Madeira Best of the West Day Tour

The Madeira Best of the West Day Tour provides visitors with an immersive exploration of the island’s stunning western region. Combining breathtaking natural wonders, UNESCO-recognized landscapes, and authentic local experiences, this highly-rated excursion offers an unforgettable adventure for those seeking to discover Madeira’s hidden gems. With convenient hotel pickup, knowledgeable guides, and ample opportunities to savor the region’s culinary delights, this tour promises to leave a lasting impression on any traveler.

Key Points

• The Madeira Best of the West Day Tour is a full-day excursion exploring the western region of Madeira Island, including highlights like Cabo Girão, Ribeira Brava, and the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest.
• The tour has a high recommendation rate of 95% and a Badge of Excellence, with positive reviews highlighting knowledgeable and humorous guides and stunning views.
• The tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, professional guide commentary, and coverage of taxes and fees, with lunch not included to allow for flexible dining options.
• Feedback suggests the tour could benefit from more walking stops, more consistent viewpoints, and clearer communication on the pace of the tour.
• The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but it is conveniently located near public transportation and has a flexible cancellation policy.

Tour Overview

The Madeira Best of the West Day Tour is a full-day excursion that allows visitors to explore the western region of the idyllic Madeira Island.

This highly-rated tour boasts 630 reviews with a 95% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence. Lasting from 8:30 AM to around 5 PM, the tour accommodates a maximum of 55 travelers and is priced from $40.68 per person.

Highlights include visits to Cabo Girão, Ribeira Brava, Paul da Serra, Porto Moniz, and the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest, providing a rundown of Madeira’s stunning western landscapes.

Highlights and Itinerary

Visitors begin the Madeira Best of the West Day Tour with a visit to Cabo Girão, the highest cape in Europe, standing at an impressive 1,900 feet (580 meters) above sea level.

Next, they explore Ribeira Brava for 30 minutes before a scenic 10-minute drive through the Paul da Serra region.

Lunch is served in Porto Moniz, allowing 1 hour and 30 minutes to enjoy the local cuisine.

The tour then stops at Seixal to take in the views from the Véu da Noiva viewpoint for 20 minutes.

Finally, travelers drive through the Ribeira da Janela valley and experience the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest.

Inclusions

The tour includes a professional guide who provides commentary throughout the day.

All taxes, fees, and handling charges are covered. Hotel pickup and drop-off are provided for Funchal hotels at no extra cost.

Lunch isn’t included, allowing travelers the flexibility to choose their own dining options. Outside Funchal, additional pickups can be arranged for an extra fee.

The tour staff contacts guests in advance to confirm accurate pickup times.

With these inclusions, travelers can enjoy the stunning landscapes of western Madeira without worrying about logistics.

Pickup Information

Pickup options for the Madeira Best of the West Day Tour allow travelers flexibility.

Pickup is available from central Funchal hotels or selected meeting points. Travelers outside Funchal can arrange additional pickups, though an extra cost may apply.

Tour staff provide accurate pickup times, ensuring a smooth start to the day. Whether you’re staying in Funchal or elsewhere on the island, the tour makes it easy to join the excursion and experience the highlights of Madeira’s west side.

Guests should contact the tour provider for their specific pickup details prior to the tour.

Customer Feedback

Travelers have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback on the Madeira Best of the West Day Tour, awarding it an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 across 632 reviews.

Guests praised the tour’s knowledgeable and humorous guides, the stunning views, and the comprehensive coverage of the west side of Madeira.

However, some travelers suggested:

1. Adding more walking stops during the tour.
2. Improving consistency in hitting all planned viewpoints.
3. Shortening extended stops to maximize sightseeing.
4. Providing clearer communication on the tour’s pace and schedule.

Additional Information

Although confirmation is received at the time of booking, guests can take advantage of the tour’s flexible cancellation policy, which allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

Infant seats are available, ensuring the safety of the youngest travelers. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, service animals are permitted, accommodating those with special needs.

The tour’s convenient location near public transportation makes it easily accessible for a wide range of visitors. The Madeira Best of the West Day Tour provides a comprehensive and adaptable experience for exploring the stunning western side of the island.

Exploring Cabo Girão

What makes Cabo Girão, the highest cape in Europe, such a captivating destination on the Madeira Best of the West Day Tour?

The breathtaking views from Cabo Girão’s 1,900-foot (580-meter) clifftops offer visitors:

1. A panoramic perspective of the rugged Madeiran coastline.
2. A glimpse into the deep, lush Ribeira Brava valley.
3. The chance to stand on the glass-floored skywalk that extends over the edge of the cliffs.
4. Opportunities to capture stunning photographs that showcase Madeira’s dramatic natural landscapes.

This awe-inspiring natural wonder is a must-see highlight of the comprehensive Madeira Best of the West Day Tour.

Discovering Ribeira Brava and Beyond

After marveling at the breathtaking views from atop Cabo Girão, the tour proceeds to explore the next stop – the charming town of Ribeira Brava.

Visitors enjoy a 30-minute stroll through the quaint streets, admiring the colorful buildings and the flowing river.

The journey then continues through the scenic Paul da Serra, a high-altitude plateau offering panoramic vistas.

Lunch is served in the seaside town of Porto Moniz, known for its natural volcanic pools.

The tour then heads to Seixal, where the Véu da Noiva waterfall cascades from the cliffs, providing another stunning photo opportunity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a lunch stop is included in the itinerary, so purchasing a meal on-site is also an option.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have a strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy walking shoes are recommended. Casual attire that allows for easy movement and exploration during the day’s activities is suggested.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?

The tour doesn’t require any special equipment. Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended to enjoy the scenic viewpoints and natural landscapes. Participants should carry any personal items they might need during the day.

How Accessible Is the Tour for People With Disabilities?

The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed. Those with disabilities may face some challenges, as the itinerary involves moderate walking and uneven terrain. It’s advisable to inquire about specific accommodation needs prior to booking.

Are There Any Stops for Shopping or Souvenirs?

The tour doesn’t include dedicated stops for shopping or buying souvenirs. However, travelers may have the opportunity to purchase local products during the lunch stop in Porto Moniz or while exploring the other scenic locations along the way.

The Sum Up

The Madeira Best of the West Day Tour offers an unforgettable journey through the island’s stunning western region. With knowledgeable guides, scenic drives, and opportunities to experience local cuisine, this excursion is a must-do for anyone visiting Madeira. Exploring the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest, Cabo Girão, and Ribeira Brava, the tour provides an immersive and memorable adventure that showcases the true beauty of the island’s western wonders.