West of Madeira Tour

The West of Madeira Tour offers a comprehensive way to explore Madeira’s rugged western landscape in a single day. For $46.44 per person, this 8-hour guided experience covers key highlights, from breathtaking viewpoints to charming towns. It includes pickup services, a licensed guide, and mobile tickets, making it a convenient choice for travelers seeking a well-organized trip. The tour is especially suited for nature lovers and those eager to see Madeira’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning. While the price is attractive and the itinerary packed with eye-catching stops, some reviews mention short durations at certain sites and a few less positive experiences, so it’s best for visitors who enjoy a fast-paced day of sightseeing.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $46.44 per person for a full day of sightseeing
• Includes pickup in Funchal and a licensed guide
• Highlights Cabo Girao, Porto Moniz, Ribeira Brava, and more
• Focus on natural landscapes, viewpoints, and charming villages
• Flexible itinerary with free stops for lunch and leisure
• Suitable for most travelers, though some stops may feel rushed

Starting Point in Funchal for a Smooth Morning Pickup

The tour begins in Funchal at 9:00 am, with pickup offered—a big plus for travelers staying centrally. This organized start helps avoid the stress of navigating the island, especially for those unfamiliar with Madeira. The small group size of a maximum of 16 travelers ensures a more personal experience. The mobile ticket makes the process straightforward, allowing for quick check-in and departure.

Exploring Camara De Lobos: A Picturesque Fishing Village

The first stop is Camara De Lobos, a dazzling fishing bay famous for its colorful boats and lively streets. With 30 minutes at this site, visitors can stroll along narrow roads, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Several bars and restaurants near the pier invite you to sample local cuisine and drinks—a perfect way to start the day. Since admission is free, this stop is ideal for stretching legs and taking photos of the charming harbor.

Cabo Girao: One of the Highest Sea Cliffs in the World

Next, the tour visits Cabo Girao, a spectacular viewpoint towering 580 meters above the sea. Known as Europe’s highest sea cliff, it features a glass-bottom floor that adds an adrenaline rush and panoramic views of the fajã below. Visitors are treated to sweeping sights over Funchal and Câmara de Lobos. The entrance fee for this viewpoint is not included, but the spectacle of the cliffs is a definite highlight, especially for photography buffs and those seeking a thrill.

Ribeira Brava: A Seaside Town with Cultural Charm

The tour’s third stop is Ribeira Brava, a small town set between high mountains and the sea. The 30-minute visit allows time to enjoy the scenic promenade, browse local shops, or relax at cafes. Key landmarks here include the Lighthouse and Fort of São Bento—noted for their historical significance and picturesque locations. The visit is free and offers a peaceful pause amid scenic surroundings.

Pico Ruivo do Paul da Serra: Panoramic Mountain Views

At 1300-1500 meters high, Pico Ruivo do Paul da Serra presents stunning vistas of green mountains and valleys. The plateau is also the starting point for famous levadas such as Risco and 25 Fontes, though visiting these levadas isn’t part of this tour. With 30 minutes allocated, visitors can take in the expansive landscape and capture memorable photos. The site is free to access, making it a practical stop to enjoy Madeira’s lush scenery.

Porto Moniz: The Natural Pools and Coastal Beauty

Porto Moniz is a key highlight, arriving from high in the mountains to see its iconic natural swimming pools—a must-see feature. The 2-hour stop allows time for lunch (not included), visiting local restaurants, or exploring the pools, which are famed for their crystal-clear waters and unique volcanic formations. Travelers can enjoy a refreshing swim or simply admire the breathtaking landscape. The entrance fee for the pools is not included, but the scenery alone makes this stop well worth it.

Seixal: A Lush Coastal Platform with Waterfalls

Just after Porto Moniz, the tour takes you to Seixal, a green mountain-framed coastal platform. With 30 minutes here, visitors can marvel at the “Véu da Noiva” (Bride’s Veil) waterfall and enjoy the lush surroundings. The sea and the green mountains create a striking contrast, ideal for photographs and a peaceful walk. This stop is free and adds a touch of untouched natural beauty to the day.

São Vicente: The Gateway to Madeira’s Northern Charm

The last stop is São Vicente, a mountain town built between two large mountains. The 30-minute visit features cafes and restaurants where visitors can sample local dishes. The landscape combines mountain scenery with seaside views, making it a picturesque conclusion. Importantly, there are no admission fees for this stop, allowing a relaxed exploration of this charming village.

Included and Not Included in the Tour

The tour includes a licensed, certified guide, ensuring expert commentary throughout the day. It also features pickup services and mobile tickets for convenience. However, lunch is not included, giving travelers flexibility to choose their preferred dining options at Porto Moniz or São Vicente. The entrance fees for the Cabo Girao viewpoint and natural pools are not included, so budget accordingly if you wish to visit these sites.

The Guide: Knowledgeable and Engaging

Many reviews praise the guides, highlighting Fernando, Bruno, Rafael, and Eduardo as knowledgeable, passionate, and friendly. They are appreciated for their enthusiasm, witnessing to local stories, and ability to keep the group engaged. Some mention the guides’ humor and willingness to explain the sites, making the experience more enriching.

Pacing, Timing, and Group Size

The itinerary balances key sites with enough leisure for photos and short walks. Most stops last 30 minutes to 2 hours, which works well for maximizing sights without feeling rushed. The group size of up to 16 travelers ensures a personal touch, though some reviews note shorter durations at sites might leave little room for in-depth exploration.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Since the tour is fast-paced, travelers should be prepared for a full day of sightseeing with standing and walking at various stops. The costs for entrance fees to the natural pools and viewpoints are not included, so bring some cash or cards if you want to explore these options. The pickup from Funchal simplifies logistics, but some reviews mention occasional delays or communication issues, so patience is helpful.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This guided tour suits those who want to see Madeira’s west coast efficiently and with minimal planning. It’s ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and history enthusiasts. Travelers who prefer a structured schedule with expert guides will particularly enjoy this experience. However, those seeking a more relaxed pace or detailed exploration of each stop might find some sites too brief.

Final Thoughts on the West of Madeira Tour

The West of Madeira Tour delivers beautiful scenery, charming towns, and stunning viewpoints at a competitive price. Its organized nature and experienced guides make it a convenient choice for first-time visitors or those with limited time on the island. The short stops at key locations ensure you see many highlights, though a few may feel rushed for eager explorers.

While some reviews mention occasional issues with timing or short durations, the overall value and quality of guiding shine through. For $46.44, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Madeira’s western landscape, making it a recommendation for most visitors wanting a reliable and scenic day trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered in Funchal, and transportation is provided throughout the day in a mini bus.

How long is each stop?
Most stops last around 30 minutes, with Porto Moniz being the longest at 2 hours for lunch and pool visits.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees for sites like Cabo Girao and the natural pools in Porto Moniz are not included and should be paid separately.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, giving flexibility to choose where to eat at Porto Moniz or São Vicente.

Can I join this tour if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves walking and standing at multiple stops, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
This tour operates in most weather conditions, but it requires good weather. It can be enjoyed year-round, but check local forecasts.

How do I book this tour?
Booking is straightforward through the provider’s platform, with confirmation received at the time of booking.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, cash or cards for entrance fees, and sun protection like sunscreen and hats. If planning to swim, pack a towel and swimming costume.