Exploring the eastern side of Madeira Island can be an exhilarating experience. The Madeira: East Tour (Pico Arieiro, Faial, Caniçal) offers travelers an opportunity to discover the island’s natural wonders and cultural heritage. Led by an English-speaking guide, the small-group excursion promises stunning views, off-road adventures, and a chance to take in the UNESCO-protected Laurisilva forest. From the iconic Pico do Arieiro to the picturesque Santana, this tour promises to leave visitors with a deeper appreciation for Madeira’s captivating landscape and its enduring traditions. What makes this tour truly remarkable, however, is the chance to uncover the lesser-known facets of this enchanting island.
Key Points
- This 8-hour small-group tour explores the eastern side of Madeira island, including stops at Pico do Arieiro, Ribeiro Frio, Santana, São Roque do Faial, and Ponta de São Lourenço.
- The tour features an off-road experience in a classic Portuguese jeep and exploration of the UNESCO-protected Laurisilva forest.
- Highlights include panoramic viewpoints, scenic photo stops, and a 1.5-hour lunch break in the traditional village of Santana.
- Hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as the jeep ride, are included in the tour package.
- The tour is available year-round, with pricing starting from Kč 1,773 per person and a small-group size of up to 6 participants.
Tour Overview
The Madeira East Tour is an 8-hour small-group excursion (limited to 6 participants) led by a live English-speaking guide, providing an opportunity to explore the eastern side of the island.
The tour includes several stops, such as Pico do Arieiro for a photo op and visit, Ribeiro Frio for a break and walk, Santana for a visit and lunch, São Roque do Faial for a photo stop and walk, and Ponta de São Lourenço for a photo stop.
Highlights of the tour include the chance to ride in a classic Portuguese jeep, an off-road experience, and the exploration of the Laurisilva and various viewpoints.
Hotel pickup and drop-off, the jeep ride, and photography are all included in the tour.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Madeira.
Itinerary
The tour begins with a photo stop and visit at Pico do Arieiro, allowing participants to take in the stunning views from this prominent peak.
Afterward, the group heads to Ribeiro Frio for a break, photo opportunities, and a 40-minute walk through the lush Laurisilva forest.
Next, the tour visits Santana, where guests can explore the traditional A-frame houses and enjoy a 1.5-hour lunch.
The journey continues with a photo stop and 25-minute walk at São Roque do Faial, followed by a final photo stop at Ponta de São Lourenço, showcasing the dramatic coastal landscapes.
The itinerary includes:
- Pico do Arieiro: Photo stop and visit
- Ribeiro Frio: Break, photo stop, 40-minute walk
- Santana: Visit, 1.5-hour lunch
Highlights
Participants can look forward to an off-road experience aboard a classic Portuguese jeep, providing an opportunity to explore the stunning Laurisilva forest.
This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to a unique and ancient laurel forest, offering a glimpse into Madeira’s natural heritage.
The tour also includes visits to several scenic viewpoints, known as miradouros, where participants can capture breathtaking vistas of the island’s dramatic landscapes.
Whether it’s the rugged cliffs of Ponta de São Lourenço or the picturesque village of Santana, the East Tour promises an immersive and memorable experience showcasing the best of Madeira’s eastern region.
Includes
Along With the off-road adventure and scenic viewpoints, this Madeira East Tour includes several key elements that enhance the overall experience.
First, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day.
Secondly, guests will have the opportunity to ride in a classic Portuguese jeep, adding to the authentic and immersive nature of the tour.
Finally, the tour includes visits to beautiful and attractive places, allowing participants to fully explore the stunning landscapes of Madeira.
With these thoughtful inclusions, the Madeira East Tour offers a well-rounded and enriching experience for all who embark on this captivating journey.
More Great Tours NearbyAvailability and Booking
For the Madeira East Tour, pricing starts from Kč 1,773 per person, and participants can reserve their spot online while taking advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.
The tour operates with a small group of up to 6 people, ensuring a more personalized experience. The tour is available throughout the year, subject to availability, and guests can expect a full-day adventure exploring the scenic eastern side of Madeira.
With convenient hotel pickup and drop-off included, travelers can sit back and enjoy the journey, capturing stunning photos along the way. The Madeira East Tour offers a comprehensive and flexible way to discover the island’s natural wonders.
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Pico Do Arieiro
The Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak, offers visitors a stunning photo opportunity with its dramatic, jagged ridges and panoramic vistas. After a short 25-minute stop, travelers can soak in the breathtaking views that stretch across the island’s central mountain range.
The peak’s distinctive rock formations, sculpted by centuries of erosion, create a dramatic and rugged landscape.
The vantage point provides sweeping views of Madeira’s lush, verdant interior, including the UNESCO-protected Laurisilva forest.
On a clear day, visitors can see the island’s southern coast and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean in the distance.
Ribeiro Frio
After the stunning views at Pico do Arieiro, the tour moves on to Ribeiro Frio, where travelers enjoy a 40-minute break and photo stop. This picturesque spot features a tranquil stream and lush, verdant surroundings within the Laurisilva forest, offering a peaceful respite during the day’s adventures.
| Ribeiro Frio | ||
|---|---|---|
| Break Time | 40 minutes | |
| Photo Stop | ||
| Walk | Scenic forest trails | |
| Highlights | Laurisilva forest | Tranquil stream |
| Activities | Relaxation | Photography |
The serene atmosphere and natural beauty of Ribeiro Frio provide a delightful contrast to the earlier dramatic vistas, allowing travelers to recharge before the next leg of the East Tour.
Santana and São Roque Do Faial
Next, the tour heads to the charming town of Santana, where travelers enjoy a 1.5-hour visit and lunch. Santana is known for its traditional A-frame thatched-roof houses, providing a unique glimpse into Madeira’s architectural and cultural heritage.
After the stop in Santana, the tour proceeds to São Roque do Faial, offering another 25-minute photo opportunity and short walk amidst the stunning natural scenery.
The highlights of this portion of the tour include:
- Exploring the quaint and picturesque village of Santana, famous for its distinctive A-frame houses.
- Enjoying a leisurely lunch break while immersing in the local culture and cuisine.
- Capturing breathtaking photos at the scenic viewpoint of São Roque do Faial.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Group Size for This Tour?
The group size for this tour is limited to 6 participants. It’s a small group tour, providing a more intimate and personalized experience for your.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour is suitable for children, with a small group size limited to 6 participants. It includes hotel pickup/drop-off, a classic jeep ride, and opportunities to explore beautiful scenic locations. However, the duration of 8 hours may be challenging for young children.
Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment?
Yes, you can bring your own camera equipment on the tour. The tour allows and encourages participants to capture the stunning landscapes and scenery along the way using their personal photography gear.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Lunch?
The tour does not have any specific dietary restrictions for the lunch. However, it is recommended to inform the tour operator of any dietary needs or allergies in advance so they can accommodate you during the meal.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour company offers an 8-hour standard tour, but there may be an option to extend the duration for an additional fee. Travelers should inquire about this possibility when booking the tour to accommodate their preferences.
Madeira: East Tour (Pico Arieiro, Faial, Caničal)
Recap
The Madeira: East Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the island’s eastern region, showcasing its natural wonders and cultural heritage.
Travelers can expect stunning vistas, an immersive off-road experience, and a guided journey through the UNESCO-protected Laurisilva forest.
This small-group excursion provides an opportunity to discover Madeira’s diverse landscapes and unique charm, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a well-rounded island adventure.
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