Go South Tour – Madeira Island Excursion

Madeira’s South Coast in a Day: A Practical Review of the Go South Tour

If you’re visiting Madeira and short on time but eager to get a feel for its diverse scenery, the Go South Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the island’s southern coast. For just $46.25 per person, you’ll spend about 7 hours and 45 minutes exploring from Funchal to the rugged west. The tour includes visits to picturesque villages, a banana plantation, a tea farm, and the spectacular Ponta do Pargo lighthouse, along with some time for lunch and a few scenic photo stops.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is the balance between structured sightseeing and authentic local flavor. We loved how it covers a bit of everything—coastal charm, agriculture, and breathtaking viewpoints—making it a good choice for those who want a rundown without spending too much time or money. Plus, the included pickup from Funchal simplifies logistics, saving you the hassle of figuring out transportation.

One thing to keep in mind is that this is a group tour with a maximum of 18 travelers, which is a nice size for feeling personalized but still social. The live commentary adds context to what you see, often bringing the sights to life with local stories. However, the tour is quite full-day, so if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to linger longer at certain stops, that’s something to consider.

This tour suits first-time visitors or travelers with limited time who want a diverse snapshot of Madeira’s southern coast. It’s also ideal if you’re interested in local produce and scenic vistas. Overall, it offers good value and authentic experiences for those eager to explore Madeira beyond Funchal’s city streets.

Key Points

• Comprehensive sightseeing in a single day from Funchal
• Visit diverse locations: villages, plantations, viewpoints, and a lighthouse
• Informed guides provide valuable insights and local context
• Authentic spots such as banana plantations and ecological farms
• Convenient pickup and drop-off simplify logistics
• Capped group size enhances the personal touch

A Deep Dive into the Madeira South Coast Tour

Starting Point and Overall Structure

The tour kicks off early from the Monumental Experience in Funchal, ensuring you make the most of the daylight hours. With live commentary, your guide not only points out sights but shares stories that breathe life into the scenery. The group size remains capped at 18 travelers, striking a balance between intimacy and social atmosphere.

This is a full-day excursion, so expect a well-paced itinerary that balances sightseeing with opportunities for photos and short walks. The tour runs Wednesday mornings, offering flexibility for other activities later in your day or week.

The Highlights of the Itinerary

Ponta Do Sol: Coastal Charm

Our journey begins with a visit to Ponta Do Sol, a charming fishing village famed for its pebbled beach and tranquil atmosphere. We loved the picturesque setting, with colorful houses lining the streets and the sea gently lapping at the coast. It’s a perfect spot for a quick photo and a breath of fresh sea air. The 30-minute stop makes it manageable even for those with packed schedules.

Madalena do Mar: A Banana Lover’s Paradise

Next, we headed to Madalena do Mar, where we visited a banana plantation. It’s the only place on the island where you can see a perfect sunrise and sunset, which makes the scenery all the more special. The 30-minute visit gives you a taste of Madeira’s agriculture and a chance to learn about its important banana industry. The review from Beth mentioned that the driver clarified that the fires on the island were caused by arson, not heat, which shows how guides can share candid updates—something we appreciated.

Calheta: Sugar and Sand

Our next stop was Calheta, known for its artificial sand beach and history with sugar cane. You might find an opportunity to visit a sugar cane factory, although this isn’t always included. The 30-minute visit allows a quick look at Madeira’s sugar history, and the beach offers a chance to relax or snap photos.

Quinta Pedagogica dos Prazeres: Eco Farm and Tea Time

A highlight for many is the ecological farm and tea house. While the admission is not included, the 20-minute stop offers a glimpse into sustainable farming practices. We loved the idea of seeing how local produce is grown and learning about eco-friendly initiatives. If you’re a foodie or interested in local agriculture, this is a refreshing moment amid the scenic drive.

Ponta do Pargo: Lighthouse and Viewpoints

The Ponta do Pargo lighthouse is arguably the tour’s most dramatic stop. Perched 300 meters above sea level, it offers breathtaking views of the far west of the island. The lighthouse is a local heritage site, and if weather permits, you’ll get gorgeous ocean vistas perfect for photos. The 1 hour 30-minute stop is also time for a leisurely lunch, where many bring their own food or purchase from local vendors.

The site impressed us with its raw beauty and the sense of standing at the edge of the world. The view was a favorite among travelers, and many reviews mention the spectacular scenery as a reason to linger longer.

Paul do Mar and Jardim do Mar: Coastal Villages

Our afternoon included visits to Paul do Mar and Jardim do Mar, two small, picturesque fishing villages. The pebble beaches and sea promenades are perfect for a stroll and taking in the peaceful coastal atmosphere. The ruins of an old mill at Jardim do Mar hint at Madeira’s sugar wealth past, adding a touch of history to the scenic walk.

Practical Aspects and Value

The price of $46.25 covers transportation, live commentary, and insurance. It’s a good deal considering the number of stops and the diversity of sights. Since lunch is not included, you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy something at the lighthouse or villages.

The pickup point in Funchal makes it easy to join the tour without extra hassle. The group size means you’ll likely get personal attention from your guide, Marta in some reviews, who was praised for her knowledge and friendliness.

Authentic Experiences and Tips

Several travelers highlighted the authentic local flavor—from the banana plantations to the ecological farm—which enriches the visit beyond just sightseeing. We appreciated the chance to see how locals live and work, especially in small villages where tourism is just one part of life.

Keep in mind that the full-day schedule means you’ll be on the move most of the time. If you prefer a more leisurely pace or want to explore one spot longer, this tour might feel a bit rushed. Still, for those eager to see multiple highlights without the hassle of planning, it hits a sweet spot.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This excursion is ideal for first-time visitors to Madeira who want a broad overview of the coast. It’s also great for active travelers interested in local culture, scenic viewpoints, and good value. If you enjoy guided commentary and want to avoid the stress of driving, this guided group makes it easier to relax and enjoy.

Those on a tight schedule will appreciate how much ground is covered in a single day, but if you prefer to linger longer at fewer sites, you might want to consider a more specialized or private tour. The moderate price point combined with authentic stops makes this a practical choice for most travelers.

Final Thoughts: Is the Go South Tour Worth It?

Overall, we found the Go South Tour to be a solid value for those wanting a well-organized, authentic taste of Madeira’s southern coast. The mix of scenic vistas, local agriculture, and coastal villages offers a well-rounded experience without feeling rushed. The knowledgeable guides and small group size make it more personal than large coach tours.

It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate local food, scenic views, and a touch of history. If you value authenticity and convenience and want a full day of sightseeing that captures Madeira’s spirit, this tour will serve you well.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and the stops are generally accessible. Keep in mind the full-day schedule might be tiring for very young children.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, lunch is not included. You can bring your own food or purchase at the lighthouse or villages, offering flexibility for different tastes and dietary needs.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 18 travelers, which helps keep things intimate while still maintaining a lively atmosphere.

Are there any additional costs during the tour?
Most stops are free, but some sites like the ecological farm or lighthouse might have optional small fees or souvenirs. Food and beverages are also extra.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start. You’ll get a full refund if you cancel within this window.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, water, and perhaps a camera. Since lunch isn’t included, plan accordingly.

To sum it up, the Go South Tour offers a well-balanced, authentic, and value-packed way to explore Madeira’s southern coast with knowledgeable guides and a taste of local life. Whether you’re keen on scenic viewpoints, local farms, or charming villages, this tour provides a comprehensive snapshot perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time.