Discovering Northwest Madiera Shore Excursion w/ Harbour pickup

If you’re heading to Funchal and considering a way to see Madeira beyond the city streets, this Discovering Northwest Madeira Shore Excursion might just be what you’re looking for. Designed for those who love natural beauty and a bit of adventure, this tour promises a day filled with breathtaking views, fascinating geological sites, and local charm—all from the comfort of a small, open-top jeep. Whether you’re craving scenic landscapes, volcanic pools, or lush forests, this experience offers a well-rounded taste of Madeira’s wild northwest.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the intimate size—it’s limited to just 8 people, which naturally fosters a personalized vibe. Plus, the open-top jeeps mean you’ll be able to soak in the scenery without a glass barrier getting in the way. On the flip side, it’s a fairly full day with lots of stops, so it’s worth considering your stamina and whether you want a relaxed or more energetic experience. This trip suits travelers who love nature, enjoy a bit of off-road adventure, and want a comprehensive look at Madeira’s rugged northwest.

Key Points

• Small-group format ensures a more personalized experience
• Open-top jeeps provide unobstructed views of stunning landscapes
• Diverse stops from volcanic pools to lush forests and scenic viewpoints
• Expert guides help you appreciate the natural and cultural highlights
• Flexible pickup service in Funchal makes logistics easier
• Good value for a full day of exploration

An Overview of the Madeira Northwest Tour

This tour packs in an impressive variety of sights over roughly 7.5 hours, making it ideal for travelers who want to see a lot without feeling rushed. The experience is primarily centered around exploring the island’s rugged northern coast, with stops at some of Madeira’s most iconic spots—natural pools, forests, waterfalls, and viewpoints.

The tour is run by Green Devil Safari, a reputable provider known for their engaging guides and well-maintained jeeps. The price point of about $80.29 per person is quite reasonable considering the length and the depth of exploration. It’s a tour that’s best booked around 45 days in advance, showing how popular it can be among cruise visitors.

Starting Off in Funchal and the Pickup Service

The tour begins early, with a start time of 8:30 am, and includes a free pickup from hotels or Airbnb accommodations in Funchal and Caniço. If you’re staying outside these areas, you’ll need to check the additional charges for other locations, which are clearly outlined. The convenience of hotel pickup is a big plus—no messing around with public transport or figuring out where to meet.

Once onboard, you’ll quickly realize this isn’t your typical sightseeing bus. The open-top jeeps are designed for maximum visibility and comfort, which means you’ll want to wear layers, sunscreen, and a hat—especially if you’re sensitive to sun or wind. The group size is capped at 8, ensuring you’ll get plenty of attention from your guide and space to enjoy the scenery.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Porto Moniz: Natural Lava Pools and Coastal Charm

Your first stop is the world-famous Porto Moniz, famous for its natural lava pools formed by volcanic activity. Here, you can take a dip in the cool, mineral-rich seawater pools, or simply admire the stunning contrast of the black volcanic rock against the deep blue Atlantic. Locals and visitors alike love this spot for relaxing and snapping photos. The stop is about an hour long, with free admission, so you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the atmosphere.

Based on reviews, visitors love the way guides share insights about the volcanic origins of the pools, making the experience both fun and educational. One reviewer mentioned, “We loved the way the guides explained the volcanic formations, which made the swim even more interesting.”

Seixal: Black Sand Beach and Laid-Back Atmosphere

Next, you’ll visit Seixal, known for its striking black sand beach. It’s a peaceful place to stretch your legs, enjoy a swim, or just sit back and take in the scenery. The town’s tranquil vibe makes it a lovely spot to relax, and with only about 20 minutes here, it’s enough time to appreciate its natural beauty without feeling hurried.

São Vicente: Picturesque Village and Caves

A brief stop in São Vicente offers a glimpse into traditional Madeira life with its charming architecture and local charm. Visitors enjoy walking around and exploring the volcanic caves in this area, which are not only beautiful but also give a sense of the island’s geological background. The stop lasts around 10 minutes, so it’s more about a quick look and photo opportunities.

Ribeira da Janela: Cliffs, Waterfalls, and Photographic Vistas

Moving north, the Ribeira da Janela valley captivates with its towering cliffs and lush greenery. Here, the emphasis is on scenic vistas and capturing photos of the dramatic coastline. The stop is about 20 minutes, perfect for a quick hike or simply soaking in the raw beauty of Madeira’s rugged coast.

Porto Moniz Natural Pools (again)

You’ll revisit Porto Moniz for another 30-minute stop, this time (not included in the cost) to relax more in the natural pools or explore the local town. This second visit emphasizes giving you a chance to unwind or explore at your own pace—many visitors find this a highlight of the day.

Seixal and Surroundings: Black Sand Beach and Village Life

A 30-minute stop at Poca das Lesmas gives you another chance to experience Seixal’s beautiful black sand beach and the surrounding lush mountains. It’s an ideal spot to breathe in the fresh ocean air before heading further inland.

São Vicente’s Caves and Volcanic Formations

The nearby São Vicente caves are another geological highlight, offering a fascinating look at the island’s volcanic past. While the tour doesn’t include the caves specifically, the stops around this area make it easy to imagine the volcanic activity that shaped Madeira.

Ribeira da Janela Cliffs and Panoramic Views

Further stops at Ilheus da Ribeira da Janela and Mirador Ilheus Da Ribeira Da Janela are picture-perfect. They showcase the raw power of nature with towering cliffs and blue ocean stretching endlessly. The 10-minute stops include great photo ops, and you might find yourself wishing for more time to explore on foot.

Fanal Forest and the Enchanting Laurisilva

One of the most praised parts of the tour is the visit to Fanal, famous for its ancient laurel forest—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The misty, moss-covered trees create an almost otherworldly atmosphere. Guides often share interesting facts about the flora and fauna, making it a special experience whether you’re into nature or just love beautiful scenery.

Paul da Serra: High-Altitude Vistas and Hiking Opportunities

Next, the Pico Ruivo do Paul da Serra offers sweeping views from the high plateau, adding a sense of vast openness to the adventure. The stop here is about 10 minutes, enough to take photos or enjoy a quick walk.

Waterfalls and Village Life in Tábua and Ponta do Sol

The scenic drive continues with visits to Tabua, where a picturesque waterfall and traditional village life showcase Madeira’s rural charm. Followed by a stop at Ponta do Sol, known for its relaxed vibe and scenic village streets, both spots provide a glimpse into genuine local life.

Levada Walks and Natural Beauty

The Levada do Paul da Serra is another highlight, offering spectacular views from the extensive irrigation channels and hiking trails across the plateau. The tour emphasizes that sunset here can be particularly stunning, as the sky paints itself in vibrant colors.

Fanal and Bica da Cana: Forest and Coastal Vistas

Ending the day, stops at Posto Florestal Fanal and Bica da Cana highlight Madeira’s enchanting forests and rugged coastlines. These areas are perfect for nature lovers, offering peaceful walks and breathtaking vistas.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Based on reviews, guides like Lino, Antoine, Pedro, and Nelson are praised for their knowledge, humor, and friendliness. One reviewer shared, “Lino’s good humor and mastery of his vehicle made the day really enjoyable,” which echoes the general sentiment of the guides being both skilled and personable.

The value for money is also frequently mentioned, considering the number of stops, the small group size, and the variety of landscapes visited. Plus, the inclusion of insurance and free pickup adds to the hassle-free nature of the experience.

Potential Drawbacks and Things to Consider

While the tour covers an incredible amount of ground, it’s quite full-day, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility concerns, it might feel a bit busy. The stops are generally short—10 to 30 minutes each—so if you’re hoping for lengthy explorations or detailed hikes, this might not be the best fit.

Also, some attractions like the Porto Moniz pools and certain viewpoints are not included in the admission, which means you’ll want to budget extra if you plan to swim or explore further. The optional lunch is an additional $18 per person, but many travelers find the scenery and stops are more than enough to satisfy their curiosity.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, scenic overview of Madeira’s northwest in one day. It’s especially good for travelers who appreciate off-road adventures, stunning viewpoints, and natural pools. It’s not necessarily suited for those with limited mobility or who prefer a more leisurely, less structured experience. The small-group setup and knowledgeable guides make it a good choice for curious travelers eager to learn about Madeira’s geology and natural beauty.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from hotels and Airbnb accommodations in Funchal and Caniço is included, making logistics simpler.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7.5 hours, starting around 8:30 am.

Are meals or snacks included?
No, meals are not included, but you can opt to add a lunch for about $18 per person or bring your own snacks.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is limited to 8 people, ensuring a more personal experience.

What kind of vehicle is used?
A specially designed open-top jeep, perfect for sightseeing and enjoying the fresh air and scenic views.

Are there any height or weight restrictions?
Yes, the maximum height is 1.90 meters, and the maximum weight is 120 kgs.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the itinerary involves some walking and vehicle travel, so it’s best suited for older children and adults.

Can I cancel for a full refund?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour begins.

Are entrance fees included?
Most stops are free, but some attractions like Porto Moniz pools cost extra, and the optional lunch is additional.

What makes guides special?
Multiple reviews mention guides like Lino, Antoine, Pedro, and Nelson for their friendliness, humor, and knowledge, which greatly enhances the experience.

Final Thoughts

This northwest Madeira jeep tour offers a well-rounded exploration of the island’s most stunning natural areas, from volcanic pools to lush forests and dramatic cliffs. The small-group format, open-top jeeps, and knowledgeable guides make for an engaging and comfortable adventure. It’s especially suitable if you’re looking for a day packed with scenic highlights and local charm, without the hassle of self-driving or complicated planning.

Though it’s a full day, the variety of stops and the natural beauty you’ll witness make it a worthwhile investment for most travelers craving authentic Madeira experiences. If you love nature, geology, and stunning vistas, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

Enjoy your trip and make sure to bring your camera—Madeira’s northwest coast is truly a photographer’s paradise.