Go West Tour – Madeira Island Excursion

Thinking about exploring the western part of Madeira but not quite sure if a guided tour is your style? This Go West Tour from Madeira Happy Tours offers a solid way to see some of the island’s most captivating sights with minimal hassle. It’s especially appealing if you’re after stunning viewpoints, small-group intimacy, and insightful commentary.

What we really like about this experience is how it balances covering key highlights—like the dramatic Cabo Girao cliff and Porto Moniz’s natural pools—with enough flexibility to enjoy the scenery. Plus, the small group size helps you get more personalized attention from your guide, which can make a big difference in how much you enjoy the day. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the tour packs in quite a few stops, which might mean a faster pace for some travelers.

This tour is well-suited for those who want a rundown of Madeira’s west without the stress of planning every detail. It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate scenic views, light walking, and a taste of local culture. If you’re after a relaxed but full-day exploration, this could be just the thing.

Key Points

• Small group setting offers more personalized attention
• Variety of scenic stops including cliffs, waterfalls, and villages
• Delicious local drink poncha tasting included
• Flexible options for bringing your own food during lunch stop
• Good value for the price considering transportation, guide, and multiple stops
• Duration of nearly 8 hours means a full day of exploration

What’s Included in the Tour

The Go West Tour is designed to give you a well-rounded look at Madeira’s west side. With live commentary throughout, your guide will share insights into the island’s history, culture, and landscape, making your experience more enriching. Also, the insurance included means you can relax knowing you’re covered in case of unforeseen mishaps.

The price of $45.28 per person feels reasonable for a full-day excursion like this, especially given the multiple stops and the small-group setting. The fact that it’s booked an average of 47 days in advance suggests it’s quite popular, so planning ahead might be a good idea if you’re certain you want to go.

How the Day Unfolds: A Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Cabo Girao – A Feather in Madeira’s Cap

Your journey begins at Cabo Girao, famed as the second-highest sea cliff in Europe. The glass platform that extends out over the edge is a highlight, offering a jaw-dropping view straight down to the waves crashing below. From here, you’ll catch sweeping views of Funchal and Câmara de Lobos, perfect for photos.

One review mentioned how “we had a safe driver who explained the tour wonderfully and made plenty of stops for photos,” highlighting that this is a place where you want clear, vibrant images. Being free of an admission fee means you just take in the sights without extra cost.

Stop 2: Ribeira Brava – A Charming Coastal Village

Next up is Ribeira Brava, a picturesque village with a traditional vibe. You’ll find local stores and a historic church, perfect for a quick walk and some authentic photos. It’s a quiet spot to stretch your legs and soak up some local flavor. Travelers have noted that “the set of stops shows beautiful places” and that the guide was friendly and answered questions, making the experience more engaging.

Stop 3: Levada do Paul da Serra – Awe-Inspiring Views

This stop offers a viewpoint overlooking the famous Levada walks. While it’s brief—just 15 minutes—it’s enough to give you a sense of the island’s lush, terraced landscapes. Expect a photo-worthy scene of the valley below, perfect for those panoramic shots that really capture Madeira’s natural beauty.

Stop 4: Porto Moniz – The Star of the Day

The highlight for many is Porto Moniz, renowned for its natural swimming pools. You’ll have about an hour and a half here, giving you plenty of time to admire the volcanic formations and possibly take a dip if you’re brave enough. The tour includes time for lunch or snacks, giving you flexibility; you can opt for a quick meal in the village or bring your own food.

One review pointed out that “the village is famous for its pools,” and that the stop is long enough to enjoy the scenery. Since there’s no entry fee, your main expense is your meal or snacks.

Stop 5: Miradouro do Veu da Noiva – Waterfall Over the Ocean

Expect to see a spectacular waterfall near the ocean, with a short stop that’s perfect for a few photos. This spot offers a blend of mountain greenery and crashing waves—a scenic highlight.

Stop 6: São Vicente – Mountain Village with a View

Set in a mountainous setting, São Vicente offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It’s a good place to pause and take in the scenery. The guide is noted for being friendly and answering questions, which enhances the experience.

Stop 7: Miradouro da Encumeada – The Final Lookout

Your last stop is a passage between the north and south of the island, giving you one last chance to marvel at Madeira’s diverse landscapes. Just 15 minutes, but enough for some final photos and appreciation of the grandeur.

Transportation and Group Size

With round-trip transfers from central meeting points, you won’t need to worry about navigating yourself. The tour caps at 18 travelers, which means there’s a good chance to interact with your guide and get personalized insights.

The bus ride is comfortable, and the stops are timed to give enough time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed. The small group size means you can ask questions more easily and get a more intimate experience.

The Experience on the Ground

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides—with the guide in one review being described as “very friendly and answering questions.” The live commentary makes each stop more meaningful, as you learn about Madeira’s fascinating landscape and history.

The scenic viewpoints are what truly make this tour shine. From cliffs and waterfalls to mountain vistas and ocean panoramas, your camera will be busy! Reviewers consistently mention how “the entire tour was very good” and how the stops allowed for wonderful photo opportunities.

Food and Snacks

The lunch is not included in the tour price, which means you’ll need to bring your own or buy locally in Porto Moniz. The flexibility here is nice—you can choose a quick snack or a sit-down meal, depending on your preference. Many travelers appreciate the chance to indulge in local fare or just pack something for a picnic.

Price and Value

At around $45, this tour offers good value considering the transportation, experienced guide, and multiple scenic stops. It’s a full-day experience that covers a lot without feeling overly rushed. Given the reviews and popularity, the price seems fair for what’s included.

Who is This Tour Best For?

This excursion works well for travelers who want a rundown of Madeira’s stunning west side in one day. It’s ideal if you prefer guided tours that handle all logistics, especially if you’re not keen on renting a vehicle or planning a complex itinerary.

It’s also suitable for those interested in photography or scenic viewpoints, and who enjoy learning about local culture from knowledgeable guides. If you’re someone who appreciates short walks and beautiful vistas, this is a good match.

Final Thoughts

The Go West Tour is a dependable way to see Madeira’s western highlights, especially if you value small groups, guidance, and diverse scenery. It’s a straightforward, well-organized trip that balances spectacular views with interesting stops, making it a solid choice for those wanting a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of planning every detail.

While the pace is brisk and packed with stops, most travelers find it to be a rewarding way to experience Madeira’s west coast. Just remember to bring your camera, some snacks or a light lunch, and a sense of adventure.

If you’re after a comprehensive, scenic, and friendly tour, this one deserves a spot on your Madeira itinerary.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues? The stops are mostly short walks and viewpoints, but if you have difficulty walking or standing for periods, check with the provider to ensure the stops are manageable.

Can I bring my own food for the lunch break? Yes, the tour allows you to bring your own food, and you can decide whether to eat during the stop in Porto Moniz or elsewhere.

What’s the group size? The tour caps at 18 travelers, so you’ll likely experience a more intimate and personalized atmosphere.

Are there any costs besides the tour price? The transportation, live commentary, and insurance are included, but you’ll need to budget for lunch or snacks.

What time does the tour start? The tour begins around 8:30 AM, and the meeting point is the Monumental Experience on Estrada Monumental in Funchal.

How long does the tour last? It’s approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes, so prepare for a full day of sightseeing.

Is there a lot of walking involved? Not much walking is required; most stops are viewing points or short walks.

What’s the weather like? The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re eager to see Madeira’s west side without the stress of navigation, this tour offers a reliable, scenic, and friendly way to explore. The mix of natural beauty, cultural stops, and expert guides makes it a worthwhile addition to your Madeira adventures.