Porto Moniz, Seixal, Fanal Forest, Cabo Girão Skywalk, Jeep Tour

Exploring Madeira’s North with the Porto Moniz, Seixal, and Fanal Forest Jeep Tour

If you’re looking to see the most breathtaking and lesser-known spots around Funchal, this full-day Jeep tour offers a fantastic way to do so. For a reasonable price of about $80 per person, you’ll travel in a fully equipped Jeep with a knowledgeable guide—some of whom, like Miguel and Gil, really make the experience memorable. The itinerary includes visits to Porto Moniz’s natural volcanic pools, the Cabo Girao Skywalk, the Fanal Forest, and charming spots like Seixal Beach. The tour lasts around 8 hours, meaning you get plenty of time to soak in the sights without feeling rushed, especially since pickups are offered from central Funchal.

Two aspects we truly appreciate are the off-road adventure—which adds a sense of fun and exploration—and the expert guidance that enriches the experience with local stories and insights. We also love that the stops are thoughtfully spaced out, giving travelers time to explore, swim, or simply enjoy the views.

A consideration to keep in mind is that some of the highlights, such as Cabo Girao, require an entrance fee if you want to access the skywalk, which isn’t included in the tour price. Also, since the full-day excursion is quite packed, it might not suit those who prefer a more relaxed pace or are prone to quick fatigue.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to see a wide variety of Madeira’s natural beauty in one day, especially those who enjoy off-road adventures, scenic overlooks, and lush forests. If you’re eager to learn about the island’s geography and culture from charismatic guides, this trip hits all those marks.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Porto Moniz, Seixal, Fanal Forest, and Cabo Girao
• Expert local guides enhance the experience with insights and humor
• Variety of landscapes: volcanic pools, lush forests, dramatic sea cliffs
• Great value: includes pickup, Wi-Fi, insurance, and a small group atmosphere
• Some attractions like the skywalk and pools are paid separately
• Ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy off-road driving and authentic scenery

What Makes This Tour Special

This Jeep tour offers more than just sightseeing; it provides a hands-on adventure that takes you off the beaten path. Traveling in a fully-equipped Jeep means you’re not just watching from a bus window—you’re actively exploring the island’s rugged terrain, with the wind in your hair and panoramic views all around. The small group size (max 15) means you get personalized attention and the chance to ask questions or just enjoy a more intimate experience.

One of the real highlights is the guide’s knowledge. As multiple reviewers noted, guides like Miguel and Gil don’t just drive—they share stories, local tips, and a genuine passion for Madeira. Their commentary makes the stops more meaningful and keeps everyone engaged. The off-road segments are especially praised, as they bring a dose of fun and adrenaline that transforms a typical sightseeing tour into a memorable adventure.

Another aspect that receives high marks is the diverse scenery. Starting with São Vicente’s vineyards and volcanic caves, you’ll learn about Madeira’s famous wine and volcanic origins. The Porto Moniz natural pools are a crowd favorite—crystal-clear volcanic waters where many take a quick dip or just marvel at the natural beauty. The Cabo Girao Skywalk delivers jaw-dropping views from Europe’s highest sea cliff, with its glass-floor balcony offering a thrill and a perfect photo opportunity.

The Fanal Forest stop is a real treat for lovers of nature. As one reviewer said, it’s one of Portugal’s 7th Natural Wonders, with ancient trees in the misty Laurissilva Forest creating almost a fairy-tale atmosphere. The access fee to the skywalk and pools isn’t included, so it’s worth factoring in a few extra euros if you plan to go inside these attractions.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

São Vicente: The Vineyard and Volcano Hub

Your day kicks off in São Vicente, an area renowned for its volcanic caves and wine production. The guide will likely share insights about the Madeira wine tradition—an essential part of the island’s culture. We appreciated the opportunity to see local vineyards and learn how Madeira’s unique climate fosters its famous wine.

Miradouro do Veu da Noiva: Nature’s Bridal Veil

The first stop is the famous Veu da Noiva waterfall, which looks like a bride’s veil due to the volume of water cascading over the cliff. It’s a quick 30-minute stop, but the photo opportunities are fantastic. The waterfall’s spray and the lush surroundings make it a perfect introduction to Madeira’s natural wonders.

Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools

Next, you visit Porto Moniz, famous worldwide for its volcanic pools—a natural mosaic of rock-enclosed seawater basins. We loved the crystal-clear waters and the chance to dip in if you want. The one-hour and fifteen-minute stop allows ample time to swim or just walk around and enjoy the scenery. Keep in mind that entry isn’t included, so a small extra fee is needed if you wish to swim.

Cabo Girao Skywalk: Europe’s Highest Sea Cliff

A definite highlight, the Cabo Girao Skywalk offers spectacular views from a 589-meter-high sea cliff. The glass-floor balcony makes for a thrilling photo op, and the expansive vistas of the Atlantic are breathtaking. The 30-minute stop gives enough time to soak in the scenery, take pictures, and feel the raw power of the Atlantic crashing below.

Fanal Forest: The Mystical Laurissilva

Fanal Forest, part of the Laurissilva, is designated as one of Portugal’s 7th Natural Wonders. The tour includes a 20-minute walk through ancient, centenary trees shrouded in mist—an almost otherworldly experience. Access to this area is included, and many reviewers feel that this quiet, mossy forest is one of the most memorable parts of the trip—especially for nature lovers.

Praia do Seixal: Black Sand Beach

Finally, you arrive at Seixal Beach, famous for its black volcanic sand and calm waters. It’s a relaxed, peaceful spot to unwind, snap some photos, or just breathe in the sea air. The 20-minute stop is enough to stretch your legs and enjoy the scenery.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. One said, “Our tour guide Gil was brilliant,” highlighting how the guides make the experience special. The off-road drives, especially on smaller, scenic roads, are described as fun and safe, with the added bonus of learning about Madeira’s culture and environment.

Many travelers appreciated the balance of sightseeing and adventure. “The off-road part was also amazing fun,” said one reviewer, which shows how the mix of sightseeing and excitement enhances the overall value. The views, particularly from Cabo Girao and Fanal Forest, are often described as breathtaking, making this tour a great choice for those wanting Insta-worthy photos.

Some reviews also mention the delicious lunch at a local restaurant, especially the stone-cooked steak and fresh fish, adding to the authentic experience. Others note that the small group setting allows for more personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.

A Few Caveats

While the tour is highly praised, a couple of reviewers pointed out that the long stops at some attractions might feel a bit too much if you’re not swimming or taking photos. Also, entrance fees for some stops (like the skywalk and pools) aren’t included, so budget accordingly.

On top of that, the tour’s full-day length means it might not suit travelers with limited time or those who prefer a slower pace. Plus, if your cruise schedule is tight, you’ll want to confirm the timing to ensure you’re back at your ship on time.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This Jeep tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy off-road driving, scenic overlooks, and natural beauty. It’s perfect for those who appreciate authentic experiences and want a small-group atmosphere. If you’re traveling with family, the variety of sights and fun drives will keep everyone entertained.

Nature lovers—especially with an interest in forests, volcanic formations, and waterfalls—will find plenty to love here. It’s also an excellent choice if you want to combine sightseeing with a bit of adrenaline.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less structured experience or are wary of long days, you might want to consider alternative options. Also, keep in mind that some attractions require additional entrance fees, so plan accordingly.

The Sum Up

This full-day Jeep tour around Madeira’s northern highlights delivers a well-rounded mix of stunning scenery, cultural insights, and adventure. It offers great value with its inclusive approach—pickup, Wi-Fi, and guiding expertise—making it ideal for those who want to maximize their time and see a variety of landscapes without the hassle of self-driving.

Travelers who enjoy nature, scenic vistas, and off-road fun will find this tour a highlight of their Madeira visit. The knowledgeable guides and small group size ensure a friendly, engaging experience that mixes learning with adventure.

While it’s not suited for travelers on a tight cruise schedule or those seeking a very leisurely pace, it’s an excellent choice for active explorers eager to get a taste of Madeira’s most impressive natural wonders in one memorable day.

FAQ

• What is included in the tour price?
  The tour price covers professional local guides, pickup and drop-off in Funchal, insurance, safety instructions, and Wi-Fi onboard.
• Are the entrance fees included?
  No, entrance fees for places like Cabo Girao Skywalk and Porto Moniz pools are not included. You might need a few extra euros for these.
• How long do stops last?
  Stops range from 20 to 75 minutes, depending on the location, providing enough time to explore, take photos, or swim.
• What should I wear or bring?
  Comfortable clothes, sturdy shoes for walking, a jacket (it can get cold in the forest and at high viewpoints), and swimwear if you plan to swim.
• Is this tour suitable for children?
  Yes, most reviews indicate it’s family-friendly, especially since the Jeep experience and scenic stops appeal to all ages.
• What is the tour duration?
  Approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am, including travel time and stops.
• How many people are in each group?
  The group size is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
• Can I cancel if my plans change?
  Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.
• What is the best time of year to do this tour?
  The tour runs year-round; however, the weather is best in spring and early summer for outdoor activities.
• Is food included?
  No, meals and drinks are not included, but the tour often includes a stop at a local restaurant for lunch.

This Jeep tour around Madeira’s north is a great way to see diverse landscapes, from volcanic pools to lush forests, all in one day. It’s ideal for adventurous travelers who love nature and scenic drives, seeking authentic experiences and local insights. With knowledgeable guides, well-planned stops, and plenty of photo opportunities, it promises a memorable Madeira adventure that combines comfort, fun, and discovery.