Go West – The most popular tour

Exploring Madeira with the Go West Tour: A Detailed Review

If you’re visiting Madeira and want to see some of the island’s most iconic sights in one day, the Go West tour offers a solid choice. With a rating of 5.0 based on four reviews, this 8-hour adventure takes you through charming villages, breathtaking viewpoints, and natural wonders, all at an affordable price of just over $40 per person. It’s a well-organized option for those who prefer a guided experience, especially if you’re short on time but eager to soak up Madeira’s diverse landscapes.

What really stands out about this tour is the knowledgeable guides—reviewers consistently praise their friendliness, clarity, and local insights, making the journey not just scenic but informative. Plus, the tour hits some of the island’s most spectacular vistas, like the Cabo Girao cliff and the Encumeada viewpoint, ensuring you’ll leave with plenty of photo-worthy moments.

One thing to consider is that the tour can involve narrow, winding roads—so if you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s worth preparing ahead. Also, since the tour is quite full on a single day, it’s best suited for travelers eager to see a lot in a limited timeframe and who enjoy a structured schedule. Overall, it’s ideal for those looking for a balanced mix of culture, nature, and scenic awe in Madeira.

Key Points

• Comprehensive and scenic route covering Madeira’s highlights.
• Expert guides providing engaging commentary and helpful directions.
• Affordable value for a full-day guided experience.
• Flexible pickup options, making it easy to join the tour.
• Ideal for travelers who love natural vistas and authentic villages.
• Possible challenge: winding roads may cause discomfort for some.

An In-Depth Look at the Go West Tour

We’ll walk through each stop on this tour to help you understand what makes it special, along with some honest insights based on traveler reviews and the itinerary itself.

Starting Point and Timing

The tour kicks off at 9:00am, with a pickup option available, which is convenient for travelers staying in Funchal. The group size is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience. The eight-hour schedule is tight but well-paced, balancing sightseeing, photo breaks, and time to absorb each location.

Câmara de Lobos: A Fisherman’s Gem

The first stop is Câmara de Lobos, a town steeped in maritime history and vibrant local life. Famous for its colorful fishing boats and lively atmosphere, it’s a great introduction to Madeira’s traditional side. Reviewers mention the “beautiful bay” and “picturesque vessels” as highlights. The 30-minute visit offers enough time to stroll along the waterfront, snap photos, and soak in the lively vibe—no entrance fee is required here.

Cabo Girao: Europe’s Highest Cliff

Next, you’ll visit the Cabo Girao viewpoint, towering 580 meters above sea level. This is one of Madeira’s most famous spots, and for good reason. From here, the views over the Atlantic and surrounding islands are simply breathtaking. The 20-minute stop is short but impactful, and many travelers note that the “spectacular scenery” makes it a highlight of the day.

Travelers like TeresaG_O appreciated the “clear directions” and the “excellent weather” making the views even better. Keep in mind that since it’s an outdoor viewpoint, the experience is weather-dependent—on foggy days, visibility may be limited.

Ribeira Brava: A Historic Coastal Parish

The tour then takes you to Ribeira Brava, a small but historically significant town. Created after the death of Infante D. Henrique in 1460, it’s one of Madeira’s oldest parishes. The 30-minute stop allows for a quick walk and appreciation of the authentic local architecture. Reviewers mention the “central location” as an advantage, offering a glimpse into traditional Madeira life.

Boca da Encumeada: Panoramic Mountain Views

At 1007 meters, the Boca da Encumeada viewpoint offers sweeping vistas of both the north and south coasts. It’s a great spot to appreciate Madeira’s mountainous terrain and lush valleys. This 20-minute stop gives you a chance to snap panoramic photos and understand the island’s rugged interior. Reviewers praise the “superb views” and the fact that the guide provides clear explanations, making this a memorable part of the trip.

Porto Moniz: Natural Swimming Pools

One of Madeira’s most famous attractions is Porto Moniz, known for its natural volcanic pools. The 2-hour stop is a significant highlight, giving you time to explore or even take a dip if the weather’s warm. Historically isolated for centuries, Porto Moniz now boasts a scenic coastline with black sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Visitors consistently comment on the “beautiful scenery” and the unique experience of swimming in the natural pools—though swimming isn’t included in the tour, the leisurely time here is appreciated.

Seixal: Calm Beaches and Green Cliffs

The next stop is Seixal, famed for its peaceful atmosphere and the black sand Porto do Seixal Beach. Surrounded by lush greenery and steep cliffs, it’s a perfect place to relax and take in the serene landscape. The 20-minute visit is enough to appreciate the natural beauty, with reviewers noting the “crystal-clear waters” and “green cliffs” as highlights.

São Vicente: Lava Caves and Natural Beauty

Finally, you’ll visit São Vicente, a charming village known for its lava caves and scenic valley. This 20-minute stop offers an authentic taste of Madeira’s volcanic landscape. Travelers enjoy the “picturesque” setting and mention the “calmness” of the village as a peaceful end to the day.

Transportation and Group Experience

The tour uses a comfortable vehicle, with a focus on safety and ease of travel across Madeira’s often narrow roads. The small group size (maximum 15 travelers) means you’re unlikely to feel lost in a crowd, and the guides—like Sergio and Lionel—are praised for their knowledge and helpfulness. Reviewers highlight Sergio’s “great personality” and ability to navigate narrow roads smoothly, which can be reassuring for those prone to travel sickness.

Practical Details

• Price: $40.49 per person offers excellent value considering the full-day itinerary and guided experience.
• Booking: Most travelers book about 3 weeks in advance, indicating good popularity.
• Additional perks: Pickup service and mobile tickets make logistics straightforward.
• Weather considerations: The tour continues rain or shine, with reviews noting that guides adapt when weather changes unexpectedly—like one reviewer who experienced a storm but still found the day “very interesting”.

Authenticity and Value

This tour balances scenic beauty with cultural insights. While the stops are brief, the guides’ commentary adds context that enriches the experience. You get to see Madeira’s natural splendors without feeling rushed, especially with two hours allocated for Porto Moniz—a good length to relax and take photos.

Final Thoughts

The Go West tour is an excellent choice for travelers who want a rundown of Madeira’s western highlights without the hassle of planning individual excursions. The value for money is high, given the variety of stops, expert guides, and the convenience of a guided day out. It’s particularly suited for those who love scenic viewpoints, picturesque villages, and natural landscapes.

While the journey can involve some winding roads, the included commentary and well-paced stops help make the experience enjoyable for most. The small group size fosters a friendly, intimate atmosphere, allowing you to ask questions and get personalized insights.

If you’re after a balanced, scenic, and engaging day trip that showcases Madeira’s natural beauty and cultural charm, this tour is a safe bet. It’s especially recommended for first-time visitors who want to tick off the island’s must-see spots with expert guidance.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and covering several key locations across Madeira’s west side.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes transportation in a comfortable vehicle, with pickup options available for convenience.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal and attentive experience.

Are tickets mobile and easy to access?
Yes, tickets are mobile, making check-in straightforward and contactless.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, receiving a full refund.

Is this tour suitable in bad weather?
The tour operates rain or shine, and guides are known to adapt to weather conditions, but some stops may be less enjoyable with poor visibility.

To sum it up, the Go West tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally enriching day on Madeira. With knowledgeable guides, stunning vistas, and good value for money, it’s perfect for those eager to explore the island’s highlights without the stress of self-driving or complex planning. Whether you’re a nature lover or just want a taste of Madeira’s charming villages, this tour has plenty to offer—just remember to bring your camera and a sense of adventure.