Full Day Tour in Porto Moniz with the Locals

If you’re considering a day trip to Madeira’s northwest coast, a full-day tour to Porto Moniz with Green Devil Safari promises a mix of breathtaking scenery, local insights, and off-the-beaten-path spots. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it’s clear that this experience aims to give travelers a genuine taste of Madeira’s natural beauty—and do it comfortably in a 4WD vehicle.

What really catches our attention are the personalized nature of the tour, with many stops at less touristy locations, and the chance to enjoy the island’s scenic vistas from viewpoints like Miradouro da Encumeada. Also, the presence of a knowledgeable guide—someone proud of their home—can genuinely enhance your understanding of Madeira’s culture and environment. One potential snag, however, is the price. At around $73 per person for roughly 8 hours, it’s not cheap, but for the access and insights offered, many find it worthwhile.

This tour is best suited for nature lovers, curious explorers, and those who want a balanced mix of scenic views, local flavor, and a bit of adventure in an off-road setting. If you’re after a relaxed, scenic day away from crowded tourist spots, this could be a great fit. Just keep in mind that the tour involves quite a bit of travel and walking, so it’s best for those comfortable with a full day on the move.

Key Points

• Comprehensive exploration of Madeira’s northwest coast, from Porto Moniz to Seixal
• 4WD transport ensures access to remote and scenic spots
• Expert guide offers cultural insights and makes the journey more engaging
• Variety of stops including waterfalls, volcanic pools, viewpoints, and beaches
• Price reflects a full-day, guided experience with transportation included
• Good for active travelers and those seeking authentic local experiences

What to Expect from This Full-Day Madeira Adventure

This tour offers a balanced mix of scenery, culture, and adventure. It’s structured to take you off the typical tourist trail, giving you access to some of Madeira’s most stunning and lesser-visited locations. Starting in Funchal at 8:30am, you’ll head northwest in a 4WD vehicle—perfect for navigating the island’s rugged terrain. The small group size, capped at 24, promises a more personalized experience, with plenty of room for questions and interaction.

The Itinerary Breakdown — What You’ll See and Do

Starting Point – Ribeira Brava and Serra de Água
Your day begins on the southern coast, with a pickup and a drive up to Serra de Água—a lush area historically important for Madeira’s timber industry. Here, the landscape is marked by ancient sawmills and abundant greenery, which gives you a hint of how vital this region was for early settlers. The brief stop at Miradouro da Encumeada offers panoramic views of both the south and north coasts. From this vantage point, you’ll get a sense of Madeira’s dramatic mountainous terrain.

Levada Walk and Forests
Next, you’ll explore the Levada do Paul da Serra, a popular and well-preserved irrigation channel that doubles as a walking route. The stop at Estanquinhos near Senhora do Rosário allows you to enjoy some scenic views—perfect for a quick photo break. We love the idea of walking through this lush environment, surrounded by the sounds of nature.

Fanal and Volcanic Crater
The tour then takes you to Vereda do Fanal, a small volcanic crater within the Madeira Natural Park. This spot is classified as a resting reserve, making it ideal for a moment of relaxation amid nature. The trees here are often shrouded in mist, creating a mysterious, calming atmosphere that’s perfect for photography or just soaking in the tranquility.

Rural Coastlines and Remarkable Rock Formations
Driving further along the coast, you’ll visit the Ilheus da Ribeira da Janela, a striking area with unique rock formations and access to the Atlantic Ocean. The nearby Miradouro Ribeira da Janela offers stunning views of the long, carved valley below. These scenic vistas highlight Madeira’s volcanic origins and rugged coastline.

Porto Moniz and the Natural Pools
The highlight for many is Porto Moniz itself. Known for its natural volcanic swimming pools, the town offers an exhilarating and accessible way to experience the Atlantic. You’ll spend about 50 minutes swimming, relaxing, or simply admiring the ocean waves crashing over the rocks—an experience many reviews describe as both fun and invigorating. The pools are a bucket list item for many visitors, and having a guide who knows the best spots can make a difference.

Seixal and the Black Sand Beach
Your final stop is Seixal, a charming village with a striking black sand beach right next to the harbor. The area’s scenery is often described as postcard-perfect, with dramatic cliffs and lush surroundings. The time here, around 20 minutes, is enough for a quick walk, some photos, or a relaxing moment by the sea.

How Does the Experience Feel?

Based on reviews, guides like Nuno are praised highly for their knowledge and pride in their island. One reviewer mentioned, “All day in the Land Rover with our brilliant guide and driver Nuno. Genuine off-road driving on some interesting ‘roads’. Nuno was very informative and exuded pride in his job and his home.” That kind of personal touch can elevate the day from merely sightseeing to a meaningful connection with Madeira.

Practical Considerations

• Timing: The tour starts at 8:30am, so you’ll need to be ready to start early.
• Duration: Around 8 hours, which is quite full but manageable if you’re used to day-long excursions.
• Transportation: The 4WD vehicle is a big plus—it allows access to remote spots that regular buses or cars might struggle with.
• Cost: At around $73.16 per person, including parking fees, the price seems fair considering the comprehensiveness of the itinerary and the personalized guide experience. However, note that fuel surcharge is not included, so there might be additional costs.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys outdoor activities, scenic drives, and discovering hidden spots, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate local insights and want to avoid overly touristy areas. It’s also suitable for travelers comfortable with a full day on their feet and in a vehicle, as there’s walking involved at several stops.

This experience isn’t necessarily designed as a family tour or for very young children, but older kids who enjoy nature and adventure might find it engaging. The off-road driving and varied scenery make it suitable for those craving a more active, authentic Madeira experience.

Final thoughts

This Porto Moniz full-day tour offers a well-rounded look at Madeira’s natural beauty, with plenty of opportunities for stunning photos, outdoor fun, and cultural learning. The involvement of a knowledgeable guide can really personalize the experience and make some of the more remote or less obvious sights accessible.

While the price isn’t the lowest, the value lies in the combination of transportation, expert commentary, and access to places you’d struggle to reach on your own. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see a lot without the hassle of organizing multiple transport options or worrying about navigation.

If you’re aiming for a scenic, active day with a local touch—especially if you love exploring forests, waterfalls, and volcanic pools—this tour could be just what you’re looking for. Just remember it’s a full day, so come prepared for an adventure.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from designated locations, making it convenient to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy all the stops and take in the scenery without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the guided tour, parking fees, and transportation in a 4WD vehicle. Fuel surcharge is not included, so there might be additional costs.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

What are the main highlights?
Highlights include Porto Moniz’s volcanic pools, scenic viewpoints like Miradouro da Encumeada, lush forests, waterfalls, and unique rock formations along the coast.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, older children who enjoy nature and adventure may find it engaging. The tour involves some walking and vehicle travel, so consider the stamina and interests of your kids.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour groups are capped at 24 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

If this sounds like your kind of Madeira adventure, it’s worth considering. The combination of scenic views, local guides, and off-road access creates a memorable experience that captures the spirit of the island.