---
title: Fanal Forest, Skywalk & Lava Pools: West Madeira 4x4 Expedition
lang: en
alternate_de: https://guidekin.com/de/portugal/madeira/tours/fanal-forest-skywalk-lava-pools-west-madeira-4x4-expedition/
type: tour
city: Madeira
country: Portugal
price: 55.99
currency: EUR
price_unit: per_person
availability: bookable
rating: 4.87
reviews: 63
languages: [de, en, fr, es]
free_cancellation: true
rank_in_category: 23 of 33 (Jeep & 4x4 Tours)
schedule_checked: 2026-09-02
data_updated: 2026-09-25
canonical: https://guidekin.com/portugal/madeira/tours/fanal-forest-skywalk-lava-pools-west-madeira-4x4-expedition/
---

# Fanal Forest, Skywalk & Lava Pools: West Madeira 4x4 Expedition

**Guidekin's take:** A west side four wheel drive day that strings together the Fanal forest, the Cabo Girão skywalk and a swim in the lava pools, with a poncha tasting, pickup and bottled water included. Lunch and alcoholic drinks are extra, and it is not advised for reduced mobility. 4.87 from 63 reviews at €55.99 per person.

## Overview

Discover the wild and authentic side of Madeira with a passionate local guide who knows every hidden corner of the island. This experience blends stunning landscapes, cultural insights, and adventure in a way that goes far beyond standard tours. Enjoy a taste of traditional poncha, swim in natural lava pools, and explore off-road trails, mystical forests, and secret viewpoints that most visitors never reach. Along the way, you’ll hear fascinating stories and enjoy carefully chosen stops that highlight Madeira’s true spirit. Here, it’s not only about where you go, but the unforgettable journey that takes you there.

## Before you book

- Hotel pickup: from 37 pickup points
- Starts 08:30, 09:00, 09:30: 3 departures a day
- Food not included: bring or buy your own
- Strollers OK: infants accepted
- Age rule: Specialized infant seats are available

## Key facts

- Price: from €55.99 per person
- Rating: 4.87/5 from 63 reviews (collected from Guidekin & Viator & Tripadvisor)
- Free cancellation (see policy below)
- Recommended by 96% of travellers (share of four- and five-star reviews)
- Operator: SafariCo

## What's included

- Pick Up
- Bottled water

## Not included

- Lunch
- Alcoholic Beverages

## Itinerary

1. **Cabo Girao** (30m) - One of Madeira’s most iconic viewpoints, Cabo Girão at 580 meters, offering sweeping views over terraced farmlands, the Atlantic Ocean, and the coastline stretching toward Câmara de Lobos. Guests can step onto the famous glass skywalk for a thrilling perspective straight down...
2. **Ribeira Brava** (20m) - A peaceful viewpoint overlooking the charming coastal town of Ribeira Brava. The ideal spot to introduce the tour. Your local guide will explain the full route and the regions you’ll explore, helping you understand the island’s geography before we dive into the adventure....
3. **Serra de Agua** (20m) - In the heart of the island, we stop at a traditional bar in Serra de Água, where you’ll taste a true local classic: Poncha. Your guide will explain the story behind this iconic Madeiran drink and how it’s prepared. A perfect cultural break to warm up the day! (drinks not...
4. **This scenic climb takes you up a steep traditional ladeira carved between loc...** (5m) - This scenic climb takes you up a steep traditional ladeira carved between local vineyards, gradually opening into a breathtaking panorama of Madeira’s untouched mountain landscape. At the top, the adventure shifts into your first off-road stretch, revealing sweeping views...
5. **A scenic stop along the Encumeada ridge road, where guests can admire one of ...** (10m) - A scenic stop along the Encumeada ridge road, where guests can admire one of Madeira’s most impressive valley landscapes. From this high vantage point, the island’s mountains unfold in deep green layers, with dramatic slopes and winding paths stretching toward the sea. It’s a...
6. **Miradouro do Veu da Noiva** (20m) - Véu da Noiva (“Bride’s Veil”) takes its name from the dramatic waterfall that cascades down the cliffside into the Atlantic Ocean, creating a veil-like effect. This stop offers time to admire the powerful scenery of rugged cliffs, lush green slopes, and endless ocean views....
7. **Seixal Madeira Portugal** (30m) - Seixal Beach, also known as “The Black Gold Beach” for its unique volcanic black sand and breathtaking scenery. Surrounded by green cliffs and crystal clear water, it’s one of everyone favourite spot for photos and a perfect example of Madeira’s raw natural beauty.
8. **Ribeira da Janela** (10m) - A peaceful stop in one of Madeira’s most striking coastal areas, known for its towering sea rocks rising dramatically from the Atlantic. The name “Ribeira da Janela” comes from the natural rock formation that resembles a window carved by the ocean. Here, guests can enjoy the...
9. **Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools** (2h) - Porto Moniz, famous for its natural lava pools. Here, you’ll have free time to swim in these volcanic pools carved by the ocean, or just relax and enjoy the sea breeze. This is also our lunch stop, where you can choose from a variety of restaurants serving fresh fish and...
10. **Posto Florestal Fanal** (45m) - Mystical Fanal Forest, part of Madeira’s Laurissilva. This foggy highland forest is full of ancient twisted trees and a dreamlike atmosphere. It’s a magical place to walk, take photos and connect with the island’s natural heritage.
11. **A panoramic drive across Madeira’s largest and most remarkable plateau** (pass by, no stop) - This high altitude landscape stretches into wide open horizons, offering a striking contrast to the island’s deep valleys and dramatic cliffs. With its expansive views, fresh mountain air, and unique terrain that often rises above the clouds, Paul da Serra reveals a quieter,...
12. **A beautiful section of the journey where the route transitions onto a traditi...** (pass by, no stop) - A beautiful section of the journey where the route transitions onto a traditional stone path winding through a fragrant eucalyptus forest. As you drive between tall, slender trees and dappled light, the scenery shifts into a peaceful, almost enchanted atmosphere. It’s a...
13. **A picturesque descent through the traditional ladeiras of Canhas, where steep...** (pass by, no stop) - A picturesque descent through the traditional ladeiras of Canhas, where steep, narrow roads reveal sweeping coastal views and the rich agricultural heart of the region. Along the way, you’ll see an impressive variety of local crops such as sugarcane, vineyards, potatoes, and...
14. **Ponta Do Sol** (20m) - Ponta do Sol, the sunniest village in Madeira. It’s a relaxed stop to enjoy the seaside views, grab a coffee or a local treat, and soak in the laid-back atmosphere of this colourful coastal town.
15. **Funchal** (5m) - A smooth and convenient end to the tour, with guests dropped off at their accommodation or designated meeting point. A relaxed conclusion to a full day of exploration, ensuring everyone returns comfortably after an unforgettable journey through Madeira.

## Schedule

- Runs: daily
- Departures: 08:30, 09:00, 09:30
- Schedule last checked: 2026-09-02
- These are published departures, not a live seat count; availability is confirmed at checkout.

## Cancellation

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

Pickup points listed by the operator: 37

## Good to know

- Specialized infant seats are available
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Desaconselhável para pessoas com mobilidade reduzida.

## Compared with other Jeep & 4x4 Tours

| Tour | Price | Duration | Rating | Group |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| **This tour · #23 of 33** | €56 |  | 4.87 (63) | shared |
| [Madeira 4x4 Jeep Safari : Porto Moniz, Lava Pools & Fanal Forest](/portugal/madeira/tours/madeira-4x4-jeep-safari-porto-moniz-lava-pools-fanal-forest/?format=md) | €55 | 7h | 5.0 (210) | shared |
| [Full Day Madeira Island Tour - Open Roof](/portugal/madeira/tours/full-day-madeira-island-tour-open-roof-445072P1/?format=md) | €70 | 8h 30m | 5.0 (180) | shared |
| [Madeira "Mystery Tour" - Full Day Private 4x4 Jeep ](/portugal/madeira/tours/madeira-mystery-tour-full-day-private-4x4-jeep-433184P11/?format=md) | €259 per group | 7h | 4.99 (237) | private |

Ranked #23 of 33 in Jeep & 4x4 Tours by Guidekin score (rating weighted by review volume). Prices here run from €40 to €100, median €66; typical length 7h. 11 of 33 are private. Figures are live from the tour cards; the rubric is our handpicked set, not the whole market.

Full list: https://guidekin.com/portugal/madeira/jeep-4x4/?format=md

## More in Madeira

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