Grand Madeira Island Tour – Porto Moniz and Santana

If you’re looking to see the highlights of Madeira without spending your entire trip on a bus, this Grand Madeira Island Tour offers a well-rounded experience for around $296 per group. It lasts roughly 8 hours, taking you from the rugged coastlines to lush plateaus, with plenty of stops that showcase the island’s stunning scenery and unique villages. The tour is operated by Intertours and includes hotel pickup, which makes it convenient to start your day without the hassle of finding your way around.

What we love about this experience is how you get a rundown of Madeira’s diverse landscapes—from towering sea cliffs to volcanic pools—without feeling rushed. Plus, the personalized small-group atmosphere (up to 8 people) means more chances to ask questions and enjoy a more intimate experience. However, keep in mind that the long day can be tiring, especially if you’re not used to a lot of driving or mountain roads.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a full taste of Madeira’s natural beauty and charming villages in one day. If you’re someone who appreciates stunning panoramic views and enjoys learning from knowledgeable guides, this will suit you well. However, if you’re looking for a relaxed, slow-paced visit to just one or two spots, this may be a bit too busy.

Key Points

• Diverse Scenery: From sea cliffs and waterfalls to lush plateaus, the tour covers Madeira’s most striking natural features.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides like John and Maurizzio enhance the experience with local insights.
• Breathtaking Views: Stops at Cabo Girao and Pico da Torre provide some of the best photo opportunities on the island.
• Authentic Villages: Visits to Santana, Sao Vicente, and Machico let you experience Madeira’s traditional architecture and history.
• Value for Money: With a full day of touring, the price includes multiple highlights, a good lunch, and transportation.
• Small Group: A maximum of 8 travelers ensures a more personal, flexible experience.

In-Depth Review of the Madeira Island Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with hotel pickup in Funchal, a benefit for travelers staying in the city, eliminating the need for extra logistics or transport. You’ll board a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which is a relief given the long hours and mountain roads. The small-group size (up to 8 people) makes for a more relaxed, conversational atmosphere — a nice change from crowded bus tours.

The Scenic Drive and First Stops

Your guide, whether it’s John, Maurizzio, or another local expert, will take you along the island’s curving roads, offering insights into Madeira’s geography and culture. The first major highlight is Pico da Torre, where you’ll admire spectacular vistas. We loved the way the guide explained the landscape, making it easier to understand the island’s volcanic origins.

Next, the Cabo Girao skywalk is a highlight — standing 580 meters above sea level, it’s one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs. The glass-floored observation platform extends out over the cliff, making it a perfect spot for thrill-seekers and photographers alike. Several reviewers find the view “breathtaking,” and the feeling of walking on glass over a dizzying drop is a memory that sticks long after.

Porto Moniz and its Volcanic Pools

No visit to Madeira would be complete without stopping in Porto Moniz. Known for its natural volcanic swimming pools, it’s a unique experience to dip into these sculpted pools filled with seawater, surrounded by rugged lava rocks. The pools are free to visit, giving you the chance to relax or take photos. This stop is often praised as “magical,” and for many, the highlight of the tour.

Waterfalls and Coastal Roads

From Porto Moniz, the route takes you along scenic seaside roads, where you can stop to marvel at the impressive waterfalls cascading down rocky cliffs. Several reviews mention how the coastal drive is “breathtaking,” with some roads being “scary” but worth the adventure. The guide’s careful driving ensures safety, but be prepared for some tight turns and narrow stretches.

Sao Vicente and Santana

The historic town of Sao Vicente offers charming streets and monuments, giving insight into Madeira’s local life. On the way to Santana, you’ll stop at the Cabanas Sao Jorge viewpoint, which on clear days provides views of Porto Santo.

Santana is famous for its traditional A-frame houses with thatched roofs. The Santana center showcases regional products and offers a glimpse into Madeira’s cultural heritage. Reviewers often mention that the visit to Santana feels authentic and well worth the short stop, providing gorgeous photo opportunities.

Lunch and Final Stops

The included lunch offers a satisfying break. Although details about the restaurant are limited, reviewers mention that it’s delicious and provides panoramic views, making it more than just a meal — it’s part of the experience.

Finally, your guide will take you to Machico, where Madeira’s early explorers set sail for new lands in the 1420s. The town’s history adds depth to the visit, and it’s a quiet spot to reflect on the day. The tour ends with a return to Funchal, often with plenty of good memories and photos in hand.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Many reviews highlight the expertise of the guides — “John was very knowledgable and friendly,” and “Maurizzio provided a tailored experience.” Their local knowledge makes the difference, turning a sightseeing drive into a storytelling adventure.

The stunning views at Cabo Girao, Porto Moniz, and Santana are consistently praised, with visitors remarking that the pictures do not do justice to the actual scenery.

Potential Drawbacks

Some guests note that the day can be quite long and the driving sometimes feels hurried, especially on narrow mountain roads. One reviewer mentioned feeling dizzy and sick, which is worth considering if you’re sensitive to motion or have health issues. The soft-spoken guide in some cases also made it hard to catch all the commentary, especially for those sitting in the back of the vehicle.

Is It Worth the Price?

Given the number of stops, the diversity of scenery, and the inclusion of a lunch with views, the value for money is generally regarded as good. You’re paying for a full day of sightseeing in a small group, which enhances comfort and flexibility. For travelers who want a rundown of Madeira’s top sights with local insights, this tour offers a solid investment.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour suits active travelers eager to see multiple highlights in one day — from cliffs and waterfalls to charming villages. If you’re someone who appreciates stunning landscapes and authentic village visits, it will be right up your alley. Families and small groups will find it especially enjoyable thanks to the small-group format and personalized attention.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want to focus on just one or two attractions, this extensive tour might feel too rushed. Be prepared for a full, long day of driving and exploring, especially if you’re sensitive to mountain roads or motion sickness.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, encompassing multiple stops and scenic drives across Madeira.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in the tour price, making it easy to start and end your day comfortably.

How many people are in the group?
This is a small-group experience with a maximum of 8 people, which helps create a more intimate, flexible atmosphere.

Are meals included?
Lunch with panoramic views is part of the tour, and many reviewers found it to be delicious and satisfying, adding value to the experience.

Are tickets to Cabo Girao included?
No, admission to Cabo Girao’s skywalk is not included, but the views are free to enjoy from the lookout.

What are the key highlights?
Highlights include Cabo Girao’s sea cliffs, Porto Moniz’s volcanic pools, Santana’s traditional houses, waterfalls along the coast, and panoramic viewpoints like Cabanas Sao Jorge.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While most travelers find it suitable, keep in mind the long hours and mountain roads; young children or those prone to motion sickness should be prepared.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if your plans change.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, sun protection, and a camera are recommended to make the most of the sights and photo opportunities.

Final Thoughts

This Grand Madeira Island Tour offers a comprehensive look at what makes Madeira special — its dramatic cliffs, volcanic pools, and charming villages. The guides’ local knowledge, combined with breathtaking scenery, provides a rich, authentic experience that will leave you with a deeper appreciation of this beautiful island.

If you’re after a full day of sightseeing that covers Madeira’s highlights in a small, personalized setting, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a well-organized, value-packed adventure with excellent photo opportunities and cultural insights.

For those willing to handle a long day in a car and some winding roads, this tour ensures you’ll leave with spectacular memories and plenty of stories to tell back home. It’s a smart choice for anyone ready to see the best of Madeira in one memorable day.