West Tour Porto Moniz

If you’re planning a trip to Madeira, the West Tour Porto Moniz is often recommended for those wanting a taste of the island’s dramatic landscapes and charming villages. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, based on detailed descriptions, reviews, and what the tour promises, it seems like a solid choice for travelers who love sweeping views, natural beauty, and a structured yet flexible day out.

What I particularly appreciate about this tour are two main things: first, the diverse scenery it offers—from mountain vistas to seaside villages—and second, the expert guidance provided, which seems to make the experience both educational and enjoyable. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the long duration and multiple stops, which might mean a packed schedule, especially if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

This tour would suit travelers who appreciate a rundown of Madeira’s west side, especially those keen on scenic viewpoints and natural wonders. Whether you’re interested in photography, local culture, or just want to see the most iconic sights, this experience seems tailored for you.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenic viewpoints like Cabo Girão and Boca da Encumeada offer breathtaking photo opportunities.
• Natural swimming pools in Porto Moniz are a highlight, perfect for a refreshing dip (entrance not included).
• The guide’s knowledge and friendliness seem to make the trip memorable and engaging.
• The long but well-paced day covers a wide array of sights, making it ideal for those wanting a full experience.
• Cost-effective at $40 per person, especially considering hotel pickup and drop-off.
• The tour operates rain or shine, so be prepared for weather variations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Starting Point and First Stops

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup from three convenient locations: Câmara De Lobos, Caniço, or Funchal. From there, the first stop is the picturesque fishing village of Câmara de Lobos. Here, you’ll spend about 20 minutes taking photos and soaking in the charming atmosphere. It’s a great way to ease into the day and get a sense of local life in Madeira.

Next, you’ll head to Cabo Girão, renowned as the highest cliff in Europe at 580 meters. The Sky Walk here is a real standout, offering panoramic views of the island’s rugged coastline. The stop lasts roughly 20 minutes, giving plenty of time for photos and soaking in the scenery. Many reviews highlight this as a favorite stop for its breathtaking vistas, perfect for snapping memorable pictures.

Mid-Morning: Ribeira Brava and Mountain Views

Continuing along the south coast, you’ll visit Ribeira Brava for about 20 minutes. Tourists often find this village charming, with a small market and lovely promenade. One reviewer loved this stop but mentioned that more time there would be appreciated, so if you’re eager to explore further, keep that in mind.

Then, the journey takes you up onto the Paúl da Serra plateau at 1,400 meters. Here, you get a chance to breathe in the mountain air and enjoy the views over the lush landscape. The stop lasts about 20 minutes, allowing for quick photos and a chance to stretch your legs.

The Highlight: Porto Moniz and Natural Pools

By far the most iconic part of this tour is the visit to Porto Moniz, known worldwide for its natural volcanic swimming pools. You’ll have about 1.5 hours here, which is ample time to walk around, browse local shops, and potentially dip into the pools if the weather allows. Keep in mind that entrance fees aren’t included, so plan accordingly if you want to take a swim.

Many reviewers, including Sahel, praise this part of the tour, noting that the pools are “a fantastic spot for a swim” and that the guide’s commentary added to the experience. The scenic drive along the coast on the way there also offers plenty of photo opportunities.

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The Return Journey and Hidden Gems

After Porto Moniz, the tour heads back along the north coast, passing through Seixal, where you’ll stop to admire the Véu da Noiva waterfall—a waterfall that many find enchanting. One reviewer, Jackie, mentioned that she wished she had more time here, suggesting that the stop was perhaps a bit rushed but still worthwhile.

Further along, you’ll visit São Vicente, a lush municipality with a small town atmosphere, offering another chance for photos and a quick walk. The journey back involves crossing native forests and visiting Serra de Água, where scenic vistas and a gentle drive provide a peaceful end to the day.

Wrapping Up

The entire tour wraps up with a return to your starting point, with drop-offs scheduled at Funchal, Câmara De Lobos, or Caniço. The total duration is 7 hours, making it a full but manageable day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This tour’s main appeal lies in its lineup of signature Madeira sights—like Cabo Girão and Porto Moniz—and the ease of having transport and guides arranged. The small group size (limited to 15 people) promises a more intimate experience and the chance to ask questions or get personalized insights.

Many travelers, including Janne, rave about the knowledgeable guides and smooth driving, which makes all the difference when navigating Madeira’s often winding roads. The inclusive hotel pickup is convenient, saving you from the hassle of organizing transport.

Price and Value

At $40 per person, this tour offers a good balance between cost and value, especially considering the comprehensive itinerary and hotel pickup. The duration and variety of stops mean you’re getting a full day of sightseeing for a reasonable price. Keep in mind that lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy something in Porto Moniz.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Bring your swimsuit and towel if you plan to swim in the pools, especially during summer.
• Weather can change quickly in Madeira, so dress in layers and be prepared for rain or shine.
• Allocate some extra time if you’d like to explore Porto Moniz more thoroughly or visit the pools.
• Bring a camera or smartphone—the viewpoints and waterfalls make for incredible photos.
• Wear comfortable shoes for walking around villages and natural pools.
• Be aware of the schedule—the stops are well-timed but can feel rushed if you’re a slow walker or want to linger longer.

Final Thoughts

The West Tour Porto Moniz is a solid choice for those wanting to see Madeira’s most famous sights in a single day. With a mix of coastal views, mountain scenery, waterfalls, and natural pools, it packs a lot into 7 hours. The guide’s knowledge and friendly demeanor seem to make a real difference, turning a sightseeing trip into a memorable experience.

If you’re someone who values stunning vistas, learns a bit about the local area, and enjoys diverse scenery, this tour is likely to hit the mark. Just remember it’s a full day, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace, consider how you’ll manage the schedule.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from three locations: Câmara De Lobos, Caniço, or Funchal.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, with scheduled stops and scenic drives.

Are entrance fees to the natural pools included?
No, entrance to the Porto Moniz pools is not included in the price. You’ll have free time there if you want to swim.

Can I expect to see waterfalls?
Absolutely. The Véu da Noiva waterfall in Seixal is one of the highlights and a favorite for many travelers.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
While not specifically aimed at families, it’s generally suitable for most travelers. However, it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or pregnant women.

What should I bring?
Bring your swimsuit, towel, comfortable shoes, camera, and weather-appropriate clothing. Snacks and water are also a good idea.

How is the guide’s service?
Travelers like Sahel and Janne mention the guides as knowledgeable, friendly, and professional, making the trip more engaging.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Check availability—there are different start times, typically in the morning. Summer visitors should bring sunscreen and swimwear.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
It takes place rain or shine, so dress accordingly. Rain might make some viewpoints less clear but won’t stop the tour.

If you’re looking to explore Madeira in a way that balances scenic beauty, local charm, and comfort, the West Tour Porto Moniz offers a well-rounded day that’s hard to beat at this price point. Just come prepared for a full day of sightseeing and soaking up the island’s best!

You can check availability for your dates here: