Funchal: 4WD Experience Skywalk to Seixal Porto Moniz, Fanal

Thinking about exploring Madeira beyond the typical tourist spots? This 8-hour 4WD experience promises a journey into the island’s most breathtaking scenery, guided by knowledgeable locals who love sharing their homeland’s secrets. We’ve gathered extensive reviews and details to give you a thorough look at what makes this trip special—and what to consider before booking.

What truly sets this tour apart are its spectacular viewpoints like Cabo Girao, the chance to swim in volcanic pools at Porto Moniz, and the off-road thrill through Fanal Forest. Travelers also appreciate the personalized touch of small groups, ensuring plenty of space for questions and relaxed exploration. However, the tour’s intensity, with lots of driving and walking, might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility concerns or very young children.

If you’re eager to see Madeira’s diverse landscapes, enjoy off-road adventures, and prefer a more intimate experience with local guides, this trip aligns well with your travel style. It’s perfect for those who want an authentic taste of the island’s natural beauty, with some fun in the wild.

Good To Know

• Small group size ensures a personalized experience and better interaction with guides.
• Off-road driving offers access to areas that are difficult to reach by regular vehicle.
• Variety of stops ranging from natural pools, forests, cliffs, and charming villages.
• Expert guides like Antonio and Renato bring knowledge, humor, and local insights.
• Value for money includes hotel pickup, guided commentary, and multiple scenic stops.
• Flexible options for booking and cancellation make planning easier.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Introduction

This Madeira 4WD skywalk tour has been praised by travelers for its stunning scenery, expert guides, and off-road fun. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, the details and glowing reviews paint a vivid picture of what you can expect from this full-day adventure.

What’s evident is that the tour is designed to show you Madeira’s most iconic sights—and some lesser-known gems—without the hassle of driving yourself. Whether it’s the cliffs of Cabo Girao, the volcanic natural pools at Porto Moniz, or the tranquil Fanal Forest, each stop promises a photo-worthy moment and a chance to breathe in Madeira’s raw beauty.

One of the best aspects is the small group setting—limited to six participants—which means you’re not just another face in a crowd. Guides like Antonio and Renato are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to tailor the experience to your pace. That said, keep in mind this adventure involves a fair amount of sitting, off-road driving, and walking, so it’s best suited for active travelers who love nature and adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re seeking a comprehensive, authentic Madeira experience with expert guidance, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially ideal if you want to avoid the constraints of a big tour bus and prefer a more personalized journey. Nature lovers, photo enthusiasts, or those eager to explore Madeira’s rugged landscape will find this trip satisfying.

However, travelers with mobility issues, pregnant women, or those over 220 pounds should consider their comfort with off-road driving and walking. The tour’s price point reflects its value, offering hotel transfers, guiding, and access to unique sites, making it a worthwhile investment for a memorable day.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point & Early Highlights

Most tours begin with hotel pickup in Funchal, with options from key locations including Santa Cruz, Caniço, Ponta do Sol, and Machico. This flexibility is helpful, especially if you’re staying outside the city center.

Once on the road, the journey kicks off with a 20-minute drive in an open Jeep or SUV, creating anticipation for the day ahead. The first major stop is Cabo Girao, at 589 meters above sea level. Here, you’ll get a photo opportunity at the glass skywalk and a quick visit to take in the breathtaking views. Reviewers consistently mention the “spectacular photo stops,” and some praise the cheerful and knowledgeable guides who point out interesting facts.

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Scenic Drives & Unique Stops

Next, the tour heads toward Ribeira Brava and then to São Vicente, a scenic coastal town. The drive offers panoramic vistas, and at São Vicente, you can enjoy a brief walk and sightseeing, taking in the valley views. Reviewers like Grace call the guides “fun, informative, and very good drivers,” emphasizing how these stops are well-paced, allowing enough time for photos and exploring.

Seixal & Porto Moniz

The highlight for many is Seixal, a hidden gem with a black volcanic sand beach. It’s often voted among Europe’s best beaches, and visitors love the calm, scenic atmosphere. You’ll typically get about 30 minutes here, enough for photos, a stroll, or just soaking up the scenery.

The trip then continues to Porto Moniz, where natural volcanic pools await. Here, you can indulge in a two-hour break for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying regional food. Many reviews mention the delicious local dishes served at the pools, which adds a tasty touch to the experience. The pools are a natural wonder, and the clear waters provide a refreshing break from the road.

Fanal Forest & Off-Road Adventures

A major draw is the visit to Fanal Forest, traversed via off-road trails. This peaceful, ancient Laurissilva forest is a UNESCO site, and travelers love the tranquil, almost mystical atmosphere. Expect a 30-minute walk and plenty of time for photos among the waxy, centuries-old trees. Reviewers like Roberto highlight how guides like Antonio make the experience comfortable and informative.

Following Fanal, the tour crosses Paul da Serra, Madeira’s high plateau, offering unique landscape views and a different feel from the coast. This area is renowned for its moist, moss-covered scenery and is perfect for nature photographs.

Coastal Towns & Sunset Views

The final stops include Ponta do Sol, where the rock formations catch the light beautifully and provide perfect sunset or afternoon photos. The tour concludes with a drop-off at your hotel or chosen location, typically around 5–6 pm.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Cabo Girao: Expect incredible views and the chance to stand on the glass skywalk, which offers a thrilling perspective of the cliffs below. Be prepared for some wind and a quick walk.

São Vicente: A brief but scenic stop with a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy views of the surrounding valleys.

Seixal: The serene volcanic beach is perfect for relaxing, swimming, or taking pictures of the striking black sand.

Porto Moniz: Two hours of free time to swim in the pools, enjoy regional snacks, or simply gaze at the ocean.

Fanal Forest: A peaceful walk through ancient trees, with ample opportunities for nature photography and quiet reflection.

Paul da Serra: A high-altitude landscape that feels entirely different from the coast—moss-covered trees and mountain views.

Ponta do Sol: Known for its sun-blessed rock formations—ideal for capturing those golden hour shots.

The Guide & Group Experience

Guides like Antonio and Renato receive high praise for their enthusiasm, local knowledge, and safety-conscious driving. Many reviews mention guides being cheerful, friendly, and willing to tailor the tour to their guests’ interests. The small group format fosters a relaxed atmosphere, often making the experience feel like a day out with friends rather than a typical tour bus.

Real Traveler Insights:

• Grace found Antonio “fun, informative, and a fabulous driver,” making the day “the best day out I’ve had in Madeira in nine years.”
• Another reviewer, Zuzana, appreciated that she could move at her own pace, feeling the trip wasn’t rushed despite the packed itinerary.
• Roberto noted Antonio’s thoughtfulness, like sharing his own GoPro mount when a camera piece was accidentally left behind.

Transportation & Comfort

The open Jeep or SUV provides both a sense of adventure and protection from Madeira’s sometimes unpredictable weather. Vehicles are clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, which adds a layer of comfort after hours of sightseeing.

The Cost & Value

The price includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided tour in a small group, and local taxes. While extras like tickets for Cabo Girao and Porto Moniz pools are not included, reviews suggest these are reasonable and worth the extra fee for the experience. Travelers often highlight that the cost reflects good value—especially considering the personalized attention and access to hard-to-reach sights.

Is it worth it?

Absolutely, if you value guided insights, scenic variety, and off-road adventure. The inclusion of regional food and the chance to swim in natural pools add to the overall value. For those wanting a comprehensive look at Madeira’s west and north coasts, this tour is a smart choice.

Practical Tips for Booking & Preparation

• Bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, swimwear, and rain gear—the weather can change quickly in the mountains.
• Dress in layers or sportswear suitable for both warm sun and cooler highland air.
• Since luggage or large bags are not allowed, travel light.
• The tour isn’t suitable for children under 2, pregnant women, or those over 220 lbs.
• For trips outside Funchal, an extra fee applies for pickups—check your location when booking.
• Expect lively commentary in English, Italian, Spanish, or Portuguese.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Funchal from several key locations.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, swimwear, rain gear, and casual clothes are recommended.

How long is the tour? The full experience lasts about 8 hours, with various stops and breaks along the way.

Are the vehicles comfortable? Yes, the open Jeep or SUV is described as clean and well-maintained, suitable for off-road sections.

Can I swim in Porto Moniz? Absolutely. The natural pools are a highlight, and many reviews mention enjoying the swim and regional food.

Is the tour suitable for kids? Not for children under 2 years. Consider your child’s mobility and comfort with off-road driving.

Do guides speak my language? Guides operate in English, Italian, Spanish, and Portuguese, ensuring clear communication.

What if weather conditions are bad? Some reviews mention rain or fog, which might limit visibility at high points, but guides adapt the schedule to ensure a rewarding experience.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira 4WD Skywalk & Coastal Tour offers a well-rounded exploration of the island’s most iconic sites and hidden treasures. The combination of off-road driving, spectacular vistas, and authentic local insights makes it an excellent pick for active travelers with a sense of adventure.

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, the stunning scenery, and the personalized experience. While the tour is packed and involves a fair amount of walking and vehicle time, most consider it a worthwhile expense for a truly memorable day in Madeira.

If you’re eager to see Madeira’s highlights with a touch of adventure and a local touch, this tour is a fantastic way to do so—just prepare for some bumpy fun and a lot of wow moments.

You can check if your dates are available here: