Grand Madeira Island Tour – Porto Moniz and Santana

Grand Madeira Island Tour – Porto Moniz and Santana: A Detailed Look

Traveling to Madeira and wondering how to see its most iconic sights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed? This Grand Madeira Island Tour by Intertours offers a comprehensive day exploring the island’s best viewpoints, villages, and natural marvels. Perfect for those who like a well-organized itinerary and want to pack a lot into one day, this tour promises panoramic views, scenic drives, and plenty of memorable moments.

Two aspects we particularly appreciate are the access to spectacular viewpoints like Cabo Girao and Porto Moniz’s volcanic pools, along with the personalized experience that comes with a small group — only up to 8 people. However, it’s worth noting that the day can be quite long, and some travelers have mentioned the driving can feel a bit rushed at times. Still, for those eager to get a broader sense of Madeira’s diversity, this tour hits many highlights efficiently.

If you’re someone who thrives on stunning landscapes, appreciates local villages, and doesn’t mind a full day in a vehicle, this tour could be a great fit. It’s especially suitable for travelers seeking a structured, guided experience rather than venturing out on their own.

Key Points

• All-in-one island overview: Covers many of Madeira’s top sights for first-timers.
• Spectacular viewpoints: Includes Cabo Girao’s skywalk and Pico da Torre.
• Natural wonders: Porto Moniz’s volcanic pools and waterfalls.
• Cultural spots: Visit traditional villages like Santana and historic Machico.
• Comfort and convenience: Pickup included, small group, air-conditioned coach.
• Long but rewarding day: Expect around 8 hours of sightseeing.

Introduction to Madeira’s Best on a Full-Day Tour

This Madeira tour is billed as a grand tour of the island, and it lives up to that promise by covering a wide variety of sights in a single day. If you’re visiting Madeira for the first time or want a solid overview without the hassle of navigating yourself, it’s an appealing option. What stands out almost immediately is the chance to see some of the most dramatic scenery Madeira has to offer, from towering sea cliffs to lush plateaus.

Two things we love about this experience are the breathtaking views from Cabo Girao, one of the tallest sea bluffs in the world, and the visit to Porto Moniz’s volcanic pools, which are both iconic and uniquely crafted by nature. Plus, the tour’s small group size means you’re not lost in a crowd, allowing for more personalized attention and easier stops for photos.

One possible consideration is the length of the day — at about 8 hours, it’s quite a long outing. Some visitors have noted that the driver can sometimes be in a rush, which might make some parts feel hurried. If you prefer a relaxed pace, this is something to keep in mind. Still, if you’re eager to see much of Madeira in a single day, the efficiency of this tour is a real perk.

This tour is best suited to travelers who want a comprehensive, guided experience with plenty of viewpoints and local spots, especially if they’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

What to Expect from the Tour

From the moment you’re picked up at your hotel or the designated meeting point along Avenida do Mar, this trip begins with a sense of adventure. You’ll get into an air-conditioned vehicle, which makes the long day more comfortable, especially on warmer days. The small-group setting means fewer distractions and a more tailored experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions and local insights.

The Itinerary: An In-Depth Look

Cabo Girao is first on the list, standing at 580 meters. You’ll have the chance to walk over the glass-floor skywalk, which juts out over the cliff edge. It’s genuinely awe-inspiring, and the views are best appreciated here. While admission isn’t included, the experience itself is worth it if you’re comfortable with a bit of an adrenaline rush. Visitors have described the drive along the coast to this point as “breathtaking,” and many are impressed by the height and scale of this natural wonder.

Next, the tour takes you to Porto Moniz, famous for its volcanic pools. These pools are formed by lava and shaped by nature into natural swimming holes—perfect for a quick photo or a dip if you’re feeling brave. The free entry makes this a highlight without additional cost, and many reviews praise the area’s beauty.

From Porto Moniz, the route takes you along seaside roads offering views of waterfalls and rugged terrain. Travelers have loved the drive, with one noting, “The coastal drive was breathtaking,” emphasizing Madeira’s striking landscape. Be aware, though, that some mention the roads can be narrow and winding, which might be uncomfortable for those prone to motion sickness.

Sao Vicente is next, a charming town steeped in history. Known as the “Court of the North,” it features quaint streets and monuments. It’s a good spot for a short break and to get a feel for local life. Many reviews mention the guide’s helpful commentary here, adding depth to this stop.

Lunch follows at a local spot, providing regional dishes with panoramic views — a definite highlight for food lovers. The included lunch has received positive comments for its quality and setting, with travelers appreciating the opportunity to relax and refuel.

Afterward, the tour visits Cabanas Sao Jorge for a viewpoint with sweeping vistas, especially on clear days. It’s perfect for snapping postcard-worthy photos. Some reviews highlight how the guide’s local knowledge enhances the experience, providing insights you might not find in guidebooks.

Santana is a firm favorite for its traditional thatched cottages. The tour includes a visit to the Santana Cultural Center, where you can see the iconic houses and buy regional products. This spot appeals especially to those interested in Madeira’s local architecture and crafts.

Finally, the trip concludes in Machico, a historic port town where travelers once set sail for new lands. It’s a charming end to the day before returning to Funchal.

The Practicalities: Transportation, Duration, and Cost

The tour costs approximately $296.46 per group, which generally means around $37 per person if you’re traveling with a full group of 8. Considering the number of sights covered and the convenience of door-to-door pickup and drop-off, this is reasonable for many travelers. The tour lasts about 8 hours, making it a full-day commitment, but one packed with variety and breathtaking scenery.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the small group size, ensuring a more personal experience and flexibility for photo stops and questions. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is essential for comfort in Madeira’s warm months.

Booking in advance — an average of 26 days ahead — suggests good planning is advisable, especially during peak seasons. The tour is private, so it’s a tailored experience for your group, not a crowded bus.

The Real Experience Based on Reviews

From the glowing reviews, it’s clear that the guides and drivers are a key part of what makes this tour memorable. Multiple reviewers mention guides being “extremely helpful,” “very knowledgeable,” and “friendly,” and some even say their guides made the day special with personalized service.

Many reviews highlight the spectacular scenery — from the cliffs at Cabo Girao to waterfalls and lush valleys — describing it as “breathtaking,” “stunning,” or “beautiful.” For instance, one reviewer said, “We saw the other side of Madeira. Beautiful mountains, forest, valleys, vineyards, and banana farms,” emphasizing the diversity of the landscape.

The lunch experience also garners praise, with comments about regional dishes and good value, rounding out the day’s highlights.

However, some mention the driving can be fast-paced or that the driver was “in a rush,” which might not suit those who prefer a more relaxed experience. A few noted that hearing the guide’s commentary was challenging when seated at the back, so early seating or earphones could improve the experience.

The tour seems to be highly valued for its comprehensive coverage and the quality of its guides, making it a reliable choice for those wanting an all-encompassing Madeira day trip.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re eager to see a wide variety of Madeira’s most iconic sights in one day and don’t mind a full schedule, this tour offers impressive value. It’s suitable for travelers who appreciate spectacular viewpoints, natural beauty, and local culture, all within a small group setting that feels personalized and comfortable.

The tour’s length and packed itinerary mean it’s best for those who enjoy long days of sightseeing without feeling rushed. If you’re sensitive to fast driving or prefer a more leisurely pace, you might find some stops a bit hurried, but overall, the experience delivers in scope and scenery.

It’s particularly well-suited to first-time visitors wanting a broad overview or travelers who love picture-perfect landscapes, charming villages, and natural wonders. The inclusion of Cabo Girao, Porto Moniz’s pools, and Santana’s cottages encapsulates Madeira’s diverse appeal.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your Funchal hotel or the designated hotel bus stop along Avenida do Mar, making it easy to start your day.

How long is the tour?
The full-day experience lasts approximately 8 hours, from pickup to return, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop.

What is the group size?
It’s a private tour with only your group participating, which means more personalized attention and less waiting.

Are tickets to Cabo Girao skywalk included?
No, admission isn’t included, so you’ll need to pay separately if you choose to walk the glass skywalk.

Is lunch included?
Yes, the tour includes a regional lunch with panoramic views, which many reviews praise for its quality.

What are some of the highlights?
Key highlights include Cabo Girao’s skywalk, Porto Moniz’s volcanic pools, scenic viewpoints like Cabanas Sao Jorge, and the charming village of Santana.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly marketed as family-specific, the stops are generally family-friendly, especially for those interested in scenery and culture. Still, consider the full day’s length.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing and shoes are recommended, especially for walking at viewpoints. Don’t forget sun protection and a camera.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Some stops involve walking or standing, so check your personal mobility needs before booking.

If you’re looking for a comprehensive, scenic, and well-organized way to take in Madeira’s highlights, this tour offers a strong balance of natural beauty, cultural insight, and convenience. Just be ready for a day that’s packed — but full of unforgettable views and experiences.