4x4 Adventure in Madeira with Nature Connection Tours
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be comfortable with several hours of sitting and occasional standing or light walking on uneven ground.
Overview
Drive through Madeira’s dramatic coastline, historic villages, and pristine forests on an 8-hour 4x4 tour with Nature Connection Tours. Climb sea cliffs, dip in volcanic lava pools, and experience the island’s wild north and southwest in one dynamic adventure.
West & Northwest of Madeira by 4x4
8 Hours • ages 2+ • Waterfalls, forest & Natural Lava pools
Select participants and date
About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable 8-hour adventure through Madeira, starting in Funchal and exploring the picturesque Câmara de Lobos. Experience breathtaking views from Cabo Girão skywalk, traverse off-road trails, and discover the enchanting Laurissilva forest. Enjoy charming villages, stunning natural lava pools, and captivating landscapes that showcase the island's beauty.
Duration: 8 hours
About
Starting the journey in Funchal, our first stop will be at Câmara de Lobos one of the top destinations in Madeira because of its colourful boats, white houses, cobbled streets, green hills and so much more.
From this charming village we will drive to one of Madeira top viewpoints, Cabo Girão skywalk, the highest sea cliffs in the World with 580m. We then take the Madeira fascinating country roads towards an off road adventure up to approximately 1500 metres high, with stunning views over the heights peaks of Madeira. From here we start our descend to nearly sea level and pass trough Ribeira Brava & Ponta de Sol villages where we can appreciate the sunny & natural southwest of the island with stunning views over the ocean and stop for a nice coffee in a balcony over the sea. After a lovely break we will continue the journey trough madeira first build old roads and tunnels until we reach Paul da Serra, with unique landscape, the biggest mountain plateau of the island. Here we will find and explore the stunning Laurissilva forest of Fanal, UNESCO World Heritage Site this idyllic place is one of the most emblematic places of the Northwest.
Driving through lovely old roads, we then arrive in Porto Moniz, located on the extreme north of the island. Here we will stop for lunch (optional extra - not included in the priced) or a quick dive in the stunning Natural Lava pools with unreal crystal waters. After a well enjoyed break we continue our journey in the North cost and visit, the charming villages of Seixal, Ribeira da Janela e São Vicente to then return back to Funchal.
Important to know
The first booking for a tour requires 2 or more people.
Includes
- Guide Tour in 4x4 Jeep
- Hotel, AL, Residence pick up (Outside Funchal could be subject a fee)
- Insurance According Portuguese Law
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy shoes
Uneven terrain and light hiking near viewpoints require solid footwear for comfort and safety.
Bring sunscreen and a hat
Exposed mountain plateaus and coastal stops have limited shade, so sun protection is vital.
Carry a camera with wide-angle lens
Capturing expansive sea cliffs and forest canopy views benefits from a wide perspective.
Pack swimwear and a towel
Don’t miss the chance to swim in the natural lava pools at Porto Moniz—bring your gear.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Madeira firecrest (Regulus madeirensis), a native bird species
- Atlantic grey whales occasionally spotted offshore
History
Madeira’s network of old roads and tunnels date back to the 16th century, reflecting centuries of human adaptation to this volcanic island’s steep terrain.
Conservation
The Laurissilva forest area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site protected for its rare subtropical ecosystem, with strict measures to limit tourist impact and preserve biodiversity.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Funchal
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Hiking shoes
Provides stability on off-road trails and around volcanic pools.
Sun protection (hat & sunscreen)
Protects skin during exposed stretches along cliffs and open plateaus.
summer specific
Light waterproof jacket
Useful for sudden showers common in Madeira’s mountain and forest areas.
spring|fall|winter specific
Swimsuit and quick-dry towel
For swimming or dipping in the natural lava pools at Porto Moniz.
summer specific