Madeira’s natural beauty is a sight to behold, and the Funchal: Porto Moniz, Fanal Forest and Cabo Girao Jeep Tour promises to showcase some of the island’s most stunning landscapes. From the volcanic black sand beaches of Seixal to the lush Laurissilva forest, this 8-hour adventure will take you on a journey through Madeira’s diverse ecosystems. But the real highlight? The Cabo Girao Skywalk, where you’ll stand on a glass platform suspended high above the Atlantic Ocean. It’s an experience that’ll leave you in awe – and perhaps a bit unnerved. Are you ready to explore Madeira’s natural wonders?
Key Points
- The tour explores volcanic landscapes, black sand beaches, lava pools, and ancient laurel forests around Funchal, Portugal.
- Highlights include the Cabo Girao Skywalk, the highest sea cliff in Europe, and swimming in the lava pools of Porto Moniz.
- The tour provides knowledgeable guides, sanitized vehicles, and convenient pickup and drop-off locations throughout the Funchal area.
- Participants should be physically fit, wear sturdy shoes, and bring adequate sun protection and hydration for the off-road journey.
- The tour is not recommended for children under 3, pregnant women, or wheelchair users due to the challenging terrain and safety concerns.
Tour Overview
This 8-hour tour from Funchal allows visitors to explore a diverse range of natural wonders, from volcanic pools and black sand beaches to lush laurissilva forests and Europe’s highest sea cliff.
With 10 pickup and drop-off locations in the Funchal area, the tour provides convenient access to its highlights. These include the Cabo Girao Skywalk, Seixal’s volcanic black sand beach, Porto Moniz’s lava pools, an off-road adventure in the Laurissilva Forest, and the Fanal Forest – one of the 7th Natural Wonders of Portugal.
The tour also covers stops at Serra de Agua, Sao Vicente, Veu da Noiva Viewpoint, Seixal, Ribeira Da Janela, Paul da Serra, Calheta, Madalena do Mar, and Ponta Do Sol.
Guests can enjoy the tour with the assurance of a knowledgeable guide, sanitized vehicles, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Madeira.
Highlights of the Tour
Exploring the Cabo Girao Skywalk, Europe’s highest sea cliff, offers visitors a thrilling experience as they peer over the edge of the towering cliff face.
Seixal’s volcanic black sand beach and Pocas das Lesmas rock formations then treat travelers to a unique geological display.
Visitors can also relish the opportunity to swim in the lava pools of Porto Moniz, a refreshing respite from their adventure.
An off-road journey through the Laurissilva Forest, one of the 7th Natural Wonders of Portugal, allows guests to enjoy the lush, ancient landscape.
These highlights, combined with the stunning Fanal Forest, provide an unforgettable day of discovery and exploration on the Funchal Jeep Tour.
Itinerary of the Tour
The tour begins with a visit to Serra de Agua, followed by stops at Sao Vicente, the Veu da Noiva Viewpoint, and Seixal. Next, the group travels to Porto Moniz to explore the lava pools, then continues on to Ribeira Da Janela, Paul da Serra, and the Fanal Forest. The final leg of the journey takes the group through Calheta, Madalena do Mar, Ponta Do Sol, and culminates at the Cabo Girao Skywalk.
| Location | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Serra de Agua, Sao Vicente, Veu da Noiva Viewpoint, Seixal | Discover volcanic landscapes and black sand beaches |
| Porto Moniz, Ribeira Da Janela, Paul da Serra, Fanal Forest | Swim in lava pools and explore ancient laurel forests |
| Calheta, Madalena do Mar, Ponta Do Sol, Cabo Girao Skywalk | Marvel at the highest sea cliff in Europe |
Inclusions and Exclusions
The tour package includes pickup and drop-off in the Funchal area, a knowledgeable tour guide, safety instructions, and first aid. Vehicles are sanitized, and alcohol-gel and Wi-Fi are provided.
However, the cost of food, drinks, and the Cabo Girao Skywalk entry fee (€2) aren’t included in the package.
Guests are advised to bring swimwear, towels, and sunscreen as the tour involves activities such as swimming in lava pools and exploring the Laurissilva Forest.
Due to safety concerns, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, or wheelchair users.
More Great Tours NearbyTour Restrictions
For safety reasons, this jeep tour isn’t recommended for children under 3, pregnant women, or wheelchair users. The tour involves off-road adventures and visits to potentially hazardous locations, such as volcanic black sand beaches and slippery lava pools.
Participants should be physically fit and able to navigate uneven terrain.
To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, the tour organizers suggest that guests:
- Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes
- Bring adequate sun protection, such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Stay hydrated and bring snacks, as the tour includes limited food and drink options
- Exercise caution and follow the tour guide’s safety instructions at all times
- Funchal: Enchanted Terraces, Porto do Moniz & Fanal 4WD Tour
★ 4.8 · 4,930 reviews - From Funchal: Best of Madeiras West Tour
★ 4.7 · 3,463 reviews - Madeira: Best of the East Tour From Funchal
★ 4.7 · 3,364 reviews - Funchal: Old Town Walking Tour
★ 4.7 · 3,233 reviews - Funchal Bay: Dolphin & Whale Watch Luxury Catamaran Cruise
★ 4.2 · 2,684 reviews - From Funchal: West Madeira Waterfalls and Fanal Forest Tour
★ 4.7 · 2,630 reviews
Volcanic Black Sand Beaches
One of the highlights of the jeep tour is a visit to the volcanic black sand beaches of Seixal, where guests can marvel at the dramatic lava rock formations known as Pocas das Lesmas.
The jet-black sands are a striking contrast to the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean, creating a truly otherworldly landscape. Visitors can explore the unique geology of the area, learning about the volcanic history that shaped this dramatic coastline.
The tour allows ample time to wander the beaches, take in the breathtaking views, and capture stunning photographs. Whether it’s the alien-like rock formations or the mesmerizing colors, the volcanic black sand beaches of Seixal are sure to leave a lasting impression on all who visit.
Lava Pools and Laurissilva Forest
Visitors can explore the lava pools of Porto Moniz, where they’ll discover natural swimming holes formed by volcanic activity. These crystal-clear, turquoise-hued pools invite guests to take a refreshing dip, surrounded by the dramatic coastal landscape.
The Laurissilva Forest offers:
- A chance to see some of the world’s oldest trees, dating back millions of years
- Opportunities to spot endemic flora and fauna, like the Madeiran laurel pigeon
- Peaceful hiking trails that wind through a verdant, misty landscape
- An immersive experience in one of the last remaining primeval laurel forests on Earth.
Afterward, the tour delves into the lush Laurissilva Forest, one of the 7th Natural Wonders of Portugal, offering an off-road adventure through this ancient and rare laurel forest ecosystem.
Cabo Girao Skywalk Experience
The tour culminates at the Cabo Girao Skywalk, Europe’s highest sea cliff, where visitors can marvel at the breathtaking views from the glass-floored observation deck suspended 580 meters above the Atlantic Ocean.
This unique experience offers an unparalleled perspective of Madeira’s dramatic coastline and the deep blue waters below. Visitors can peer through the transparent floor and feel the thrill of standing on the edge of the towering cliffs.
The Skywalk’s strategic location provides stunning panoramas, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to truly appreciate Madeira’s natural wonders. With its awe-inspiring vistas, the Cabo Girao Skywalk is the perfect finale to this unforgettable Jeep tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for the Tour?
The tour does not have a minimum group size. Individuals can book and join the tour independently without requiring a certain number of participants. The tour is available for solo travelers or small groups alike.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Tour?
For this tour, passengers should bring swimwear, a towel, and sunscreen. The tour operator recommends these items to ensure guests can fully enjoy the activities, such as swimming in the lava pools of Porto Moniz.
Are There Any Age or Fitness Level Restrictions for Participants?
The tour has some age and physical fitness restrictions. It’s not suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, or wheelchair users. Participants should be able to get in and out of the vehicle and handle some walking on uneven terrain.
Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Specific Sites?
Yes, you can customize the itinerary to visit specific sites. The tour provider offers flexibility, allowing you to tailor the tour to your interests and preferences within the overall tour duration and geographical area.
Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for the Tour?
Discounts and packages are not specifically mentioned for this tour. However, travelers may want to inquire about any current promotions or bundle options that could provide savings. The tour company may offer discounts for group bookings or online reservations.
Funchal: Porto Moniz, Fanal Forest and Cabo Girao Jeep Tour
Recap
The Funchal: Porto Moniz, Fanal Forest and Cabo Girao Jeep Tour offers an immersive exploration of Madeira’s natural wonders.
Visitors can enjoy swimming, hiking, and panoramic views, guided by knowledgeable staff.
The tour includes various transportation and safety features, though it may not be suitable for all guests due to the challenging terrain.
Overall, it provides a comprehensive and memorable experience of Madeira’s stunning landscapes.
You can check availability for your dates here:
