Bird Island sweet west tour
Fajã dos Padres, Madeira
Visit to Fajã dos Padres viewpoint Madalena do Mar Banana walk Prazeres west coast Ponta do Pargo lighthouse Paul do mar old foot paths and high waves Bird Island paradise more 300 bird species.
Madeira West Coast and Bird Island Guided Tour
This guided tour explores Madeira’s west coast, including Bird Island, scenic viewpoints, and traditional fishing villages. It suits nature lovers and cultural explorers.
Highlights
- Bird Island with 300 bird species in a dedicated sanctuary.
- Fajã dos Padres viewpoint at 400m, overlooking the sea and cultivated terraces.
- Paul do Mar village with historic fishing paths and houses.
- Ponta do Pargo lighthouse, 290m above Madeira’s western point.
- 10-minute walk through local banana plantations.
Description
The tour departs from your hotel towards Quinta Grande, traveling the old road to Fajã dos Padres viewpoint. This area features cultivated terraces with fruit and vegetables and calm sea waters favored by yachts in summer. You’ll see the historic elevator once used by locals and the rock that inspired the name of Campanario village.
Continuing west along the banana route in Calheta, you experience descending plantations across ravines before enjoying a short walk in the banana fields. The journey passes Prazeres village and reaches the Ponta do Pargo lighthouse, perched on the island’s western point amid mountains and rocky beaches.
The route descends via old roads to Fajã da Ovelha, showcasing rock tunnels and footpaths. In Paul do Mar, you explore old fishing paths lined with preserved fisherman houses. You can stop for coffee, a snack, or lunch by the sea front (not included), watching surfers ride the high waves. In summer, the calm sea allows for swimming.
Leaving Paul do Mar, the tour continues through modern tunnels to the southern coast and Bird Island. This private sanctuary hosts around 300 exotic birds of various sizes, colors, and breeds, maintained by a family passionate about bird conservation. The visit provides an insightful and unique experience before returning to your hotel.
Includes
- Hotel pick-up and drop-off free of charge in Caniço, Funchal, and Câmara de Lobos
- Cruise guests pick-up from the CR7 Museum or designated hotel
- Guided tour with a qualified guide
- Entrance to Bird Island
Excludes
- No pick-ups from Machico area
- Pick-up and drop-off from Santa Cruz hotels incur an additional charge of €15 each way
- Drinks and snacks are not included
Important Information
- Do not touch or provoke birds when visiting Bird Island
- The tour does not operate on 25 December and 1 January
- Tours may be cancelled in case of severe weather or storms
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund.
For a comfortable experience, wear sturdy footwear for walking, bring sun protection, and consider booking during spring to autumn for milder weather.
