Dolphins watching boat tour
Arieiro Peak & Nun´s Valley in Open Roof 4x4 Tour + Dolphins Watching 2
Arieiro Peak & Nun´s Valley in Open Roof 4x4 Tour + Dolphins Watching 3
Arieiro Peak & Nun´s Valley in Open Roof 4x4 Tour + Dolphins Watching 4
Arieiro Peak & Nun´s Valley in Open Roof 4x4 Tour + Dolphins Watching 5
jeep tour highest mountains
Arieiro Peak & Nun´s Valley in Open Roof 4x4 Tour + Dolphins Watching 7
Arieiro Peak & Nun´s Valley in Open Roof 4x4 Tour + Dolphins Watching 8
Arieiro Peak & Nun´s Valley in Open Roof 4x4 Tour + Dolphins Watching 9
Arieiro Peak & Nun´s Valley in Open Roof 4x4 Tour + Dolphins Watching 10
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Arieiro Peak & Nun´s Valley in Open Roof 4x4 Tour + Dolphins Watching

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Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
Boat ToursShore ExcursionsNature ToursATV & Quad Tours
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About this activity

Combine a full-day Madeira adventure with an open-roof 4x4 mountain drive to Arieiro Peak (1,818m) and the dramatic Nun's Valley, followed by a 3-hour catamaran dolphin and whale watching trip along the south coast. This dual-activity tour showcases Madeira's volcanic peaks, traditional terraced villages, and rich marine life in a single day.

With a beautiful and panoramic view over Funchal, Câmara de Lobos and Deserted Islands, we start our tour at Pico dos Barcelos. From there, we drive towards the famous Curral das Freiras (Nun's Valley) which is surrounded by the highest mountains and historic places. Then we go uphill to Pico do Arieiro at 1818 mts., where we can enjoy magnificent landscapes and great views over Ponta de São Lourenço, Ribeiro Frio, Paúl da Serra, Curral das Freiras or even Porto Santo, if there is good weather. In our last stop, Ribeira Primeira Park, a sustainable project in the heart of the forest, you may visit the trout farm and enjoy a natural tea or portuguese coffee (not included) at the Tea House, overlooking the park and the magical forest. On our way back to Funchal, we will feel and see the real Madeira with many breathtaking views over the traditional terraces of the local farmers and amazing viewpoints.

After the Jeep tour, our guests will be dropped off at Funchal’s Harbor to start the Dolphin & Whale Watching Trip. Come on board on the Catamaran for a relaxing trip along the south coast of Madeira. The boat trip takes 3 hours with strong possibilities of watching Dolphins & Whales in their natural habitat. During the trip, the crew will give you detailed information about the cetacean species that you are able to see.In the summer months there is the possibility of swimming below Cabo Girao cliff. In case you don’t see any cetaceans, we offer a second boat trip. This trip ends in Funchal’s Harbor.

Highlights

  • ✓Drive to Arieiro Peak at 1,818m with sweeping views across multiple valleys and distant islands
  • ✓Explore Curral das Freiras (Nun's Valley), a historic settlement ringed by towering mountains
  • ✓Visit Ribeira Primeira Park, a sustainable forest project with a working trout farm and tea house
  • ✓3-hour catamaran cruise with high probability of spotting dolphins and whales in their natural habitat
  • ✓Summer option: swim beneath Cabo Girao cliff (Europe's highest sea cliff)
  • ✓See traditional Madeiran farming terraces and hidden viewpoints on the return drive

Insider tips

  • ★Clear weather is essential for mountain views; early morning departures often have better visibility before afternoon clouds settle in.
  • ★The tea house at Ribeira Primeira serves local herbal infusions and Portuguese coffee—arrive with an appetite as beverages aren't included but are reasonably priced.
  • ★Sea sickness can be an issue on the catamaran; take medication before boarding if prone, and sit amidships for the smoothest ride.
  • ★Bring a light waterproof layer for both the jeep (cool at altitude) and the boat (sea spray and wind).

Good to know

  • •Total duration is 8 hours; bring sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, and a light jacket for the 1,818m peak where temperatures drop significantly.
  • •Dolphin/whale sightings are likely but not guaranteed; if none are spotted, a complimentary second boat trip is offered.
  • •Summer months offer an optional swimming opportunity at Cabo Girao; bring swimwear if interested.
  • •All beverages and meals are excluded from the base price; budget extra for refreshments at the tea house and on the boat.
  • •The open-roof jeep means direct sun exposure and wind; secure any loose items and wear sunscreen.

Who it's for

Adventure seekers combining mountain and marine experiences in one dayNature photographers wanting volcanic peaks, terraced landscapes, and cetacean wildlifeCouples or small groups seeking a comprehensive Madeira overview without multiple bookingsActive travellers comfortable with 8 hours of travel and moderate heights

Best time to visit

Visit May–September for warmest weather, calmest seas, and the highest chance of dolphin sightings and Cabo Girao swimming. Morning departures (early summer especially) offer the clearest mountain visibility before afternoon cloud cover.

Frequently asked questions

From
€89
per person