Discover Madeira In 2 Days (from 09h To 17h – Each Day)

Exploring Madeira in Just Two Days: An Honest Look at the “Discover Madeira In 2 Days” Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Madeira and looking to get a solid taste of the island’s natural beauty, history, and unique spots without spending your entire vacation on one tour, the “Discover Madeira In 2 Days” experience might just be worth considering. Offered by Feeling Madeira – Tours & Walks, this tour packs a lot into two days, covering both the east and west sides of the island with a mix of scenic viewpoints and cultural stops.

What we really like about this tour is its balance of nature and culture—it’s not just about the views but also about understanding a bit of the local flavor. The professional guides seem to make a real difference, offering plenty of interesting commentary and making the whole experience more engaging. Plus, the price point of around $75 per person feels reasonable considering the variety and length of the experience.

Of course, no tour is perfect for everyone. One thing to keep in mind is that weather conditions, especially in the mountains, can sometimes limit what you see or do. Some reviewers mentioned that visibility was poor due to weather, which can be frustrating when you’re hoping for picture-perfect landscapes. This tour suits travelers who want a rundown of Madeira in a manageable time frame—especially those who appreciate guided experiences that take the hassle out of planning.

If your goal is to see Madeira’s top sights while enjoying the comfort of a guided group, then this experience could be a good fit. Just remember to keep expectations flexible, particularly with mountain views, and be prepared for a day full of varied scenery and stories.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Two-Day Itinerary: Covers key highlights on both coasts, including mountains, cliffs, beaches, and villages.
• Expert Guides: Well-reviewed guides like Gloria and Renato make the experience more informative and enjoyable.
• Value for Money: For around $75, you get a lot of sights and insights packed into two days.
• Weather Considerations: Mountain views and some outdoor stops could be affected by weather, so stay flexible.
• Group Size: Limited to 15 travelers, which means a more intimate experience.
• Pickup & Convenience: Pickup offered, plus mobile tickets, making logistics smoother.

An In-Depth Look at the Two-Day Madeira Tour

Day 1: From Coastal Villages to Natural Pools

The journey kicks off in Baia de Camara de Lobos, a charming fishing village only five kilometers from Funchal. This spot is famous for inspiring Winston Churchill’s paintings, and it’s easy to see why—the colorful boats, quaint streets, and ocean views make it a picture-perfect start. It’s a quick stop, just 30 minutes, but one that gives you a feel for local life and some great photo opportunities.

Next up is Cabo Girao, often touted as the highest sea cliff in Europe. Standing on the glass skywalk at the viewpoint is genuinely breathtaking, offering a vertiginous view down into the Atlantic. It’s a highlight for many, although note that admission isn’t included, so you’ll need to budget for that if you want to step out onto the glass. The sense of height and openness here is intense and truly memorable.

The tour then heads to Ribeira Brava Beach, a serene stretch of coastline where you can see the wild, rugged side of Madeira. Here, the scenery feels untouched, and the 30-minute stop allows for a quick dip or just some relaxing ocean views.

Then it’s time to ascend into the mountains on the Caminho Real da Encumeada PR12, a really scenic drive that winds through lush landscapes up to 1004 meters. The views from the top are spectacular; you get a sense of the island’s dramatic geography—mountains meeting the sea. This stop is only 15 minutes, but for landscape lovers, it’s worth every second.

The afternoon is dedicated to Porto Moniz and its famous natural swimming pools. These pools are often what Madeira is most famous for, carved naturally from volcanic rocks, filled with crystal-clear seawater. Spending about two hours here, you’ll get plenty of time to walk around, take photos, or even dip if you’re brave enough. Many reviews rave about this spot, with visitors calling Porto Moniz an “amazing scenery” and “long-standing favorite” of the island.

Finally, the day ends at Miradouro do Veu da Noiva, which offers panoramic views of the seascape and the volcanic pools. It’s a peaceful spot to soak in the natural beauty and enjoy the setting sun if timing allows.

Day 2: Up High and Across to the East

Day two starts with a drive to Pico do Arieiro, the third highest peak on the island at 1,818 meters. The views from here are truly jaw-dropping, and on clear days, you can see Porto Santo island in the distance. It’s accessible by car, so you don’t need to be a seasoned hiker, though the scenery is still worth the short stop.

Next, you’ll visit Balcoes de Ribeiro Frio, a popular starting point for levada walks. The lush vegetation here is part of the Laurissilva forest, a relic from prehistoric times that covers much of Madeira’s mountains. The 30-minute stop offers a glimpse into this ancient landscape—great for nature lovers and those interested in Madeira’s unique flora.

Moving eastward, the Fortress of Faial offers sweeping views of both the north and south coasts. It’s a shorter stop—about 20 minutes—but it gives a chance to appreciate Madeira’s rugged coastline and the contrast between the two sides of the island.

The charming village of Santana is next, famous for its small, triangular thatched houses. These structures, built from natural stone and straw, have been homes and stables for centuries. Spending about two hours here gives you time to walk the streets, explore the local shops, and soak in the traditional architecture.

Finally, the Ponta de São Lourenço offers a nearly untouched natural landscape. The rugged rocks, sea, and open sky create a striking scene that’s perfect for a short walk or photo stop. It’s one of the last places on the island that feels wild and unspoiled.

The last stop before heading back to Funchal is Machico, a historically significant city where Madeira’s first explorers arrived in 1419. A 20-minute visit allows a quick look around and some appreciation for the island’s maritime past.

Practical Details & What to Expect

The tour starts at 8:30 am, with pickups arranged—making logistics a lot easier if you’re staying in Funchal. The group size is limited to 15 travelers, which tends to make the experience more personal and less rushed.

The tour runs from 9 am to 5 pm each day, providing a full day of sightseeing without feeling overly packed. The guides are described as knowledgeable and friendly, and although some reviews mention language issues on the first day, overall, the guides are seen as professional.

Pricing is around $75 per person, and considering the variety of stops, transport, and guided commentary, most travelers find good value. What makes it worthwhile is not just ticking off sights but also enjoying the insights and stories shared along the way.

One thing to keep in mind is the weather. Madeira’s mountains can be unpredictable, and as some reviews pointed out, poor weather can mean limited visibility or even cancellations. It’s worth checking the forecast and being flexible if conditions aren’t ideal.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a rundown of Madeira in a manageable amount of time. If you enjoy guided tours with a good mix of scenic viewpoints, villages, and natural pools, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate knowledgable guides who can bring the landscape and history to life.

If you’re traveling with family or friends and want to avoid the hassle of planning multiple stops yourself, this could be a convenient way to see a lot of the island comfortably. Keep in mind, if you’re particularly weather-sensitive or looking for a more adventurous hike, some of the mountain views might be limited or weather-dependent.

Final Thoughts

For a well-rounded, guided introduction to Madeira, the “Discover Madeira In 2 Days” tour offers a decent balance of scenery, culture, and practical convenience. It’s a good choice for travelers who want to see the island’s highlights without committing to a long or complex itinerary. The fact that it’s highly rated (4.5/5 from 36 reviews) and recommended by over 90% of travelers indicates it generally delivers on expectations.

While weather can sometimes be a wildcard, the experience of visiting viewpoints like Cabo Girao and Porto Moniz’s pools, combined with the insights of skilled guides, provides a memorable snapshot of this unique island. If you’re okay with some flexibility and enjoy a guided group experience, this tour can be a very worthwhile addition to your Madeira trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
Most stops are outdoors and involve walking or standing, so it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with moderate walking. The mountain viewpoints and natural pools might require some effort to access.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience more intimate and manageable.

Does the tour include lunch?
No, the tour doesn’t specify any meal inclusion, so you might want to bring snacks or plan meals around the stops.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, some viewpoints like Cabo Girao have an admission fee not included in the ticket. Budget accordingly if you want to go onto the skywalk.

What’s the best time of year to take this tour?
The tour runs year-round, but weather conditions, especially in the mountains, can impact visibility. Spring and fall tend to have milder weather, but check the forecast before booking.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Refunds are processed promptly.

Is there pickup included?
Yes, pickup is offered, simplifying your planning and transportation.

Would this tour be good for families?
While there’s nothing specifically family-oriented, older children who can handle outdoor walks and mountain viewpoints should enjoy it. Always consider your children’s comfort with the outdoor elements and weather.

All in all, this tour offers a practical, well-organized way to see many of Madeira’s best sights in just two days. It’s not perfect — weather can be a wild card — but for most travelers, it provides a valuable, enjoyable overview of what makes Madeira special.