Funchal: Cabo Girão, Wines Tasting and Dolphins Watching

Getting a taste of Madeira’s stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and marine life all in one day sounds ambitious, yet this tour manages to pack it all in comfortably. With a mix of breathtaking viewpoints, off-road adventures, wine tasting, and a catamaran trip to spot dolphins, it offers a well-rounded day for travelers craving diverse experiences.

What we particularly love about this tour is its variety—you’re not just glued to one scenic spot but moving through different environments that showcase Madeira’s natural beauty and local traditions. Plus, the small-group format ensures an intimate feel, making it easier to connect with guides and fellow travelers.

That said, the full-day schedule can be quite packed, especially if you like to take your time. It’s also worth noting that some stops, like Cabo Girao, involve additional entrance fees. This experience suits those who want a comprehensive, active, and authentic taste of Madeira without the hassle of planning each detail themselves.

Key Points

• Diverse Experiences: From scenic viewpoints and off-road jeep rides to wine tasting and dolphin watching, it’s a full-spectrum adventure.
• Small Group Benefits: Limited to 8 participants, creating a more personalized and engaging atmosphere.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Rui are praised for their friendliness, safety focus, and local insights.
• Value for Money: At $101, this tour provides a comprehensive package with included wine tasting, transportation, and a three-hour catamaran cruise.
• Photogenic Stops: Cabo Girao’s glass-floor viewing platform and Boca dos Namorados offer unforgettable photo opportunities.
• Authentic Local Touches: Support for local businesses, such as visiting a traditional Madeiran bar in Jardim da Serra, enhances the genuine feel.

An Honest Look at the Tour

This tour offers a solid mix of what makes Madeira special. Starting in Funchal, you’re picked up from central locations, which makes logistics straightforward. The journey begins with sweeping views over Funchal’s bay, setting the tone for a day filled with natural beauty and cultural insights.

Boca dos Namorados: Overlooking Nun’s Valley

The first highlight is Boca dos Namorados, perched nearly 1000 meters above sea level. Here, you’ll get a panoramic view of Nun’s Valley (Curral das Freiras). The viewpoint is a favorite among travelers for its breathtaking vistas and photo opportunities. Many reviews praise the guide—Neale mentions that the guide “did an awesome job,” making the experience both informative and relaxed.

Off-Road Adventure in Jardim da Serra

Next, the off-road 4×4 journey into Jardim da Serra really takes the experience up a notch. This is where the tour shines for travelers who enjoy a bit of adventure. Rui, the guide, gets high marks for his friendly approach and skill in navigating narrow, steep roads. Kids especially loved standing up in the jeep, making it a memorable family-friendly part of the day.

In Jardim da Serra, you’ll stop at a typical Madeiran bar. This isn’t just a quick pause; it’s a chance to support local businesses and try regional drinks like Poncha or enjoy a cup of coffee or tea. It’s these authentic touches that make the tour feel genuine rather than overly commercial.

Cabo Girao: Europe’s Tallest Cliff

The next major stop is Cabo Girao, Europe’s second-highest sea cliff at 580 meters. The newly renovated viewpoint with its suspended glass floor is a highlight for many visitors. The experience of stepping onto the glass platform with views straight down to the Atlantic is both exhilarating and slightly nerve-wracking, but well worth it. Reviewers like Iris loved the adventure, especially noting how Rui made everyone feel safe while exploring the edge.

Madeira Wine Tasting

After soaking in the views, the tour takes you to Henriques & Henriques, a well-known Madeira wine lodge. Here, you get to sample different styles—Sweet, Medium Sweet, Dry, and Medium Dry—which helps you appreciate the versatility of Madeira wine. This part of the tour is praised for its friendly staff and the quality of the tastings, giving you a taste of the island’s historic wine-making traditions.

Funchal’s Marina and Dolphin Watching

Post-wine, you’ll have some free time at Funchal’s marina for lunch or just to relax. Later, the highlight for many is the catamaran cruise that lasts about three hours along the south coast. You’ll be on board a comfortable vessel, with chances of spotting dolphins and whales in their natural habitat.

According to reviews, the crew provides detailed information about the cetaceans, making the trip both entertaining and educational. Annalies recommends it, stating she would “recommend this to anyone,” while Iris loved that they even saw spotted dolphins during their cruise.

In summer, some travelers might even get the chance to swim near Cabo Girao, adding a refreshing close-to-nature touch to the experience.

The Details That Matter

Transportation: The tour uses comfortable vehicles, and pickups are included in central Funchal and nearby areas. If you’re staying outside the city, an extra fee applies. The small group size (up to 8) means you won’t be lost in a crowd and can enjoy a more relaxed, personalized experience.

Timing & Duration: The full day runs about 8 hours, starting with a pick-up and ending at Funchal’s port around 6 pm. Check availability for specific start times—it’s a well-paced schedule but expect to be on the move.

Price & Value: At $101 per person, this tour offers a lot for the price—several scenic stops, wine tasting, and a three-hour boat trip. Reviews highlight the quality of guides and the authenticity of experiences, making it a cost-effective way to see Madeira’s highlights without the hassle.

Inclusions & Extras: Included are all insurances, local taxes, Wi-Fi, and wine tasting. Not included are food (besides the wine), entrance fees to Cabo Girao (roughly €3), or drop-off service.

Accessibility & Suitability: The tour isn’t suitable for children under three, pregnant women, or those in wheelchairs due to off-road driving and boat conditions.

Authentic Experiences Review

One aspect that stands out from reviews is how guides like Rui enhance the experience. His friendly, safety-first approach made even the narrow mountain roads feel secure. Iris appreciated Rui’s efforts, noting he “made everybody feel safe while driving the narrow and steep Madeira roads.”

The small group size fosters a friendly atmosphere, which reviewers like Nele describe as “wonderful,” giving the trip a more intimate and engaging vibe. The stops at local bars and the wine lodge deepen the culture, offering a genuine taste of Madeira beyond typical sightseeing.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is a great choice for travelers who want a well-rounded day that covers nature, adventure, culture, and marine life. It’s ideal for those who appreciate stunning vistas, like a little off-road excitement, and enjoy wine sampling. Families with children age 3 and above, especially those interested in dolphins, will find it particularly rewarding.

Because of the pace and physical aspects (like the cliff view and off-road driving), it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with a full schedule. The small-group format also makes it perfect for those who prefer a more personal touch over large, impersonal tours.

FAQs

Is pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes free pickup from Funchal’s Central Area and the port. Outside of these areas, there’s an extra fee.

How long is the catamaran cruise?
The boat trip lasts approximately three hours, providing ample chances to see dolphins and whales.

Are the stops at Cabo Girao and Boca dos Namorados free?
Cabo Girao requires an entrance fee of about €3. While the viewpoint is free to visit, the fee covers maintenance and safety measures.

Can I swim during the boat trip?
In summer months, there’s a possibility of swimming below Cabo Girao, but this depends on weather conditions and crew decisions.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is suitable for children over age 3. However, it may not be suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users because of the off-road driving and boat activity.

What language guides are available?
Guides speak Spanish, English, and Portuguese, ensuring clear communication throughout the day.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable footwear, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera. If you plan to swim, pack swimwear and towels.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira tour truly offers a well-balanced day of sightseeing, adventure, and culture. From the dizzying heights of Cabo Girao and the lush beauty of Nun’s Valley to the relaxing wine tasting and playful dolphin sightings, it covers a lot of ground without feeling rushed.

Travelers who enjoy engaging guides, authentic local stops, and diverse scenery will find this trip especially rewarding. It’s a fantastic way to experience Madeira’s natural splendors and warm local hospitality—all in just one day.

While the schedule is full and some costs are extras, the overall value and quality make it a worthwhile choice. Be prepared for a busy day filled with unforgettable memories and plenty of picture-worthy moments.