Go North Tour – Madeira Island Excursion

Exploring the Madeira North and East Tour: An Honest Look

Thinking about taking a tour to explore Madeira’s lesser-known spots? The Go North Tour promises an immersive experience of the island’s remote landscapes and volcanic history for around $46.25. While it’s not a full-day extravaganza, it offers a good taste of what makes this island so special—beautiful scenery, fascinating geological sites, and charming villages.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances educational moments with breathtaking views. Plus, the convenience of pickup and a small group (max 18 travelers) makes it feel more personal and less rushed. On the flip side, it’s worth mentioning that the tour doesn’t include meals, so bringing your own snacks or lunch might be a good idea if you don’t want to cut into your sightseeing time.

This experience works best for those who enjoy natural beauty and geological curiosity, maybe with a dash of local culture. If you’re after a relaxed, insightful day that takes you off the beaten path, you’ll probably find this tour quite rewarding.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-paced for a nearly 8-hour exploration of Madeira’s north and east.
• Includes visits to volcanic caves, giving a rare look into the island’s volcanic origins.
• Small group setting enhances comfort and allows for more personalized attention.
• Beautiful viewpoints and villages, perfect for photo stops and leisurely strolls.
• Educational component with the Volcano Centre to understand Madeira’s geology.
• No lunch included, so plan to bring snacks or plan for a quick meal during the stops.

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour is a good choice if you’re keen on seeing Madeira’s more rugged, less touristy sides. It’s a full morning and early afternoon journey that takes you through a variety of landscapes, from volcanic caves to seaside villages. The 7-hour 45-minute duration is about right — enough to see a lot without feeling overwhelmed or rushed.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: São Vicente Caves

We start with the most intriguing part — the volcanic caves. These caves are among the first of their kind open to the public in Portugal, and they offer an underground glimpse into Madeira’s fiery past. The caves stretch over 1,000 meters, and their ceilings are around 5 to 6 meters high, making the walk comfortable but varied enough to feel like an adventure.

The Volcanism Centre nearby is a nice bonus, where you can learn about the eruption and formation of the island through audiovisual displays. The caves were first reported in 1885, which adds a touch of historical interest, and they feel like a hidden gem. Be aware that the entrance fee isn’t included, so if you want to explore further, budget accordingly.

Stop 2: Ponta Delgada

Next, you’ll visit this small village located between mountains and the ocean. It’s a quick stop of about 30 minutes, but you get a charming look at local life and the scenic coastal landscape. You might find this spot a perfect photo op or a peaceful moment away from busier tourist areas.

Stop 3: São Jorge Viewpoint and Lunch Break

A highlight for many — the viewpoint over Arco de São Jorge offers sweeping vistas of the village and beyond. It’s a great place to take in the landscape and snap a few photos. The tour includes a lunch break here, giving you the chance to relax and enjoy local scenery. You can bring your own food or possibly buy something local if options are available, as no meals are provided by the tour.

Stop 4: Porto da Cruz

This picturesque seaside village is famous for its Penha D’Aguia rock formation and its historic rum factory, the Northern Milling Company. The factory still operates with steam, which is pretty rare in Europe. The stop is about 30 minutes, enough to walk around and snap photos of the rugged coastline. If you’re into a bit of local history, this is a nice, authentic spot.

Stop 5: Pico do Facho Viewpoint

A quick 15-minute stop at this panoramic viewpoint reveals sweeping views over Machico Valley, the island’s central peaks, and Ponta de São Lourenço. It’s a no-fuss stop but offers some of the best vistas on the tour — perfect for anyone who loves a good overlook.

Stop 6: Santa Cruz

Your final stop is in Santa Cruz, a friendly seaside village with a promenade and the Gothic Manueline-style São Salvador Church. It’s a relaxing ending, giving you a chance for a stroll or some last-minute photos.

The Experience: What You’ll Love

One of the biggest highlights is the knowledgeable guide. Many reviews praise Luís for his personal insights and engaging commentary, making the experience more meaningful. His storytelling adds context to the sights, from volcanic history to local culture, which we always appreciate — it’s not just about ticking boxes but truly understanding the place.

The stunning views at viewpoints like Pico do Facho and São Jorge provide excellent photo opportunities, making this tour perfect for travelers who love capturing landscapes. The stops at villages like Porto da Cruz and Santa Cruz add a layer of authenticity, giving you a taste of local life away from tourist crowds.

If you’re into geology, the visit to the volcanic caves is particularly worthwhile. These caves are among Portugal’s first volcanic sites open to the public, and learning about Madeira’s volcanic formation is genuinely fascinating. Plus, the caves are cool—literally and figuratively—and make for an interesting contrast to the lush, green island above ground.

A Few Points to Consider

While the tour offers a lot, it’s fair to say it’s somewhat fast-paced. If you prefer spending hours in one place or taking long, unhurried meals, this might feel rushed. Remember, no lunch is included, so plan ahead if you’re hungry or picky about food. Also, since it’s a small group, the atmosphere tends to be intimate, but it does mean you should be comfortable with sharing the space with up to 17 others.

The price point is quite reasonable, especially considering the detailed itinerary and the guided commentary. It’s a good deal for anyone wanting a well-rounded, affordable day exploring Madeira’s natural beauty and villages.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is great for nature lovers and geology buffs, especially those curious about volcanic formations and island landscapes. It’s also suited for travelers happy to hop on a bus and enjoy scenic views without too much walking or physical exertion. The small-group feel makes it more personal and flexible, which many prefer.

If you’re interested in local culture, the visit to Porto da Cruz and Santa Cruz provides authentic touches, but keep in mind there’s no included meal, so bring your own snacks or plan for a quick local bite during the stops.

Overall, it’s an ideal choice for those who want to see the highlights without the fuss, and for travelers who appreciate a guide’s insights combined with beautiful vistas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the focus on volcanic caves and viewpoints. Younger children should be comfortable with walking and bus rides.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 7 hours and 45 minutes, starting early in the morning.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from the meeting point and transport around the island.

Do I need to buy tickets for the caves or viewpoints?
Admission to the volcanic caves is not included in the tour price. Other stops are free.

Can I bring my own food?
Absolutely. The tour doesn’t include lunch, so bringing snacks or a packed lunch is recommended.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, good weather is required. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 18 travelers, which helps keep it intimate and comfortable.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Yes, reviews highlight guides like Luís, who provide personal insights and engaging commentary.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 23 days ahead, so it’s good to plan early.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, camera, snacks, and perhaps a light jacket for caves or viewpoints.

Final Thoughts

The Go North Tour on Madeira is a solid pick for those wanting a balanced day of scenic vistas, geological education, and charming villages. It offers a good value and a manageable schedule, perfect if you’re short on time but still want to see a variety of landscapes.

If you’re someone who loves learning about volcanic origins while enjoying stunning views, this tour will likely hit the mark. The small group size and friendly guidance make it feel less like a hurried bus ride and more like a day out with friends.

However, if you’re after a leisurely, meal-included day or prefer longer exploration at each stop, you might want to consider other options. Still, for a quick, diverse taste of Madeira’s natural beauty, this tour delivers on its promises.

Enjoy exploring Madeira’s rugged north and east—there’s plenty to discover, and this tour offers a pretty good way to do it.