reschedule stops when weather conditions are unfavorable.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour suits those interested in natural scenery, cultural landmarks, and coastal landscapes on Madeira’s west coast. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy short walks, scenic viewpoints, and swimming in natural pools. The 8-hour format and comfortable transport make it manageable for most, though it’s less suitable for travelers with mobility impairments.

The moderate price and positive reviews about the guide’s expertise and scenic variety suggest it offers good value, especially for those wanting a rundown of Madeira’s natural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch, snacks, and drinks are not included, but there are local restaurants at Porto Moniz where visitors can enjoy a meal.

How long is the visit to Porto Moniz?
The stop at Porto Moniz lasts about 2 hours, enough for swimming, visiting the aquarium, or relaxing along the promenade.

Are entrance fees covered?
No, entrance fees to attractions like the pools or aquarium are not included in the price.

What should I bring for the day?
It’s recommended to bring swimwear, water, and a jacket, as weather conditions can vary and some stops involve walking.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It may not be ideal for those with mobility impairments, as some stops involve walking on uneven terrain or stairs.

Can I cancel the tour free of charge?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour private or group?
The tour is offered in small groups with options for private bookings.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, French, Spanish, Portuguese, German, and Dutch.

How do I get picked up?
The pickup is arranged directly at your hotel or accommodation. If staying outside a hotel, you should wait outside the main entrance.

What makes this tour different from other Madeira excursions?
Its focus on hidden gems like Fanal Forest and the coastal waterfalls, combined with small-group comfort and expert guides, makes it stand out.

Can the stops be customized?
For private tours, there’s some flexibility to swap out stops or spend more time at favored locations.

This tour from Madeira Island Tours combines the island’s most striking natural sights with the convenience of guided transport, making it a worthwhile option for travelers eager to see Madeira’s wild coastline, lush forests, and volcanic pools in one day.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby