Madeira South Tour: Cabo Girão, Waterfalls for Cruise Ship

Exploring Madeira’s South Coast: A Practical Look at the Cabo Girão Waterfalls Tour

If you’re visiting Madeira via cruise, chances are you’re looking for a way to see the highlights without feeling rushed. This Madeira South Tour, focusing on Cabo Girão, waterfalls, and coastal villages, offers a friendly, well-organized way to soak in some of the best scenery on the island. We’ve taken a close look at this experience, and it’s worth sharing what you can expect — along with some honest thoughts.

What immediately draws us to this tour is its balanced itinerary that hits a variety of scenic spots— from dizzying panoramic views to charming fishing villages. Plus, it comes at a reasonable price of $57 per person for a solid four hours of sightseeing, making it accessible without feeling like a full-day commitment. Also, the small group size (limited to 8 people) promises a more personal experience and plenty of chances to ask questions or get local insights.

One thing worth keeping in mind is that this tour is designed for cruise ship passengers, with a strict schedule. If you prefer a more leisurely, flexible exploration, you might want to consider other options. But if you like a structured, engaging trip led by friendly guides, this could be a perfect fit for you.

This tour tends to suit travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic views, cultural stops, and local flavors. It’s especially good for those who want to see a lot in a short time, and aren’t bothered by some walking and quick stops. It’s not aimed at families with very young children or travelers with mobility constraints, but it’s otherwise quite accessible for most.

Key Points

• Affordable value for a well-rounded half-day experience
• Small group size enhances interaction and comfort
• Breathtaking viewpoints like Cabo Girão offer unforgettable photo moments
• Authentic local stops like Câmara de Lobos provide cultural flavor
• Limited time means a packed, efficient tour — not a leisurely day out
• Weather can vary; be prepared for changing conditions

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Madeira South Tour

When we consider a tour like this, what really matters are the details. So let’s unpack it step-by-step to see whether it matches your travel style.

Starting Point: Funchal Cruise Terminal

This tour begins right at the Funchal cruise port, which makes it super convenient if you’re arriving by ship. The guide meets you with a recognizable white van marked with banana leaves—easy to spot. The pickup time depends on availability, so it’s good to check ahead.

Transportation: Compact and Intimate

You’ll travel in an electric vehicle, making the journey quiet and environmentally friendly. The short 15-minute drives between stops help keep the momentum going, while also offering a bit of local color as your guide shares insights along the way. This style of transport is ideal for small groups, making conversations more personal.

Ribeira Brava: Coffee and Photo Stop

Your first stop is in Ribeira Brava, a small town with a lovely coastal vibe. Here, you’ll enjoy a quick coffee break—whether a bica or garoto (local terms for espresso)—to wake up and soak in the relaxed pace. After that, there’s a short guided sightseeing walk and some photo time at the Miradouro São Sebastião, which boasts panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Expect stunning vistas that are perfect for snapping a quick shot or just soaking in the beauty.

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Ponta do Sol: The Warmest Spot on the Island

Next, you’ll head to Ponta do Sol, renowned for its sunny weather and colorful buildings. This charming village is a highlight because of its lively, summery atmosphere. We love the fact that it’s not just a quick stop but also a chance to wander and feel the local vibe. You might want to try one of the craft beers the town is known for—after all, it’s your vacation. You’ll spend around 30 minutes here, enough to take some photos or grab a quick local snack.

Cabo Girão Skywalk: The Daring Viewpoint

The star of this tour— and a true must-see — is the Cabo Girão Skywalk. Sitting at 580 meters high, it’s one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs. The glass platform juts out over the ocean, offering dizzying views that are genuinely breathtaking. Keep your camera ready, but also hold on tight; the height and transparency can make some nervous. This stop is brief (around 20 minutes), but the views leave a lasting impression.

Câmara de Lobos: The Historic Fishing Village

Your journey concludes in Câmara de Lobos, a picturesque fishing village famous for its Poncha, a local alcoholic drink made from sugarcane spirit, honey, and lemon. The guide will likely point out local spots to try Poncha, and you’ll have a chance to taste it. The town’s colorful boats and quaint streets lend a genuinely authentic feel—perfect for a quick stroll and photos.

Ending the Tour: Return to Funchal

After Câmara de Lobos, you’ll hop back into your electric vehicle for a brief ride back to the cruise port, just in time for your ship’s departure or to continue exploring Funchal.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The price of $57 covers transportation, the Cabo Girao Skywalk entrance fee, a local guide, and some nice touches like a bottle of water and a local drink—be it Poncha, beer, or soft drink. Plus, a coffee at the start adds a nice touch of morning comfort.

What’s missing? Lunch isn’t included, so plan to bring a snack or eat before or after the tour. Also, transfers from places outside Funchal aren’t part of the package, so if you’re staying farther out, you’ll need to arrange your own transportation.

Group Size and Flexibility

With a cap of 8 participants, this tour offers a small-group atmosphere that feels more personal than big bus excursions. Reviewers have highlighted how the guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and thoughtful, making the experience more engaging and authentic. One traveler even noted that the guide dropped them off in the old town and gave restaurant tips, adding extra value.

Practical Tips for Booking and Preparing

Since the tour lasts roughly 4 hours, it’s wise to wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather—layers are recommended due to Madeira’s unpredictable climate. Sunglasses, sun hats, and sunscreen are must-haves for a sunny coastal day.

Given the short duration, it’s not suitable for very young children (under 12), or those with mobility issues. The focus is on sightseeing, walking, and quick stops, so plan accordingly.

The Real Deal: What Travelers Say

Reviews consistently praise the guides for being friendly, informative, and authentic. One reviewer called the guides “very sympathetic, informative, authentic,” and another appreciated that the tour was “organized in every detail,” with local stories and anecdotes. The small group setup makes it comfortable and allows for personalized interactions.

Many mention that the views— especially at Cabo Girão— are breathtaking and worth the trip. The town stops like Câmara de Lobos add a genuine touch of local life, making the experience more meaningful. Travelers also appreciate the value for money, noting that the tour packs a lot into its four hours.

The only common caveat is that the weather can change unexpectedly, which might affect some stops or the overall experience. Flexibility from the guides helps ensure you still walk away with beautiful memories.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is a solid choice for cruise travelers eager to see Madeira’s south coast without dedicating a whole day. The small group format and friendly guides make it a comfortable way to learn about the island’s sights and stories. If you’re after spectacular views, charming villages, and a touch of local flavor — plus a good mix of walking and sightseeing — this will suit you well.

It’s especially good for those who appreciate a structured experience that respects tight cruise schedules but still offers authentic moments. If you want to explore at a more relaxed pace or have specific mobility needs, you might want to consider other options, but for most, this tour hits the right notes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for cruise ship passengers? Yes, it starts and ends at the Funchal cruise port, making it very convenient for cruise travelers.

How long does the tour last? It runs for about 4 hours, so it’s a half-day experience that leaves plenty of time to enjoy your day in Funchal afterward.

What’s included in the price? The tour fee covers transportation, the Cabo Girão Skywalk entrance fee, a local guide, a bottle of water, and a local drink. A coffee at the start is also included.

Can I cancel this tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds flexibility for your plans.

Is lunch included? No, lunch is not part of the tour, so plan to eat before or after the trip.

Is this tour good for families? It’s not explicitly designed for children under 12 or those with mobility issues, so check your group’s needs before booking.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sun protection, and a camera are recommended to make the most of the stops.

In all, this small-group Madeira South Tour offers a well-balanced look at the island’s highlights, with excellent guides, stunning views, and cultural stops—all packed into just four hours. It’s a reliable choice for cruise passengers wanting a taste of Madeira’s natural beauty and local charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: