East and South Coast of Madeira from 100 euros per car

If you’re considering a way to see Madeira’s most photogenic and authentic spots without the hassle of planning every detail, this private tour of the island’s east and south coasts might just be what you need. Promising a blend of spectacular viewpoints, charming villages, and plenty of opportunities to relax and take photos, it’s designed for travelers who want a laid-back, personalized experience.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its flexibility — you can customize the route to match your interests — and the local guide who seems passionate and personable. Plus, the price is quite competitive, especially if you’re traveling with a small group or family.

On the flip side, since the itinerary involves several stops with some longer walks (like climbing to Pico Ruivo), it’s worth noting that this isn’t a tour geared towards those with limited mobility or looking for a very physically demanding day. Still, for those seeking a relaxed yet comprehensive look at Madeira’s scenic highlights, this could be a great pick.

If you’re after a tour that balances beautiful sights, local touches, and a bit of adventure — without breaking the bank — then keep reading. We’ll break down everything you need to know to decide if this Madeira trip is right for you.

Key Points

• Private, customizable experience: You’ll enjoy a tailored tour with a guide who shares local stories.
• Amazing viewpoints: Stops like Miradouro do Pináculo and Pico do Arieiro offer unforgettable scenic views.
• Designed for relaxation and photography: Plenty of time to take photos and breathe in the scenery.
• Affordable for small groups: About $120 for up to four people, with private transportation.
• Flexible route options: The guide can adapt the trip to your preferences.
• Ideal for nature lovers wanting an easy, scenic day without physical strain.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour is straightforward: it includes air-conditioned private transportation tailored for your group, making the day comfortable and relaxed as you hop between sites. The meeting point is flexible, and you’ll start at 9:30 am, giving you plenty of daylight for sightseeing.

On the flip side, meals and drinks aren’t included, so you’ll need to bring snacks or plan to eat at the stops. Given Madeira’s food scene, you might find some local snacks or tapas along the way, but remember, alcoholic beverages are also not included.

The Itinerary in Detail

Let’s walk through what you’ll see — and why each stop is worth the visit.

Miradouro do Pináculo

Start your day with a view of Funchal Bay from this lookout. It’s a quick stop, about 15 minutes, but the iconic vista makes an excellent photo and sets the tone for the day. It’s free, so enjoy the sweeping views without any added cost.

Miradouro do Cristo Rei do Garajau

Next, you’ll visit another viewpoint that offers a different angle of Funchal. This spot, with 20 minutes allocated, is perfect for snapping pictures and soaking in the scenery. Again, no entrance fee — just pure visual pleasure.

Santa Cruz

A picturesque village where you can stroll around, perhaps grab a quick coffee or just enjoy the local vibe. The short visit (about 20 minutes) is enough to get a sense of local life away from tourist hotspots.

Machico

Known for its yellow sand beach, Machico offers a lovely contrast to the green landscapes elsewhere. The 15-minute stop is great for a quick walk along the coast, with plenty of photo opportunities.

Ponta de São Lourenço

This arid, dramatic headland is a highlight for nature lovers. Although it’s a more rugged area, the 20-minute stop lets you enjoy the landscape and take in the expansive ocean views. It’s perfect if you’re after a bit of variety — a stark contrast to the lush island interior.

Casas Típicas de Santana

Here, you’ll step back in time with visits to the traditional thatched houses that give a glimpse into Madeira’s rural past. The longer stop (about 1.5 hours) is well worth it for the cultural insight and photo ops. You can walk around the village, admire the architecture, and learn about local traditions.

Pico Ruivo (optional climb)

If you’re feeling up for a challenge, you can climb to the highest point on the island. The 2-hour stop is flexible; you can choose to hike or just enjoy the view from below. The guide will facilitate based on your energy level and interest.

Fortim do Faial

A short 10-minute stop at this viewpoint offers spectacular vistas over the sea and coastline. It’s a quick, scenic pause to enjoy the sunset-like scenery.

Miradouro do Guindaste

This viewing platform features two glass platforms over the sea, perfect for daring photo shots and feeling like you’re walking on air. The 15-minute stop is a unique experience and a highlight for many visitors.

Pico do Arieiro

One of Madeira’s tallest peaks, this stop is about 20 minutes long. The views from here are often considered some of the best on the island, with cloud-covered peaks and sweeping landscapes.

Miradouro Eira do Serrado

Finally, this lush viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the Curral das Monchas. With about 45 minutes allocated, it’s one of the longer stops, giving you time to soak in the scenery and take multiple photos.

What We Loved About the Tour

From the reviews and the itinerary, it’s clear that the knowledgeable local guide is a big plus. The guide’s calm demeanor, excellent English, and friendly attitude make the day more enjoyable and engaging. One reviewer noted the “incredibly calm and patient driver,” which really speaks to the relaxed vibe this tour offers.

The scenic viewpoints are the star of the show. Madeira’s landscapes are stunning, and with well-chosen stops, you won’t feel overwhelmed. The flexibility to adapt the route means you can focus more on the sights that resonate most with you, whether that’s panoramic vistas or cultural spots.

Authentic Experiences and Photography

This isn’t a tour that rushes past the best views. You’ll have ample time to relax, snap photos, and truly take in the surroundings. The stops at places like Casas Típicas and the viewpoints over the sea create perfect moments for capturing memories.

Value for Money

At roughly $120 for a private group of up to four people, the price is quite reasonable. If you’re traveling with family or friends, it’s a good deal for a full day of exploration, especially considering the private transport and tailored experience.

Considerations Before Booking

While the tour is designed to be relaxed, some stops like Pico Ruivo require a bit of physical activity if you choose to hike. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and consider your physical ability if you plan to climb. Also, the schedule is quite full, so if you prefer a more leisurely pace, communicate with your guide about adjusting the route.

Weather can influence your experience — especially at higher altitudes or exposed viewpoints. If the weather turns poor, the operator offers full refunds or rescheduling options, so it’s relatively low risk to book.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private Madeira tour is ideal if you enjoy scenic drives, panoramic viewpoints, and authentic local sights without the stress of navigating yourself. It suits travelers who want a personalized, flexible day with plenty of opportunities for photos and cultural insights.

It’s well-suited for those who prefer a comfortable, relaxed experience but still want to see a wide range of landscapes and small villages. The stops are mostly outdoor and scenic — so it’s best for those who are okay with some walking and outdoor exposure. If you’re traveling with family, this could be a good choice, provided your kids are comfortable with the stops and walks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for small children?
The tour involves outdoor stops and some walking, including a possible hike to Pico Ruivo. Small children or those with mobility concerns should consider this before booking, but the overall pace is relaxed and private, so it can be tailored.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 7 to 8 hours, starting at 9:30 am. The long stops at places like Santana allow for a good break, and you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy each site.

Can I customize the route?
Yes, the guide can adapt the route based on your preferences, making this a flexible experience suited to your interests.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included. You might want to plan for snacks or lunch during the day.

What language does the guide speak?
The guide is fluent in English and has basic German, but likely can manage in other languages as well.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled with a full refund if the weather makes outdoor sightseeing unsafe or impossible.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour includes private, air-conditioned vehicle transport, making the trip comfortable from start to finish.

How do I book?
You can reserve in advance, as this tour is often booked 16 days ahead, to ensure availability.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira tour offers a balanced mix of stunning vistas, cultural sights, and flexibility, all wrapped into a private experience at a competitive price. The focus on scenic viewpoints, authentic villages, and the chance to customize your day makes it stand out compared to more rigid group excursions.

It’s a fantastic choice for those who want a relaxed yet comprehensive look at Madeira’s east and south coasts, especially if you’re eager to capture beautiful photos and learn about local life. If you value personal attention from a passionate guide and a tailored itinerary, this could be just what you’re looking for.

However, be mindful of the physical aspects of some stops if you have mobility limitations or prefer a very slow pace. But overall, this tour seems to strike a great balance between adventure, comfort, and authenticity, making it a memorable way to explore Madeira’s diverse landscapes.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, this experience might just add the perfect touch to your Madeira adventure.