Madeira: Porto Moniz, Seixal & Fanal Forest Jeep Tour

Summary

Jeep adventure through volcanic pools, black sand beaches and ancient forests in Madeira

You’ll ride out from Funchal with a local guide into Madeira’s wild north — from São Vicente’s waterfall to Seixal’s black sand beach and Porto Moniz volcanic pools. Feel ancient forest mist at Fanal and test your nerve on Cabo Girão’s glass skywalk. It’s equal parts laughter, scenery, and small surprises along the way.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll admit I wasn’t expecting to be grinning like a kid by the time we hit the São Vicente waterfall — but something about that first spray in the morning air just set the tone. Our guide, Tiago, joked that it looked like a bride’s veil (I could kind of see it), and I caught this faint earthy smell from the mossy rocks. The drive up from Funchal felt quick with all his stories about local wine and how his uncle once tried to swim in the volcanic caves — apparently not recommended.

Seixal was next. That black sand is softer than it looks, almost warm under your feet even though the wind had picked up. A couple of old men were arguing about football near the Poças das Lesmas pools — one waved at us with a grin. I tried saying “bom dia” back and probably mangled it. We didn’t swim (too chilly for me), but just standing there watching waves crash against those ancient lava stones… you get this sense of how old everything is here.

Porto Moniz was busier but not crowded, and those volcanic pools really are something else — clear enough to see your toes even if you’re just dangling them over the edge. Lunch wasn’t included, so we grabbed some grilled limpets at a little spot Tiago recommended (salty, chewy, oddly satisfying). The off-road bit after that got bumpy; at one point I thought we might lose a tire but Tiago just laughed and said “this is normal.”

Fanal Forest felt almost unreal — mist twisting between those huge old trees, sunlight coming through in patches like someone was playing with a dimmer switch. There was this quietness except for birds somewhere above us. By the time we got to Cabo Girão Skywalk, my legs were wobbly from both hiking and nerves (that glass floor is higher than it looks). Still think about that view sometimes when I’m stuck in traffic back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jeep tour to natural and scenic spots

• Visit São Vicente vineyards and caves
• See São Vicente waterfall
• Stop at Seixal black sand beach
• Explore Poças das Lesmas lava formations
• Swim in Porto Moniz volcanic pools
• Off-road drive to Fanal forest
• Drive through Paúl da Serra plateau
• Visit Cabo Girão skywalk viewpoint

Top questions

How long does the Porto Moniz jeep tour take?

The day trip typically lasts several hours, covering multiple stops including Porto Moniz, Seixal, Fanal Forest and Cabo Girão before returning to Funchal.

Is lunch included on the Madeira jeep tour?

No, lunch is not included. There’s a break where you can buy food at local restaurants in Porto Moniz.

Are swimsuits needed for Porto Moniz volcanic pools?

If you want to swim in the volcanic pools at Porto Moniz, bring your swimsuit and towel—though swimming is optional.

Is pickup included for hotels outside central Funchal?

Pickup is free from central Funchal or near the port; pickups outside central areas have an extra fee.

What should I bring for the day trip to Seixal & Fanal?

Bring comfortable shoes, layers for changing weather, swimsuit if you plan to swim, and some cash for lunch or entrance fees.

Is Cabo Girão Skywalk entry fee included?

No, there is a small entry fee (about 2 €) for Cabo Girão Skywalk that’s not included in the tour price.

Are there specialized infant seats available?

Yes, specialized infant seats are available upon request for families traveling with young children.

How high is Cabo Girão Skywalk?

Cabo Girão Skywalk stands about 580-589 meters above sea level—one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs.

What’s included

Your day includes free pickup and drop-off from central Funchal or near its port (with an extra fee for other areas), all required insurances under Portuguese law, safety instructions with first aid available onboard, Wi-Fi during your ride plus alcohol-gel throughout. A professional local guide leads you through each stop—no entry fees or meals are covered except what’s listed above.