Madeira Funchal:East Tour Pico Arieiro & Santana&Laurissilva

Making sense of Madeira’s diverse landscapes can be a challenge, but this Madeira Funchal: East Tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the island’s natural beauty and cultural quirks. If you’re after an experience that combines dramatic mountain vistas, lush forests, charming villages, and some adrenaline-pumping viewpoints, this tour might just fit the bill.

What we love most? The small group setting makes for a personal, engaging experience—and the flexible pick-up and drop-off options mean you won’t have to worry about transport logistics. Plus, the extra time allocated at each stop ensures you can really soak in the views, snap photos, or just breathe in the fresh mountain air.

However, a word of caution: the tour runs longer than the advertised 7 hours (some reviews mention 8 hours) and includes a lengthy 1.5-hour stop in Santana for lunch. While this is great for relaxation and trying local food, it might feel a bit long for travelers eager to pack every minute with sightseeing.

This tour suits those who love nature, authentic experiences, and don’t mind a relaxed pace. Families, couples, or solo travelers looking to see Madeira’s highlights without renting a car will find it offers excellent value and insight.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Flexible pick-up and drop-off options make logistics easier and more convenient.
• Extra time at each stop allows for thorough exploration and photo opportunities.
• Comprehensive itinerary covers mountain peaks, lush forests, traditional villages, and stunning viewpoints.
• Excellent value for money at just $36 per person for full-day exploration.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance understanding of Madeira’s landscape and history.
• Optional walk to Balcões is accessible and offers breathtaking views.
• Tour duration is about 7 hours but may extend slightly, so be prepared for a full day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Authentic Experience of Madeira’s East Coast

This guided tour is designed to showcase the very best of Madeira’s eastern landscape and cultural charm. From the moment you’re picked up at your hotel (or residence), you’re immersed in a well-organized plan that balances sightseeing, cultural insight, and plenty of opportunities for photos and relaxing breaks.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Terreiro da Luta & Senhora da Paz Sanctuary

Your journey begins in Funchal with a visit to the monumental Senhora da Paz Sanctuary, built as a vow during wartime in 1917. This marble statue, nearly five meters tall, is a symbol of local resilience. The nearby Terreiro da Luta offers a quick photo stop, setting the tone for a day steeped in both natural and cultural richness.

What travelers love: “The history of the Island was very informative and well delivered by Nelson,” as one review highlights the engaging narration provided by guides. It’s a meaningful start, blending history with scenic views.

Tip: Expect a brief stop here, perfect for stretching your legs and snapping a good shot.

Stop 2: Pico do Arieiro (1818m)

Next, you’ll ascend to Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak. The accessible drive up offers jaw-dropping vistas of jagged mountains and clouds hovering just below the summit. It’s a favorite for sunrise but equally mesmerizing in the afternoon.

What you’ll experience: A 25-minute stop for photos, a walk, and taking in the scenery. The view from the roadable summit is unforgettable, and many reviewers mention it as a highlight.

Review insight: “The drive to Pico Arieiro is the highlight for many, with some noting it’s the highest point you can reach by vehicle,” making it accessible without strenuous hikes.

Stop 3: Ribeiro Frio & Laurissilva Forest

This area introduces you to the UNESCO World Heritage Laurissilva Forest, a lush, ancient woodland filled with endemic flora. A flat, easy walk to the Balcões viewpoint (around 20 minutes) provides sweeping views over the forest and the island’s dramatic valleys.

What travelers love: “The Laurissilva forest has much of its original vegetation intact, and the walk is gentle enough for most,” say reviews. The area also features tranquil trout pools—if you like a peaceful nature moment.

Optional: If you’re up for a gentle levada walk, this is your chance, though it’s not always included in the standard tour.

Stop 4: Santana & Traditional Houses

Traveling to the charming village of Santana, known for its triangular thatched houses, you’ll get a taste of Madeira’s rural life. This is a perfect spot for photos, a quick walk, and perhaps picking up a souvenir or two.

What you’ll love: “Santana’s colorful houses and quaint streets are iconic,” a common comment. Plus, the local church and cafes add a cozy, authentic vibe.

Review insight: Tourists appreciate the 1.5-hour stop, giving enough time for a relaxed lunch, sightseeing, and shopping.

Stop 5: Miradouro do Guindaste & Porto da Cruz

Next, you’ll stop at Guindaste, a spectacular viewpoint over the north coast, featuring the new glass walkways—a recent addition that’s thrilling to stand on and perfect for photos.

In Porto da Cruz, a traditional fishing village, you can stroll along the sea promenade and visit the Engenho do Norte, a historic sugar factory turned museum.

What travelers say: “Porto da Cruz offers a taste of Madeira’s old-world charm,” and the view from Guindaste is described as “breathtaking.”

Optional: A quick walk here offers a chance to breathe in the sea breeze.

Stop 6: Pico do Facho & Ponta São Lourenço

The Pico do Facho provides a scenic overlook, while Ponta São Lourenço is a dramatic, rocky peninsula similar to a grand canyon. The landscape here is stark yet beautiful, with rugged cliffs meeting the ocean.

What you’ll like: “The combination of rocks, sea, and nature creates stunning contrasts,” say reviews. It’s an ideal spot for those who appreciate wild, untouched scenery.

Note: You’ll only have about 15-20 minutes at each, making it a quick but impactful visit.

Why This Tour Works

The beauty of this experience lies in its balanced pace and variety of sights. You get mountain peaks, lush forests, charming villages, and wild coastlines—all in one day. The small group setting ensures you get personalized attention, with guides often going beyond the script to answer questions and share insights.

The tour’s price of $36 per person is quite reasonable considering the number of stops, the transportation, and the guiding expertise. Many reviews praise the value for money, especially given how much ground you cover and the quality of the commentary.

The Guides and Their Impact

Guide quality seems to be a recurring highlight. Multiple reviewers mention knowledgeable, friendly guides like Nelson, Jose, Pedro, or Angelo—each bringing their own personality but consistently delivering engaging, insightful commentary. This personal touch elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing.

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Practical Aspects: Transportation, Timing, and Flexibility

The tour uses comfortable, small vans that are easy to get in and out of. Pick-up and drop-off are customizable—you’re collected from your hotel or residence, which saves wasted time and energy.

Timing is generally about 7 hours, but some travelers find it extends a little beyond that—depending on traffic and the length of stops, especially in Santana. The itinerary is well-structured, with extra time at key points for photos and breaks, which many appreciate.

Since the tour involves a less than 20-minute walk (to Balcões), it’s accessible for most people, and the pace is flexible enough for those who prefer a relaxed day.

The Bottom Line: Who Is This Tour Ideal For?

This Madeira East Tour hits all the right notes if you’re eager to see a wide range of natural and cultural sights without the hassle of driving or planning multiple excursions. It’s perfect for nature lovers, photographers, or anyone wanting a rundown of Madeira’s east side in one day.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, and appreciate guides who share stories and insights, this tour offers excellent value for money. It’s also suited for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace but still want to cover significant ground.

However, if you’re seeking a more intense, hiking-focused experience or a shorter day, you might consider other options. Still, for most visitors wanting an authentic taste of Madeira’s landscapes and villages, this tour provides a well-rounded, enjoyable, and memorable day.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour offers pick-up and drop-off at hotels, houses, or residences anywhere in Funchal or Caniço, making logistics simple.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts around 7 hours, but some reviews mention it can extend slightly longer, especially if you spend extra time at stops or during lunch.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Spanish, and Portuguese, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Is it suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, the tour involves a less than 20-minute walk at Balcões and other stops, making it accessible for most people. The overall pace is relaxed.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation, guide services, extra time at stops, and a short hike to Balcões. Meals or snacks are not included, but there is an optional lunch stop.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, sun protection, and a light jacket for higher altitudes. Be prepared for variable weather.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Generally, yes, especially since it’s relaxed and involves minimal walking, but check with the provider for specific age restrictions or recommendations.

Making the most of Madeira’s east coast is all about balancing scenic views, cultural insights, and relaxed exploration. This tour offers all three at a reasonable price, delivered by knowledgeable guides in a friendly, small-group setting. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, it’s a reliable option for experiencing Madeira’s natural splendor.

You can check availability for your dates here: