Madeira West Island Full-Day Tour with Fanal Forest

Planning a trip to Madeira and considering a tour of the island’s west side? This full-day excursion offers a chance to see some of Madeira’s most iconic sights, all from the comfort of a small, air-conditioned minibus. It’s a popular choice among travelers, and from the reviews, it seems to deliver a pretty solid experience—though, like anything, it has its quirks.

What really draws us to this trip are a couple of standout features. First, the stunning coastal scenery, including Europe’s highest sea cliff at Cabo Girao and the volcanic pools at Porto Moniz. Second, the engaging guides—many reviews highlight guides like Nelson, Cristina, and Jorge, calling them friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive. However, a potential consideration is the long day’s duration and the variable group sizes, which might feel a bit tight or rushed at times for some travelers.

This tour works best for those who love scenic drives, natural beauty, and a structured itinerary that hits all the major sights. If you’re after a relaxed, comprehensive introduction to Madeira’s west coast, this might be just right. But if you prefer more flexibility or are traveling with mobility issues, you’ll want to weigh the tour’s pace and physical demands.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenery: Expect dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and volcanic pools.
• Small group size: Minibuses seat 8-14, offering a more intimate experience.
• Guide quality: Several reviews praise guides for their friendliness and knowledge.
• Includes lunch and natural pools: Good value, with a three-course meal and free entrance to Porto Moniz pools.
• Long but rewarding day: Around 7 to 8 hours, so be prepared for a full-on sightseeing adventure.
• Weather considerations: Higher altitude visits like Fanal Forest can be cooler, even in warmer seasons.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail

This tour is structured to maximize your exposure to Madeira’s best west-side sights in one day, with a mix of scenic stops, walking, and cultural highlights. Starting with hotel pickup between 8:00 and 9:00, you’ll immediately feel the convenience of door-to-door service—no need to worry about public transport or navigating unfamiliar roads yourself.

Câmara de Lobos: A Charming Fishing Village

Your first stop is the quaint Câmara de Lobos, a colorful fishing village that’s renowned for its fishing boats, narrow streets, and connections to Sir Winston Churchill—who painted here during his Madeira visits. It’s a quick 20-minute stop, mostly for photos and soaking in the local atmosphere. This spot sets the tone for a day filled with picturesque views and cultural charm.

Cabo Girao: Europe’s Highest Sea Cliff

Next, the tour takes you to Cabo Girao, a jaw-dropping viewpoint perched 580 meters above sea level. From here, you’ll get sweeping views of the coastline and the Atlantic. Many reviews mention the spectacular photo opportunities—and it’s easy to see why. For just a small additional fee (around 3 euros), you can experience the skywalk—a glass balcony that juts out over the cliff edge, perfect for adrenaline junkies and photo lovers alike.

Ribeira Brava and Ponta do Sol

A quick stop at Ribeira Brava introduces you to a charming church and a snapshot of local life. Then, you’ll pass through Ponta do Sol, which translates to “Point of the Sun,” aptly named for its sunny reputation and beautiful coastal views. These stops are brief but meaningful, giving you a taste of Madeira’s quaint villages.

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Pául da Serra and Fanal Forest

The drive up to the Laurissilva Forest area and Pául da Serra is where the scenery truly becomes lush and mystical. The highlight here is a walk through the Fanal Forest, home to old Laurel trees and a cool, peaceful environment at higher elevation. Many travelers mention the short, flat walk—around 35 minutes—being accessible and evocative. It’s a wonderful way to experience Madeira’s unique flora and get a break from vehicle travel.

Porto Moniz: Natural Pools and Lunch

One of the tour’s biggest selling points is the stop at Porto Moniz, famous for its volcanic rock pools. Here, you’ll be able to swim in these natural formations, which are a real highlight for many visitors. The pools are included free of charge, and if they’re not crowded, you can enjoy some leisurely swimming. The tour often includes a three-course lunch in this area, giving you a chance to enjoy local cuisine with drinks. Many reviews highlight the good value of including food and entrance fees in the overall price.

Seixal Waterfalls and São Vicente

After Porto Moniz, the scenic coastal route continues to Seixal for a quick stop at waterfalls—another visual treat. Then, you’ll pass through São Vicente, known for its wine and volcanic origins, with some tours offering wine tasting options, though not necessarily included here.

Return to Funchal

The journey back offers more mountain and ocean views, giving you a well-rounded overview of Madeira’s rugged beauty. You should arrive back around 17:00, tired but enriched by the experience.

What We Loved About the Tour

Traveling in a small group makes a noticeable difference. Several reviews commend the more intimate vehicle size—max 8 people—allowing for a more personal experience and easier conversations with guides. Guides like Nelson, Cristina, and Jorge earn high praise for their friendly manner, deep knowledge, and willingness to go the extra mile—whether offering to take photos or adjusting the pace to suit the group.

The scenery is, of course, the star attraction. From dramatic cliffs to lush forests, Madeira’s west coast offers a variety of breathtaking vistas that stay with you long after the day ends. The volcanic pools at Porto Moniz are a genuine highlight, especially if you enjoy swimming or just relaxing by natural waters with volcanic formations surrounding you.

Most reviewers find the price quite reasonable considering that lunch, entrance fees, and transportation are included. For around 7-8 hours of sightseeing, you’re getting a comprehensive taste of Madeira’s west, packed with memorable stops and expert commentary.

Considerations and Potential Drawbacks

While the experience generally receives high marks, there are some things to keep in mind. The length of the day can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to long sightseeing tours. The van’s interior can be a bit cramped, particularly for taller travelers—so if you’re on the taller side, you might find legroom limited.

Some reviews mention that guides often switch languages due to the international nature of groups, which can slow down the flow of information. Also, the pick-up from Santa Cruz hotels costs extra (around 12 euros), so if you’re staying there, factor that into your budget.

Weather at higher altitudes, like Fanal Forest, can be cooler than Funchal, so packing a light jacket is advisable. The itinerary might also vary slightly due to weather or traffic, which is understandable given the island’s rugged terrain and unpredictable weather.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal if you love scenic drives and natural beauty and want a structured, guided experience. It’s perfect for those who appreciate small groups and attentive guides, and who are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing. If you’re traveling with a family or a small group of friends who enjoy nature and picturesque views, this will suit you well.

However, if you have mobility issues or prefer a slower, more leisurely pace with more time at each stop, you might find this tour somewhat rushed. For independent travelers who want to explore at their own pace, some of the stops might feel a bit quick.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available? Yes, pickup is included from all hotels in Funchal and Caniço, as well as from the harbor for cruise ship passengers arriving by 8:00.

What is the duration of the tour? The trip lasts about 7 to 8 hours, usually ending around 17:00, so be prepared for a full day.

Are guides available in multiple languages? Yes, the guides speak English, German, French, and Portuguese, and sometimes switch languages during the tour, depending on the group.

What about the lunch? The tour includes a three-course lunch with drinks, offering good value for the price.

Are entrance fees included? Yes, entrance to Porto Moniz natural pools is free, and the optional skywalk at Cabo Girao costs around 3 euros.

Is the tour suitable for children? The information suggests it’s not specifically tailored for children or those with mobility impairments, so consider your family’s needs before booking.

Can I cancel? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it worth the price? Most reviews agree it offers good value, especially with meals and entrance fees included, and the small-group setup enhances the overall experience.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes for walking, warm layers for higher altitudes, and sunscreen are recommended.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-organized, scenic tour that hits the highlights of Madeira’s stunning west coast, this full-day trip from Madeira Seekers is a solid bet. The combination of breathtaking viewpoints, natural pools, and lush forests makes it a comprehensive introduction to the island’s diverse landscapes.

You’ll love the personalized feel of the small group, the quality of guides, and the chance to swim in volcanic pools that are unique to Madeira. The included lunch and entrance fees add perceived value, making it a convenient way to see a lot without worrying about extra costs.

However, brace for a long day, and remember that comfort might be limited if you’re tall or prefer more relaxed pacing. It’s best suited for travelers who want an active, engaging, and scenic experience, and who are comfortable with small-group tours and a busy schedule.

This tour balances adventure and comfort, making it a popular choice for those wanting to soak in Madeira’s best west-side sights in one go. With knowledgeable guides and stunning locations, it’s a trip that many find worthwhile—just go prepared for a full day outdoors.

You can check availability for your dates here: