Funchal: Nuns Valley, Safari Tour, & Viewpoints with Sunset

Imagine cruising through some of Madeira’s most breathtaking scenery with a knowledgeable guide, stopping at viewpoints that seem to hang in the sky, and ending your day with a sunset over the city. This 4-hour tour from Funchal promises just that. Offered by The Big Adventure Madeira, it’s a well-loved experience, boasting a near-perfect rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 43 reviews. Whether you’re after great photos, local stories, or just a break from the city, this tour might be just what you seek.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert guides who combine humor and local insight, making each stop more than just a scenic view. Second, the variety — from the impressive Nuns Valley to mountain peaks and off-road forest drives — ensures you’ll see the island’s diverse landscapes. However, a potential drawback might be its limited availability outside Funchal—if your accommodation is elsewhere, you’ll need to arrange extra transport. This tour suits travelers who love mountain vistas, small-group intimacy, and a touch of adventure—perfect for those who want a condensed, yet rich Madeira experience.

Key Points

• Small group size (limited to 3 participants) enhances intimacy and personalized attention
• Expert local guides provide engaging stories and insights throughout the tour
• Breathtaking viewpoints like Pico do Areeiro and Miradouro das Neves
• Off-road forest drive delivers a fun, adventurous element
• Sunset view over Funchal offers a memorable finish
• Cost-effective at $56 per person, offering great value for a mix of adventure and scenery

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: Why You Might Love This Tour

Our quick look at this Funchal tour suggests it’s a fantastic option for those who crave spectacular views and authentic Madeira experiences. The chance to see Nuns Valley up close, combined with mountain peaks like Pico do Areeiro, makes for a photo-worthy itinerary. Plus, the tour’s off-road component adds an element of excitement—especially if you enjoy forest drives and mountain terrain.

Two things we really appreciate? First, the local guides who are described as friendly, funny, and full of useful information. They bring the landscape alive with stories about the island’s geology, ecology, and history. Second, the viewpoints—some of the most stunning in Madeira—are carefully selected to avoid crowds, giving you a more peaceful experience of this rugged landscape.

A small consideration: timing depends on sunset—so if you’re hoping for a later sunset or a flexible schedule, check availability early. Also, this tour is best suited for those comfortable with height and off-road terrain; it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers, people with back or mobility issues, or those afraid of heights.

This experience fits travelers who want a combination of adventure, scenery, and local insights in a compact package. It’s ideal for those who value small-group intimacy and are eager to explore Madeira’s mountainous interior in a fun, relaxed way.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting Point and Pickup

The adventure begins with pick-up from your Funchal hotel or the city center—a convenience that saves you from logistical headaches. The company emphasizes timely pickups, so arriving a few minutes early is wise.

First Stop: Nuns Valley (Curral das Freiras)

Your journey starts deep in Nuns Valley, the largest valley in Madeira. Surrounded by imposing mountains, the valley’s history as a retreat for nuns gives it a quiet, almost secretive charm. We loved the way guides share stories about its past, making the scenic views more meaningful. One reviewer mentioned that the views were stunning and each stop was charming, emphasizing how the relaxed pace allows for plenty of photo opportunities and exploring.

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Second Stop: Paredão Viewpoint

Next, you’ll ascend to the Paredão viewpoint, perched atop the valley, offering panoramic vistas over the entire area. It’s a classic Madeira moment—standing on a precipice, looking out over a patchwork of mountains and forests. Many reviews noted the breathtaking views, with one traveler describing the experience as “stunning,” and appreciating that the stops were well-chosen to avoid crowded spots.

Third Stop: Pico do Areeiro

The highlight for many is the top of Pico do Areeiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak at 1,818 meters above sea level. From here, you’ll get a jaw-dropping view of mountains and clouds swirling below—a landscape that really feels like you’re on top of the world. Several reviews mention how the views from Pico do Areeiro are just as impressive as they sound, with one traveler noting “stunning with brilliant sunshine and swirling clouds.” It’s a moment that’s both awe-inspiring and perfect for photos.

Forest Off-road Drive

After soaking in mountain vistas, the tour takes a more adventurous turn with an off-road forest drive inside Madeira’s lush eucalyptus and pine forests. Using a 4×4 jeep, the guides lead you through terrain that’s usually inaccessible, providing a fun and somewhat wild experience for those who enjoy a bit of adventure. Travelers have commented on the expert handling of the terrain and how it adds a thrilling element to the day. A review even mentions rescuing a fellow traveler from the terrain, reflecting the off-road drive’s realness and the guides’ attentiveness.

Final Stop: Miradouro das Neves and Sunset

The tour culminates at Miradouro das Neves, where you’ll witness a spectacular sunset over Funchal. This is often praised as a magical finale, with views that combine the cityscape with the darkening sky—ideal for those memorable photos. One review highlighted that they enjoyed beautiful views of Madeira in the evening and appreciated that the tour started 3/4 depending on sunset times, ensuring you’re back in time for dinner.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses a private or small group vehicle—a 4×4 jeep—offering a more intimate experience and better access to rugged terrain. With no more than three participants, everyone gets personalized attention, and the guide can tailor the stops and commentary to your interests. The inclusion of pickup and drop-off within Funchal makes logistics smooth, especially after a day of sightseeing.

Price and Value

At $56 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the range of scenery, the quality of guides, and the included experiences. The price covers professional local drivers, smartphone chargers, and first-aid kits—a thoughtful touch. The reviews frequently mention the value, with travelers noting how much they saw and learned in just a few hours.

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Engaging

Throughout the reviews, guides like Paulo and Ricardo get special mentions. Travelers describe them as friendly, informative, and eager to answer questions. Several reviews highlight how guides went beyond expectations, sharing local stories, offering tastings like Poncha (a traditional drink), and ensuring everyone felt comfortable and engaged.

Authentic Experiences

Many reviewers appreciated how guides combined storytelling with practical tips—they learned not just about the sights but also about Madeira’s geology, ecology, and traditions. One even mentioned a guide saving a fellow traveler from difficult terrain, reflecting both professionalism and genuine care.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring comfortable shoes suitable for walking and uneven terrain.
• Pack sunglasses, a jacket, and rain gear—the weather can change quickly in the mountains.
• The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, mobility issues, or those afraid of heights.
• Since the experience involves off-road driving, be prepared for some bumpy moments.
• The tour does not include food or drinks, but guides often stop for local tastings or you might want to bring snacks.
• Check availability ahead of time, especially if you want to catch the sunset, as timing depends on sunset schedules.

The Sum Up: Who is This Tour For?

This Funchal adventure is a perfect pick for travelers seeking a blend of scenic vistas, small-group intimacy, and a touch of adventure. If you’re someone who values expert guides who can share local stories and keep things light and fun, this tour delivers. It’s especially well-suited for those eager to see Madeira’s impressive mountain landscapes without dedicating an entire day to longer excursions.

The off-road forest drive and sunset finale are memorable highlights that elevate this experience beyond just sightseeing. With a price point of $56, it offers a great value for the mix of adventure, education, and jaw-dropping views. Just be sure you’re comfortable with heights and terrain, and you’re likely to leave with plenty of stunning photos and stories to tell.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not explicitly described as family-friendly, and the terrain may not be suitable for very young children. It’s best for older kids comfortable with heights and off-road driving.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must, along with sunglasses, a jacket, and rain gear in case of weather changes.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 4 hours, with timings depending on sunset times. Check availability for specific start times.

Does the tour include meals?
No, food and drinks are not included, but guides may stop at local spots or tastings.

Can I join if I’m pregnant or have mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for pregnant travelers, or those with back or mobility problems.

What happens if it rains?
Weather can change quickly in the mountains; rain gear is recommended. The tour operates rain or shine but check with the provider if you have concerns.

What is the group size?
Limited to 3 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included within Funchal, making it very convenient.

Can I see the sunset on this tour?
Yes, the last stop is designed to give you a chance to enjoy Madeira’s beautiful sunset.

What language do guides speak?
Guides speak Portuguese and English, so communication is smooth for most travelers.

This tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, local storytelling, and adventure, making it a worthwhile addition to your Madeira itinerary if you want to experience the island’s rugged interior in just a few hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: