Funchal: Cabo Girão, Wines Tasting and Dolphins Watching

Imagine a day where you get breathtaking views, learn about local wines, and see dolphins in their natural environment—all wrapped into one well-rounded experience. For around $101, this 8-hour tour in Madeira offers a rich blend of scenic drives, cultural stops, and ocean adventures. Guided by friendly local experts, you’ll visit iconic spots like Cabo Girão, with its famous glass skywalk, explore the charming Jardim da Serra, and indulge in Madeira’s renowned wines, all before setting sail on a catamaran cruise to spot dolphins and whales.

What we love most about this experience is how it combines natural beauty with authentic local interactions—supporting small communities, tasting traditional drinks like Poncha, and enjoying the thrill of watching dolphins leap beside the boat. Plus, the off-road 4×4 ride adds a touch of adventure that makes the day more than just sightseeing.

A possible consideration is that the day is quite packed, and if you’re not fond of early starts or long days, it might feel a bit rushed. Also, activities like the Cabo Girão skywalk involve a small entrance fee, so plan accordingly.

This tour suits travelers who love a mix of nature, culture, and fun—especially those eager to embrace Madeira’s scenic landscapes and authentic charm while enjoying a manageable group size that keeps things personal and engaging.

Key Points

Scenic Highlights: Stunning views from Boca dos Namorados, Cabo Girao’s skywalk, and Jardim da Serra.
Authentic Experiences: Tasting Madeira wines at Henriques & Henriques and supporting local businesses.
Adventure & Relaxation: Off-road jeep ride plus a relaxing catamaran dolphin cruise.
Educational & Fun: Learn about Madeira’s geography, wildlife, and wines from knowledgeable guides.
Family-Friendly: Suitable for travelers over 3 years old, with options for children to enjoy the jeep ride.
Value: Combines multiple activities at a fair price, with some optional extras like Cabo Girao entry fee.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Madeira

Starting Point and Early Views

The tour kicks off with a pickup from central Funchal, whisking you away into the lush landscape of Madeira’s south coast. As you ascend, you’ll get sweeping views over Funchal’s bay, a perfect warm-up for the day ahead. The journey quickly shifts gears as you arrive at Boca dos Namorados—a spectacular viewpoint at nearly 1000 meters above sea level. Here, you’ll have a chance to snap photos of Nun’s Valley (Curral das Freiras), a rugged, isolated village surrounded by steep slopes that tells stories of Madeira’s resilient farmers.

This stop is not just about pretty vistas; it’s a chance to breathe in the mountain air and truly appreciate the island’s dramatic topography. We loved how the guide pointed out the landscape features and shared local anecdotes, making the scenery come alive.

Off-road Adventure to Jardim da Serra

From Boca dos Namorados, the journey continues off-road in a 4×4 open-roof jeep—a highlight for many. This part of the tour offers a taste of Madeira’s rugged terrain, giving you a different perspective of the island’s natural beauty. Jardim da Serra, a village famed for cherry production, is your next stop, where you can support local artisans and farmers by buying coffee, tea, or Poncha, Madeira’s traditional sugarcane-based drink.

Here, the guide might share stories about the local economy and how tourism and agriculture coexist. Iris, a recent visitor, called the jeep ride “super friendly,” praising guide Rui for his safety-conscious driving and engaging narration. Kids love the thrill of standing up in the jeep, especially when navigating the narrow, steep roads.

Cabo Girao: Europe’s Highest Cliff with a Glass Skywalk

Next, you’ll visit the famous Cabo Girao, which towers 580 meters above the Atlantic and is often called the second-highest sea cliff in the world. The renovated viewpoint with a glass floor makes for some heart-stopping photos—literally. It’s a moment where the views of the coastline and ocean below leave you breathless.

Though there’s a small fee (€3) to access the glass skywalk, many find it worth the cost for the chance to stand atop one of Europe’s most incredible natural cliffs. We appreciated how the guide explained the safety measures and history behind the site, adding context to the views.

More Great Tours Nearby

Madeira Wine Tasting at Henriques & Henriques

The tour then winds down at Henriques & Henriques, a renowned Madeira wine lodge. Here, you’ll get to taste a selection of Madeira wines—Sweet, Medium Sweet, Dry, and Medium Dry—which highlights the island’s unique wine-making tradition. The tasting is relaxing, informative, and a perfect way to cap off the cultural part of the day. Reviewers have raved about the quality and variety: “Very good experience. I would recommend this to anyone!” one guest remarked.

The visit also supports local producers, and many travelers enjoy buying a bottle or two as souvenirs. The staff is friendly and eager to share their knowledge, making the tasting both educational and tasty.

Keen to taste more of Madeira? We've looked into these other food and drink experiences

Lunch, Free Time, and Dolphin Watching

After the wine tasting, you’ll have some free time at Funchal’s marina, where options for a casual lunch or a quick stroll abound. The time here allows you to digest the day’s sights and relax before the main event—the dolphin and whale watching trip.

Boarding a catamaran, you’ll spend around three hours cruising the south coast, with ample opportunities to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. The crew provides fascinating insights into cetacean species, and reviews highlight the excitement of spotting dolphins “leaping beside the boat,” making this a memorable part of the day.

In summer months, there’s even the chance to swim below Cabo Girao’s cliffs if conditions permit, adding an adventurous splash to your trip. It’s a relaxing, scenic way to end the tour and connect with Madeira’s marine life.

Practical Details and Value

This experience offers a well-rounded look at Madeira, combining stunning viewpoints, cultural insights, and marine wildlife. The small group size (limited to 8 participants) ensures a more personalized experience, with guide Rui making everyone feel safe and involved. The included pickup from central Funchal adds convenience, and the use of sanitized vehicles and safety protocols give peace of mind.

At $101 per person, the tour packs quite a punch—covering transport, guide, wine tasting, and dolphin cruise—making it a good value for travelers wanting a comprehensive day without feeling rushed. Additional costs, like the €3 fee for Cabo Girao’s skywalk, are minor but worth noting.

The day’s itinerary is carefully balanced—views, adventure, culture, and wildlife—catering to a range of interests, especially for those who enjoy active exploration combined with relaxing moments. Reviewers praise guides for their friendliness and knowledge, emphasizing that this tour’s success hinges on their storytelling and safety.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is especially suited for curious travelers who love a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and marine life. It’s ideal for those who appreciate small groups, authentic interactions, and are willing to be on the move for most of the day. Families with children over three, couples, or solo travelers looking to deepen their Madeira experience will find it engaging and rewarding.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup from central Funchal or near the port is included, and you’ll travel in a sanitized, air-conditioned vehicle.

How long is the dolphin watching cruise?
The catamaran trip lasts about 3 hours, giving plenty of time to relax and spot dolphins and whales.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and perhaps a camera. If you plan to swim in summer, a swimsuit and towel might be useful.

Are meals included?
No, food isn’t included, but there’s time for a quick lunch at Funchal marina or nearby cafes.

Do I need to pay extra for Cabo Girao’s viewpoint?
Yes, the glass skywalk access costs around €3, which is payable on site.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children over 3 are welcome, and the jeep ride is especially popular with kids.

How strenuous is the off-road jeep ride?
It’s safe and guided by a friendly driver, but the roads are narrow and steep—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of adventure.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there any flexibility in the schedule?
The tour is fixed at around 8 hours, but your guide will keep things engaging and flexible within that framework.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira tour offers a lively mixture of scenic beauty, culture, and wildlife encounters—all packed into a manageable, well-organized day. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just a sightseeing bus tour, seeking genuine local experiences and a bit of adventure. The small group setting enhances the interaction with guides, who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

While it’s a full day with some minor costs (like the Cabo Girao entrance fee), the value is clear when you consider the variety of activities included—views, wines, dolphins, and off-road fun. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to dive deep into Madeira’s landscapes and traditions without the hassle of planning each detail.

If you’re after a memorable, balanced day that combines nature, culture, and marine life, this tour will serve you well. Just be prepared for a busy schedule and plenty of opportunities to marvel at this stunning island’s natural wonders.