Porto Moniz volcanic pools tour from Funchal: 4WD northwest drive

The volcanic pools at Porto Moniz sit in lava formations that only exist on this corner of Madeira.

A full-day 4WD tour from Funchal to Porto Moniz on Madeira's northwest coast, traveling through deep valleys and across the Paul da Serra plateau with a local guide. You'll walk the levadas (traditional water aqueducts), swim in the volcanic lava pools if weather permits, and stop to taste poncha, a local spirit, on the return drive past waterfalls and cliffs.

Step-by-step itinerary

Stops and time spent at each

1. Paul da Serra Plateaupassing by
2. Porto Moniz45m

Explore Northwest Madeira by 4x4

• Drive through Serra de Agua
• Visit Ginjas
• Pass by Estanquinhos
• Pass by Fanal
• Visit Porto Moniz volcanic pools
• Stop at Seixal
• Stop at São Vicente
• Try local poncha drink

The experience

The tour leaves Funchal in a 4WD vehicle with an open roof, climbing into the western interior of Madeira. You pass through Serra de Agua and Ginjas before reaching the Paul da Serra plateau (the only flat expanse on the island), where the landscape opens up. A short walk (about 15 minutes) takes you to the levadas, the hand-built water channels that have carried water across Madeira for centuries. Your guide explains how they work and their place in the island's history. Bring comfortable shoes for this stretch.

The route then descends to Porto Moniz, where the volcanic lava pools are the main event. These natural pools form in the dark rock where lava once flowed to the sea. If conditions allow, you can swim in them. On the return journey, the road hugs the coast with views of cliffs and waterfalls. The tour stops so you can try poncha, the local drink made from sugarcane spirit and honey. Lunch is optional and costs €12 per person for a three-course meal with beverage and coffee.

What’s included

• Local guide in English, Spanish, Portuguese, French or another language.
• hotel pickup and drop-off in Funchal center.
• driver and professional guide.
• local taxes and fuel surcharge.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 08:30

Book up to1h before

AgesAdult (12 and older) · Child (4 to 11 years) · Infant (under 4)

GroupUp to 30

Live guideEnglish, Spanish, French, German and Portuguese

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Paid on site€ 5

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Low physical effortInfant seats availableNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Green Devil Safari

Is this one for you?Eight hours is a full day commitment, which rules out combining this with other major activities but gives you time to move slowly through the interior and spend real time at Porto Moniz without rushing back. The open-roof 4WD is built for the steep mountain roads and the views, not for a quick shuttle. If you want a shorter outing or prefer a standard vehicle, look for a half-day option or a different route.

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English, Spanish, French, German and Portuguese.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (4 to 11 years); Infant (under 4).

Can I swim in the volcanic pools at Porto Moniz?

Swimming is possible if weather and sea conditions permit on the day. The pools form in the lava rock at the water's edge, so conditions vary. Your guide will advise whether it is safe.

What is a levada and why does the tour include one?

Levadas are narrow water channels built centuries ago to carry water across Madeira's steep terrain. The tour includes a short walk to one so you can see how they work and understand their role in the island's history and agriculture.

How high does the tour go?

The route climbs to 1,500 meters on the Paul da Serra plateau, the only flat area on Madeira. The 4WD vehicle handles the steep mountain roads, and the altitude itself is not extreme, but the drive covers significant elevation change.

What is poncha and where do I try it?

Poncha is a local Madeiran drink made from sugarcane spirit, honey and lemon. The tour stops on the return journey so you can taste it, giving you a chance to sample one of the island's traditional flavors.

Is lunch included in the tour price?

Lunch is optional. If you choose to eat, it costs €12 per person for a three-course meal with beverage and coffee. You decide at the time of booking or during the tour.