Madeira East Island Tour with Levada Walk and Lunch

If you’re considering a day out exploring Madeira’s vibrant east coast, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. It promises a mix of stunning scenery, cultural stops, and a chance to stretch your legs along one of the famous levadas—those charming water channels that crisscross the island. We’ve looked into it, and here’s the honest scoop on what to expect, the highlights, and some things to keep in mind.

What we really like about this experience is the small-group size, which tends to make the day more personal and less rushed. Plus, the inclusion of a 3-course lunch and scenic viewpoints makes it a pretty good value considering the price. But, there’s one area worth noting: some reviews mention that the actual group size can sometimes be larger than advertised, and the experience may vary depending on weather and local circumstances.

All in all, this tour seems best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, light walking, and local culture without the fuss of larger, more commercialized trips. If you’re after a relaxed day with knowledgeable guides and beautiful vistas, this one might be worth considering. Just be sure to read the details carefully and prepare for some variable weather and terrain.

Key Points

• Small-group experience: Limited to 8 people, aiming for a more personalized trip.
• Includes lunch and transport: A solid value, especially for those who want convenience.
• Varied scenery: From villages to viewpoints to lush forests.
• Levada walk: Short but scenic, perfect for light walkers.
• Weather dependent: The tour can be canceled or altered due to rain or road closures.
• Reviews are mixed: Some travelers loved it, others found it less authentic or too large.

Exploring Madeira’s East Coast: What This Tour Offers

When you sign up for this Madeira East Island Tour, you’re signing up for a full day of discovering the island’s best sights on Madeira’s more scenic and traditional side. Starting at around 9:00 am, the adventure kicks off with hotel pickup (if you’re staying in certain areas). The first stops are charming villages like Santana, famous for its thatched triangular houses, and Camacha, known for its craft-making heritage.

The Villages: Santana and Camacha

Santana is often a highlight for visitors due to its colorful, traditional houses. Many reviews praise the experience of wandering through this village, especially during festivals when locals dress in traditional attire. A common theme is that the lunch in Santana was well-received—”very good,” according to some travelers—making it a satisfying stop after some sightseeing.

Meanwhile, Camacha is celebrated for its crafts, especially wickerwork, and provides a taste of local traditions. Most travelers enjoy seeing the handmade crafts and learning about Madeira’s artisan heritage. These stops give you a real sense of what life on the island has been like for generations.

Scenery: Ribeiro Frio, Pico do Arieiro, and Laurissilva Forest

The tour’s beauty lies in the varied scenery along the route. Ribeiro Frio is a lush, elevated area teeming with greenery. It’s a good spot for photos and a quick overview of Madeira’s rich flora. Then, the drive takes you to Pico do Arieiro, one of the island’s highest peaks, with sweeping views that, weather permitting, are spectacular.

Most reviews highlight that the views are often stunning, even if the weather can sometimes be cloudy at higher elevations. Guides are praised for their knowledge of the landscape, plants, and history, making each stop educational as well as scenic.

The Levada Walk: A Short but Memorable Stroll

A key feature of this tour is the optional walk along the levadas, which are aqueducts that carry water through the mountains. We loved the way this walk offers an intimate look at Madeira’s lush environment. Expect a trail that is muddy and potentially cold at higher points, so proper footwear is recommended. One traveler noted that the walk to the Balcoes took about 45 minutes, but some felt that rushing back caused an injury, so pacing is important.

Although the walk isn’t long, it’s enough to get a taste of Madeira’s famous levada scenery—verdant, peaceful, and a little wild. Reviewers like Andra and Catherine appreciated the guide’s passion and knowledge, which added to the overall experience.

Trout Farm and Other Stops

Another interesting stop is the trout farm, where you can see how local fish are farmed—an educational experience for those curious about Madeira’s food traditions. The route also includes a visit to Grutas do Faial, where you’ll enjoy a 3-course lunch on the island of Faial. The meal is often described as tasty and well-prepared, with some reviewers mentioning the wine selection as a bonus.

The Transport and Group Size

Transport is by air-conditioned vehicle, and most travelers find it comfortable, though a few mention that the size of the group can sometimes be larger than the 8-person limit due to operational reasons. It’s worth noting that while the tour promises a small group, on some days it may be up to 15 people, which can affect the intimacy of the experience.

Guide quality is generally praised—especially guides like Tony, Carlos, or Michael, who are noted as knowledgeable and friendly. Several reviews mention the safety and professionalism of the drivers, which is reassuring on Madeira’s sometimes winding roads.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to cover a lot of ground in one day without feeling overwhelmed. If you enjoy light walking, scenic viewpoints, and learning about local culture, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s especially suited for those who value good value for money, as the included lunch and transport make it a convenient package.

However, if you prefer solitary hikes or want to explore at your own pace, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, if you’re not comfortable with some walking on muddy trails or high altitudes, you should consider your comfort level. The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with mobility issues.

Practical Details and Tips

• Duration: About 8 hours, so plan to be on your feet for most of the day.
• Price: $53.68 per person, which includes lunch, transport, and guide—good value considering the variety of experiences.
• Weather: The tour is weather-dependent. Cancellations due to poor weather are possible, but you’ll be offered options for a different date or a full refund.
• Group Size: Limited to 8, but reviews suggest it can sometimes be larger.
• Children: Must be accompanied by an adult and have the proper child seats—no lap babies allowed.
• Booking: Book well in advance, as this tour tends to fill up about 25 days ahead.

The Bottom Line: Is It Worth It?

If you’re after a well-organized, scenic introduction to Madeira’s east coast, this tour offers a lot of value. Expect a friendly guide, plenty of beautiful views, and a taste of local culture and cuisine. The small-group setting makes it more intimate than large bus tours, which many travelers appreciate.

That said, it’s not a perfect, all-encompassing experience—some reviews mention that the actual group size can be larger, and the itinerary can be affected by weather and local events like festivals. It’s best for curious, relaxed travelers who are happy to enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace and don’t mind some walking on uneven ground.

If you’re looking to tick off some Madeira highlights in a day without the hassle, this tour is likely a good fit. Just keep your expectations balanced, especially regarding the weather variability and the size of the group.

FAQ

Is lunch included in the tour price?
Yes, the tour includes a 3-course lunch with wine on Grutas do Faial Island, which many reviews describe as tasty and well-prepared.

What should I wear for the levada walk?
Since the walk can be muddy and chilly, wear sturdy, waterproof footwear and bring layers to stay warm in higher elevations.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people will be on the tour?
The tour is advertised as limited to 8 people, but some travelers report larger groups, up to 15.

Are children allowed on this tour?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and proper child seats are required. No lap children are permitted by law.

What are the main highlights?
Expect traditional villages, scenic viewpoints such as Pico do Arieiro, a short levada walk, and cultural stops like Camacha and Santana.

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
Not really. The tour involves some walking on uneven or muddy paths and may not be suitable for travelers with mobility problems.

All in all, if you’re looking for a balanced day out that combines scenery, culture, and good food in Madeira’s east, this tour offers a lot. Just come prepared for the weather, pace yourself on the walk, and enjoy the laid-back vibe this island has to offer.