Madeira’s captivating landscapes are on full display in the "From Funchal: Full-Day Madeira & Porto Moniz Tour." Departing from the island’s charming capital, this excursion takes visitors on a journey through breathtaking vistas, from the quaint fishing town of Câmara de Lobos to the awe-inspiring Cabo Girão sea cliff. Along the way, travelers will experience stunning viewpoints, explore Madeira’s largest plateau, and culminate their adventure with a refreshing dip in the natural swimming pools of Porto Moniz. With knowledgeable guides and convenient hotel pick-up, this full-day tour promises to immerse guests in the incredible natural wonders that make Madeira a truly remarkable destination.
Key Points
- Explore the picturesque fishing town of Câmera de Lobos and marvel at the breathtaking views from the Cabo Girão sea cliff.
- Traverse the Paúl da Serra plateau, Madeira’s largest and highest plateau, and enjoy panoramic vistas of the island’s natural wonders.
- Visit the charming town of Ribeira Brava and the Encumeada viewpoint, which offer stunning perspectives of Madeira’s central highlands.
- Relax and swim in the natural volcanic pools of Porto Moniz, a popular coastal attraction.
- Enjoy a full-day tour with hotel pickup and drop-off, led by multilingual guides and priced from $38.97 per person.
Tour Overview
Offering a full-day exploration of Madeira’s picturesque landscapes, the Madeira & Porto Moniz Tour provides a comprehensive sightseeing experience.
Priced from $38.97 per person, the tour allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. It’s available for 1 day and features live tour guides fluent in English, French, Portuguese, Spanish, and Italian.
The tour highlights include visiting the fishing town of Câmara de Lobos, witnessing the breathtaking Cabo Girão sea cliff, and driving through the Paúl da Serra plateau.
Travelers can look forward to lunch in Porto Moniz and observing waterfalls along the way. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included, though lunch and entrance fees are not.
Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Madeira
Itinerary Highlights
The Madeira & Porto Moniz Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the island’s picturesque landscapes.
The tour highlights include:
-
Exploring the quaint fishing town of Câmara de Lobos
-
Marveling at the breathtaking Cabo Girão, the second-highest sea cliff in the world at 580 meters
-
Visiting the Ribeira Brava and the Encumeada viewpoint, situated at an impressive elevation of 1,007 meters
-
Traversing the Paúl da Serra plateau, Madeira’s largest plateau
-
Enjoying a lunch break in Porto Moniz, renowned for its natural swimming pools
-
Witnessing the stunning waterfalls between Porto Moniz and São Vicente.
Picturesque Fishing Town
Câmara de Lobos, a picturesque fishing town, marks the first stop on this captivating tour. Nestled in a natural harbor, this quaint settlement offers a glimpse into Madeira’s maritime heritage. Vibrant colored houses line the waterfront, while local fishermen mend their nets and haul in their daily catch.
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Architecture | Charming houses with distinctive Madeiran architecture |
Fishing Culture | Active fishing community, showcasing traditional methods |
Scenic Backdrop | Dramatic cliffs and mountains surrounding the harbor |
Local Cuisine | Fresh seafood, including the famous "bolo de caco" bread |
Visitors can stroll along the picturesque promenade, absorbing the town’s serene ambiance and witnessing the enduring traditions that have defined Câmara de Lobos for generations.
Highest Sea Cliff
Soaring 580 meters above the Atlantic Ocean, the awe-inspiring Cabo Girão stands as the second-highest sea cliff in the world.
This natural wonder offers visitors a breathtaking panorama of Madeira’s rugged coastline and the vast, sparkling ocean.
Key features of Cabo Girão include:
- Sweeping, 360-degree views from the clifftop observation deck
- Transparent "skywalk" with a glass floor for an exhilarating experience
- Hiking trails that wind along the cliff’s edge, providing close-up perspectives
- Opportunities to spot seabirds, such as gulls and peregrines, soaring below
- Accessibility via a short drive from Funchal, making it an essential stop on any Madeira tour.
Stunning Viewpoints
Beyond the majestic Cabo Girão, the Madeira & Porto Moniz tour takes visitors to a series of stunning viewpoints that showcase the island’s breathtaking landscapes.
At the Ribeira Brava viewpoint, perched at an elevation of 1,007 meters, travelers can marvel at the dramatic cliffs and lush valleys below.
The tour then climbs to the Encumeada viewpoint, where the panoramic vistas stretch across the island’s central highlands.
Along the way, the coach traverses the Paúl da Serra plateau, Madeira’s largest and highest plateau, offering sweeping views of the rugged terrain.
These viewpoints provide visitors with a unique perspective on Madeira’s natural wonders, leaving them in awe of the island’s remarkable beauty.
Madeira’s Largest Plateau
The Madeira & Porto Moniz tour takes travelers through the Paúl da Serra plateau, which is Madeira’s largest and highest plateau, spanning an impressive area.
This breathtaking natural wonder stands at an average elevation of 1,500 meters (4,900 feet), offering visitors:
- Panoramic views of Madeira’s lush, rolling hills and valleys
- Opportunities to spot endemic flora and fauna, including rare bird species
- Cooler temperatures compared to lower elevations, providing a refreshing respite
- Hiking trails that wind through the plateau’s diverse landscapes
- The chance to take in Madeira’s unique highland ecosystem and culture.
Natural Swimming Pools
One of the highlights of the Madeira & Porto Moniz tour is the opportunity to observe the natural swimming pools in Porto Moniz.
Formed by volcanic rock formations, these natural pools provide a unique and refreshing experience. Visitors can enjoy swimming in the clear, cool waters while taking in the stunning coastal scenery.
The pools are a popular attraction for both locals and travelers, offering a chance to relax and escape the bustle of everyday life.
Whether you’re looking to cool off on a warm day or simply appreciate the natural beauty of Madeira, the natural swimming pools in Porto Moniz are a must-see during this comprehensive tour.
Important Information
Pickup locations may vary, and travelers should inform their hotel name in Funchal upon booking.
The tour has several important guidelines to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. Comfortable clothing is recommended, as the tour involves various outdoor activities.
Pets, except for assistance dogs, aren’t allowed, as are oversize luggage, food, drinks, fishing equipment, bikes, glass objects, alcohol, and explosive substances. Nudity is also prohibited.
These restrictions help maintain safety and cleanliness for all participants. By adhering to these guidelines, travelers can focus on exploring the stunning natural landscapes of Madeira and Porto Moniz without distractions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can cancel their booking without penalty as long as they do so within the 24-hour window prior to the tour’s departure.
Are There Any Special Dietary Requirements for the Lunch?
The tour details don’t specify any special dietary requirements for the lunch. Travelers can likely choose from a range of options, but it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand if you have any dietary restrictions.
Does the Tour Accommodate Travelers With Disabilities?
The tour accommodates travelers with disabilities. The tour description states that pets (except assistance dogs) are allowed, indicating the tour provider is equipped to support the needs of travelers with disabilities.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour’s duration can’t be extended, but travelers with disabilities may be accommodated if they inform the provider in advance. The tour is a fixed full-day itinerary, but additional customization options aren’t available.
Can I Book Private Transportation for This Tour?
Yes, private transportation can be booked for this tour. Travelers can request a private transfer when making their reservation, which will allow them to have a more personalized experience during the full-day Madeira and Porto Moniz tour.
Recap
This full-day tour from Funchal provides a comprehensive exploration of Madeira’s captivating landscapes. From the charming Câmara de Lobos to the dramatic Cabo Girão sea cliff, travelers will experience stunning viewpoints, Madeira’s largest plateau, and the refreshing natural swimming pools of Porto Moniz. With a live guide and hotel pick-up, this tour offers a memorable adventure showcasing the island’s natural beauty.
You can check if your dates are available here:More Tours in Madeira
More Tour Reviews in Madeira
Not for you? Here's more things to do in Madeira we have recnetly reviewed
- 8 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Madeira
- 2 Best Tours In Ponta Do Pargo Madeira
- 25 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Madeira
- 12 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Madeira
- 4 Best Christmas Experiences In Madeira
- 6 Best Dining Experiences In Madeira
- 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Madeira
- 3 Best 2 Day Tours In Madeira
- Best Jet-Ski Experiences In Madeira
- 5 Best Dinner Tours In Madeira
- 11 Best Food Tours In Madeira
- 8 Best Lunch Experiences In Madeira