Grutas de São Vicente

Lava tubes from an eruption 890,000 years ago, walkable on a guided tour.

Lit lava tube passage inside the São Vicente caves
Photo: Koshelyev · Public domain

A network of volcanic caves formed by flowing lava, with about 700 m open to guided visits, plus a volcanism centre that explains how the island was built.

The tour

Guides walk small groups through lit tunnels with underground pools and lava formations, explaining the eruption that formed them. It takes about 30 minutes and runs in several languages.

The adjoining Centro de Vulcanismo has a simulated eruption and displays on Madeira's geology — better than it sounds, and good with children.

Practical

The caves are a constant 16–17°C and slightly damp; bring a light jacket. Tours run throughout the day, and it is one of the island's best wet-weather options.

Local tips

  • Combine with the town of São Vicente and the Ponta Delgada sea pool.

Guided trips here

Bookable tours that include or focus on this spot.

  • Open 4x4 jeep on a mountain track above green Madeiran valleys
    Full day Island-wide pickup

    West Madeira 4x4 Jeep Safari

    Porto Moniz lava pools, Seixal's black sand, the Fanal laurel forest and the Cabo Girão cliff skywalk, in a small open 4x4 with a local driver.

  • Signature Wine Tastings, Skywalk, Nature 4x4 Open Roof Expedition in Madeira
    7.5 hours Madeira 4.9(192)

    Signature Wine Tastings, Skywalk, Nature 4x4 Open Roof Expedition

    We drive to Serra d'Água on our way to São Vicente, with fantastic views over the north of the island including an amazing off-road in the heart of nature, enjoying beautiful panoramic views.

  • Madeira West Porto Moniz pools - Enchanted Terraces Fanal Unesco in Madeira
    8 hours Porto Moniz 4.8(744)

    Madeira West Porto Moniz pools - Enchanted Terraces Fanal Unesco

    Join us for an unforgettable adventure as we showcase the breathtaking beauty of Madeira's northwest coast.

  • Madeira Porto da Cruz to Machico Self Hiking Tour with Transfer in Madeira
    5 hours Machico 5.0(15)

    Madeira Porto da Cruz to Machico Self Hiking Tour with Transfer

    Embark on a self-guided hike from Porto da Cruz to Machico. Enjoy a scenic hike through the northeast coast of Madeira and admire the different vegetation and dramatic scenery changes.

  • West Tour-Fanal Forest & Porto Moniz Natural Pools Small Groups in Madeira
    7 hours Porto Moniz 4.9(372)

    West Tour-Fanal Forest & Porto Moniz Natural Pools Small Groups

    Visit some of the most spectacular views Madeira has to offer, this is one of the most complete tours you can do. From the Southern coast, through the centre plateau arriving to the northern coast. This tour stops in.

  • Madeira: Private Guided Half-Day Tour of Northwest Madeira in Madeira
    4 hours Madeira 4.9(8)

    Madeira: Private Guided Half-Day Tour of Northwest Madeira

    Start the day with a convenient pickup from your accommodation or the cruise port of Funchal and depart with your private guide to the first stop of tour at São Vicente, where you'll see a beautiful sight over the valley.

Stay nearby

Where to base yourself for this part of the island.

Nearby

Within a short drive, so they combine into one day.

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