Funchal: 4WD Experience Skywalk to Seixal Porto Moniz, Fanal

Planning a trip to Madeira and craving a truly immersive adventure? This 8-hour 4WD tour promises to take you off the beaten path, revealing the island’s rugged cliffs, lush forests, and volcanic coastlines—all from the comfort of a specially equipped open Jeep. It’s a fantastic choice for those who want to combine scenic beauty with a bit of adrenaline, guided by knowledgeable locals who truly love their island.

What really stands out for us is the way this tour manages to balance exciting off-road moments with relaxing scenic stops. Plus, the inclusion of natural pools and forests means you’ll get to experience Madeira’s natural diversity firsthand. That said, keep in mind that the day involves some bumpy rides and uneven terrain, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with a little adventure.

If you’re someone who enjoys authentic landscapes, appreciates local insights, and wants a hassle-free way to see Madeira’s top sights without the stress of driving yourself, this tour could be perfect. It’s especially ideal for small groups and travelers who value personalized attention and insider tips.

Key Points

• Authentic off-road experience with a friendly, knowledgeable guide
• Highlights include natural pools, forest, viewpoints, and charming villages
• Perfect for small groups for a more personalized experience
• Includes scenic stops and free time to explore or relax
• Value-packed day combining sightseeing, adventure, and local flavor
• All transportation and taxes included, with hotel pickup and drop-off in Funchal

This tour offers an engaging way to see Madeira beyond the usual tourist spots. It combines a mix of scenic viewpoints, natural wonders, and off-road thrills—each chosen to give you a well-rounded picture of the island’s dramatic landscape and authentic charm.

Starting Point and Timing

You’ll begin your day with a pickup from one of eight central locations around Funchal, making it flexible and convenient for most travelers. The tour lasts for about 8 hours, starting at a time that you should check in advance. The journey is led by a live guide speaking English, Italian, Spanish, or Portuguese, ensuring you get local insights along the way.

Transportation: Open Jeep Safari

Traveling in a small, open Jeep is one of the tour’s biggest highlights. It allows you to feel the breeze and get an unobstructed view of the scenery, heightening the sense of adventure. Reviewers consistently mention how comfortable and well-maintained the vehicle is, which is crucial for the bumpy off-road sections. An important note: the tour is limited to 6 participants, offering a more intimate, personalized experience compared to large bus groups.

Itinerary Breakdown

The day is packed with stops, each carefully chosen for their natural beauty and cultural significance. Here’s what you can expect:

Scenic Start: Cabo Girao Cliff

Your adventure kicks off at Cabo Girao, perched at 589 meters above sea level. Here, you’ll enjoy a photo stop and explore the Glass Bottom View platform, offering breathtaking vistas that leave your camera and spine tingling. Reviews highlight this as a fantastic first impression, with some describing it as “an unforgettable viewpoint” that sets the tone for the day.

Coastal Charm: São Vicente

Next, the tour heads to São Vicente, a tiny town famous for its volcanic landscapes. You’ll stop for scenic views and a brief walk, soaking in the tranquility of the lush valley. A reviewer notes that their guide, Antonio, showed “the island beautifully” with cheerful and kind explanations, perfect for those wanting to learn a bit more about Madeira’s volcanic origins.

Hidden Gem: Seixal

Continuing along the coast, the next highlight is Seixal, praised for its black volcanic sand beach. This is a more relaxed stop, where you can simply enjoy the views or take a quick walk. One reviewer calls Seixal “a hidden gem,” and it’s voted as the third-best beach in Europe by some sources, making it a must-see for beach lovers.

Natural Pools: Porto Moniz

Porto Moniz’s volcanic pools are a major draw. After a scenic drive, you’ll get around two hours here to swim, soak up the sun, or enjoy regional food. Many review this as a highlight, with the pools offering a unique experience of natural volcanic formations. The tour includes lunch here, which is an excellent value, allowing you to savor local cuisine while overlooking the pools.

Verdant Wilderness: Fanal Forest

A highlight for nature lovers is a visit to Fanal, a stunning Laurissilva forest that feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Navigating off-road trails, you’ll walk among ancient trees and moss-covered landscapes. Reviewers mention that Fanal’s peaceful ambiance and unique flora make it a highlight of the trip, with some noting it’s “so tranquil and magical.”

Serra and Coastal Views

Crossing Paul da Serra, you’ll enjoy the sweeping vistas of Madeira’s high plateau. On the way, the tour stops briefly at Ponta do Sol, a charming village blessed with morning and afternoon sun, perfect for photos. The small break here allows you to stretch your legs and take in the scenic coast.

End of Day: Return to Funchal

The tour concludes with a scenic drive back south, leaving you feeling both exhilarated and relaxed, with a wealth of memories from a day well spent exploring Madeira’s wild side.

What Makes This Tour Special?

According to reviewers, Antonio, the guide, is a standout. He’s described as “cheerful,” “knowledgeable,” and “friendly,” often going out of his way—like one guest who appreciated him saving their day with a GoPro mount. The small group setting ensures personalized attention, and the carefully curated stops balance adventure with relaxation.

Value for Money

The price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, local taxes, and a guided off-road experience—a package that many reviewers say delivers excellent value. For two hours at Porto Moniz, you get to swim or just enjoy the scenery, plus guided walks in Fanal Forest. While some attractions like the Cabo Girao ticket and Porto Moniz pools are paid separately, overall, the experience offers a comprehensive look at Madeira’s highlights with minimal hassle.

Practical Considerations

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes for walking, sunglasses, swimwear, and rain gear—the weather can change rapidly. The tour isn’t suited for children under 2, pregnant women, or those over 220 lbs, owing to safety and comfort considerations on the off-road trails.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Benefits

One of the biggest perks is getting off-road in a vehicle that can access places impossible by standard tour bus. Reviewers rave about the “exciting” drives through valleys and over flooded paths, with some describing how Antonio expertly drove over bumpy terrain while sharing fascinating facts about Madeira’s geology and culture.

Many mention the local food at Porto Moniz as a delightful addition, with some praising the regional dishes and tapas-style options. The tour’s flexibility, allowing free time at key stops, means you can tailor your experience—whether soaking in the pools or exploring the forests.

This adventure is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy scenic drives, panoramic viewpoints, and natural landscapes. It suits small groups or couples looking for a personalized experience, especially those who prefer guided tours to self-drive. Nature lovers will appreciate the visit to Fanal Forest and the volcanic pools, while those wanting a taste of Madeira’s authentic charm will find this comprehensive day trip perfect.

It’s also well-suited for travelers who value local insights, as guides like Antonio often share fun facts and recommendations. Keep in mind the physical nature of some stops—uneven terrain and bumpy off-road sections—making it less ideal for those with mobility concerns or very young children.

This 8-hour Madeira 4WD tour offers a rich, authentic glimpse of the island’s stunning landscapes, from dramatic cliffs and volcanic pools to enchanted forests. The small-group setting, led by passionate guides like Antonio, ensures a friendly, informative journey that balances adventure with comfort.

For travelers wanting to see Madeira’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple day trips or renting a vehicle, this experience provides excellent value and a memorable day out. Whether you’re captivated by the views from Cabo Girao, enchanted by Fanal’s quiet beauty, or simply enjoy off-road driving, this tour delivers a fantastic mix of scenic beauty, local flavor, and adventure.

If you prefer a flexible, well-organized trip that covers a lot of ground in one day, with the guidance of a local who truly cares, this is a highly recommended choice.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Funchal, making it convenient to start and end your day.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, swimwear, rain gear, and sportswear are recommended due to the variable weather and outdoor activities.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 2 years, pregnant women, or people over 220 lbs. Large luggage, bikes, alcohol, and baby carriages are not allowed.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the guided tour, open Jeep safari, local taxes, and hotel transfers within Funchal.

Are tickets for attractions like Cabo Girao and Porto Moniz pools included?
No, these are paid separately, but the tour offers a fantastic overall value with multiple scenic stops and experiences.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility to your plans.

Whether you’re after panoramic views, off-road thrills, or quiet forest walks, this Madeira adventure offers a comprehensive and exciting way to see the island’s natural beauty. Perfect for curious explorers and nature lovers alike.