If you’re exploring the west or north of Madeira, we recommend a stopover to admire one of the island’s largest waterfalls! Garganta Funda is off the beaten track and surrounded by breathtaking scenery. We loved discovering it!
Here are some useful tips to help you prepare for your visit and have a wonderful time!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
Why visit Cascade Garganta Funda?
Is this waterfall worth a visit? Our opinion:
Absolutely! Garganta Funda is one of Madeira’s highest and most spectacular waterfalls, with a height of around 140m. We loved this waterfall gushing out of a jagged hillside into the Atlantic Ocean.
It’s one of Madeira’s secret, off-the-beaten-track spots!
Our favorite moments
We enjoyed our visit to this majestic site:
- the short walk to the viewpoint, very pleasant and easy
- see the balcony suspended over the ocean
- savouring every moment of our observation of this remarkable waterfall and the magnificent surrounding landscape
OUR GUIDE TO PLANNING A Dream trip
- 7 maps that make planning easier
- + 120 pre-selected locations
- Practical advice
- + 260 photos to help you choose
How to get to Garganta Funda: access and map
Where’s the waterfall?
- On Madeira’s east coast
- Driving time from Funchal: 1h
- Driving time from Porto Moniz: 30min
Here is a map to help you find your way:
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING YOUR CAR AT Madeira
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Take a car with a good engine for hilly roads, but not too big for manoeuvring.
- There’s plenty of demand and few cars, so book early.
How to get there?
The easiest way to get to the waterfall is by car. The last 500 meters of the route are on a small country road. The waterfall is signposted throughout the village.
Once you’ve parked at the trailhead, it’s a 5-minute walk to the Miradouro.
Parking
You will arrive at the trailhead where you can park. However, there is no parking lot as such. It’s more like a space where you can park about 3 cars.
Useful tips: duration, schedules, difficulties…
Best time to visit
It seems to us that the best time to visit Garganta Funda is a few days after heavy rains, when the waterfall’s flow is more impressive. On the other hand, the waterfall may be completely dry in summer. You can visit the site at any time of day.
WHERE TO STAY IN Madeira
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
Length of visit and main difficulties
The visit to Garganta Funda doesn’t take very long. We recommend you allow about 30min to 1h on site. The trail is short but can be slippery if it has rained a lot. We recommend that you wear good shoes. The main difficulty is to remain vigilant near cliffs.
Catering, Toilets and Facilities
We didn’t see any restaurants, toilets or other facilities on the Garganta Funda site. The nearest amenities are in the village of Ponta do Pargo, just a few kilometers away. Remember to bring water and snacks if you need them!
OUR FAVORITE ACTIVITY IN Madeira
Catamaran tour to see dolphins and Madeira’s giant cliffs.
The path to the Miradouro
The access path to the viewpoint where you can see the Garganta Funda waterfall is short and easy. We enjoyed this short walk, which is easy to plan at any time of day. Why not plan a breakfast overlooking the beautiful Garganta Funda, for example?
Along the trail, you’ll be able to observe a number of local plant species. We loved the flowers that lined the path during our visit.
The majestic Cascade de Garganta Funda
From the observation platform overlooking the ocean, we marveled at this great waterfall. The Ribeiro dos Moinhos river, flowing directly from the cliffs of Ponta do Pargo into the Atlantic Ocean, is a spectacular sight. This 140m-high waterfall is one of the highest in Madeira.
Panoramic views
We loved the panoramic views from the trail or the lookout. In addition to the beautiful waterfall, you can also see..:
- The Atlantic Ocean and the cliffs of Madeira’s northwest coast
- Ponta do Pargo lighthouse, atop a 290-metre cliff
Wildlife
During our visit, we came across a few species of local fauna. It was a reminder of just how much plant and animal life there is on this island.
Subscribe to our Newsletter
- Get away from it all with Region Lovers’ beautiful destinations!
- Once a month
- Advertising-free
Frequently asked questions
What to see around Garganta Funda?
There are many points of interest around the waterfall, here are our favorites:
- The Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz: a cable car that lets you discover the region’s landscapes.
- The Porto Moniz Natural Pools A marvel for those looking for a different kind of nautical experience. They form between lava rocks, providing a striking backdrop.
- Miradouro do Pico Vermelho: a panoramic viewpoint offering views of the coast and cliffs
PLAN YOUR STAY IN Madeira
Best of
Things to do in Madeira
Most beautiful viewpoints
Madeira’s most beautiful beaches
Most beautiful gardens
Natural pools
Most beautiful hikes
Most beautiful roads
Secret places
Practical advice
Getting around Madeira
Rent a car in Madeira
Driving in Madeira
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 6 days – 7 days – 10 days
