Motorcycle Full day Madeira island West Tour (Self-guided)

Getting the Most Out of Madeira: A Look at the Motorcycle Full Day Western Island Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Madeira and love the idea of exploring on two wheels, this Motorcycle Full Day Madeira Island West Tour could be just what you’re looking for. Offered as a self-guided experience, it gives you the freedom to set your own pace while hitting some of the most iconic spots on the island. From the colorful fishing village of Câmara de Lobos to the breathtaking skywalk at Cabo Girão and the natural swimming pools of Porto Moniz, it’s a compact but rich way to see Madeira’s western highlights.

What really stands out about this tour are its simplicity and flexibility. You get the essentials covered with pickup from select hotels in Funchal, and you’re trusted to navigate the route on your own—ideal if you’re confident on a motorcycle or have a sense of adventure. Plus, the price tag of $79 for nearly 8 hours of sightseeing offers a pretty good deal, especially considering the inclusion of personalized pickup and drop-off.

However, it’s not all sunshine—this tour is best suited to travelers with a moderate physical fitness level and some comfort riding a motorcycle. If you’re not familiar or comfortable with self-guided touring or don’t want to manage your own navigation, this might not be the best fit. Also, the natural pools at Porto Moniz are a highlight but not included in the ticket price, so be prepared for an extra expense if you want to swim.

This tour appeals particularly to those who value flexibility and independence during their trip. If you don’t mind handling your own route and want a full day packed with Madeira’s scenic best bits, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Flexible, self-guided experience: You’re responsible for navigation, giving you freedom to stop or skip spots.
• Focus on iconic sights: Câmara de Lobos, Cabo Girão Skywalk, Porto Moniz pools.
• Affordable for a full day: At $79, it offers a good price for nearly 8 hours of sightseeing.
• Limited included activities: Entry to Porto Moniz pools isn’t included; plan for extra costs.
• Small group or solo: Max of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.
• Ideal for confident riders: Moderate physical fitness and comfort on a motorcycle are recommended.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Out in Funchal

The tour kicks off at Largo dos Varadouros in São Martinho, with pickup from selected hotels in Funchal. The convenience of being picked up means you can start your adventure without fussing over directions or parking, which is often appreciated. The start time of 9:00 am gives you a good head start to enjoy the day.

Exploring Câmara de Lobos

Your first stop is the charming Câmara de Lobos, one of Madeira’s oldest villages. With roots dating back to around 1430, it’s a place that feels steeped in history but also alive with local color. You’ll get a sense of authentic Madeira life here, with narrow streets, traditional fishing boats, and cozy cafes. It’s a great spot to stretch your legs, soak in the scenery, and maybe grab a quick coffee.

The Thrill of Cabo Girão Skywalk

Next up is the Cabo Girão Skywalk, considered one of the most breathtaking viewpoints on the island. Sitting 580 meters above sea level, the glass walkway juts out from the cliff, offering panoramic views of the coastline and Funchal in the distance. This is definitely the “wow” moment of the tour—if heights aren’t your thing, you’ll want to brace yourself, but the vistas are absolutely worth the slight adrenaline rush. The 20-minute stop is just enough time to snap some photos and take in the scenery without feeling rushed.

The Natural Pools of Porto Moniz

The highlight for many is the Porto Moniz natural swimming pools. These volcanic rock pools are a natural marvel—formed by lava flows and constantly refreshed by the Atlantic. With around 3 hours allocated for this stop, you have ample time to wander around, take photos, and if you choose, swim in the clear waters. Note that entry tickets aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget for that if swimming is on your list. The pools are often described as a unique experience, with their natural shapes and fresh seawater providing a refreshing end to the day.

Ending the Day

The tour concludes back at your starting point in Funchal, giving you a relaxed wrap-up after a day filled with scenic drives and memorable sights. The drop-off service adds a layer of convenience, especially after a day on the motorcycle.

What Travelers Say

The only review available rates this experience as a perfect 5 out of 5, with Mehdi_B commenting, “Parfait. Merci Rodrygo et son amie.” Although the review is brief, it indicates a positive experience, likely thanks to the well-organized nature and the beautiful sights. The tour’s small group size of up to 8 travelers was appreciated for the personal touch.

One notable point from the review is the communication, where the organizer proactively reached out via WhatsApp when the original booking was full, offering an alternative date. This kind of attentive service can make a real difference, especially for travelers with tight schedules.

Practical Details and Considerations

Pricing and Value

At $79, this tour is quite reasonable considering the full-day duration and the inclusion of hotel pickup. The cost is mainly for the transportation and the experience—it’s up to you to spend additional on meals or entrance fees. For budget-conscious travelers wanting to see Madeira’s highlights without paying for multiple guided tours, it’s a smart choice.

Duration and Timing

With nearly 8 hours of activity, the timing allows for a leisurely pace, but keep in mind that you’ll need to manage your own schedule at each stop. The mid-morning start is ideal for maximizing daylight, especially if you’re planning other activities later in the day.

Group Size and Freedom

A maximum of 8 travelers means you won’t be lost in a crowd, and you’ll likely get more personalized attention. The self-guided format offers flexibility—if you want longer at a particular spot or to skip one, you can.

Physical Fitness and Skill

Since this is a motorcycle tour, a moderate fitness level and some riding experience are recommended. The route involves navigating the scenic roads of Madeira, which can be narrow and winding, especially near the cliffs. If you’re comfortable on a motorcycle or scooter, you’ll enjoy this; if not, it might be worth considering a guided alternative.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy the freedom of riding and exploring at their own pace. It suits those with moderate riding skills and good physical fitness who want to see Madeira’s highlights without the constraints of a guided group. If you prefer more structure or dislike self-navigation, a different tour might suit you better.

On the plus side, it’s a great option for independent travelers, couples, or small groups eager to make the most of a full day on the island. It’s less suitable for families with young children or travelers uncomfortable on a motorcycle, given the nature of the activity.

FAQs

What is included in this tour?
Transportation with pickup from selected hotels in Funchal and the opportunity to explore Madeira’s west coast at your own pace.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and breakfast are not included, so plan to bring snacks or plan for a meal break.

Can I join if I don’t own a motorcycle?
This is a self-guided motorcycle tour, so it’s designed for riders. If you don’t have your own motorcycle, you’ll need to rent one beforehand.

What if I want to visit Porto Moniz pools?
You can do so during the allocated 3 hours at Porto Moniz, but entrance fees are not included. You might want to budget extra for entry and any additional activities.

Is this tour suitable for families?
It’s best suited for travelers comfortable riding motorcycles. If you’re traveling with children, this may not be the ideal activity unless they are old enough to ride or sit as passengers.

What is the physical demand of this tour?
Moderate, mainly depending on your riding experience and ability to handle winding roads and some outdoor walking at stops.

How many people are in a group?
A maximum of 8, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

How far in advance should I book?
Given the small group size and limited slots, it’s best to book early to secure your spot.

To sum it up, the Motorcycle Full Day Madeira Island West Tour offers an exciting way to see some of the most scenic parts of the island while enjoying the independence of a self-guided experience. It’s a great pick for confident riders who value flexibility, scenic beauty, and a memorable adventure. Just be sure you’re comfortable managing your own route and handling motorcycle riding, and you’ll likely find this to be a highlight of your Madeira trip.