Madeira West Coast 4×4 Tour: Porto Moniz, Seixal, Fanal Forest and Skywalk
About Madeira West Coast 4×4 Tour: Porto Moniz, Seixal, Fanal Forest and Skywalk
This open-roof 4×4 tour takes you from Funchal across to Madeira’s wild north and west coast, with stops at waterfalls, black sand beaches, volcanic rock pools and an old laurel forest. It has 3,897 reviews and a 4.9 rating.
The tour lasts about 7.5 hours, with prices from about $79 per person. It covers a lot of the island in one day, without you having to drive the steep mountain roads yourself.
Itinerary
- Sao Vicente Caves
- Miradouro do Veu da Noiva (30 minutes)
- (20 minutes)
- Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools (1.3 hours)
- Cabo Girao (30 minutes)
- Vereda do Fanal (20 minutes)
What’s included
- Professional local guide
- Safety Instructions and First aid
- Free pickup and drop-off from Funchal´s Central Area and next to Funchal´s Port
- Vehicles sanitized with Ozone
- All insurances according to the Portuguese law
- Local taxes
What to expect on the day
After pickup in Funchal, you head to the north coast to see the Bridal Veil waterfall near São Vicente and the black volcanic beach at Seixal, then the green valleys of Chão da Ribeira. Next comes Porto Moniz and its natural volcanic pools, followed by Fanal, an ancient Laurissilva forest of twisted, moss-covered trees. You cross Paúl da Serra, a highland plateau at about 1,400 meters, then take an off-road descent and finish with coastal views at Ponta do Sol. The route also includes the Cabo Girão skywalk, a glass-floored platform on top of a high sea cliff.
Prices and extra costs
- Included: A professional local guide, pickup and drop-off in central Funchal and next to the port, insurance and local taxes.
- Not included: Food and drinks, the small entry fee at Cabo Girão, and pickup outside central Funchal, which costs extra.
What to bring
- A warm layer and a rain jacket, as the plateau and forest can be cool and misty.
- Swimwear and a towel if you want to swim in the Porto Moniz pools.
- Cash for lunch, drinks and the Cabo Girão entry fee.
Tips for a better day
- Check your pickup: Free pickup covers central Funchal and the port area. Confirm the time and place when you book, and expect a fee if you stay elsewhere.
- Sit up top: The open roof is great for photos, but bring a hat and sunscreen on clear days.
- Expect changing weather: The north side and Fanal are often cloudier than Funchal, so the views can change within minutes.
Who it’s best for
Best for: First-time visitors who want to see the north and west coast highlights in one day, and anyone who enjoys a bit of off-road driving.
Consider another option if: You would rather see Madeira’s mountain peaks and the east coast. The east jeep safari to Pico do Arieiro and Santana covers that side of the island.
Restrictions
The tour suits all fitness levels, and infant seats are available. Pickups and drop-offs outside central Funchal have an extra fee.
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled start time.
FAQ about Madeira West Coast 4×4 Tour: Porto Moniz, Seixal, Fanal Forest and Skywalk
How long is the Madeira west coast 4×4 tour?
About 7.5 hours.
How much does it cost?
Prices start from about $79 per person.
Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, free pickup and drop-off are included in central Funchal and next to the port. Pickups elsewhere cost extra.
Which places does the tour visit?
Seixal, the Bridal Veil waterfall area near São Vicente, Chão da Ribeira, Porto Moniz, Fanal forest, Paúl da Serra and Ponta do Sol.
Is lunch included?
No. Food and drinks are not included.
Are there extra entry fees?
Yes. Entry to Cabo Girão is paid separately.
Can I swim at Porto Moniz?
The Porto Moniz natural pools are a swimming spot, so bring swimwear if you want to swim.
Is the vehicle open?
Yes. The tour uses an open-roof 4×4.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes. It suits all fitness levels and infant seats are available.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancel at least 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.
