The São Vicente Caves were formed 890,000 years ago when archaic humans struggled for survival against mammoths and sabre-toothed tigers. For an unforgettable journey, read “Things To Do In Madeira“. Don’t travel to Funchal without reading “Things To Do In Funchal“.
The massive volcanic eruption in Paul da Serra cooled and solidified on the surface with lower temperatures but continued to flow underground, forming tunnels known as the São Vicente Caves.
- Coordinates: 32.797572, -17.042076
Their discovery by the Madeirans in 1885 captivated the naturalist James Johnson, studying crustaceans, anemones, terrestrial spiders, flowers, mosses, and many other aspects of nature on Madeira. They were opened as an educational space in 1996.
How to Get to São Vicente from Funchal
Follow the ER101 and then the ER104 towards João Abel de Freitas Road in São Vicente. This should take about half an hour. Stay on the left and continue for another 1.2 km. The total distance is 34 km and takes around 35 minutes.
The entrance to the caves is located near a car park next to the road. Additionally, there is a souvenir shop and a café overlooking the valley, which helps to distract you while waiting for your turn to explore the caves. Parking is free of charge.
Address & Contacts
Address: Sítio do Pé do Passo, 9240-039 São Vicente
Phone: 291 842 404
Map
Opening Hours
Open from Tuesday to Sunday, between 9:00 am and 6:00 pm (last visit at 5:15 pm).
Price
The entrance fee is 8 euros for adults and 6 euros for groups.
Experience
They are like a portal to another dimension where nature and science meet.
The visit is divided into two: the caves and the volcano centre.
We walk through stunning galleries with majestic lighting in all its amplitude. Water serenely flows through the porous rock, creating crystal clear pools of water that hover around 10°C.
The caves have a temperature of 16 degrees Celsius, so don’t forget to bring warm clothing. They are well-lit and signposted, but one must be careful with the stairs and uneven floor.
And we can’t forget the ambient music accompanying us throughout the visit. For children, the caves are an enchanted world full of mysteries and secrets to unravel.
The journey ends at the Volcano Center. We are taken in a simulated elevator to the “heart of the earth.” It culminates in a 3D film about the formation of Madeira.
The guides are attentive, explaining every detail with meticulous precision. It’s a true journey through time, making us feel part of the island’s history. It enchants young explorers and piques the curiosity of adults.
Things To Do Nearby
From São Vicente, the VE4 road provides access to the southern coast – a 35-minute journey to Funchal.
Towards the west, the natural saltwater pools of Porto Moniz are one of the most popular destinations on the island.
Heading towards the east, we find the famous triangular thatched houses, known as palheiros, which have become one of the icons of Santana, Madeira.
Between São Vicente and Santana are located the two highest points of Madeira Island: Pico Ruivo and Pico do Arieiro.
The PR 1 – Vereda do Pico do Areeiro trail connects these peaks, a takes 4 to 6 hours to complete.
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