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Porto Moniz Hiking

Our most recommended Porto Moniz Hiking

Madeira: Santo da Serra to Ribeiro Frio Private Walk

1. Madeira: Santo da Serra to Ribeiro Frio Private Walk

Journey from the center of Santo da Serra to Ribeiro Frio, two of the main points of interest on Madeira Island, visited not only by tourists but also by residents. Walk through a forest road passing by the Trout Fishing Park, where you can relax for a while, having a tea or simply enjoying the surroundings. Immerse yourself in the amazing nature at the Levada, enjoying every step while you appreciate the wide variety of endemic flora and fauna of Madeira Laurisilva. Discover open areas that offer magnificent views of the valley and peaks of the island. Continue walking along the levada, enjoying the energy of all this pure nature surround you.

Madeira: Full-Day Porto Moniz Jeep Tour

2. Madeira: Full-Day Porto Moniz Jeep Tour

Jeep tours in Madeira are a fun and different way to discover the island. They allow you to discover the entire island, including difficult-to-access places which can only be reached by all-terrain vehicles. All the vehicles are Land Rover Discoveries, which are vehicles known for their strength, comfort, and stability. This combination of qualities makes them idea for great tours. Your Jeep tour through the west side of Madeira Island combines major highlights such as Paul da Serra (the biggest plateau in Madeira), Porto Moniz and Seixal (known for their natural swimming pools), and São Vicente, where you can choose to visit the volcanic caves. At the conclusion of your experience, you will be returned to your accommodation.

Madeira: Private 1.5-Kilometer Levada dos Balcões Hike PR11

3. Madeira: Private 1.5-Kilometer Levada dos Balcões Hike PR11

Once having been collected from your Madeira accommodation, drive through the mountains before arriving to Ribeiro Frio. Following a short but grandeur walk through the beautiful Laurisilva Forest, arrive to the fabulous Balcões’ belvedere. From this belvedere it’s possible to contemplate the many peaks of Madeira Island, from which Pico Ruivo and Pico do Areeiro stand the highest. Pico do Gato, Pico das Torres, and the well-known Penhad’Águia also constitute part of this breathtaking scenery. This area is also ideal for bird watching, due to the fact that it is home to a huge variety of different species. These birgs include the firecrest, the chaffinch, grey wagtails, blackbirds, robins, buzzards, and the very rare Madeira's long-toed pigeon.

Madeira: West Tour with Porto Moniz and Volcanic Pools

4. Madeira: West Tour with Porto Moniz and Volcanic Pools

Just over three miles from the city of Funchal, the first stop is the famous, quaint fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, a favorite painting spot of the late Winston Churchill. Afterwards, travel up to the magnificent 1,902-feet high, glass balcony view point of Cabo Girão, famous for being the highest in Europe and second-highest cliff in the world. Traveling along the coast of the island, arrive shorty at the village of Ribeira Brava, where you can visit a church dating back to the 15th century. Next, make your way to the 3,303-feet high viewpoint, Encumeada, to enjoy beautiful views over both the north and south coasts of the island, as well as the valleys of Ribeira Brava and São Vicente. From an altitude of between 4,200-4,900 feet, find the tourist attraction Paúl de Serra and it's several levada walks that connect to different points of the island through the Laurissilva forest, such as Rabaçal, Risco, and the 25 fountains. Stop then for lunch (not included) and extra time at the seaside town of Porto Moniz, home to the largest volcanic natural pools of Madeira. On the descent toward the town, enjoy fantastic views, especially those of the volcanic pools in their entirety. In the good weather it is possible to take a dip, so come prepared. Next, enjoy a brief stop overlooking the black sandy beach and natural rock pools of Seixal village. Along the way, you'll have the pleasure of passing several waterfalls, most notably the famous and stunning Bride's Veil. Staring up at the water pouring down the mountain, you can see how the rock-face has been delicately sculpted by the wind and rain over millions of years to form what can only be described as the perfect art form. Following, visit the picturesque neighboring village of São Vicente, where you can check out a beautiful church dating from the 17th century before returning to Funchal.

West Tour Full day 4x4 Jipe Tour Natural Swimming Pools

5. West Tour Full day 4x4 Jipe Tour Natural Swimming Pools

Embark on a guided, multi-stop 4x4 adventure starting in Caniço. Explore Ribeira Brava, Ponta do Sol, Seixal, São Vicente, and more. Find unbeatable viewpoints at Paúl da Serra and Ribeira da Janela and marvel at the natural swimming pools at Porto Moniz. After meeting your guide, hop on board and head first to Ribeira Brava for a quick stop to enjoy the small city with the longest and widest ribeira (stream) of the island. Head to Ponta do Sol and Canhas next, two picturesque villages with much to see. The trip continues off-road to Paúl da Serra, a plateau in the center of the island with unique views. Later, there will be the possibility to take a short walk along the levada (approximately 20 minutes). Explore the lush landscape of Paúl da Serra with an altitude of 1500 meters and see Fanal Forest, an area between the mountains of Seixal and Ribeira da Janela with laurel forest classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take in views at the Ribeira da Janela viewpoint before heading to Porto Moniz. Be greeted with unforgettable scenery built by natural swimming pools, the highlight of the village of Porto Moniz. These pools, created by volcanic lava, have crystal-clear waters. After a stop for a lunch (at your own expense), continue to Seixal and São Vicente in the afternoon. At 1007 meters high, at the Encumeada Viewpoint, round off your trip with views over the deep valleys of Ribeira Brava (south coast) and São Vicente (north coast).

Madeira 2 Full-Day & 1 Half-Day 4x4 jipe Special Tour Combo

6. Madeira 2 Full-Day & 1 Half-Day 4x4 jipe Special Tour Combo

Get the most out of your time in Madeira with this special combo experience, featuring 2 full-day tours of east and west Madeira and 1 central half-day trip. Explore Pico do Areeiro, Seixal, São Vicente, Porto Moniz, and more. Visit a sugar cane rum factory, taste drinks at a local bar, and join a levada walk. East Tour (Mondays and Thursdays)During the east tour, go to one of the highest mountains on the Island, Pico do Areeiro, then go to Ribeiro Frio and take a 45-minute walk along the levada to the Balcões viewpoint. Back to the jeep, travel through Roque do Faial, Cruzinhas, and Lombo Galego. Arriving at Cova da Roda through alternative roads and off-roads, pass through Pico das Pedras right in the middle of the natural park. Heading towards Santana, you’ll see typical local houses and take a break for lunch (not included). In the afternoon, drive towards Faial, heading to Porto da Cruz. Visit the local sugar-cane rum factory, then end the day with a visit to Ponta de São Lourenço, a natural reserve with rock formations and panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean. West Tour (Tuesdays and Fridays)Depart from Funchal towards the village of Ribeira Brava. After a short stop for sightseeing, start climbing towards Paúl da Serra, a plateau in the center of the island with memorable views. To arrive, you’ll drive off-road and go through Ponta do Sol and Canhas, two picturesque villages. Potentially take another short levada walk (approximately 20 minutes), then, in Paúl da Serra, at 1500 meters, start the descent through Fanal, an area with laurel forest classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Arrive at a viewpoint in Ribeira da Janela with breathtaking views. At Porto Moniz, be greeted with the unique scenery built by the natural swimming pools. These pools were created by volcanic lava and have crystal-clear waters thanks to the sea. Here, you’ll stop for a lunch (not included). After recharging from lunch, carry on near the coast towards Seixal and São Vicente. Finish off the day at 1007-meters high at the Encumeada Viewpoint, next to a mountain range that allows for views over the deep valleys of Ribeira Brava (south coast) and São Vicente (north coast). End your second tour with a return to Funchal. Central Tour (Wednesdays)Leaving Funchal, venture towards Nuns Valley (Curral das Freiras) to a small visit and a villa with a unique geographic location on Madeira Island, situated in a deep valley that resembles a volcano crater. The resemblance is due to strong erosion. After this stop, travel to Boca dos Namorados, a viewpoint at 1100 meters over Nuns Valley, allowing viewers to behold from above the one-of-a-kind scenery. Continue off-road through a trail to feel nature in its purest state. Then, make a short stop in a typical Madeiran bar to try the famous Poncha, a traditional drink made of sugar cane rum, orange juice, lemon juice, and fresh lemon (costs not included). 

From Funchal: Full-Day 4x4 Tour of North West Madeira

7. From Funchal: Full-Day 4x4 Tour of North West Madeira

Admire the diverse natural beauty of north west Madeira from an open-top 4x4. Enjoy magnificent views from Paul da Serra, the island’s largest plateau, relax in Madeira’s Parque Natural and take a swim in the volcanic pools at Porto Moniz. After being collected from your accommodation in Funchal, you’ll quickly move away from the crowds and into the terraced hillsides of Madeira, learning about the region’s culture, history and unique flaura and fauna as you drive. Make the ascent to the 1500 meter plateau of Paul da Serra, passing a variety of lookouts with stunning views of the island. You’ll have the chance to explore the magical Fanal Forest, part of the larger Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to a lush, indegenous laurel forest. In the afternoon, you’ll reach the coast and have a chance to swim in the natural volcanic pools at Porto Moniz before heading on to the black sand beach at Seixal.

Madeira: Private Guided Alecrim Levada Hike PR6.2

8. Madeira: Private Guided Alecrim Levada Hike PR6.2

Once having been collected from your Madeira accommodation, your day out in nature will begin. At the beginning of the descent to the house of Rabaçal, you will discover the entrance to this magnificent journey. It is a short walk of 6 kilometers, which is accessible to anyone. Throughout the hike you can enjoy fantastic views over the Rabaçal. As you hike towards the beginning of the levada, you can enjoy the vast vegetation composed mainly by the Urze and the Uveira da Serra, as well as several species of local fauna of which various birds and cows are the highlights. Enjoy the walk to the beautiful lakes and waterfalls that emerge along the way, where the wonderful Lagoa Dona Beja stands out. Complete with a waterfall that feeds the Lagoa do Vento, you will be able to take pictures of the lagoon before making your way back to the hike's start point. At the conclusion of your hike, you will be returned back to your accommodation.

Madeira: Levada Calheta to Prazeres Private Walking Tour

9. Madeira: Levada Calheta to Prazeres Private Walking Tour

Stroll across the paths of Levada Calheta and Prazeres and discover a variety of plant species. Take in amazing views of the surrounding landscape along the way. Begin in Calheta with a stroll along Regional Road 211 and towards Prazeres village, following a vibrant path. Discover several species of flora, such as acacias, eucalyptus, pine, and wildflowers. Stop to look around and let yourself be dazzled by the beautiful landscapes that arise along the way. Explore a little more of the natural beauty of this region, including the human presence that gives it life. Find various dirt roads that cross the route of the Levada and continue your way following the channel of water until you arrive at the Levadeiro house. Take a moment to pause and enjoy the beautiful nature as your tour comes to a close.

Madeira: Private Guided Levada Ribeiro Frio - Portela Walk

10. Madeira: Private Guided Levada Ribeiro Frio - Portela Walk

This tour ranges in altitude from 641-886 meters. You'll begin at Ribeiro Frio and end at Portela, covering a distance of 11 kilometers. This trail is a real stunner even for the seasoned traveler, without a doubt one of the most beautiful in Madeira. Enjoy the natural heritage of the island and its endemic species of flora and fauna. The magnificent vegetation will envelop and recharge you in its oh-so-peaceful environs. Watch sunbeams peak cheekily between the laurels and other plants of the area, birds cooing gently all the while. On this softly quiet walk, you will progress parallel to the lovely levada that flows along the trail.

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What people are saying about Porto Moniz

We didn't get to see fanal forest due to the weather being too rough, that said the whole tour was excellent and our guide was very friendly and informative.

Very good activity. He makes us see very beautiful things and goes through places that are difficult to access. Super friendly guide.

Exciting jeep adventure with many stops at special places. I can only recommend :) Probably not for people with a sensitive stomach.

Great tour and guide! You see a lot of breathtaking places in Madeira with plenty of stops for photos.

Very great excursion with a super guide, gladly again.