Madeira West: Porto Moniz Volcanic Pools, Fanal UNESCO Forest and Enchanted Terraces
A full-day journey through Madeira's wildest northwest landscapes, from ancient laurel forest to volcanic ocean pools
This Madeira northwest coast tour takes you through a sequence of contrasting landscapes that few visitors manage to combine in a single day, guided by a local Madeiran team with deep knowledge of the island's hidden corners.
The route moves from the high-altitude Paul da Serra plateau and the UNESCO-listed Fanal laurisilva forest down through dramatic river valleys and sea-cliffs to the famous volcanic tidal pools of Porto Moniz and the quieter pools of Seixal. Weather permitting, you will have the opportunity to swim in these natural lava formations.
Green Devil Safari operates as a locally owned company, and the guides draw on personal familiarity with the island's terrain, ecology, and cultural heritage. The format keeps group sizes small, allowing for a more attentive and flexible experience than large coach tours typically offer.
The itinerary also passes through the charming fishing villages of Ribeira da Janela and Sao Vicente, offering a glimpse into traditional Madeiran coastal life alongside the natural spectacle of the northwest shoreline.
Tour Highlights
Walk through the ancient Fanal laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage landscape of gnarled trees draped in mist and moss.
Swim in the volcanic lava pools of Porto Moniz and Seixal, natural ocean formations carved by centuries of Atlantic waves.
Cross the Paul da Serra plateau, a high moorland that offers sweeping panoramic views across the island's central ridge.
Pass through the Encumeada mountain pass and the lush Serra de Agua valley, two of the island's most scenic inland corridors.
Discover unique photo opportunities at Ribeira da Janela, where dramatic sea stacks rise from the Atlantic close to shore.
Explore the picturesque village of Sao Vicente and learn about Madeiran volcanic geology at one of the island's most storied coastal towns.
Travel with a locally run operator whose guides share authentic knowledge of island history, traditions, and ecology throughout the day.
Itinerary Overview
1
Serra de Agua Valley and Encumeada
The journey begins in the heart of Madeira, descending through the fertile Serra de Agua valley before ascending to the Encumeada mountain pass. This area offers exceptional views across both the north and south coasts of the island simultaneously.
2
Paul da Serra Plateau and Ginjas
The route continues across the high-altitude Paul da Serra moorland, passing through the small community of Ginjas. The plateau is one of the few flat expanses on the island and provides a striking contrast to the surrounding mountain terrain.
3
Fanal UNESCO Laurisilva Forest
A stop in the Fanal sector of the Madeira Natural Park immerses visitors in the ancient laurel forest that forms part of the UNESCO-designated laurisilva. The atmosphere here is distinctive, with low cloud and centuries-old trees creating an almost surreal environment.
4
Ribeira da Janela Coastline
The descent to the northwest coast brings the group to Ribeira da Janela, named for the distinctive rock arch visible offshore. This stretch of coastline is among the most dramatic on the island.
5
Porto Moniz Volcanic Pools
The day's principal swim stop is at the natural volcanic pools of Porto Moniz, where lava formations create a series of protected bathing areas at the water's edge. Participation depends on Atlantic swell and weather conditions on the day.
6
Sao Vicente Return
The return leg passes through Sao Vicente, a village known for its historic church, traditional architecture, and proximity to the volcanic caves. This provides a final opportunity to explore a classic example of Madeiran coastal settlement before the journey back.
What Is Included and Excluded
Included
Professional local guide throughout the tour
4x4 safari vehicle transport
Small group format for a more personal experience
Guided commentary on local history, ecology, and traditions
Photo stops at key scenic viewpoints
Not Included
Hotel pickup and drop-off unless specified at booking
Entry fees to any paid attractions
Food and beverages
Personal travel insurance
Gratuities for guides
Important Information
Please read the following details carefully before booking to ensure this tour is suitable for your needs and expectations.
Duration
Approximately 8 hours. Exact timing may vary depending on road and weather conditions along the northwest coast route.
What to Bring
Swimwear and a towel are strongly recommended for the volcanic pool stops. Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, a light waterproof layer, and water are also advised.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation terms are provided at the time of booking. Swimming in the volcanic pools is subject to Atlantic weather and swell conditions and cannot be guaranteed.
Accessibility
This tour is rated Easy in terms of physical demand. Some walking on uneven or natural terrain is involved at forest and coastal stops. Participants with mobility concerns should contact the operator prior to booking.
Age Range
This tour is suitable for participants of most ages. Children are welcome. Please inform the operator of the ages of younger participants when booking.
Reserve Your Place on This Northwest Madeira Safari
Secure your spot on a full-day exploration of Madeira's most dramatic northwest scenery, from ancient UNESCO forest to Atlantic volcanic pools, guided by a knowledgeable local team.
Swimming at Porto Moniz and Seixal is subject to Atlantic swell and weather conditions on the day of the tour. The guide will assess conditions upon arrival and advise accordingly.
Do I need to bring my own food and water?▼
Food and beverages are not included in the tour price. It is recommended to bring water and snacks for the day, as stops in remote areas may have limited facilities.
What is the difficulty level of this tour?▼
The tour is rated Easy. Most of the day is spent travelling by vehicle, with short walks at key stops. Some natural terrain such as forest paths may be uneven underfoot.
What is the Fanal forest and why is it significant?▼
Fanal is part of the Madeira laurisilva, an ancient subtropical laurel forest that forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is considered one of the best-preserved examples of a forest type that once covered much of Southern Europe.
Is this tour suitable for children?▼
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for children given its Easy difficulty rating. Parents should inform the operator of the ages of children when booking so that appropriate arrangements can be made.
Does the tour depart from a fixed location in Madeira?▼
Meeting point details are confirmed at the time of booking. Contact Green Devil Safari directly if you have questions about the departure location or logistics before reserving your place.
Porto MonizFanal ForestUNESCO MadeiraVolcanic PoolsNorthwest MadeiraPaul da SerraLaurisilvaMadeira SafariSao VicenteMadeira Nature TourRibeira da JanelaGreen Devil Safari
This tour operates entirely within the northwest region of Madeira Island, an autonomous region of Portugal located in the Atlantic Ocean approximately 1,000 kilometres southwest of mainland Europe. Key locations visited include the Paul da Serra plateau, the Fanal sector of the Madeira Natural Park (UNESCO World Heritage laurisilva forest), the coastal village of Ribeira da Janela, the volcanic tidal pools of Porto Moniz, the pools at Seixal, and the historic fishing village of Sao Vicente. The route also passes through the inland Serra de Agua valley and the Encumeada mountain pass. The area is characterised by dramatic volcanic terrain, Atlantic-facing cliffs, and a climate that can shift rapidly with altitude. Madeira is well connected internationally via Funchal Airport (FNC) and is a popular year-round destination for nature tourism, hiking, and Atlantic coastal experiences.
Destination: Madeira, Portugal | Region: Northwest Madeira | Tour Type: Full-Day Nature and Cultural Safari | Activity Level: Easy | Key Attractions: Porto Moniz Volcanic Pools, Fanal UNESCO Laurisilva Forest, Paul da Serra Plateau, Ribeira da Janela, Sao Vicente, Serra de Agua Valley, Encumeada Pass | Duration: 8 Hours | Suitable For: Families, Nature Enthusiasts, Photography, Swimmers | Season: Year-Round
Gift more than a trip
Extraordinary experiences, beautifully gifted
Give the joy of travel with a ToursXplorer Gift Card. Perfect for every occasion.
