Go North Tour – Madeira Island Excursion

Exploring Madeira’s Hidden Corners: The Go North Tour

If you’re looking to escape the crowds and get a real feel for Madeira’s rugged beauty, the Go North Tour offers a fantastic way to do just that. For around $46.25 per person, you’ll spend nearly eight hours exploring remote villages, breathtaking viewpoints, and the island’s volcanic origins. Led by friendly guides like Luís—whose personal insights and engaging commentary are frequently praised—you get to see Madeira’s less-traveled, authentic side.

What we love about this tour is how it balances nature, culture, and history in a manageable day. First, the chance to explore São Vicente Caves, one of Portugal’s earliest volcanic caves, is genuinely memorable. We also appreciate the stops at local villages like Ponta Delgada and Santa Cruz, which give you a feel for everyday Madeira life, far from the tourist hotspots. Plus, the scenic viewpoints like Pico do Facho offer stunning panoramic views that are well worth the brief stops.

A potential consideration is the itinerary’s pace—with multiple stops in just under 8 hours, you’ll want to be ready for some light walking and a busy schedule. Also, since lunch is not included, you might want to bring snacks or plan to explore local eateries on your own. This tour suits travelers who love outdoor scenery, small villages, and geological wonders, especially those eager to learn about Madeira’s volcanic origins firsthand.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Visit remote villages and volcanic caves, offering an authentic glimpse into Madeira’s less-touristy side.
• Excellent Guide: Luís and other guides are praised for their personal insights and friendly demeanor.
• Scenic Highlights: From viewpoints like Pico do Facho to charming spots like Porto da Cruz, the views are unforgettable.
• Flexible & Affordable: At around $46, this tour provides good value considering the varied stops and educational content.
• Focus on Nature & Culture: Perfect for those interested in geology, local traditions, and scenic landscapes.
• Self-Catering: Lunch isn’t included, so plan accordingly with snacks or meals in local places.

A Close Look at the Madeira North and East Tour

Overview and Practical Details

This 7 hours and 45 minutes tour is designed to showcase Madeira’s most remote and scenic northern and eastern regions. For a modest fee of $46.25, you gain access to a diverse blend of natural wonders, charming villages, and sweeping vistas. The tour includes pick-up service from a central meeting point in Funchal, making it straightforward to join, and it operates year-round with a consistent schedule.

Given the average booking window of 23 days in advance, it’s clear that this experience is popular among those planning ahead, especially during peak seasons. The small group size (max 18 travelers) fosters a more personal experience, allowing guides like Luís to tailor insights and answer questions comfortably.

What to Expect at Each Stop

São Vicente Caves and Volcanism Centre

Your journey begins with a visit to the São Vicente Caves, a highlight for geology buffs and curious travelers alike. The caves, discovered in 1885 and opened to the public in 1996, are among Portugal’s earliest volcanic caves available for exploration. Spanning over 1,000 meters, the underground route is mostly easy to walk, with ceilings between 5 and 6 meters high, making it accessible for most. The caves reveal 890,000 years of volcanic activity, giving a tangible sense of Madeira’s fiery birth.

At the Volcanism Centre, a pavilion with audiovisual displays brings the underground formation process to life, illustrating everything from volcanic eruptions to the island’s volcanic birth. It’s a compact but engaging way to understand how Madeira’s rugged landscape was shaped.

Ponta Delgada and Sao Jorge

Next, you’ll visit Ponta Delgada, a tiny village perched between mountains and the Atlantic, offering a glimpse of local life away from tourist hubs. It’s a peaceful spot for photos and soaking in the ocean views. Then, a quick stop at Sao Jorge provides a viewpoint over the village Arco de São Jorge, perfect for a panoramic photo and a breath of fresh mountain air.

Porto da Cruz and Penha D’Aguia

The picturesque Porto da Cruz is renowned for its imposing rock formation, Penha D’Aguia, and historic rum factory. The Northern Milling Company still operates with steam power, making it a captivating visit for history and foodies. The village’s colorful architecture and coastal charm reveal Madeira’s maritime heritage. The optional visit to the rum factory, although not included in the standard price, offers a taste of local craftsmanship.

Pico do Facho Viewpoint and Santa Cruz

The Pico do Facho viewpoint is a quick 15-minute stop that rewards you with a spectacular view of Machico Valley, the central peaks, and the Ponta de São Lourenço. It’s a perfect spot to stretch your legs and snap photos.

Finally, the tour concludes in Santa Cruz, a pleasant seaside village. A walk along its promenade or a visit to the Gothic Manueline style São Salvador Church offers insight into Madeira’s architectural history. It’s a relaxed spot to reflect on your day before heading back to Funchal.

The Experience and Atmosphere

Throughout the day, the live commentary enriches the experience, with guides like Luís sharing personal stories and insights. As one reviewer noted, Luís “took us on a wonderful 8-hour driving tour,” and his friendly approach helps make the journey more engaging and informative.

The scenery is the real star—expect lush green mountains, dramatic coastlines, and volcanic rock formations. The views from viewpoints are consistently praised, often described as “stunning” and “breathtaking.” The stops at villages are more than photo ops; they give you a taste of local life, culture, and history.

Value Analysis

At $46.25, this tour offers solid value for the variety of sights, the educational content, and the small-group intimacy. Since lunch isn’t included, you have the flexibility to bring your own snacks or explore local eateries at your own pace. The insurance and live commentary are included, adding to the overall convenience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature lovers, geology enthusiasts, and those wanting a quieter side of Madeira. If you enjoy scenic drives, authentic villages, and panoramic viewpoints, you’ll likely find this tour rewarding. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate learning about volcanic formations and want to explore less-touristed areas.

Final Thoughts

The Go North Tour offers an engaging and affordable way to experience Madeira’s less-frequented northern and eastern regions. With knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and insights into the island’s volcanic origins, it provides a well-rounded day for curious travelers. While it’s a fairly full schedule, the diverse stops ensure you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation of Madeira’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

If you’re the type of traveler who loves scenic viewpoints, small villages, and geological wonders, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially appealing if you want an authentic, relaxed experience away from the crowds, with enough flexibility to bring snacks and explore at your own pace.

FAQs

Is transportation provided during the tour?
Yes, the tour includes transportation via a comfortable vehicle, with pickup offered from a designated meeting point in Funchal.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes, including all stops and driving time.

Can I bring my own food?
Yes, lunch isn’t included, so you’re welcome to bring your own snacks or meals to enjoy during the breaks.

Are the caves accessible for most travelers?
The São Vicente Caves run for over 1,000 meters with ceilings between 5 and 6 meters, making them accessible for most, but those with mobility issues should verify access details beforehand.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 18 travelers, which helps maintain a personal and engaging experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the stops and content are generally suitable for most age groups, especially those interested in nature and scenery.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable clothes and walking shoes are recommended, especially for the cave visit and viewpoints. Bring a jacket if weather is cool, particularly at higher elevations.

This Go North Tour combines adventure, learning, and breathtaking views, making it a memorable way to explore Madeira’s hidden natural gems. Whether you’re a geology buff or a landscape photographer, it’s a day well spent on this volcanic island.