Full Day East Madeira – Pico do Ariero, Ribeiro Frio, Portela, Santana

If you’re considering a day trip to Madeira’s eastern side, this full-day tour offers a good mix of scenic views, local culture, and charming villages. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting to see the island’s diverse landscapes without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What we like about this experience is the chance to visit iconic spots like Pico do Ariero, with its breathtaking mountain vistas, and Santana, famous for its straw-roofed cottages. Plus, the visit to a wickerwork factory in Camacha adds a hands-on artisan touch that many travelers find memorable.

One thing to be aware of is that weather can sometimes impact the views, especially from Pico do Ariero, where clouds may obscure the summit. Also, some reviews mention that the tour can sometimes feel rushed or overly focused on touristy stops like shops, which may not be ideal if you’re after pure sightseeing.

This tour suits those who enjoy a balanced mix of scenic drives, cultural insights, and a taste of local craftsmanship. If you have a limited amount of time in Madeira and want a comprehensive look at the east side, it’s a solid pick.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary covering scenic mountain views, artisan villages, and natural parks
• Comfortable transportation with air conditioning and hotel pickup
• Value for money with included lunch, especially considering the variety of sights
• Knowledgeable guides who often speak multiple languages and share interesting insights
• Weather-dependent views from Pico do Ariero may be obscured on cloudy days
• Suitable for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing, cultural experiences, and some relaxed exploration

Exploring the Full Day East Madeira Tour

This tour, offered by Intertours, really aims to give you a well-rounded glimpse of Madeira’s eastern charm. Starting at your hotel or the Avenida do Mar bus stop around 9 a.m., you’ll hop onto an air-conditioned coach that sets the tone for a comfortable day out. The small group size—capped at 15 travelers—helps keep things intimate and allows your guide to give more personalized attention.

Visiting Camacha – Wickerwork & Crafts

Your first stop is the quaint village of Camacha, about 20 minutes from Funchal. This place is renowned for its wickerwork craftsmanship, and you’ll get the chance to see artisans at work in a dedicated factory. Watching the weaving of baskets, chairs, and animal figures is surprisingly fascinating—especially if you’re into handmade crafts. Many reviews mention this as a highlight, with some feeling it’s a nice break from the scenic drives. You’re free to browse and purchase if something catches your eye, which adds a personalized touch to the visit.

Standing atop Pico do Ariero – The View from the Clouds

Next, the tour takes you to Pico do Ariero, the island’s second-highest summit. This spot is often the star of the day for many visitors, offering sweeping views of cloudy mountain ranges and sometimes as far as Porto Santo on clear days. The mountain air here is crisp and invigorating. Several reviews praise the “stunning” views, although some mention that clouds can block visibility, which is typical for high-altitude locations.

It’s important to note that weather can be unpredictable—if the sky is clear, you’ll love the scenery, but if it’s overcast, you might find the vista less impressive. Still, being atop a mountain with fresh air and spectacular surroundings is an experience in itself.

Ribeiro Frio – Nature & Trout Hatchery

From the heights, your journey descends into the lush Ribeiro Frio area, a natural park nestled within a deep valley. Here, you get a chance to see Madeira’s greenery up close, and visit the governmental trout hatchery. If you’re into nature or wildlife, this stop is quite pleasant; it’s peaceful and offers photo opportunities of the vibrant flora.

Santana – Traditional Cottages

The charming town of Santana is next, famous for the triangular, straw-roofed cottages that look like they’ve jumped out of a storybook. They’re colorful, quirky, and photogenic—perfect for a quick walk around and some snaps. Many travelers find this part of the tour charming and authentic, a real taste of Madeira’s rural architecture.

A Tasty Lunch & Clifftop Views

A highlight for many—especially those who chose the lunch option—is the local meal served in Santana. The reviews mention it as “superb value,” with traditional dishes and local wine. After lunch, the climb to Portela (2,198 feet or 670 meters) offers sweeping views of Eagle’s Cliff and the coastline. The scenery from here is described as “beautiful” and worth the drive.

The Final Stop – Machico & Return to Funchal

On the way back, the tour visits Machico, the historic seaside town where Portuguese navigators first arrived in Madeira in 1420. It’s a small but charming place with a lovely beach and a sense of history. Many reviews appreciate this last stop as a relaxing way to end a day full of sightseeing.

What the Tour Includes & Its Value

The price of about $45 per person makes this a relatively affordable way to see a good portion of east Madeira, especially since a lunch is included if you opt for it. The transportation is comfortable, with hotel pickup and drop-off providing convenience.

While food and drinks are not included unless specified, the lunch seems to be well worth the extra cost, based on reviews. The tour also offers multilingual guides, which is a big plus for international visitors. Some feedback mentions the guides being knowledgeable and friendly, making the experience more engaging.

The Downsides

Weather can be a bit of a wildcard—clouds at Pico do Ariero may limit the views, which disappointed some reviewers. Others noted that the tour sometimes spends long periods at tourist shops or theme park stops, which might not appeal if you’re after pure sightseeing. Plus, some travelers found the guide’s commentary could be better, especially if you’re in the back of the van and cannot hear well.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you enjoy diverse scenery, local artisan experiences, and authentic villages, this tour hits those marks. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a structured day with a mix of nature and culture. Be aware that if you’re sensitive to weather or prefer an itinerary focused solely on natural sights, some aspects might not meet expectations.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers pickup from your hotel or the designated bus stop at Avenida do Mar, making it convenient to start your day.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed.

Is lunch included?
It depends on the option you select; many reviews mention the included traditional lunch, which is praised for its quality and value.

What is the group size?
The maximum is 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and allows your guide to give more personalized attention.

Can I expect to see panoramic views?
Yes, weather permitting. Pico do Ariero and the clifftop areas are known for their spectacular vistas, though clouds can sometimes obscure the best views.

Is this tour suitable for families?
The reviews don’t specify age restrictions, but the focus on scenic drives and cultural stops makes it generally suitable for most travelers, including older children.

How does the weather affect the experience?
Clouds and rain can limit visibility, especially from high mountain points. It’s always good to check the forecast and dress appropriately.

Are the guides multilingual?
Yes, guides can speak multiple languages. One review mentions a guide doing tours in both Portuguese and German on the same day.

Is this a good value for the price?
Considering the included transportation, guides, and meal, many reviewers feel it’s quite reasonable, especially given the variety of sights covered.

Final Thoughts

This Full Day East Madeira tour offers a practical way to experience the island’s highlights in a single day. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and charming villages. The inclusion of a traditional lunch and the small group size help make it a comfortable, value-packed experience.

However, keep in mind that the weather can influence your enjoyment—cloudy days may obscure some views, and some stops might feel more tourist-oriented than scenic. Still, the knowledgeable guides, scenic viewpoints, and authentic stops like Santana’s cottages make this a worthwhile option for those wanting a comprehensive look at Madeira’s eastern side.

If you’re on a short stay or prefer organized tours with a set itinerary, this trip could be a reliable choice. Just be ready for some scenic surprises and a day filled with interesting sights and stories.

References

• Viator Tour Page
• User reviews and ratings compiled from the tour provider’s feedback

Enjoy your trip planning and safe travels to Madeira!