Go West Tour - Madeira Island Excursion

Introduction: What to Expect from the Go West Tour on Madeira

If you’re visiting Madeira and craving a full day of scenic vistas, charming villages, and unique natural sights, the Go West Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into the island’s western coast. Starting in Funchal, this approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes journey is priced at about $45, making it a budget-friendly way to see some of Madeira’s most iconic spots. The tour typically has a small group size, capped at 18 travelers, which means more personalized attention from your guide and fewer crowds—something we always appreciate.

What makes this tour stand out? First, we love the spectacular viewpoints like Cabo Girao, Europe’s second-highest sea cliff, with its glass platform offering thrilling views straight down. Second, the stop at Porto Moniz’s natural swimming pools provides both a picture-perfect setting and a chance to relax in warm, volcanic waters. On top of that, the local guide’s insights into Madeira’s history and culture enrich the experience far beyond just sightseeing.

One potential consideration is the number of stops—some travelers, like Melanie, noted that fewer stops might make for a more relaxed day. With so many picturesque sites packed into a single day, it’s a fast-paced tour. If you prefer to linger longer at each location or explore at a more leisurely pace, this might feel a bit rushed.

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors eager to cover major western highlights, photography enthusiasts wanting plenty of scenic views, and culture seekers interested in local villages and traditions. If you enjoy guided experiences with lively commentary and small-group intimacy, you’ll likely find this trip just right.

Key Points

Stunning vistas from viewpoints like Cabo Girao and Miradouro da Encumeada
Authentic experiences in traditional villages such as Ribeira Brava and São Vicente
Natural attractions including Porto Moniz’s famous swimming pools and Veu da Noiva waterfall
Small-group setting ensures better engagement and personalized attention
Affordable value for a full day of diverse sights at around $45
Flexible options with pickup and mobile tickets for convenience

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A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Cabo Girao: Europe’s Second-Highest Sea Cliff

Your day begins with a visit to Cabo Girao, one of the most awe-inspiring viewpoints on the island. The glass skywalk is the star attraction here—the transparent floor allows you to look directly down into the ocean below, creating an exhilarating experience. The views overlooking Funchal and Câmara de Lobos are breathtaking on clear days. Travelers frequently mention how spectacular this site is, with one reviewer noting it as “a superb view” that’s perfect for photos.

Ribeira Brava: A Picturesque Seaside Village

Next, you’ll stop at Ribeira Brava, a lovely fishing village with traditional stores and a historic church. It’s a good chance to stretch your legs and take in some local charm. You might find the atmosphere here peaceful and authentic, with picturesque streets and seaside vistas that photographers will love. The roughly 30-minute stop allows enough time for a quick walk and some snapshot moments.

Levada do Paul da Serra: Overlook of the Famous Walks

The next stop is a viewpoint overlooking the Levada walks in the valley. These levada irrigation channels are a hallmark of Madeira, and while you won’t hike here, the view offers a sense of the lush landscape and complex water systems that make this island so green. It’s a brief 15-minute stop, but the vistas help you understand why the levada trails are so cherished.

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Porto Moniz: Natural Pools and Lunch

Porto Moniz is arguably the tour’s highlight—famous for its natural volcanic swimming pools. The village itself is charming, with lively cafes and local shops. The 1 hour and 30 minutes allocated for this stop gives you enough time to enjoy lunch, explore the pools, or simply take in the scenery. The pools are free to access, and many travelers rave about their crystal-clear waters and dramatic volcanic backdrop. You can bring your own food or purchase local specialties.

Miradouro do Veu da Noiva: Waterfall Over the Ocean

From Porto Moniz, the tour continues to Veu da Noiva, a waterfall cascading near the ocean. The 15-minute stop here offers a stunning photo opportunity and a chance to marvel at the power of nature—water tumbling from the cliffs into the ocean below, often framed by dramatic clouds or mist.

São Vicente: The Village Surrounded by Mountains

Moving inland, São Vicente is a scenic village surrounded by towering mountains on both sides. It’s a peaceful spot that showcases Madeira’s natural beauty and rural life. The 30-minute stop allows for a quick walk around, with some options to explore local shops or just enjoy the mountain views.

Miradouro da Encumeada: Panoramic Pass Between North and South

The tour concludes with a stop at Encumeada, a pass offering sweeping views over both the northern and southern parts of the island. This vantage point sums up the tour’s focus on breathtaking landscapes and allows travelers to appreciate Madeira’s varied terrain. It’s a short 15-minute pause before heading back to Funchal.

What’s Included, What’s Not

The tour fee covers transportation, live commentary, and insurance—great value for a full-day guided experience. The pickup service from central Funchal meeting points adds convenience, especially if you’re staying nearby.

While lunch isn’t included, the itinerary’s ample stop at Porto Moniz gives you plenty of options to enjoy local cuisine or bring along snacks. The tour also offers mobile tickets, making reservations straightforward and flexible.

How the Experience Feels: Authentic, Scenic, and Well-Organized

From the reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find the tour well-paced and informative. One reviewer, Wolfgang, praised the “safe driver” and “wonderful explanations,” highlighting the guide’s role in enriching the experience. The small group size creates a more intimate atmosphere, allowing questions and interactions to flow naturally.

However, some, like Melanie, felt that more time at each stop might improve the experience. Given the numerous sites packed into this day, it’s a fast-moving itinerary, which is perfect if you want to maximize sights but perhaps less ideal if you prefer to linger.

The views are consistently praised, with many noting the “spectacular” and “breathtaking” scenery, making this tour worthwhile even on cloudy days. The inclusion of local culture—from fishing villages to traditional stores—adds depth beyond just the landscapes.

Analyzing the Value

For $45, this tour offers a great deal of variety—viewpoints, villages, natural pools, waterfalls—all within a manageable timeframe. The small-group format and live commentary make it more engaging than large bus tours. Plus, the free cancellation policy provides peace of mind, especially if weather conditions threaten to disrupt plans.

While it covers many highlights, the fast pace might be a downside for those who prefer a more relaxed or in-depth exploration. Still, for most first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Madeira’s western sights, this tour delivers excellent value.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This excursion suits travelers who want a focused, guided day with diverse sights. It’s especially good for photographers, nature lovers, and cultural explorers. If you’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and don’t mind a brisk pace, you’ll enjoy the variety and stunning views.

If you’re traveling with young children or prefer a more leisurely experience, consider whether the stops and timing fit your pace. But overall, this tour is a solid introduction to Madeira’s west coast—an efficient, scenic, and culturally enriching way to spend a day.

FAQ

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes, from pickup in Funchal to return.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but you can bring your own food or purchase at Porto Moniz, where you’ll have plenty of options.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the small group size makes it comfortable. However, the pace might be quicker for those with mobility issues or young children.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 47 days in advance for availability, especially in high season.

Is pickup available?
Yes, pickup from central Funchal meeting points is offered, making it convenient if you’re staying nearby.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

The Go West Tour on Madeira offers a carefully curated taste of the island’s most scenic and culturally rich spots. With knowledgeable guides, breathtaking viewpoints, and the chance to explore traditional villages and natural pools, it provides a well-balanced day for those eager to see Madeira’s best in a single trip.

It’s particularly suited for those who enjoy guided experiences, want ample photo opportunities, and prefer small groups for a more personal feel. If you’re after a value-packed day that combines nature, culture, and spectacular vistas, this tour is a smart choice.

Keep in mind, the pace can be brisk, so if you’re someone who likes to linger or explore more deeply, you might want to consider a slower, more relaxed option. But for most first-time visitors wanting an efficient overview, the Go West Tour is a memorable, worthwhile way to experience Madeira’s stunning western coast.