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

If you’re looking for a way to see Madeira beyond the usual tourist spots, this Nuns Valley, Safari Tour, & Viewpoints with Sunset offers an exciting mix of scenic beauty, off-road adventure, and local insight. The experience, priced at $56 per person, promises a compact yet comprehensive glimpse into some of the island’s most dramatic landscapes—all within four hours.

While we haven’t personally taken this tour, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it’s perfect for travelers craving breathtaking vistas, informative guides, and a touch of adventure. It’s especially appealing if you love mountain scenery, off-road excursions, and catching a spectacular sunset over Funchal. However, it’s important to note that this tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or anyone afraid of heights, due to the nature of the terrain and viewpoints.

What we love about this experience is the personalized attention with small group sizes—limited to just three participants—allowing for a more relaxed and engaging day. The knowledgeable guides, such as Paulo and Ricardo, are frequently praised for their friendly, humorous approach, which makes learning about Madeira feel like a chat with friends. Plus, the chance to see the stunning Nuns Valley from the Paredão viewpoint and Pico do Areeiro’s lofty heights is genuinely unforgettable.

A minor consideration is that food and drinks are not included—so bringing your own snacks, or trying local flavors during the journey, might be a good idea. Also, since pickup is only available within Funchal, travelers staying outside the city should plan accordingly.

This tour suits those who want a short but sweet adventure packed with spectacular views, off-road fun, and local storytelling—a perfect introduction to Madeira’s diverse landscapes without overwhelming your schedule.

Good To Know

• Small group experience with personalized attention
• Expert guides who are friendly, humorous, and knowledgeable
• Breathtaking viewpoints including Nuns Valley and Pico do Areeiro
• Off-road adventure through eucalyptus forests
• Sunset viewing over Funchal, ideal for photography and relaxing
• Price offers great value for a half-day adventure

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This tour offers a carefully curated mix of mountain scenery, cultural insights, and a little adrenaline rush from off-road driving. It begins with a drive into the heart of the Nuns Valley (Curral das Freiras), made famous by its dramatic cliffs and lush landscapes. This valley, the largest in Madeira, is surrounded by towering peaks and is famous for its history as a refuge for nuns fleeing pirates centuries ago.

Your guide will take you to the Paredão viewpoint, perched above the valley, offering sweeping views that are postcard-perfect. Many reviews mention how breathtaking this stop is—”everything was well timed” and “the views were stunning,” say visitors. This viewpoint is a prime spot for photos, with the valley stretching out below and mountains all around.

Next, you’ll ascend to the Pico do Areeiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak at 1818 meters. Here, the views are simply jaw-dropping. If weather permits, expect to see clouds swirling around the summit—”the views over the mountains and the clouds are breathless,” one reviewer shared. The combination of high-altitude air, panoramic vistas, and the sensation of being above the clouds creates a moment to remember.

The third main stop is at Miradouro das Neves, which offers a stunning vista over Funchal city and the Atlantic beyond. This is not only a great place to unwind but also to soak in a beautiful sunset if your timing aligns. Multiple reviews highlight the sunset as a highlight, with visitors describing it as “outstanding” and “the perfect ending to a fantastic day.”

From here, the journey continues with an off-road segment through eucalyptus forests, driven in a rugged 4×4. This terrain is where the tour truly shines for adventure lovers. The guides expertly navigate the forest terrain, making it feel like a mini safari. Reviewers mention the fun and safe driving, plus the chance to experience Madeira’s inland wilderness in a way that’s both thrilling and scenic.

Finally, the tour wraps up with a leisurely descent back to Funchal, with the option to relax and process the stunning sights. This combination of viewpoints, forest drives, and the sunset ensures you get a well-rounded taste of Madeira’s natural beauty in just four hours.

The Guides: Knowledge, Humor, and Local Charm

One of the most praised aspects across reviews is the guides, especially Paulo and Ricardo. Guests describe Paulo as “awesome,” “friendly,” “informative,” and “fun,” often going beyond the basics to share local stories and even stop for poncha tastings. Ricardo’s ease and friendliness were also appreciated—”he was very pleasant and easy to talk to,” one guest recalled.

Guests feel that these guides truly enhance the experience—they’re not just drivers but storytellers. Their knowledge of Madeira’s geology, ecology, and history enriches the journey, transforming it from a sightseeing trip into an educational adventure. The guides’ safety-conscious driving and ability to avoid crowds at viewpoints are also frequently highlighted.

Transportation & Group Size

The tour is conducted in a private or small group setting—limited to three participants—which allows for a more intimate experience and flexibility. The pickup and drop-off are included within Funchal, making logistics simple for travelers staying in or near the city. The vehicle is a yellow 4×4, perfect for tackling Madeira’s mountain roads and forest terrain.

The duration is four hours, making it ideal for a morning or early afternoon activity. The timing can vary slightly depending on sunset times, but you’ll generally have enough time to see everything comfortably without feeling rushed.

Price & Value

At $56 per person, this tour offers great value given the inclusion of a knowledgeable guide, all transportation, and multiple scenic stops. The reviews suggest that the experience exceeds expectations, especially considering the variety of viewpoints and the off-road adventure. The small group size means more personalized attention and a relaxed pace.

Local tastings like chestnut liqueur cake and honey are frequently mentioned as delightful extras, adding a tasty local touch to the journey. Since food and drinks are not included, bringing some snacks for the road might enhance your experience.

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Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and uneven terrain.
• Bring sunglasses and a jacket—mountain weather can be unpredictable.
• Don’t forget rain gear if the forecast predicts showers.
• Be aware that luggage or large bags are not allowed, so plan to travel light.
• If you want to capture the sunset, coordinate your timing with the tour schedule.
• Since pickup is only within Funchal, travelers outside the city should arrange transportation to their hotel or the designated pickup point.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure seekers, scenic lovers, and those eager to learn about Madeira from passionate local guides. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate small group settings, want unforgettable views, and enjoy a bit of off-road fun.

However, if you’re pregnant, have mobility issues, or are afraid of heights, this tour may not be the best fit due to the terrain and heights involved.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off within Funchal are included, and you’ll travel in a yellow 4×4 vehicle designed for mountain roads and forest terrain.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately four hours, with starting times varying depending on availability and sunset times.

Do I need to bring anything?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a jacket, and rain gear are recommended. Food and drinks are not included, so consider bringing snacks, especially if you want to enjoy the sunset with a picnic.

Can I book this tour if I’m outside Funchal?
No, pickup is only available within Funchal. Travelers outside the city should plan to meet at the designated pickup point or arrange transportation.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not explicitly designed for children, especially due to the off-road driving and heights involved. It’s best suited for adults or older kids comfortable with adventure.

Will I see the sunset?
Yes, if your schedule aligns, the tour includes a stop at Miradouro das Neves, offering a chance to see a stunning sunset over Madeira.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s physical nature suggests it’s best suited for those in good health who are comfortable with heights and uneven terrain.

Final Words

This Nuns Valley and Mountain Viewpoint Tour offers a compact but richly rewarding experience of Madeira’s dramatic scenery, engaging guides, and a touch of adventure. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of off-road fun and meaningful insights about the island. Whether you’re snapping photos of the valley, soaking in the sunset, or learning about Madeira’s ecology, this tour makes a memorable half-day excursion.

Ideal for those with a sense of adventure, an appreciation for natural beauty, and a wish to avoid overly crowded tourist spots, this tour balances fun and education perfectly. Just remember to come prepared for mountain weather, and you’ll leave with spectacular memories of Madeira’s stunning landscapes.

You can check if your dates are available here: