Full Day Open Roof 4×4 Unforgettable Northwest of Madeira

If you’re thinking about exploring Madeira’s wild, picturesque northwest, this full-day open roof 4×4 tour might just be what you’re after. We’ve seen a few tours around the island, but this one seems to stand out for its combination of adventure, scenic beauty, and local insights. With a high rating and glowing reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find it to be an experience worth booking.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances off-road fun with relaxed sightseeing. The open-top vehicle encourages you to soak in the views and snap photos without feeling cramped. Plus, the guide’s knowledge shines through, making the journey not just beautiful but also informative. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves some bumpy off-road driving, which might not suit everyone, especially those with back problems or mobility concerns.

This tour is well-suited for those who want a full day of adventure with plenty of scenic stops and don’t mind a bit of rough terrain. It’s perfect if you love nature, mountain vistas, and coastal landscapes, and are eager to learn about Madeira from a local expert. If you’re traveling with others who crave outdoor activities and unique viewpoints, this might be just the right fit.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Covers mountains, forests, waterfalls, and volcanic pools.
• Expert guides: Highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Off-road adventure: Combines scenic drives with fun off-road routes.
• Flexible pick-up options: Free hotel, Airbnb, or cruise dock pickup in Funchal.
• Affordable price: Around $70 per person, with excellent reviews on value.
• Free cancellation: Easy to cancel 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

If you’re after a truly immersive exploration of Madeira’s northwest, this tour offers just that. It’s not a quick, surface-level visit — it’s a full-day adventure that takes you through some of the most stunning and lesser-visited parts of the island. What makes it special is the open-top 4×4 vehicle, which means you can really take in the scenery and take photos without the usual glass barriers. Several reviews highlight how much travelers appreciated the opportunity to stand up and admire the surroundings.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

The day begins with a pickup in Funchal around 8:30 am, which is convenient if you’re staying in the city or nearby. Once underway, the guide will lead you through a series of stops that showcase Madeira’s varied landscapes.

Serra de Água: The tour starts near an ancient watermill site, which hints at the island’s history of harnessing water and natural resources. Though brief, this stop sets the tone for a journey through Madeira’s rich landscape.

Ribeira Brava Ravine: Expect to admire the lush river valleys and mountain slopes that are characteristic of the west coast. It’s a perfect spot for photos of the dramatic terrain.

Tabua: This stop celebrates a local plant that used to be common in the area. It’s a quick 15-minute walk, but it gives a peek into Madeira’s botanical history and local craftsmanship.

Bica da Cana Viewpoint: One of the more popular stops, sitting at about 1580 meters altitude, it offers panoramic views over mountain peaks and, on clear days, the green north coast of Madeira. Reviewers love this spot for its breathtaking vistas and photo ops.

Paul da Serra: Known as a significant groundwater recharge area, this vast, flat expanse is impressive for its size and ecological importance.

Fanal Forest: A real highlight, Fanal is famed for its ancient trees and otherworldly ambiance. It’s a peaceful place where you can relax, take photos, and enjoy the tranquility.

Vereda do Fanal: Part of Madeira’s Laurisilva, this is a rare, mostly primary forest that’s believed to be 90% untouched. Endemic species like the Madeira long-toed pigeon call this home, making it a must-see for nature lovers.

Waterfalls and Coastal Views: The tour takes you to Miradouro Ribeira da Janela and Ilheus da Ribeira da Janela, where massive rocks and waterfalls cascade into the ocean. Several reviews describe these as “epic” and “remarkable,” perfect for dramatic photos.

Porto Moniz: Known for its volcanic pools and mystical landscapes, Porto Moniz is a major highlight. Expect about an hour here to explore the natural pools, which are free to enjoy if you bring your swimwear.

More Waterfalls and Seaside Charm: Stops like Poca Das Lesmas and Piscinas do Clube Naval do Seixal provide charming spots to relax, take a swim, or simply marvel at the scenery.

Veu da Noiva Waterfall: End the day with a visit to this stunning waterfall, which drapes down a mountain like a bridal veil — a visual treat many visitors rave about.

What the Reviews Say

Travelers consistently praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides — many mention how guides like Filipe, Bruno, and Lino go out of their way to share insights and make everyone feel comfortable. One reviewer said, “Our driver was Filipe. He took great care about us and gave us so many information about Madeira,” which perfectly sums up the personalized touch.

The scenery is another recurring theme. Reviewers describe the views as “amazing,” “spectacular,” and “unforgettable,” especially at viewpoints like Bica da Cana and Ribeira da Janela. Several mention how the off-road route offers a wild, adventurous ride, with some describing the driving as “crazy” but “expert,” which adds an element of fun for those who enjoy a bit of thrill.

Most travelers find excellent value for money, considering the number of stops, the variety of landscapes, and the local insights provided. The price of around $70 seems fair, especially given the length of the tour (about 8 hours) and the inclusion of hotel pickups in Funchal.

The Off-Road Element and Vehicle Comfort

The open-roof 4×4 is a real advantage for sightseeing — it makes the experience feel more authentic and immersive. You’ll have the chance to stand up in the vehicle and take photos easily, which is something many reviews highlight as a standout feature. However, the off-road nature means the ride can be bumpy and a bit tiring, especially if you’re prone to back issues or prefer smoother transport.

Reviews also note that the group size can be up to 50 travelers, but most experiences are more intimate with smaller groups, especially if you opt for a private or semi-private arrangement.

Practical Details and Tips

• The tour includes all fees and taxes, and optional hotel pickup makes logistics simple.
• Lunch is not included, so plan for snacks or a meal during the day.
• Additional stops like the natural pools in Porto Moniz or Seixal are free, but some places like the Porto Moniz pools have a small entry fee (~3 EUR).
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, with most being able to participate, but the off-road driving might not suit everyone.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal if you’re an outdoor enthusiast or a nature lover who wants to see Madeira’s most dramatic landscapes without feeling rushed. It’s perfect for those craving a full day of adventure, off-road driving, and multiple viewpoints. If you enjoy learning about local flora, fauna, and geology from passionate guides, this tour ticks those boxes.

It’s also a good choice for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of thrill, thanks to the off-road routes. However, if you’re looking for a relaxed, easy-paced tour with minimal bouncing, you might prefer something less adventurous.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, free pickup is offered from hotels, Airbnb, and the cruise dock in Funchal.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about 8 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What’s included in the price?
All fees and taxes are covered. Guides are knowledgeable, and transportation is provided. Lunch and some entrance fees are extra.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers participate comfortably, the off-road driving and bumpy ride may not be ideal for very young children or those with back problems.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

What attractions will I see?
Expect mountain viewpoints, forests, waterfalls, volcanic pools, and scenic coastal spots like Porto Moniz.

How physical is the tour?
It involves some off-road driving on rough terrain, so a reasonable level of mobility helps. If you’re comfortable sitting in a vehicle for long periods and enjoy outdoor scenery, you’ll be fine.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not part of the package, so plan to bring snacks or purchase food during stops.

How crowded does it get?
The maximum group size is 50 travelers, but reviews suggest the experience remains enjoyable and not overly congested.

Will I get good photo opportunities?
Absolutely. The open top allows for easy photography, especially at viewpoints and scenic spots.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a full, action-packed day that combines nature, adventure, and local insights, this Madeira 4×4 tour is a solid pick. It offers a wonderful way to see areas that are hard to access by regular vehicle, with the bonus of expert guides who love sharing their island’s stories and secrets.

While the off-road driving isn’t for everyone, most find the ride exhilarating rather than uncomfortable, especially with the stunning views all around. The price reflects a comprehensive experience, and many reviews emphasize how the combination of scenery, guide knowledge, and fun off-road moments makes this tour a memorable highlight.

In short, this experience is best suited for adventurers, nature lovers, and anyone craving a genuine taste of Madeira’s rugged beauty. It’s an excellent way to see the island’s wild side in just one day, leaving you with plenty of stories and photos to cherish.

Enjoy your trip to Madeira and happy exploring!