Madeira Fanal Forest, Waterfalls and Lava Pools Tour

This experience is built around the journey rather than a strict timetable. We never rush guests from one stop to the next. Instead, you’ll have time to walk through Fanal Forest, swim, take photographs, enjoy lunch, and fully experience each location without constantly watching the clock. Travel in a small group and discover Fanal Forest, Ribeira da Janela, Achadas da Cruz, Porto Moniz, Seixal, and São Vicente. Along the way, we share stories about Madeira’s history, traditions, culture, and everyday life. We’ll also show you several lesser-known waterfalls that most visitors pass without noticing. The itinerary is adapted to the weather, sea conditions, and the group’s preferences, so some days may naturally extend beyond 10 hours. Personal attention, a light snack in Fanal, carefully selected local lunch recommendations, and photos taken with a professional camera make the experience feel more like exploring Madeira with friends than following a standard bus tour.

1. 1

   Vereda do Fanal

   1.5 hours

   Walk among the centuries-old laurel trees of Fanal Forest, part of Madeira’s UNESCO-listed Laurisilva. Enjoy time to explore its atmospheric landscapes, learn about this unique ecosystem from your guide, and capture memorable photos among the ancient trees. At the end of the walk, your guide will arrange a light snack and, upon request, take a few photos of you with a professional camera.

2. 2

   Ribeira da Janela

   30 min

   Admire the dramatic volcanic rock formations rising from the Atlantic Ocean at Ribeira da Janela. Enjoy a short walk along the coast, take photographs, and learn how Madeira’s rugged northern shoreline was formed.

3. 3

   Miradouro do Teleferico das Achadas da Cruz

   1.5 hours

   Take an optional ride on the spectacular Achadas da Cruz cable car and descend along one of Madeira’s steepest coastal cliffs. Explore the peaceful fajã below and enjoy breathtaking views of the ocean and surrounding mountains. The cable car ticket costs €5 per person and is not included in the tour price. Operation is subject to weather conditions.

4. 4

   Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools

   2.5 hours

   Enjoy free time in Porto Moniz to explore the village and, if the group wishes, have lunch at a local restaurant serving traditional Madeiran cuisine. Your guide will recommend the best available options. Lunch is not included in the tour price. Depending on the weather, sea, and safety conditions, swimming will take place either in the natural lava pools (3 EUR) of Porto Moniz or at Seixal Beach.

5. 5

   Praia do Porto do Seixal

   1.5 hours

   Stop at Seixal’s black-sand beach to admire its volcanic shoreline, green mountains, and waterfalls. Depending on the weather, sea, and safety conditions on the day of the tour, swimming will take place either at Seixal Beach or in the natural lava pools of Porto Moniz. Your guide will select the best and safest location on the day.

6. 6

   Miradouro do Veu da Noiva

   25 min

   Admire the Véu da Noiva waterfall as it descends from the green cliffs toward the Atlantic Ocean. Enjoy the panoramic coastal view and take photographs from one of Madeira’s most scenic viewpoints.

7. 7

   Sao Vicente

   25 min

   Make a final scenic stop in São Vicente, surrounded by green volcanic mountains. Learn about local life, the island’s agricultural traditions, and Madeira’s distinctive winemaking heritage before returning to your accommodation.

• Service animals allowed
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.