Discover the east

Discover the East of Madeira: An Honest Look at the Guided Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Madeira and looking for a way to see the island’s highlights without the hassle of planning each stop, this “Discover the East” tour might just fit the bill. Offered by Planet Madeira, it promises a full day exploring some of the most scenic and culturally rich spots on the island’s eastern side, all for a reasonable price and with the convenience of pickup service.

What caught our eye? First, the variety of stops—from mountain peaks to charming villages—and second, the chance to learn from knowledgeable guides. The tour also gets points for value for money, with many reviewers noting the price is fair for a full-day experience. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that the tour covers quite a bit in a limited time, so if you prefer a slower, more in-depth exploration, this might feel a bit rushed.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a rundown of Madeira’s east but don’t want to spend all day organizing individual excursions. It’s especially good for those who appreciate stunning viewpoints and cultural insights but aren’t fussed about long walks or strenuous hikes.

Key Points

• Variety of stops including mountain peaks, villages, forests, and viewpoints.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights.
• Value for money makes it accessible for most travelers.
• Comfortable transportation with pickup service simplifies logistics.
• Approximately 8 hours gives a full but manageable day of sightseeing.
• Small group size (up to 15 travelers) allows for a more personalized experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point and First Stop: Camacha

The tour kicks off in the morning, with pickup from your location—an added convenience that many will appreciate. Your first destination is Camacha, a picturesque village in Santa Cruz, perched over 700 meters high. This village is famous for its enduring traditions and folklore, giving you a taste of authentic Madeiran culture. We loved the way this stop sets a relaxed, scenic tone for the day, allowing you to stretch your legs and soak in a bit of local flavor.

The visit here is brief—just 20 minutes—and the admission is free, but that’s enough time to take a few photos or browse local crafts. If you’re into traditional crafts, it might inspire a little souvenir shopping.

The Majestic Pico do Arieiro

Next, you’ll ascend to Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest point at 1,818 meters. This is a highlight for many, thanks to the breathtaking views and the sense of standing on top of the world. The tour allocates about 20 minutes here, so don’t expect to linger long, but you’ll get enough time to snap some pictures and breathe in the crisp mountain air.

This spot is a favorite among hikers and nature lovers alike, though the tour itself doesn’t include a hike. The elevation, the dramatic peaks, and the expansive vistas make it a must-see. Reviewers have raved about the views, and one even mentioned that her height anxiety was challenged here — but hey, that’s part of the adventure!

Ribeiro Frio and the Laurissilva Forest

The next stop is Ribeiro Frio, situated in the heart of the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva Forest. This is a real gem for nature fans—it’s a lush, green area with an air of tranquility. You’ll have about 30 minutes here, enough to enjoy a quick walk or simply stand in awe of the verdant surroundings.

Many travelers appreciate this stop, as it offers a glimpse into one of Madeira’s most pristine natural environments. The tour’s timing is tight but adequate, and the free admission makes it an accessible natural highlight.

Exploring Faial’s Fortress

Moving on, the tour visits the Fortress of Faial, a small but historically significant site perched at around 219 meters altitude. The story behind the name “Faial” and its development around an old chapel adds a layer of local history. You’ll have about 20 minutes here, which is enough to appreciate the scenic views and learn a bit about the area’s past.

If you’re into historical sites and coastal views, this stop offers a nice combination, with the added bonus of being free to visit.

The Charm of Santana

Santana is a town famous for its traditional triangular, thatched-roof houses, painted in classic Madeira colors—white, blue, and red. This is a longer stop—about 2 hours—which allows enough time to wander, take photos, and maybe grab a snack. It’s a favorite for those wanting to see authentic local architecture and get a feel for Madeiran village life.

One reviewer described it as “white, blue, and red”—a sight that’s photogenic and culturally interesting. Keep in mind that this longer stop means less time at the other sites, but it’s worth it if you’re into local traditions.

Miradouro da Portela and Ponta de São Lourenço

The next viewpoints—Miradouro da Portela and Ponta de São Lourenço—are about 20-30 minutes each. These stops are all about spectacular views. The Portela viewpoint offers a panoramic shot of mountains meeting the sea, while São Lourenço is a volcanic peninsula, arid and contrasting sharply with the lush green elsewhere.

Travelers have praised the views here, with one reviewer calling the Ponta de São Lourenço a “completely different facet” of Madeira’s landscape. The volcanic landscape and the sea spray create a stark, dramatic environment worth seeing.

Machico and Final Views

The tour rounds out with a quick stop in Machico, offering a stunning overlook of the valley and the Ponta de São Lourenço. About 20 minutes here give you a final chance to soak in the island’s natural beauty.

Overall Experience and Comfort

The tour’s transportation is described as a comfortable minibus, which helps keep the day relaxed. The small group size (up to 15 people) means fewer crowds and more space for questions and personalized attention.

Many travelers comment positively on the knowledge and friendliness of guides, noting they provide ample time at each stop and don’t rush through the day. One review specifically praised the guide as “very knowledgeable,” which adds a lot to the overall enjoyment.

How Value Fits Into the Picture

At around $40.50 per person, this tour offers good value considering the number of stops and the scenic diversity packed into a single day. The inclusion of pickup service removes the stress of finding meeting points, and the free admission to most sites keeps extra costs down.

While the itinerary is packed, the price reflects a guided experience that takes care of planning the logistics, meaning you can simply relax and enjoy the sights. Several reviews mention the tour as “excellent value” and highlight the ample time at each stop—a rarity in these kinds of excursions, where rushing often diminishes the experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is excellent for those who want a broad overview of Madeira’s east—mountains, forests, charming villages, and viewpoints—without the need to plan each stop. It suits travelers who appreciate scenic drives, easy walks, and learning about local sights from an experienced guide.

It’s a solid choice if you’re OK with a somewhat fast pace and want to maximize your sightseeing in one day. Not ideal if you prefer a very relaxed pace or want to explore specific sites in-depth, but perfect for a first visit or if you’re limited on time.

FAQ

What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation in a comfortable minibus, pickup service, and guided commentary. Entry to the stops is free, but there are no additional activities or meals included.

How long is the total duration?
The whole experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am. It covers multiple stops across the east of Madeira, with some longer breaks like the Santana stop.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the data doesn’t specify family-friendly features, the stops involve mild walking and scenic viewpoints, so it’s likely suitable for most ages, especially older children.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience more personal and less rushed.

Are there any extra costs?
Most sites are free to enter, and the price covers the guided tour and transportation. You might want cash for souvenirs or snacks, but those are optional.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds some peace of mind.

Does the tour operate in all weather?
The information doesn’t specify weather conditions, but given the outdoor nature of the stops, be prepared for possible changes if weather is poor.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a day packed with stunning views, natural beauty, and cultural highlights, this “Discover the East” tour offers a great introduction to Madeira. The small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and affordable price make it a practical choice for many travelers. It’s especially suited for those who want to see a variety of landscapes without the hassle of organizing multiple trips.

While it may feel a little rushed at times, the highlights are well worth the short stops, and the overall experience balances comfort and scenic diversity nicely. If you’re after a well-rounded introduction to Madeira’s eastern wonders, this tour ticks many boxes.

Happy exploring Madeira!