Go South Tour – Madeira Island Excursion

Exploring Madeira with the Go South Tour: A Practical Guide

If you’re looking to make the most of your limited time on Madeira, the Go South Tour offers a solid full-day itinerary that hits many of the island’s scenic and cultural highlights. Designed for travelers who want a taste of Madeira’s southern coast without spending days on the road, this tour covers a good mix of natural beauty, local life, and iconic viewpoints.

What we really like about this experience is its balanced approach—you get to see several key spots without feeling rushed, and the group size is kept small enough to keep things personal and engaging. Plus, the inclusion of live commentary makes the journey more informative than just a scenic drive. One thing to consider is that it’s a fairly full schedule, so if you’re after a super relaxed pace, this might feel a bit tight.

This tour is perfect if you value seeing many highlights in a single day, especially if you’re short on time. It also works well for those who want an easy way to explore with minimal planning, thanks to the pickup service and well-organized stops. It’s less ideal if you’re after a deep dive into one particular area or prefer more time at each site, but overall, it’s a practical choice for a broad overview.

Key Points

• Time-efficient: Nearly 8 hours covering the main southern coast sites
• Informative: Live commentary enriches the experience
• Variety of stops: From beaches to farms, lighthouses, and villages
• Convenience: Pickup and drop-off included, small group size
• Budget-friendly: At around $46, offers good value for a full day of sightseeing
• Flexible: Customers can bring their own food for lunch

What To Expect from the Madeira Island Excursion

This tour is all about revealing Madeira’s scenic diversity in a single day. It’s a mix of coastal villages, lush farms, and dramatic views that give you a genuine feel for the island’s charm. Let’s break down what each stop offers and why each has its own appeal.

Ponta Do Sol: The Picturesque Seaside Village

Your journey kicks off at Ponta Do Sol, renowned for its charming fishing harbor and pebbled beach. It’s a spot that instantly feels welcoming, with colorful houses and a relaxed vibe. Expect around 30 minutes here to soak in the views, snap some photos, and breathe in the salty air. The stop is free, so it’s mainly about enjoying the scenery and taking casual strolls.

A reviewer pointed out that this place embodies the peaceful side of Madeira, perfect for a quick visit that leaves you refreshed. It also gives you a glimpse into local life, away from the busier tourist spots.

Madalena do Mar: A Banana Plantation and Sunset Views

Next, you’ll visit Madalena do Mar, which is famous for its banana plantations—a highlight for many visitors. Here, you’ll spend about 30 minutes wandering through lush green fields, learning about local farming, and possibly seeing the island’s famous banana crops. The area is also noted for being the only location on the island where you can witness both sunrise and sunset, thanks to its favorable orientation.

One guest shared that the visit to the banana plantation was a lovely, relaxed experience, offering insights into local agriculture. It’s also a good photo spot, with rows of banana plants stretching into the distance.

Calheta: Sugar Cane and Artificial Beach

Your next stop is Calheta, which offers a bit of a mixed bag. You might visit a sugar cane factory, learning about Madeira’s sugar industry, or enjoy some time on the artificial sand beach. Both options give a taste of local history and leisure. The stop is about 30 minutes long, so you can choose to relax on the beach or explore the factory if available.

A common comment from travelers is that Calheta provides a nice break from the drive, with the artificial beach offering a surprisingly good spot for a quick dip or stroll.

Quinta Pedagogica dos Prazeres: An Eco Farm and Tea House

This part of the tour is more about nature and sustainability. The ecological farm and tea house offer a peaceful atmosphere, where you can walk among plants and perhaps enjoy a cup of local tea. It’s only a 20-minute stop, and note that the admission to the farm isn’t included, so you can decide if you want to explore further.

Reviewers appreciated the farm’s ambiance and the opportunity to experience a slice of eco-friendly farming, which adds a layer of understanding about Madeira’s agricultural practices.

Ponta do Pargo: Lighthouse and Panoramic Views

Arguably the highlight for many, Ponta do Pargo offers jaw-dropping vistas from the lighthouse perched 300 meters above sea level. It’s a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the rugged beauty of Madeira’s west coast. The lighthouse is a heritage site and well worth the visit.

You’ll have about 1.5 hours here, including the chance to walk around the cliffs or visit the lighthouse. The views are truly sweeping, and the fresh ocean air makes it a refreshing stop. One reviewer mentioned that the guide shared insightful stories about the lighthouse and the area, making the visit even more memorable.

Paul do Mar: A Charming Fishing Village and Surfer’s Paradise

Next, the tour stops at Paul do Mar, a quaint fishing village famous for its pebble beach and great surf. It’s a quick 20-minute visit, giving you a chance to imagine the local lifestyle or grab a quick snack if you’ve brought your own food.

A traveler noted that Paul do Mar’s charm lies in its unspoiled, laid-back vibe, making it a peaceful spot to appreciate Madeira’s coastal character.

Jardim do Mar: Seaside Promenade and Old Mill Ruins

Finally, the tour winds down at Jardim do Mar, a scenic seaside promenade lined with old mills from Madeira’s sugar trade history. It’s a peaceful spot, perfect for a short walk and a last look at the coast. The ruins hint at Madeira’s once-thriving sugar industry, adding historical context to the scenic views.

What Makes This Tour Worth It

At around $46.25 per person, this full day of sightseeing offers surprisingly good value considering the number of stops and the wide range of sights covered. It includes insurance and live commentary, which enhances the overall experience, making it both informative and smooth.

While lunch isn’t included, the tour provides enough time for you to bring your own food or explore local eateries during the lunch break at Ponta do Pargo. This flexibility is handy, especially for those with dietary preferences or budget-conscious travelers.

The small group size—max 18 travelers—means you’re not lost in a crowd, and the pickup from Funchal’s meeting points adds a layer of convenience. The tour operates most Wednesdays, with a start time around 8:30 AM, so planning ahead is straightforward.

What We Think About the Experience

Based on reviews and the itinerary, the Go South Tour seems highly regarded, with a perfect 5-star rating from 14 reviews. People like the knowledgeable guides and the variety of sites—these are the real strengths. One reviewer mentioned that their guide Marta made the trip particularly enjoyable with her insights.

A notable point is the authenticity of the stops—from farming to lighthouse views—each stop feels purposeful and gives you a real taste of Madeira. The inclusion of free admission at most sites and the chance to enjoy local food or bring your own makes it adaptable to different preferences.

However, some travelers noted the fire site visit was handled with less sensitivity, with one comment pointing out that the driver’s explanation about the fires was inaccurate. This is a reminder that while the tour is well-organized overall, it’s always good to remain aware and ask questions if something seems off.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a rundown of Madeira’s highlights in a single day, this tour suits you well. It’s ideal for first-timers or those with limited time, wanting a taste of beaches, villages, and stunning viewpoints without a lot of fuss. It’s also good if you prefer a guided experience that handles transportation and planning.

Travelers who enjoy small group conversations and live commentary will find this very engaging, while those who prefer a more leisurely pace might find it a tad packed. The tour isn’t specifically tailored for children or families, but older kids comfortable with walking and sightseeing should be fine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking at various stops, some on uneven surfaces like pebble beaches and cliffs. While not explicitly stated, if you have mobility concerns, it’s best to inquire directly with the provider.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch isn’t included. You can bring your own food or explore local eateries during the break at Ponta do Pargo.

What’s the group size?
A maximum of 18 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but the tour specifics don’t mention children specifically. If traveling with kids, consider their comfort with walking and outdoor stops.

How long is the stop at Ponta do Pargo?
About 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving plenty of time for photos, exploring the lighthouse, or just enjoying the views.

What’s the price point like?
At $46.25, it’s quite reasonable for a full-day tour that covers multiple sites, especially given the small group size and included commentary.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In the end, the Go South Tour offers a well-rounded, practical way to see Madeira’s southern and western coast in one go. It’s perfect for travelers wanting an efficient, guided experience with friendly hosts and a variety of scenic and cultural highlights. If you’re comfortable with a slightly packed schedule and want to maximize your day on the island, this might just be the trip for you.