The Porto Moniz West Tour offers a captivating exploration of Madeira’s natural wonders. Visitors can enjoy the island’s stunning volcanic landscapes, including the renowned lava pools that provide a rejuvenating swimming experience. Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour showcases iconic sites like the Cabo Girão Cliff and the charming village of Câmara de Lobos, providing a well-rounded glimpse into Madeira’s rich cultural heritage. With luxury transportation and a small group setting, this 8-hour adventure promises a personalized experience that will leave one eager to discover more about this captivating Portuguese island.
This experience made our list of the 5 Best Tours In Ribeira Brava.
Key Points
- The Porto Moniz West Tour offers 105 minutes of swimming in natural lava pools, showcasing Madeira’s volcanic landscapes.
- The tour includes a visit to the Cabo Girão Cliff, Europe’s highest sea cliff, providing panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- Guests can explore the fishing village of Câmera de Lobos and the plateau of Paul da Serra, experiencing Madeira’s rich culture and history.
- Luxury air-conditioned transportation and an expert local guide are provided, ensuring a comfortable and informative tour experience.
- The tour is available in multiple languages, catering to a wide range of international travelers, and includes comprehensive travel insurance.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The Porto Moniz tour from Funchal costs $42.66 per person and lasts 8 hours.
Travelers can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The tour also offers a "reserve now, pay later" option for flexible booking.
The pickup location is Funchal, and the itinerary includes stops at Cabo Girão Cliff, Câmara de Lobos, Ribeira Brava, Paul da Serra, Porto Moniz, and São Vicente.
Highlights include guided tours, free time for swimming in natural lava pools, and panoramic views from Europe’s highest cliff skywalk.
The tour includes an expert local guide, luxury air-conditioned transportation, guided tours at each site, and comprehensive travel insurance.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ribeira Brava.
Itinerary Highlights
The Porto Moniz tour features a comprehensive itinerary that showcases Madeira’s stunning northwest region.
Highlights include:
- Awe-inspiring views from the Cabo Girão Cliff, Europe’s highest sea cliff.
- A photo stop in the charming fishing village of Câmara de Lobos.
- Free time to explore the town of Ribeira Brava.
- Breathtaking panoramic vistas as the tour traverses the Paul da Serra plateau.
- The opportunity to spend 105 minutes swimming in the natural lava pools of Porto Moniz.
The tour also includes a visit to São Vicente, allowing travelers to enjoy Madeira’s rich culture and history.
Experience and Activities
Exploring Madeira’s stunning northwest and immersing oneself in its natural wonders are the centerpieces of this immersive tour. Guests will marvel at the panoramic views from the Cabo Girão Skywalk, Europe’s highest cliff. They’ll also witness the captivating Véu da Noiva waterfall in Seixal. The highlight, however, is the 105 minutes of free time to swim in the natural lava pools of Porto Moniz. Throughout the day, the expert local guide will share insights into Madeira’s rich culture and history, engaging participants in an authentic experience.
| Experience | Description |
|---|---|
| Panoramic Views | Admire the stunning vistas from Cabo Girão Skywalk |
| Waterfall | Marvel at the Véu da Noiva waterfall in Seixal |
| Swimming | Enjoy 105 minutes of swimming in Porto Moniz’s lava pools |
| Cultural Immersion | Engage with Madeira’s rich history and traditions |
Tour Inclusions
As part of this comprehensive Madeira tour, the package includes an expert local guide to lead the way, as well as luxury air-conditioned transportation to ensure a comfortable journey.
The tour also includes guided tours at each site, allowing guests to fully engage with the rich history and culture of the region.
Plus, visitors will enjoy free time for swimming in the stunning natural lava pools of Porto Moniz, as well as entry to the Cabo Girão Skywalk, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
To provide peace of mind, the tour also includes comprehensive travel insurance.
- Expert local guide
- Luxury air-conditioned transport
- Guided tours at each site
- Free time for swimming at Porto Moniz lava pools
- Entry for Cabo Girão Skywalk
Additional Information
Small group sizes ensure a personalized experience for guests on this Madeira tour.
The tour is available in multiple languages, including Portuguese, English, German, French, and Spanish, allowing visitors to fully engage with the local culture.
For those not staying in Funchal, additional pickup locations are available in Calheta, Ponta do Sol, Ribeira Brava, Santa Cruz, and Machico, with a small surcharge per person.
Comprehensive travel insurance is included, providing peace of mind throughout the excursion.
With these thoughtful inclusions, the Madeira Tour – Porto Moniz offers a seamless and memorable experience exploring the island’s stunning natural wonders.
Natural Lava Pools
The tour’s highlight is the opportunity to take in the natural lava pools of Porto Moniz.
These geothermal pools, formed by volcanic activity, offer a unique and rejuvenating experience. Visitors can spend up to 105 minutes swimming in the crystal-clear waters, surrounded by the rugged beauty of Madeira’s northwest coast. The pools are perfectly temperature-regulated, ensuring a comfortable and refreshing dip.
- Marvel at the stunning natural formations carved by the lava flows.
- Enjoy the tranquility and serenity of the pools, away from the bustling crowds.
- Bask in the sun and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs and coastline.
- Indulge in a soothing and therapeutic swim, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Enjoy the island’s unique geological history and volcanic heritage.
Panoramic Views
Throughout the tour, visitors are treated to a series of breathtaking panoramic vistas that showcase Madeira’s dramatic landscapes.
From the towering Cabo Girão cliff, Europe’s highest sea cliff, guests can take in sweeping views over the Atlantic Ocean and the island’s rugged coastline.
The scenic drive through Paul da Serra offers panoramic perspectives of the island’s central mountainous region, showcasing its lush laurel forests and verdant valleys.
And in Porto Moniz, visitors can admire the stunning natural lava pools set against the backdrop of the crashing waves.
These panoramic experiences provide a stunning visual feast, allowing travelers to fully enjoy Madeira’s awe-inspiring natural beauty.
Madeira’s Rich Culture
Madeira’s rich cultural heritage is woven throughout the tour, offering visitors a glimpse into the island’s vibrant traditions and history.
From the quaint fishing village of Câmara de Lobos to the charming town of São Vicente, the journey showcases Madeira’s unique blend of Portuguese and Moorish influences:
-
Explore the cobblestone streets and whitewashed houses that reflect the island’s architectural legacy.
-
Discover the local handicrafts, such as intricate embroidery and wickerwork, passed down through generations.
-
Savor the flavorful Madeiran cuisine, including the famous Poncha cocktail and iconic Bolo de Mel honey cake.
-
Appreciate the deep-rooted religious traditions, evident in the ornate churches and religious festivals.
-
Engage with the warm, hospitable locals who take pride in their cultural identity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Food on the Tour?
According to the tour details, you can bring your own food and snacks to enjoy during the free time at the various stops along the way. However, meals are not included in the tour price.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
There are no age restrictions for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome to participate, though parental supervision is required for younger participants when swimming in the lava pools at Porto Moniz.
Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?
The tour does not offer any specific discounts for children or seniors. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator for any age-related policies or pricing considerations prior to booking.
Can I Stop at Additional Sites Not Listed in the Itinerary?
While the tour itinerary is set, guests can discuss adding extra stops with the guide. However, this may incur additional fees and impact the tour duration. It’s best to inquire about customization options when booking the tour.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Swimming Pools?
No special equipment is needed for the swimming pools. Swimwear and towels are all that’s required. The tour provides free time for visitors to enjoy the natural lava pools at Porto Moniz.
Recap
The Porto Moniz West Tour in Madeira offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and culture. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim in the island’s stunning volcanic lava pools, marvel at the breathtaking Cabo Girão Cliff, and explore the charming village of Câmara de Lobos. With expert local guidance and a personalized small-group experience, this tour provides a truly unforgettable way to discover Madeira’s rich heritage and natural wonders.
You can check if your dates are available here: