Funchal’s shore excursions offer travelers the best of Madeira’s natural beauty and local culture. The standout options include private 4×4 adventures through the island’s rugged terrain and guided trips to Santana’s traditional villages.
I’m particularly fond of the customizable tours – they let you mix dramatic cliff views with quiet moments in terraced farms and peaceful swimming spots at natural pools.
The most rewarding excursions keep groups small and include essential extras like hotel pickup and lunch. Local guides make these trips special, sharing authentic insights about Madeira’s history and daily life.
Check out our favorite shore excursions below:
Key Points
- The Private & Customizable Safari 4×4 Half-Day Shore Excursion offers a highly recommended private tour with 4×4 vehicle, hotel pickup, and knowledgeable local guides.
- The Shore Excursion – East Madeira Peaks & Santana provides an opportunity to explore the traditional architecture of Santana village and the Fortress of Faial.
- The Shore Excursion Porto Moniz – Enchanted Terraces 4×4 Tour showcases the northwest coast of Madeira, including the Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools.
- The Shore Excursion Santana – Northeast 4×4 Tour offers an exhilarating journey through the northeast region of Madeira, with a highly rated adventurous experience.
- The Private Magical Shore Excursion West provides a fully customizable tour to explore Madeira’s dramatic scenery and natural beauty, including UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forests.
Private & Customizable Safari 4×4 Half-Day Shore Excursion
This private and customizable half-day safari excursion in Madeira offers travelers a chance to explore the island’s stunning natural landscapes in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle.
With a 100% recommendation rate from 35 reviews, this tour showcases highlights like the Cabo Girao sea cliff and Miradouro da Portela viewpoint.
Ideal for first-time or time-pressed visitors, the tour includes hotel pickup, live commentary, and a local guide.
While food and drinks aren’t included, the experience is praised for its knowledgeable guides, off-road adventures, and unique insights into Madeiran heritage.
Operated in all weather conditions, this excursion is a top-rated activity, starting from $213.76 per group of up to 6 people.
Read our full review: Private & Customizable Safari 4×4 Half-Day Shore Excursion Review
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Shore Excursion – East Madeira Peaks & Santana
A Shore Excursion to the East Madeira Peaks and Santana offers travelers an opportunity to explore the island’s stunning natural landscapes and traditional architecture.
Guests will visit the charming village of Santana, known for its distinctive thatched-roof houses, and the Fortress of Faial. The tour includes an open-top 4×4 drive through lush forests, providing breathtaking views.
Pickup and drop-off can be arranged, with additional fees for locations outside Funchal and Caniço. Lunch with vegan and vegetarian options is provided.
Though not recommended for those with certain health conditions, this small-group experience is an excellent way to take in Madeira’s rich culture and natural beauty.
Priced from $69.82 per person, it’s a popular shore excursion.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion – East Madeira Peaks & Santana Review
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Shore Excursion Porto Moniz – Enchanted Terraces 4×4 Tour
The Shore Excursion Porto Moniz – Enchanted Terraces 4×4 Tour offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the stunning northwest coast of Madeira.
Operated by Green Devil Safari, this 4×4 adventure takes visitors to the picturesque Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools and other local attractions.
With a maximum group size of 8 people, the tour provides a personalized experience led by a knowledgeable local guide.
Priced from $84.86 per person, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at the cruise terminal, lunch, and gratuities.
However, travelers should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion Porto Moniz – Enchanted Terraces 4×4 Tour Review
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Shore Excursion Santana – Northeast 4×4 Tour
Operated by Green Devil Safari, the Shore Excursion Santana – Northeast 4×4 Tour takes travelers on an exhilarating journey through the northeast region of Madeira.
Priced from $69.82 per person, this small-group tour (up to 8 travelers) offers a comprehensive experience, including pickup, lunch, and a local guide.
Travelers can choose from several pickup locations, with rates ranging from free to $20 per person.
The tour starts at 8:30 AM and lasts the entire day, allowing ample time to explore the scenic landscapes.
With a 5.0 rating based on 6 reviews, this tour is a top choice for those seeking an adventurous and immersive shore excursion in Funchal.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion Santana – Northeast 4×4 Tour Review
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Shore Excursion – Northwest Terraces and Volcanic Pools 4×4 Tour
This exciting 4×4 tour immerses travelers in the stunning northwest region of Madeira, showcasing the island’s dramatic volcanic landscapes and picturesque terraced farmlands.
With a local guide leading the small group up to 8 people, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at the cruise terminal, a delicious lunch, and exploration of volcanic pools.
Though not recommended for those with medical conditions, the tour is family-friendly, allowing infants to join. Guests can take advantage of a variety of pickup locations across Funchal and surrounding areas for a seamless experience.
With a 5-star average rating and free cancellation, this tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into Madeira’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion – Northwest Terraces and Volcanic Pools 4×4 Tour Review
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Shore Excursion – Santana & Peaks 4×4 Tour
Departing from Funchal, this captivating 4×4 tour whisks travelers away to the stunning Santana region, where they’ll explore Madeira’s dramatic volcanic peaks and verdant landscapes.
This small-group excursion (up to 8 persons) offers a comprehensive experience, including a driver/guide, local guide, pickup/drop-off at the cruise terminal, and a delicious lunch.
With additional fees for select pickup locations, it’s important to review the pricing details.
The tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions, as the terrain may pose challenges.
However, for most travelers, this 4×4 adventure promises an unforgettable exploration of Madeira’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion – Santana & Peaks 4×4 Tour Review
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Private Magical Shore Excursion West
Leaving the stunning Santana region behind, the Private Magical Shore Excursion West by Green Devil Safari offers travelers a chance to uncover Madeira’s dramatic scenery and natural beauty.
This fully customizable tour allows you to explore iconic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, mountain peaks, scenic beaches, and UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forests.
With a private 4×4 vehicle and local guide, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive excursion tailored to your preferences.
Lunch with vegetarian and vegan options is included, as are gratuities, making this a hassle-free experience.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, with the exception of those with certain medical conditions.
Reserve now and pay later for maximum flexibility.
Read our full review: Private Magical Shore Excursion West Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Funchal offers a variety of exciting shore excursions that allow visitors to explore the island’s natural beauty, from the rugged 4×4 tours to the enchanted terraces and volcanic pools. Whether you’re looking for a private and customizable safari or a guided tour of the island’s peaks and villages, there’s an excursion to suit every traveller’s interests and preferences.