Sao Jorge Madeira is a fantastic place for exploring on a tour. Its lush landscapes, volcanic scenery, and authentic local culture make it a perfect destination for those looking to experience Madeira beyond the usual tourist spots. We particularly enjoy the Levada do Rei hike, which offers a chance to walk through the iconic Laurissilva forest, and the North-East Coast 4×4 tour, which takes you on a rugged journey into Madeira’s less-visited corners. Both experiences showcase the island’s natural beauty and cultural richness, giving travelers a real sense of the place. If you want an authentic taste of local life, the Sao Jorge Cheese Tour provides a hands-on look at traditional cheese-making, a staple of island life.
Madeira offers a variety of tours suited for different interests and activity levels—from scenic hikes and off-road adventures to cultural tastings and guided explorations. To help you decide, we’ve put together a list of the five best tours on the island, each with its own unique appeal. Whether you’re after an active day in nature or a relaxed cultural experience, there’s something here for you.
1. Madeira: PR 18 – Levada do Rei Hike Transfer with Host
At number one, the Madeira: PR 18 – Levada do Rei Hike Transfer with Host takes the top spot for its combination of self-guided hiking and hassle-free logistics. This 6-hour experience starts with a pickup from Funchal, where a local host briefs you on safety and provides maps. The real star here is the Levada do Rei, a trail renowned for its lush scenery and proximity to the Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walking at your own pace, you’ll pass streams, tunnels, and diverse vegetation that make every step memorable.
What makes this tour stand out is its balance of independence and support. You get to explore the trail—the lush greenery, the tunnels, the streams—without the stress of planning transportation. The guide’s briefing ensures safety, and the flexibility means you can savor the experience whether you prefer a brisk walk or a leisurely stroll. It’s perfect for nature lovers comfortable with a bit of self-direction. The reviews are excellent—averaging 4.8 out of 5 from over 100 travelers—highlighting the friendly host and stunning landscape.
Bottom Line: If you want a self-guided, scenic hike with easy logistics, this is one of the best options for enjoying Madeira’s natural beauty.
2. Madeira private 4×4 tour: North-East Coast
Number two on our list is the Madeira private 4×4 tour of the North-East Coast. This full-day adventure lets you explore Madeira’s rugged northern landscapes with a local driver-guide in a Land Rover Discovery. The tour covers hidden spots like the volcanic center, scenic seaside chapel, and the traditional rum distillery in Porto da Cruz. It’s a great way to see the island’s less-accessible areas without doing the driving yourself.
The itinerary is packed with highlights, including panoramic views from Ponta Delgada, exploring the terraced hills of Boa Ventura, and soaking in natural pools. The guide is knowledgeable and shares insights into Madeira’s history, culture, and rum heritage, making it more than just a scenic drive. Guests appreciate the flexible, personalized approach, and the private format suits travelers who want a tailored experience.
The tour’s reviews are outstanding—rated 5 out of 5 from four reviews—reflecting high satisfaction for its comprehensive coverage and the guide’s friendliness. It’s ideal for active travelers who want to see Madeira’s remote beauty with ease and comfort.
Bottom Line: For a full-day, personalized exploration of Madeira’s north-east, this tour offers comfort, insider knowledge, and access to spots few visitors see.
3. Sao Jorge Cheese Tour – Half day
Number three is the Sao Jorge Cheese Tour, perfect for those interested in local food traditions. This half-day experience dives into the island’s dairy heritage, with visits to family farms and cheese cooperatives. You’ll learn how cheese is made, from milking cows by hand to packaging, and taste the cheese at various stages of production.
What makes this tour special is the authentic, hands-on approach. You can watch the traditional methods in action and sample fresh milk and cheese. The tour includes a visit to the Union of Agricultural and Dairy Cooperatives of São Jorge, where you’ll learn about the island’s customs and the importance of dairy farming to the local economy. The tour lasts about 3-4 hours and is suitable for all ages.
Rated 4.4 out of 5 from eight reviews, travelers appreciate the opportunity to experience local life firsthand. The guide’s explanations bring the process to life, making it a memorable culinary journey.
Bottom Line: If you want a relaxed, educational taste of Madeira’s rural traditions, this cheese tour offers delicious insights and authentic experiences.
4. Certified Local Guide
Number four, the Certified Local Guide tour, offers a dedicated guide to introduce you to São Jorge’s diverse scenery and hidden corners. This 8-hour private tour is ideal if you want a flexible, personalized day with a local expert. The guide is certified, meaning you get a deeper, more insightful experience, with tips on photography, local customs, and must-see spots.
The itinerary is flexible but often includes stops in Velas, Sāo Jorge, and the marina area in Velas, with plenty of time for photos and exploring at a relaxed pace. The guide’s local knowledge ensures you see the island through a genuine lens, and the private format allows for customization based on your interests. The tour is suitable for travelers who want a tailored experience with a local who knows the ins and outs of São Jorge.
The reviews are positive, emphasizing the guide’s expertise and the personalized nature of the tour. If you’re after a comprehensive and customized day, this option provides excellent value.
Bottom Line: For a fully personalized, in-depth exploration of São Jorge with a knowledgeable local, this guided tour is hard to beat.
5. Madeira: North Coast Island Tour
Rounding out our list is the Madeira North Coast Island Tour, a full-day self-guided experience. Starting from Funchal, it covers key villages like Ponta Delgada, São Jorge, and Santa Cruz, with scenic viewpoints like Pico do Facho. The tour provides a detailed itinerary for self-guided exploration, making it perfect for independent travelers who enjoy driving and discovering on their own.
You’ll visit local landmarks, explore the Old Town in Santa Cruz, and enjoy the panoramic views that Madeira’s north coast is famous for. The route is designed for flexibility, with recommended stops and points of interest, so you can take your time. The tour is accessible for travelers with mobility considerations and includes detailed directions to help you navigate.
While it doesn’t include a guide, the self-guided format allows you to set your own pace. It’s ideal for confident drivers who want to explore at their leisure and those on a budget, as it offers a full day of discovery without added guide fees.
Bottom Line: For independent explorers comfortable with maps and driving, this North Coast tour promises a comprehensive look at Madeira’s scenic northern villages.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Choosing the best tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much structure you prefer. If you love hiking and want to learn about nature, the Levada do Rei hike offers a flexible, scenic experience. For those seeking off-road adventure and cultural insights, the North-East Coast 4×4 tour provides comfort and personalized narration.
Food lovers will enjoy the Sao Jorge Cheese Tour, which combines learning with tasting. If you prefer guided, in-depth exploration with a local expert, the Certified Local Guide is ideal. Lastly, for travelers who prefer to explore on their own, the North Coast self-guided tour offers maximum flexibility.
Think about how active you want to be, whether you want a group or private experience, and how much time you want to spend. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Sao Jorge Madeira offers a rich array of tours suitable for different travel styles. The Levada do Rei hike and the North-East Coast 4×4 tour showcase the island’s stunning landscapes, while the cheese tour adds a flavorful cultural touch. For personalized experiences, the Certified Local Guide or a private tour can make your visit truly memorable.
Whether you’re after an active day in nature, a cultural deep dive, or a flexible self-drive adventure, Madeira’s diverse tour options ensure you’ll find something that fits your interests. To avoid missing out, consider booking your preferred tour early, especially during busy travel periods. Madeira’s unique charm is best experienced with a bit of planning—and these tours are a fantastic way to do just that.
