4×4 Jeep Safari Porto Moniz – the “Farowest” tour – Full Day Small Groups

If you’re on the hunt for a way to see Madeira’s wild side without the hassle of planning every detail, the Full-Day Small Group 4×4 Jeep Safari might just be the ticket. This tour, hosted by Up Mountain Madeira, offers a chance to explore some of the island’s most striking landscapes with a knowledgeable guide riding shotgun. It’s a smooth blend of adventure, scenery, and local flavor — perfect for those who want to experience Madeira beyond the usual tourist spots.

What we love about this tour is how it combines spectacular views with easy access to natural attractions. The itinerary is designed to hit several highlights, including the famous Porto Moniz natural pools, and the route takes you through the island’s highland plateau, giving you a real sense of Madeira’s diverse terrain. Plus, with small groups, you get a more personal, relaxed vibe that many big tours can’t match.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves some walking and swimming, which might not be suitable for everyone, especially if you have mobility issues. Also, the natural pools have an entrance fee, so it’s good to factor that into your budget. That said, the value for the price — around $75 per person — is quite reasonable for a full day of guided exploration with included transportation, especially given the small group size.

This safari suits travelers who love a bit of adventure and want to see Madeira’s wild beauty up close. It’s especially good if you enjoy off-road vehicles, scenic drives, and a chance to relax in natural pools after a day of exploring.

Key Points

• Small group experience enhances comfort and personalized attention.
• Expert guide and driver make navigating Madeira’s rugged terrain easier.
• Includes free time to swim and relax at Porto Moniz pools.
• Beautiful scenic routes through top sites like Ponta do Sol and Pico Ruivo do Paul da Serra.
• Hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off saves time and energy.
• Cost-effective for a full day of adventure and sightseeing.

A Full Breakdown of the “Farowest” Tour

This tour spans about 7 to 8 hours, providing plenty of time to enjoy the best of Madeira’s west side. Starting from Funchal or Caniço, the journey begins early at around 9:00 am, giving you a full day of exploring without feeling rushed. The small group size — capped at 8 travelers — ensures everyone gets a more intimate experience, which we really appreciate because it feels less like a rush and more like discovering with friends.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

First Stop: Up Mountain Madeira Walks & Tours Meeting Point.
You’ll be picked up from your hotel, which is a huge perk if you prefer not to worry about navigating or public transport. From there, the guide takes the wheel, and you start heading towards the highlands.

Next Stop: The Island’s Top of the World.
The tour peaks at Ponta do Sol and the highest points at Pico Ruivo do Paul da Serra. These high-altitude locations offer breathtaking vistas that highlight Madeira’s dramatic cliffs and lush greenery. It’s definitely a highlight for most travelers, as the scenery is genuinely captivating.

Crossing the Plateau of Madeira.
Traveling across the expansive plateau gives you a sense of the island’s varied terrain. The drive itself is memorable, with the guide pointing out interesting geological features and landscapes.

Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools.
This is the big splash — quite literally. You’ll stop here for a leisurely lunch (not included), with the option to swim in the natural sea pools. Many visitors rave about this part, and one reviewer called the experience “inesquecível,” or unforgettable. Keep in mind, entrance to the pools costs about €1.50, so bring some cash if you want to take a dip.

Levada Walk: Paul da Serra.
After some time in the pools, you’ll go for a gentle 30-minute walk along a levada — Madeira’s iconic irrigation channels. It’s a relaxed way to get closer to the island’s greenery, and since it’s a free activity, it adds value to the day.

Small Fishing Village.
The tour wraps up with a visit to a tiny northern fishing village, where you can soak in local life, snap photos, and enjoy the peaceful setting.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews praise the tour’s stunning views and smooth logistics. One reviewer said, “Foi um dia inesquecível e aventureiro,” meaning “It was an unforgettable and adventurous day,” emphasizing the fun and scenic nature. The guide, Ricardo, gets specific mention for making the day memorable, thanks to his friendly demeanor and expertise.

The Transportation

The use of a powerful 4×4 vehicle is essential here, given Madeira’s rugged roads. It’s comfortable and secure, allowing you to focus on the scenery rather than worrying about the drive. Pickup and drop-off at your hotel make things easy, especially if you’re based in Funchal or Caniço.

Price and Value

For about $75 per person, this tour offers a full day of exploration, scenic driving, and swimming — all with the convenience of small groups and professional guides. Entrance fees to pools aren’t included but are modest, and lunch is on your own, giving you flexibility. Considering the personalized experience and the number of highlights, it’s a good value.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to see Madeira’s wild side without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s well-suited for those who enjoy off-road journeys, scenic viewpoints, and natural pools. If you’re okay with light walking and swimming, you’ll find this an enriching way to spend a day. It’s less suited if you have mobility issues or prefer a more relaxed, less active sightseeing experience.

Final Thoughts

The “Farowest” 4×4 Jeep Safari is a treasure for travelers craving authentic Madeira landscapes and a bit of adventure. The small-group setup keeps things friendly and flexible, and the itinerary hits many of the island’s top spots with a good balance of sightseeing and relaxing. The natural pools and scenic drives are likely to be the highlights, especially if you’re a fan of panoramic views and outdoor fun.

If you’re looking for a day that combines discovery, comfort, and some truly memorable scenery, this tour hits the mark. It’s not overly fancy — just straightforward, enjoyable, and a fantastic way to get behind the scenes of Madeira’s rugged beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from your hotel in Funchal or Caniço, making it easy to start your day without extra hassle.

What’s the tour duration?
It lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the stops and scenery without rushing.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children over 5 years old can participate, but they should be accompanied by an adult. Keep in mind the walking and swimming components.

Do I need to pay extra for the natural pools?
Yes, entrance to the Porto Moniz pools costs about €1.50, which is not included in the tour price.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, suitable footwear for walking, swimwear if you plan to swim, and some cash for the pool entrance and optional meals.

Is this tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour operates in all weather conditions. However, if the weather is poor and the activity is canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I book last minute?
Most reservations are made an average of 19 days in advance, but last-minute bookings might be possible depending on availability.

If you’re ready to see Madeira’s rugged landscape in a fun, relaxed way, this Safari might just be your perfect adventure. The combination of scenic drives, natural pools, and small group intimacy offers a memorable slice of Madeira’s wild beauty.