Ribeira Da Janela is a perfect spot for exploring Madeira’s stunning landscapes, especially if you enjoy adventure, breathtaking views, and authentic local encounters. Its rugged coastline and lush forests invite travelers to explore beyond the typical tourist routes. One of our favorite experiences here is the Madeira private 4×4 tour: North-West Coast, which combines off-road excitement with visits to some of the island’s most dramatic scenery, like Ribeira da Janela’s striking cliffs and the mystical Fanal Forest. Whether you’re after a full-day adventure or a shorter excursion, Ribeira Da Janela offers a variety of tours tailored for different interests and activity levels.
This list includes full-day explorations, semi-private journeys, and specialized visits like wine tasting—each providing a different way to experience Madeira’s wild beauty. These tours stand out not just for their scenery but also for their small-group atmosphere, expert guides, and unique highlights. To help you decide which to choose, we’ve broken down each experience in detail, highlighting what makes them special and worth your time.
1. Madeira private 4×4 tour: North-West Coast
This full-day private 4×4 tour offers a personalized look at Madeira’s rugged northwest. Starting from Funchal, you’ll explore Cabo Girão, famous for its glass skywalk, and then venture into the Fanal Forest, known for its ancient laurel trees enshrouded in mist. The highlight is the dramatic ribeira da Janela cliffs, where waves crash against striking rock formations, offering some of the most spectacular coastal views on the island.
What makes this trip stand out is the customized experience—your guide Michael, with his deep knowledge and friendly demeanor, takes you off the beaten track to places most travelers never see. You’ll also visit Porto Moniz and Seixal natural pools, perfect for a refreshing dip, and pass through the Encumeada Pass, which gives sweeping mountain vistas. The tour lasts about 8 hours and costs $114 per person, making it a good value considering the exclusivity and flexibility.
Guests rave about the authentic, relaxed atmosphere and the guide’s ability to surprise with local stories and tips. If you want a personalized adventure with plenty of photo stops and local insights, this tour is a top choice. The downside? It’s a full day, so it’s best for those with a flexible schedule and love for off-road driving.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a private, comprehensive North West coast experience with expert guiding and off-road adventure.
2. Funchal: Full Day 4×4, Fanal Mystic Forest and Levada walk
This 7-hour guided tour from Funchal combines Madeira’s famous Levada walks, the enchanting Fanal Forest, and a visit to the Skywalk at Cabo Girao. The tour begins with hotel pickup and then takes you on an off-road adventure through Ponta Do Sol and the Paul da Serra plateau, famous for its moist Laurissilva forest.
The highlight is walking along one of Madeira’s historic levadas, irrigation channels carved into the mountain terrain over centuries. Your guide will lead you through the Fanal enchanted forest, where trees over 600 years old stand amid mist and moss—truly an Instagram-worthy spot. The tour also includes a stop at the Seixal black sand beach for a quick photo and a walk over the Cabo Girao Skywalk’s glass floor—an experience that delivers impressive vertigo and panoramic views.
What makes this tour appealing is the combination of active walking, scenic drives, and iconic viewpoints. It’s perfect for those who want a balanced mix of nature, adventure, and sightseeing in a manageable 7-hour timeframe. The price isn’t listed, but it’s an economical way to enjoy Madeira’s highlights with the comfort of hotel transfers.
Guests love the opportunity to see both forests and coastal scenery in one day, noting the well-paced itinerary and the chance to walk along ancient levadas. The main drawback? It’s a fairly active day, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with walking and some uneven terrain.
Bottom Line: A fantastic option for active travelers who want a well-rounded day exploring Madeira’s levadas and enchanted forests with spectacular views.
3. Madeira: Fanal Forest, Lava Pools & Wine Tasting Tour
This 12-hour tour dives deep into Madeira’s wild northeast, offering a comprehensive adventure that includes Fanal Forest, Porto Moniz lava pools, and a local wine tasting. It’s all about enjoying Madeira’s natural beauty and culture. The tour features a personalized photo session in the misty Fanal Forest, where ancient trees create an almost cinematic backdrop.
The day also includes visits to Ribeira da Janela cliffs, where sheer rock faces plunge into the ocean, and the Porto Moniz lava pools, where you can swim in crystal-clear volcanic waters. The tour is small-group, with 2-7 people, and includes transport, meals, wine tasting, and activities—a true all-inclusive experience that emphasizes comfort and local flavor.
Guides are knowledgeable about the region’s geology, flora, and history, making this trip suitable for travelers who want an in-depth, luxurious experience with plenty of photo opportunities and tasting moments. The tour’s relaxed pace allows time for enjoying each stop without feeling rushed.
While the price isn’t specified, the value lies in its all-inclusive nature and personalized approach. It’s perfect for wine lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those wanting a comprehensive Madeira experience in one day.
Guests report a fun, relaxed vibe with a lot of local insights. Because of the longer duration, it’s best suited for those with a full day available and a strong interest in Madeira’s natural and culinary delights.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking an all-inclusive, immersive day exploring Madeira’s forests, lava pools, and local wines.
4. Priv. West: 4×4 Tour | Seixal Beach | Porto Moniz Natural Pools
At number 4, this private 4×4 tour of Madeira’s western side covers Seixal Beach, Porto Moniz natural pools, and the Fanal Forest, making it a versatile option for a full-day exploration. The tour is priced at $398 per group up to 8 people, offering excellent value for a family or small group wanting a private experience.
Your guide takes you off-road into vineyards and mountains, revealing some of the best mountain vistas and hidden spots on the island. The itinerary includes a stop at Ribeira Brava, the Miradouro da Encumeada, and Sao Vicente, giving a well-rounded taste of Madeira’s diverse landscape. The highlight is the visit to Seixal’s black sand beach and the natural pools of Porto Moniz, perfect for a swim or just enjoying the scenery.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility and personalized approach—your group can customize stops and pace. Reviews emphasize how attentive the guide is, with one mentioning, “Everything was wonderful, beautiful places and the guide was super attentive!” It’s ideal for those who want a custom experience with expert guidance and are comfortable with moderate activity.
Since it covers the best highlights of the west, this tour delivers a comprehensive experience in roughly 8 hours. It’s a great pick for families, small groups, or anyone wanting a luxurious private tour.
Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups or families wanting a tailored, private exploration of Madeira’s rugged west with plenty of scenic stops.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting a tour in Ribeira Da Janela, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. If you want a personalized, all-day adventure and don’t mind paying a bit more, the private 4×4 tours (North-West Coast, West) are excellent choices. For those seeking a balanced mix of sightseeing and light activity, the full-day levada and forest tour (Funchal) offers great value.
If you prefer an immersive experience that combines nature, wine, and local culture, the Fanal Forest, Lava Pools & Wine Tasting (all-inclusive) is ideal. For families or larger groups wanting privacy and flexibility, the private west side tour (number 4) offers a customizable day out.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred tour and schedule. Also, consider your activity level—most tours involve walking or some off-road driving, so comfortable shoes are a must.
Final Thoughts
Ribeira Da Janela is a treasure trove for anyone eager to explore Madeira’s dramatic coastlines, lush forests, and hidden waterfalls. From intimate private tours to full-day adventures, there’s something suited to every traveler’s style and budget. For a rich blend of scenery, adventure, and local flavor, the Madeira private 4×4 tour and the all-inclusive forest and lava pools tour stand out as top picks.
Whether you’re after a relaxed scenic drive or an active exploration, these tours provide a fantastic way to experience the true essence of Madeira. Booking early and choosing a tour that aligns with your interests ensures a memorable outing on this stunning island.
