Madeira: Sunny South Side – Cabo Girão, Waterfalls, C. Lobos

Traveling through Madeira can feel like flipping through a picture-perfect postcard — but if you’re craving a guided day that hits the best sun-drenched spots and scenic views, this tour offers a lot for your money. Designed for visitors eager to soak in the island’s most radiant landscapes and authentic coastal charm, this experience combines breathtaking viewpoints, quaint villages, and local flavors in one well-organized package.

One of our favorite things about this tour is how smoothly it balances stunning natural sights with cultural touches — from the dizzying heights of Cabo Girão’s glass skywalk to tasting the island’s iconic Poncha in Câmara de Lobos. Plus, at just $74 per person for an 8-hour trip, it feels like a very fair way to get a comprehensive Madeira day without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

A possible consideration? It’s quite packed, with many stops squeezed into one day, so if you prefer slow mornings or a more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, the tour is best suited for those who don’t mind a full day on the move, with some walking and outdoor exposure. Overall, if you want a curated snapshot of Madeira’s sunny coast with plenty of highlights, this tour is a solid pick.

Whether you’re traveling solo, a couple, or even a small family (though kids under 12 aren’t the main audience here), you’ll appreciate the way this experience showcases some of Madeira’s most iconic spots with ease and expert guidance.

Key Points

• Stunning Viewpoints: The tour features one of Europe’s highest cliff viewpoints at Cabo Girão, offering spectacular vistas.
• Authentic Coastal Villages: Small, colorful villages like Ponta do Sol and Câmara de Lobos show Madeira’s local charm.
• Local Flavors: Tasting Poncha, the island’s signature drink, adds a cultural touch to the day.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: Tight but efficient stops ensure you see the highlights without wasting time.
• Comfortable Transport & Guide: A small group with a knowledgeable guide makes for a friendly, personalized experience.
• Good Value: At $74, the combination of transport, entry fees, and tastings makes it an appealing option for many travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Full Experience: What You Can Expect From This Tour

Starting Point & Early Mornings

The tour kicks off in Funchal, with several pick-up options that include hotels and busy spots like the cable car station or supermarkets. It’s designed to be flexible, so you can choose the most convenient meeting point for you. Once everyone’s gathered, a comfortable van whisks you away for the day’s adventures.

First Stops: Ribeira Brava & Ponta do Sol

Your first taste of Madeira’s varied scenery comes with a quick coffee break—think of it as fueling up for the day. The guide, usually very knowledgeable, will share some local stories and tips while you enjoy your caffeine fix. Then, it’s time for some panoramic photos at the Miradouro São Sebastião, where the Atlantic spreads out in all directions—perfect for snapping some shots or just soaking in the vast blue.

Next, you’ll explore Ponta do Sol, famed as the warmest spot on the island. The colorful, lively village invites you to wander its streets, enjoy the summer vibes, and perhaps sample a craft beer if you’re inclined. The vibe here is relaxed, with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to breathe in that warm island air.

Mid-Morning Waterfalls and Coastal Views

The itinerary includes a scenic drive along striking coastlines, stopping at spots like Cascata dos Anjos and Paul do Mar. These quick stops aren’t just pretty overlooks—they give you a real feel for Madeira’s rugged beauty and the way the landscape plunges into the sea. These are perfect moments to stretch your legs and take some photos or just enjoy the breeze.

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Lunch at Calheta Beach & Relaxing Time

Lunchtime is at Calheta Beach — a great spot to unwind, soak up the sun, and grab a meal or just relax on the sand. The tour offers about 1.5 hours here, so if you’re in need of a break from sightseeing, it’s a perfect pause. Many travelers opt to relax or enjoy a swim, making this a key highlight for those wanting a mix of activity and downtime.

Cabo Girão Skywalk: The Must-See

After lunch, the star of the tour is the Cabo Girão Skywalk—a glass-floored platform perched 580 meters above sea level, offering jaw-dropping views. Here, the thrill of looking straight down through glass panels enhances the panorama, and many visitors find this to be a real adrenaline rush. The views of the coast and terraced fields are mesmerizing and worth every second. Expect some crowds, but the photo ops are worth it.

Câmara de Lobos: The Charming Fishing Village

The day winds down in Câmara de Lobos, renowned as the birthplace of Poncha, Madeira’s iconic local drink. The guide will usually include a tasting, which is a highlight for many. This small, traditional fishing village still retains its authentic charm—colorful boats bobbing in the harbor and narrow streets that seem to whisper stories of old Madeira. It’s a great place to soak up local culture before returning to Funchal.

End of the Day & Return

The tour concludes with a relaxed drive back, with options for drop-off at your initial pick-up points. Many reviewers have expressed satisfaction with the overall experience, emphasizing the friendly guide and the well-paced stops.

Why This Tour Works Well

You’ll love the diversity of scenery — from panoramic ocean views and cliff-top skylines to colorful villages and mountain waterfalls. It’s a good way to see Madeira’s highlights without the stress of planning multiple trips or long drives.

The guide makes a difference — Based on reviews, guides like Richard stand out for their knowledge, punctuality, and friendly attitude. Many guests appreciate how safe and well-informed they felt at all times.

The mix of cultural and natural sights keeps the day interesting. Sampling Poncha and trying local craft beers are nice touches that add flavor (literally) to the experience.

That said, this tour can be a bit full-on for those wanting a very relaxed pace. If you prefer more time at each stop or to explore independently, this might feel a little rushed.

Value for money is definitely on point. For $74, you get transportation, an entry fee, tastings, and a guided experience—pretty good for a full-day tour. The small group size (max 8) also adds a personal touch that large tours often lack.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive, guided overview of Madeira’s sunny south. It’s perfect if you’re after stunning views, local culture, and a bit of adventure — especially the thrill of the Cabo Girão skywalk.

Active travelers will appreciate the variety of stops and the outdoor focus, but it’s not overly strenuous. It’s also a good choice for those who value local insights and authentic experiences like trying Poncha.

If you’re visiting with your partner or friends and want a hassle-free day filled with memorable sights, this tour offers a reliable option. However, if you’re traveling with very young children or prefer more flexible pacing, you might want to consider a more relaxed or private alternative.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Not really — it’s recommended for travelers over the age of 12, and involves some walking and outdoor exposure. Kids might find the day too long or the heights at Cabo Girão intimidating.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are a must, along with sun protection like a hat and sunscreen. Weather can change unexpectedly, so a light jacket or outdoor clothing is wise.

How long is each stop?
Most stops range from 10 to 30 minutes, with a longer break for lunch at Calheta Beach. The entire day lasts around 8 hours, so be prepared for a full schedule.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the reviews mention a new, clean van with good AC and careful driving. The small group size makes for a cozy, friendly atmosphere.

Are the views really that good?
Absolutely. Places like Cabo Girão are renowned for their dramatic vistas, and the panoramic outlooks from various viewpoints are truly spectacular.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included, but a 1.5-hour stop at Calheta Beach gives you time to grab a meal or relax.

What local drinks are included?
The tour offers a small bottle of water, and a choice of Poncha, beer, or a soft drink like Brisa Maracujá.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans shift last minute.

Is this tour good value?
Yes, considering the transportation, entrance fees, tastings, and guided commentary, it offers a fair price for a full day of sightseeing.

This tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into Madeira’s sunny coast, packed with memorable sights, local flavors, and friendly guides. It’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors wanting a straightforward, enjoyable day filled with picture-worthy moments. If you love natural beauty, charming villages, and a bit of adrenaline at the skywalk, this trip might just be the highlight of your Madeira holiday.

You can check availability for your dates here: