Eastern Madeira: Full-Day Tour with Rum Tasting

If you’re considering a guided trip to Madeira’s east side, you’ve probably seen plenty of options. This particular full-day tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of the island’s diverse landscapes — from towering peaks to lush valleys and scenic coastlines. It’s a popular choice, especially given its attractive price point of just $34 per person for a full eight hours of exploration.

What really stands out for us are the spectacular panoramic views from Pico Arieiro and Ponta de São Lourenço, and the chance to visit the only steam rum distillery in Europe — a unique experience that adds a flavorful touch to the day. Another highlight is the small group size, which means more personalized attention and less feeling like just another face in the crowd.

On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the itinerary can be quite packed, so it might be a long day, especially if you’re not used to early starts or lots of moving around. Plus, some stops, like the Guindaste Skywalk, depend on traffic and local festivities, which might mean changes or shorter visits. Still, if you love natural scenery, great guides, and a taste of local craftsmanship, this tour tends to hit the right notes.

This experience is a good fit for travelers who want a rundown of Madeira’s eastern side without breaking the bank. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a combination of scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and tasty local spirits. If your goal is a relaxed, in-depth exploration, you might want to look for something more leisurely, but if you’re after variety and value, this tour delivers.

Key Points

• Affordable price with a lot packed into 8 hours
• Stunning viewpoints like Pico Arieiro and São Lourenço
• Knowledgeable guides praised for their friendliness and insight
• Diverse stops, from waterfalls to traditional houses and rum distilleries
• Small group setting for a more personal experience
• Some stops are weather-dependent or may change based on local circumstances

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Madeira East Tour

If you’re looking to understand what this tour really offers, let’s break down the day step by step. We’ll cover what makes each stop special, what you can expect, and why it might be worth your while.

Starting with the Logistics

The tour begins with hotel pickups across Santa Cruz, Caniço, and Funchal, which is convenient and helps avoid the hassle of public transport or taxis. The journey kicks off early, giving you a full eight hours of exploration, and the small group size — limited to 14 people — promises a more relaxed, personable experience. A key plus here is the guide/driver who stays with you throughout, sharing insights and keeping the pace comfortable.

The Scenic Drive and Pico Arieiro

The first major highlight is the drive through Funchal’s steep, winding roads, passing eucalyptus and mimosa forests. Before long, you’ll reach Pico Arieiro, one of Madeira’s highest peaks at 1,800 meters. This spot offers breathtaking views and some of the best photo opportunities on the island. Even if the weather isn’t perfect—say, fog or rain—the scenery around Pico Arieiro is still impressive, giving you a sense of Madeira’s rugged terrain.

Many reviews praise guides like Carlos or Daniel for their knowledge and friendliness, which really enhances the experience. As one reviewer put it: “Carlos was incredible and was so knowledgeable about the area,” and others mention how the guides avoid rushing, making the day enjoyable rather than hurried.

A Short Walk in Ribeiro Frio

Next, you’ll visit the Laurisilva forest at Ribeiro Frio, where you can opt for a short 50-minute walk along the levada water channels. This is a true highlight for nature lovers — lush, green, and full of birdlife. The Balcões viewpoint offers panoramic vistas over the mountains and valleys, and if you’re lucky, you might be greeted by the charming chaffinch, as some reviews mention.

The walk isn’t strenuous, but it’s a good chance to stretch your legs and breathe in the fresh mountain air. Many say that the guide’s explanations make this stop all the more enriching, offering insights about the island’s flora and history.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Guindaste Skywalk

One of the more recent highlights added to this tour is the Guindaste Skywalk — a glass platform overlooking the cliffs and eagle’s rock. It’s a photo magnet, and the thrill of walking on glass over the abyss is memorable. However, this stop may be affected by traffic or local festivities, so it’s wise to keep your expectations flexible.

Guests who have visited often mention that the entrance is free, and it’s a perfect spot for those iconic pictures of Madeira’s dramatic coastlines. Some reviews note that this stop is a bit of a traffic-dependent addition, but still worth it if you love a good viewpoint.

Santana’s Traditional Houses

The colorful, thatched houses of Santana are a well-loved photo stop and give a taste of Madeira’s rural architecture. Here, you can walk around the village, admire the traditional Vinho vines, and, if visiting on a weekend, browse the local farmers’ market.

Lunch is not included, so you’ll want to bring some cash or plan to eat in Santana. Many reviewers appreciate that the tour includes a pause for food and rest, especially since it breaks up the day nicely.

Porto da Cruz and Rum Tasting

The visit to the Porto da Cruz Rum Factory is one of the tour’s unique features. You get a rum tasting, which is often praised as a highlight. The factory is the only steam rum distillery in Europe, making it quite special. Some travelers even take a dip in the nearby black sandy beach if the weather allows — July and August are best for swimming.

Guests like Sarah, who said, “Tony was brilliant,” and Anna, who described the guide as “incredible,” consistently mention the rum tasting as a fun and informative part of the trip. It’s a chance to learn about Madeira’s local spirit, and many find the tasting session to be generous and authentic.

Ponta de São Lourenço and the Dragon’s Back

As the tour winds toward its end, you’ll visit Ponta de São Lourenço, the easternmost cape of Madeira. The scenic views here are striking, with rugged cliffs and the chance to see the famous Dragon’s Back formation. The quick 20-minute stop offers fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to stretch your legs again.

Many reviews highlight the views and the landscape, with some noting that even if the weather is cloudy, the scenery still impresses. It’s a fitting end to the day’s exploration of the island’s easternmost tip.

Final Stop and Return

After a full day of sightseeing, the tour heads back to your hotel, typically arriving in the late afternoon or early evening. The drop-off locations are numerous, giving you flexibility whether you’re staying in Funchal or nearby.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The value for money here is a big draw, especially with a price of just $34. You’re getting a lot of diverse experiences in one day: mountain vistas, lush forests, cultural sights, and even a rum tasting. The small group setting ensures you’re not just another number, with guides praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

The scenic viewpoints like Pico Arieiro and São Lourenço are genuinely breathtaking, giving you a real sense of Madeira’s rugged beauty. The Levada walk in Ribeiro Frio is a peaceful contrast to the more panoramic stops, offering a chance to connect quietly with nature.

Many travelers also appreciate the flexibility built into the tour — stops are timed appropriately, and guides seem eager to customize based on weather and group interests. The rum tasting adds a fun, local flavor, making the experience more memorable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for active travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic beauty, mild walking, and cultural stops. It suits those on a budget but looking for a rundown of Madeira’s east side. If you’re a nature lover, you’ll appreciate the lush forest, mountain views, and coastline.

It’s also a good pick if you’re curious about Madeira’s local spirits or want a brief taste of traditional villages. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are traveling with very young children, you might find it a bit full-on or long.

The Sum Up

All in all, this full-day tour offers great value and a well-rounded look at Madeira’s eastern landscapes and culture. The combination of spectacular viewpoints, nature walks, and rum tasting strikes a nice balance for curious travelers who want to see a lot without feeling rushed.

The guides’ knowledge and friendliness are often highlighted as some of the best parts, making the experience more personal and engaging. Plus, the small group size helps keep the day intimate and flexible. The main consideration is the long, packed schedule, so if you prefer a slower trip, you might want to look for something more leisurely.

If you’re keen to explore Madeira’s east with a local guide, enjoy scenic vistas, and try some authentic Madeira rum, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially good for those who want a cost-effective way to pack in a diverse range of sights and activities in a single day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s generally suitable for those who enjoy moderate walking and sightseeing. The short levada walk is manageable for most, but keep in mind the day’s length and getting in and out of the bus.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera are recommended. If you plan to walk the levada, wear sturdy footwear.

Does the tour pick up at my hotel?
Most hotels in Santa Cruz, Caniço, and Funchal are included. There are additional pickup costs for certain hotels in Santa Cruz, but Caniço and Garajau are free of charge.

What about lunch?
Lunch isn’t included, so you should plan to bring some cash or buy something during the Santana stop. There’s a local market on weekends if you visit then.

Can I join if I’m arriving by cruise?
Yes, cruise guests are directed to meet at the CR7 Museum. Pickup from the cruise port is possible if arranged in advance.

How long is the drive between stops?
While exact times vary, the tour covers quite a bit of ground, so expect some long drives interspersed with sightseeing stops.

Is the rum tasting included?
Yes, the rum tasting at Porto Cruz is free and considered a highlight by many travelers.

What if the weather is bad?
The guides are experienced at adapting the schedule. Stops like Pico Arieiro might be affected, but overall, the tour continues with alternative viewpoints and activities.

Overall, if you’re after a value-packed, scenic, and culturally rich day in Madeira’s east, this tour offers a lot for a modest price, guided by friendly, knowledgeable locals.

You can check availability for your dates here: