West 4×4 Experience: Skywalk, Porto Moniz Pools and Fanal Forest

Exploring Madeira’s West in a Day: Skywalk, Porto Moniz Pools, and Fanal Forest

If you’re after a full-on slice of Madeira’s natural beauty, this West 4×4 Experience from Funchal offers a compelling package. For around $80, you’ll spend roughly 8 hours with a small group, exploring some of the most iconic sights in Madeira’s western landscape. Expect jaw-dropping views, invigorating swims, and a good dose of local culture, all led by guides who seem genuinely passionate about their island.

Two things stand out immediately: the small-group setup (max 15 travelers) means you’ll get more personalized attention and a relaxed pace—perfect if you’re keen to soak it all in. Plus, Wi-Fi onboard allows you to stay connected while marveling at the scenery, which is surprisingly helpful when you’re trying to snap photos or check your map without missing a thing.

A potential drawback? The tour’s popularity means booking about 20 days in advance is wise; last-minute plans might find availability limited. Also, some stops, like the Porto Moniz pools, require an entrance fee not included in the ticket, so budget accordingly.

If you love stunning landscapes, adventure that combines nature with a little thrill, and want a guided experience that covers diverse highlights in one day, this tour suits well. It’s especially good for those who appreciate stories behind the scenery and enjoy engaging guides.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covers waterfalls, volcanic pools, sea cliffs, and lush forests.
• Small group size ensures more personalized, flexible, and intimate experience.
• Highlights include UNESCO-listed Laurissilva Forest and Europe’s highest sea cliff with a skywalk.
• Includes Wi-Fi, hotel pickup, and expert local guides for added convenience.
• Some stops like Porto Moniz pools and Cabo Girao skywalk have entrance fees, so plan extra.
• Ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded, active, and scenic day with authentic insights about Madeira.

A Closer Look: What You Can Expect

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting at 9:00 am in Funchal, the tour kicks off with a scenic drive northward, heading toward São Vicente, renowned for its volcanic caves and vineyards. This part of the island offers a taste of Madeira’s volcanic origins, setting the tone for the day’s adventures.

The first stop is Miradouro do Veu da Noiva, a waterfall that resembles a bride’s veil—an image that quickly becomes a favorite for many. The water cascades so abundantly that you’ll understand why it’s a classic view; expect approximately 30 minutes here to marvel and photograph.

Next, you’ll visit Poca Das Lesmas, where volcanic pools invite swimmers to cool off. Crystal-clear waters and volcanic rock formations make this a peaceful spot for a quick dip and relaxation, with ample time allotted for around 30 minutes. Reviewers love this stop for its beauty and tranquility, with one saying, “we loved the scenery around the pools.”

Porto Moniz is arguably the tour’s crown jewel—famous for its natural volcanic swimming pools, which draw visitors from all over. While entrance isn’t included, the hour and fifteen minutes here give you time to dip, explore, and admire the rugged coast. Many reviews highlight how unforgettable the pools are—clear waters framed by volcanic rock, perfect for a swim.

Then, it’s on to Cabo Girao, the highest sea cliff in Europe, rising 589 meters above the ocean. The skywalk with its glass floor is both a thrill and a photo op. Expect about 30 minutes here to step out onto the transparent platform and take in the sweeping views, which are jaw-dropping.

Finally, the trip culminates with a walk through the Fanal Forest, part of Madeira’s UNESCO-listed Laurissilva Forest, known as one of Portugal’s seventh Natural Wonders. This lush, ancient woodland features centenary trees, creating a magical atmosphere. With only 20 minutes here, it’s a quick but immersive experience, giving you some of the most iconic scenery the island has to offer.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The guides consistently earn praise for their knowledge and enthusiasm. Reviewers mention guides like João and Diogo Pinto as being friendly, flexible, and deeply informative, making the experience more meaningful. One reviewer said, “João was an amazing guide. Very knowledgeable and flexible,” which echoes the general sentiment.

The landscapes are what truly shine—waterfalls, volcanic pools, dramatic cliffs, and lush forests. Many travelers comment on the “lush green” scenery, noting how the continuously changing vistas keep the day exciting.

Value for money is another feature. At $80, the tour packs a lot of diverse sights into a single day, and with included amenities like Wi-Fi, hotel pickup, and a knowledgeable guide, it offers excellent bang for your buck. The small group size adds to the sense of intimacy and allows for more personalized attention.

Considerations and Practical Tips

While most reviews are glowing, a few mentions remind travelers to be prepared for narrow, curvy roads, especially when visiting remote sites like Fanal Forest. One reviewer called the driving “thrilling,” so if you’re prone to carsickness or dislike steep, winding roads, pack accordingly.

Also, some stops, such as Porto Moniz pools and Cabo Girao, have entrance fees not included—around €3—so bring some cash or a card. The tour’s schedule is tight but well-paced, so don’t expect long leisure periods at each stop, but enough to appreciate each site.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those wanting a rundown of Madeira’s wild side. It suits travelers who appreciate guided insights, want to avoid the hassle of driving themselves, and are eager to see a variety of landscapes in just one day.

It’s especially recommended for visitors who have limited time but still want an authentic, scenic, and memorable taste of the island’s west.

The Bottom Line

This West 4×4 Experience provides an impressive snapshot of Madeira’s natural beauty. The combination of waterfalls, volcanic pools, dramatic cliffs, and ancient forests makes for a truly memorable day. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly approach turn what could be a simple sightseeing trip into a lively, engaging adventure.

While it’s not a leisurely stroll—expect some driving on winding roads and a packed schedule—the value and diversity are hard to beat. If you’re after a day that combines breathtaking views, authentic landscapes, and a touch of adventure, this tour hits the mark.

It’s ideal for active travelers, small groups, and those who want to see the island’s highlights without the stress of planning every detail. Just remember to book in advance to secure your spot, and come prepared for a full day of fun and discovery.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 9:00 am, with pickup available from Funchal hotels or the port.

Is pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers free pickup and drop-off from Funchal’s central area and near the port. Extra fees apply for pickups outside these areas.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, giving enough time to visit all the highlights comfortably.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to buy something during the stops.

Are all stops included in the ticket price?
Most stops are free, but Porto Moniz pools and Cabo Girao skywalk require separate entrance fees (€3 for the pools and a fee for the skywalk).

Is the tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Yes, most travelers find it suitable, but be aware of the winding roads and some walking involved at the forest and scenic viewpoints.

What is the group size?
The tour typically accommodates up to 15 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking about 20 days ahead is recommended, as the tour is popular and fills quickly.

What makes this tour a good value?
Compared to the numerous sights packed into one day, the guided commentary, Wi-Fi, and hotel pickup make this a well-priced option for experiencing Madeira’s west side.

In short, the West 4×4 Experience from Funchal offers a beautifully curated taste of Madeira’s most scenic landscapes, guided by friendly locals who love sharing their island. It’s a day filled with spectacular sights, engaging stories, and just enough adventure to keep everyone cheerful. Perfect for travelers eager to see Madeira’s wild side without the hassle of navigating alone.