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Northwest Madeira Exploration: 4x4 Tour, Local Traditions, and Scenic Natural Wonders
4.9
9 Ratings
Funchal
Embark on a thrilling 4x4 tour in Northwest Madeira, discovering local traditions, scenic wonders, and the unique levada system. Swim in volcanic lava pools, taste local delicacies, and explore the enchanting Fanal Forest.
Duration:
8 hours
Cancellation:
1 day
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Highlights
- Funchal - starting point
- Praia da Ribeira Brava - Our first stop for a stroll and village visit
- Ponta Do Sol - passing through
- Fanal Forestry Station - Laurissilva forest area, recognized as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site since December 1999 and part of the European Network of Sites of Community Importance - Nature 2000.
- Fanal - After several days of rain, a lake emerges amidst the unique landscape of Fanal, known for its ancient trees.
- Eira da Achada Lookout - provides a breathtaking view of Madeira Island’s northern coast.
- Ribeira da Janela - By the sea, we can see the land’s namesake window on a small island visible only from a certain angle, along with the clearly visible stream. The sea’s intense aroma is palpable at this stop.
- Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools - These pools, formed by volcanic lava and naturally filled with clear sea water, are the highlight of Porto Moniz village.
- Seixal Natural Pool - transit point
- Praia Do Seixal - A black sand beach with crystal clear water. The scenic vineyard hillside produces excellent wine. The waves often create a captivating display, and the basaltic cliffs are another attraction visible from here.
- Sao Vicente - One of the northern capitals of the island. We visited the main church and its narrow streets, reminiscent of bygone eras.
- Miradouro da Encumeada - On clear days, we ascend to 1007 meters to view both the north and south coasts of the island simultaneously.
- Serra de Agua - passing through
- Funchal - return point
What's Included
- local guide
- Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points
- drop-off hotel
- hotel pickup
- driver/guide
What's Not Included
- food and drinks
- lunch
- Hotel pickup and drop-off (if option not selected)
Additional Information
Embark on a journey in a 4x4 vehicle, with a skilled guide at the helm, exploring the northwest portion of Madeira, immersing yourself in regional traditions, history, and culture while experiencing the natural beauty of the area. Sample local delicacies and beverages like poncha and bathe in the natural ocean-side, volcanic rock pools in Porto Moniz. Embark on a leisurely 25-minute stroll along a levada, gaining insights into the unique irrigation system that continues to distribute water and generate power on the island till this day. Discover a small part of the extensive network of levadas stretching over 2,500 km and marvel at the scenic vistas these channels provide. Take in the biodiverse Fanal Forest, including endemic trees, with some dating back over a 1000 years.
- Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
Location
R. Dom Carlos I 10
Rua Dom Carlos I
Our office
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
4.9
(9 Ratings)
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Emilie_p
Aug 18, 2024
Great tour - We really enjoyed this trip, our tour guide was friendly and knowledgeable and we learnt quite a few interesting facts and seen things we wouldnt be able to if we had done it ourselves,the tour guide gave us adequate time at each stop , would highly recommend.
Review provided by Viator
Winkingbeaver
Jul 7, 2024
Brilliant day sightseeing - Outstanding day on our full day west Madeira tour. Great value. Diego was our guide. He was knowledgeable and friendly. My husband and i booked x2 seats and were in a jeep with Diego ( our fab guide), another couple and a single traveller. We had a brilliant day and Diego was an excellent guide. Oh ....also we opted for lunch, well worth it served in a lovely local restaurant. Tops day out and we saw some gorgeous sights. Thank you
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Graham1963
Jun 19, 2024
Good way to see the island with a great guide - A good way to see the island. Luis our driver was excellent not only from a driving point of view but his knowledge and humour as well.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Piper3344
May 17, 2024
Wilson was great. Such an interesting tour - A really great day long tour of NW Madeira. The geography, flora and sights were fascinating. Our guide, Wilson, had lots of interesting insights - history, culture and Madeira generally. He makes sure his group - just four of us- are enjoying the day and engaged with what we saw. A good lunch though I recommend going a La carte rather than booking in advance and we finished with a fun visit to the Poncha Taverna. Couldn’t recommend Wilson more highly even though the weather was against us so we missed out on the walk.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
109benthed
Apr 7, 2024
Great jeep safari tour - It was a wonderful tour, the guide João showed many beautiful places and told a lot about the special places. We had a delicious meal. Highly recommended! It was a great day!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Richarda4294
Jul 19, 2022
West tour with Diogo, who was a star. - Super day out, well organised, lots of stops for views and interest. Our guide, Diogo was a star. Nice lunch at Porto Moniz arranged for us. Good value day. Highly recommended.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
S5946crlesleym
Jul 13, 2024
West Coast with Luis - We went on the West Coast tour with Luis our guide. He was knowledgeable, friendly and easy to get on with.
The highlights were the Lavada walks, Poncha tasting and waterfall view. Lovely natural pools but we opted to stay longer in the recommended restaurant.
Luis is an asset to the business and we would definitely book another tour.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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