The Garganta Funda waterfall, also known as the Garganta Funda viewpoint, is located in the westernmost part of Madeira, in Ponta do Pargo, Calheta. It is a true spectacle of nature, capable of awakening even the most taciturn among us.
To explore more tourist attractions, we recommend Things To Do In Madeira. To get to know Funchal better, read What To Do In Funchal.
When to Visit?
To fully appreciate the magnificence of the waterfall, the best time to visit is during the winter and early spring. After heavy rainfall, it comes to life and fills our eyes and ears with its unique beauty.
During summer, the waterfall may become completely dry or have only a trickle of water. Therefore, visit accordingly and choose the optimal time to witness the spectacular display of nature’s power.
How to get to Garganta Funda Waterfall from Funchal?
To reach the impressive Cascata da Garganta Funda from Funchal, we drive for about an hour, but it’s definitely worth it.
Start by taking the Via Rápida (VR1) towards Ribeira Brava, then continue onto the Via Expresso (VE3) towards Calheta. At the end of VE3, take the first exit towards Estrada Regional 101.
Between Ponta do Pargo and Achadas da Cruz, you’ll find signs guiding you to the waterfall.
Map
- Coordinates: 32.819174, -17.247111
The Experience
From this location, we walk around 10 minutes on the Vereda da Garganta Funda, a path leading through a dirt road until we reach the Miradouro.
At the end of the path, we will discover a small viewpoint beneath the majestic 140-meter-high waterfall and the pool formed by the falling water.
The water sound echoes off the rocky walls, blending with the strong winds to create a wild and imposing atmosphere. It’s like a drumbeat reverberating through the hillside.
In the distance, we can spot the Ponta do Pargo lighthouse, adding a touch of charm to the landscape. At the end of the day, it becomes a silhouette against the colourful sky, perfect for testing your photographic skills.
Vereda da Garganta Funda
The easy walk takes about 25 minutes, but it’s enough to transport us to an untouched natural world.
Make sure to wear shoes that provide balance on irregular and sometimes slippery terrain, such as sturdy sneakers or hiking boots.
The starting point is on Caminho do Pedregal and is clearly marked, without steep slopes or risks of accidents.
As we approach the viewpoint, our heart starts to beat faster. And then the reward appears before us: on the left, the majestic waterfall, resembling an epic shower, and on the right, the imposing Atlantic.
How long does it take?
The trail is a 1.2 km walk that takes about 25 minutes (round trip).
Difficulty Level
Easy
Other trails with waterfalls in Madeira that might interest you:
Levada do Caldeirão Verde
Any Last Minute Tips?
Due to its location on a slope exposed to maritime winds, be aware of possible wind gusts.
Small children require constant supervision as there is a risk of falling.
Due to the steep terrain, wear shoes with good grip.
On all hikes, it is essential to have water and food.
For photography enthusiasts, it is highly recommended to do the pedestrian route around sunset.
Things do to nearby:
After admiring the splendour of the Garganta Funda Waterfall, it’s time to discover other fascinating places along the west coast of Madeira.
Visit the magical Ponta do Pargo Lighthouse, where you can enjoy incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Don’t miss the nearby Miradouro do Fio for more breathtaking views.
If the hike leaves you hungry, try some delicious meat dishes at O Forno, one of the best meat restaurants in Madeira.
Take the opportunity to explore the charming pebble beach at Achadas da Cruz, which can be reached via a cable car with stunning views of the surrounding cliffs.
And finally, discover the famous natural pools of Porto Moniz along the northwest coast of Madeira.
