Amazing East Tour

Exploring Madeira’s East Side: An Honest Review of the Amazing East Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Madeira and want to see the best of the island without the hassle of organizing every detail yourself, the Amazing East Tour could be just what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the reviews and details paint a pretty clear picture of what to expect: a well-rounded day filled with breathtaking scenery, local culture, and insightful guides.

Two things we really appreciate about this tour are its expert guides—many reviewers praise their knowledge and friendliness—and the variety of stops, from mountain vistas to charming villages. However, a potential concern is that it’s a shared experience, so if you’re someone who prefers quiet, private tours, this might feel a little crowded.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, easy walks, and a taste of Madeira’s rich landscape and history. It offers a good balance of nature, culture, and local flavor, making it a solid choice if you’re looking for a full day of exploration without the stress of planning.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary with scenic views, forests, villages, and cultural highlights
• Knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with local insights
• Affordable value at around $34 per person, considering the stops and inclusions
• Comfortable transportation in a small group, typically around 7-19 travelers
• Ideal for those wanting an active, yet relaxed day exploring Madeira
• Weather considerations can affect some stops, so pack accordingly

What You Can Expect from the Amazing East Tour

Madeira is often celebrated for its dramatic landscapes, lush forests, and quaint villages, and this tour aims to showcase some of the most iconic spots on the eastern side. It’s designed to be about 7 hours long, including plenty of stops that allow you to breathe in the scenery, snap photos, and learn about local history and culture.

The tour begins with an easy pickup from your hotel or cruise port, so you don’t have to worry about logistics right away. Once aboard a small, comfortable vehicle, you’ll hit the road, with a focus on mountain views, forest walks, and cultural sites. The size of the group—generally around 7 to 19 travelers—strikes a good balance, offering enough space for everyone to enjoy the experience without feeling lost or rushed.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Belvedere Du Terreiro Da Luta

First, you’ll visit the Belvedere Du Terreiro Da Luta, perched above 700 meters, offering panoramic views of Funchal. This spot isn’t just about the vistas—it’s a site of historical significance. The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Peace is a large marble statue with emotional ties to the island, as it was built during the 1917 bombings as a symbol of hope and peace.

Many reviewers highlight this stop as a must-see, especially for the emotional connection and stunning scenery. It’s a quiet moment to take a breath and soak in the beauty of Madeira from above, with facilities like a coffee shop and restrooms available. The view and historical background make it more than just a typical lookout.

Stop 2: Pico do Arieiro

Next, the adventure heads to Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak at 1,818 meters. Here, you’ll get to walk on the famous skywalk, often called “the walk to heaven,” if weather permits. When you stand at this elevation, the views stretch across the entire island, from Funchal to the Ponta de São Lourenço and even the nearby Porto Santo and deserted islands.

The drive through the national park on the way up is a treat in itself, with wildflowers blooming and the characteristic black pine trees creating a dramatic landscape. This is a popular stop for photographers and nature lovers alike. Many guests mention it as a “stunning” highlight, emphasizing the breathtaking vistas and the thrill of standing so high above the Atlantic.

Stop 3: Balcões de Ribeiro Frio

Descending into the Laurissilva forest, this stop offers a gentle, accessible walk called “Balcões,” which takes about 45 minutes. The path follows the water channels and showcases endemic flora and fauna—ideal for bird watchers or those interested in local biodiversity. The Rainbow Trout Hatchery is also here, where you can see how the island replenishes its waterways.

Guests often appreciate the easy walk and lush scenery, with some reviewers noting they enjoyed seeing the endemic plants and listening to the sounds of the forest. Plus, many mention the birdlife, such as firecrests and chaffinches, adding a lively touch to the walk.

Stop 4: Miradouro do Guindaste

This viewpoint offers a breathtaking panoramic of the northern coast, with steep slopes, agricultural terraces, and the Atlantic beyond. It’s a perfect spot to admire Madeira’s geological diversity, with views of the pebble beaches and the unusual lava columns known as disjunctions.

Many travelers love this stop for its spectacular scenery and the opportunity to photograph the coastline, cliffs, and agricultural land from above. It’s a quick stop (about 13 minutes), but it leaves a lasting impression.

Stop 5: Casas Típicas de Santana

No trip to Madeira is complete without seeing the iconic thatched houses of Santana. These small, triangular structures are over 240 years old in some cases and tell stories of the island’s rural past. The stop includes a lunch break, giving you time to try local dishes like wheat soup, Santana bread, and the famous “Pregos”—a Madeira steak sandwich.

Guests find this stop charming and authentic, with many noting the cultural significance and the chance to taste local cuisine. It’s also a great photo opportunity — imagine the houses with their vibrant colors and unusual shape.

Stop 6: Porto da Cruz

Further along the coast, Porto da Cruz is a historic fishing village with a long tradition of sugarcane cultivation and rum production. The old distillery still operates on vintage machinery, and sampling local rum biscuits or the famous Poncha cocktail is a real treat. The scenery here, with the Penha D’Aguia mountain and lush forests, complements the cultural experience.

Reviewers often mention how this stop offers a glimpse into Madeira’s traditional industry, along with scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere. It’s about appreciating the quieter, more authentic side of the island.

Stop 7: Ponta de São Lourenço

The tour’s grand finale is the Ponta de São Lourenço, a rugged peninsula with unique geological formations and stunning ocean views. You might spot the distant Porto Santo or the deserted islands on a clear day. The landscape here feels more stark and windswept compared to the lush forests and mountains, offering a different perspective of Madeira’s terrain.

Many guests describe this as the most striking part of the trip, with the jagged cliffs and clear waters making for excellent photos. It’s the perfect spot to reflect on the day’s scenic highlights.

Final Stop: Machico

On the return journey, passing through Machico gives a sense of the island’s historic roots as Madeira’s first capital. The white sand beach and old harbor are picturesque, and the area’s monuments give insight into Madeira’s colonial past.

What Do Travelers Say About This Tour?

The great reviews paint a consistent picture: knowledgeable guides make all the difference. Several reviews praise their guides—like Marco and Michael—for sharing insightful stories, plant and bird descriptions, and a friendly attitude. One reviewer even called their guide “amusing and very knowledgeable,” which can really enhance the experience.

The scenery is frequently highlighted as stunning, with many noting that the stops at Pico do Arieiro and Ponta de São Lourenço are the “highlight of the day.” The leisurely walks—like the Balcões trail—are appreciated for how accessible they are, and the local culture at Santana and Porto da Cruz adds depth beyond just natural beauty.

The value for money gets a lot of praise, especially given the inclusions like the rum biscuit tasting, the scenic drives, and the small group experience. The price (~$34.39) is seen as reasonable for a day packed with diverse highlights.

However, some mention that the group size can feel a little crowded at times, and the weather can impact some stops—especially the Pico do Arieiro walk and the viewpoints—so packing a jacket and planning for variable conditions is wise.

The Downsides to Consider

While most reviews are positive, a few guests found the booking process a bit confusing or felt that certain stops were shorter than desired. There’s also the standard caveat that weather can influence outdoor activities, especially in the mountains.

Plus, since this is a shared group experience, those seeking private or more secluded tours might find it less appealing. The tour doesn’t include lunch, so budget for that, and the free time at stops varies, which might be a consideration if you want more in-depth exploration.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re after a well-organized, value-packed day that covers Madeira’s highlights in a relaxed manner, this tour is a great pick. It suits those who appreciate scenic drives, easy walks, and cultural insights. It’s especially fitting for travelers who want a guided experience that minimizes planning, with knowledgeable guides adding context and stories.

It’s not ideal if you dislike crowds or prefer private, bespoke tours, but for most visitors wanting a solid overview of Madeira’s east side at a reasonable price, it hits the mark. Plus, if you’re interested in local culture, history, and nature, you’ll find plenty to love here.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally accessible and features easy walks like the Balcões trail, families with very young children should consider the mountain stops and walking distances. It’s best suited for older children comfortable with short outdoor walks.

What is included in the tour?
The tour features visits to scenic viewpoints, forests, and villages, along with a rum biscuit tasting and a visit to Santana’s houses. It doesn’t include lunch or entrance fees, which are free at most stops.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, starting at 8:30am with pickup available from your hotel or cruise port. The itinerary is designed to give plenty of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, outdoor activities, especially mountain walks and viewpoints, depend on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

Are hotel pickups available?
Yes, pickups are offered from most locations, but note that some areas like Machico, Ponta do Sol, and Calheta require an extra fee of €7 per person paid in cash on the day.

What is the group size?
Most tours have a maximum of 19 travelers, maintaining a small group size that allows for a more personalized experience.

Can I bring my pet?
Small animals are allowed, but larger pets are only permitted on private tours. Make sure to inform the tour provider in advance.

The Amazing East Tour offers a well-rounded, engaging way to see Madeira’s east side. It’s especially valuable for those who want a guided experience with knowledgeable hosts, stunning scenery, and a taste of local life—without the stress of navigating alone.