Funchal: East Madeira Island Guided Tour & Laurissilva Walk

Traveling through Madeira’s lush east coast is a real treat, and this guided tour offers a fantastic way to see some of the island’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning each stop. It’s a well-rated experience (4.7 stars from 965 reviews) that packs in a good mix of mountain vistas, charming villages, lush forests, and local flavors—all in a single day.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances scenic stops with cultural insights, making it suitable whether you’re into impressive landscapes or interested in local traditions. Also, the inclusion of a rum tasting at the North Mills Distillery adds a delightful local flavor you won’t want to miss. The 7-hour journey is quite comprehensive, but one thing to consider is that it involves some walking, which might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues.

This experience is best suited for travelers who love nature and panoramic views but also enjoy learning about local culture and enjoying traditional food or drinks. If you’re after a relaxed, informative day with a bit of adventure, this tour could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Beautiful mountain views from Pico do Areeiro at 1818 meters
• Levada walk to a scenic viewpoint, with optional participation
• Cultural highlights like Santana houses and local rum tasting
• Flexible itinerary with stops at charming towns and viewpoints
• Guided experience in multiple languages ensuring rich commentary
• Good value at $45 including hotel pickup and drop-off

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering the East Coast of Madeira

If you’re like us, the thought of exploring Madeira’s east side is exciting because it’s less crowded than the popular west, but still bursting with stunning scenery. This tour is designed to give you a broad taste of that varied landscape—mountains, coastlines, forests, and quaint villages—without feeling rushed.

Starting at Pico do Areeiro

The adventure begins at the highest point of the tour, Pico do Areeiro, perched at 1818 meters. Here, you’ll get sweeping views that make it clear why Madeira is such a favorite for mountain lovers. The weather can sometimes be foggy or rainy (as noted by some reviews), but even then, the dramatic cloudscapes add a different kind of beauty.

“Despite the weather, the views still make the trip worthwhile,” one reviewer noted, highlighting how even less-than-perfect weather doesn’t diminish the awe of standing on such heights. The mountain’s rugged terrain and panoramic vistas set a perfect tone for the day ahead.

The Levada Walk at Ribeiro Frio

One of the highlights is the Levada walk at Ribeiro Frio, a classic Madeira experience. The walk lasts about 40-45 minutes and leads to a fantastic viewpoint. The walk is accessible and flat, making it manageable even for those who aren’t avid hikers. For a small additional fee ($3 per person), you can enjoy this walk and see the lush greenery and waterfalls typical of Madeira.

Some reviews mention the walk as “amazing,” especially for its serenity and scenic beauty, while others appreciated the optional aspect—if you prefer not to walk, you can visit the trout nursery instead. The walk offers plenty of chances for photos and enjoying nature up close.

Santana and Traditional Houses

Next, the tour stops at Santana, famed for its characteristic triangular houses with thatched roofs. You’ll have around 1.5 hours here—perfect for a laid-back lunch and some wandering to appreciate the colorful, traditional architecture.

One reviewer loved the visit: “I really enjoyed the lunch Bruna booked at Santana. The fish with banana and the dessert were delicious.” Keep in mind, this stop can be busy (as many reviews point out), especially with travelers, so patience might be needed if you’re looking for a quiet stroll.

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Coastal Views and Rum Tasting

The journey continues to Faial, where the Guindaste viewpoint offers stunning views of the northeast coast. Some travelers mention that these stops are brief but beautiful enough to warrant a quick photo.

From there, you’ll visit Porto da Cruz, a quaint village famous for its North Mills Distillery. Here, you can enjoy a rum tasting, which many reviews highlight as a fun, authentic experience. The tasting session is relatively quick (about 30 minutes), but it provides a nice break and a chance to sample Madeira’s famous spirit.

Ponta São Lourenço

The tour wraps up with a visit to Ponta São Lourenço, the easiest part of the island to access, offering dramatic views of both the Atlantic Ocean and the island’s rugged coastline. The Ponta do Rosto viewpoint is not to be missed for its sweeping vistas.

Even if the weather isn’t perfect, the views here are truly spectacular, and many reviewers note that this spot is worth the visit for its photo-worthy scenery.

Practical Details & Experience

The entire day is well-paced, with hotel pickup and drop-off included in the $45 price—an excellent deal considering the number of stops and activities. Guides speak multiple languages (English, Portuguese, Spanish, French, German), which helps create a friendly, informative atmosphere.

While food and entrance fees are not included, the stops at Santana and Porto da Cruz provide opportunities for straightforward, reasonably priced meals and souvenirs. The optional levada walk costs $3 but is worth considering if you want to stretch your legs and enjoy the lush environment more intimately.

What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides—notably Guilherme, Luca, Diego, and Brunette—who bring enthusiasm and insight to each stop. Many mention that the guides made the day more enjoyable, sharing interesting facts about the scenery, flora, fauna, and culture.

“Bruna was lovely, fun, and very knowledgeable,” one reviewer shared. Others highlight that the guides are excellent drivers on Madeira’s narrow, winding roads, which can be a concern for some but is handled smoothly.

Some comments mention that the stops at Santana and rum distilleries can be crowded—inevitable with popular spots—but most still consider the experience worthwhile. The tour’s flexibility, like adjusting to weather conditions, is appreciated.

Is it worth the price?

At $45 per person, this tour offers a lot of value, especially when you consider hotel pickup, professional guiding, and multiple scenic stops. It’s a comprehensive way to see Madeira’s east coast without the stress of organizing transport or navigating unfamiliar roads yourself.

Who is this tour best for?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic views, light walking, and cultural exploration. If you’re short on time but want a broad overview of Madeira’s east side, this tour covers plenty. It’s also good for those who enjoy learning along the way, as the guides provide a lot of context and interesting tidbits.

However, if you have mobility issues or prefer a very relaxed, low-effort day, you might find the walking components and busy spots a bit challenging. Also, if you’re not a fan of crowds, be aware that some stops can get busy, especially Santana.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included within the Funchal area, making it convenient and hassle-free.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, with different starting times depending on availability.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Portuguese, English, French, Spanish, and German, ensuring good communication for most travelers.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but there are stops where you can buy lunch or snacks.

Can I participate in the levada walk?
You can choose to participate in the 40-45 minute levada walk (costs $3), or just enjoy the viewpoints if you prefer not to walk.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour involves some walking, it’s generally manageable for most travelers. However, it’s not specifically tailored for young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a camera, and layered clothing in case of weather changes—especially since mountain weather can be unpredictable.

What if I cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a thoughtful, scenic, and culturally rich day in Madeira’s east, this tour really delivers. It balances outdoor adventure with historical and local experiences, all within a manageable schedule. The guides are frequently praised for their knowledge and friendliness, which makes a big difference in how much you get out of the day.

While the crowds at some spots are unavoidable, they shouldn’t detract too much from the overall experience, especially given how much variety this tour offers. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers wanting a rundown of the east side without the hassle of self-driving or organizing multiple separate activities.

This experience offers good value for money, memorable views, and an authentic taste of Madeira. Whether you’re into mountains, coastlines, forests, or local spirits, it’s a solid choice to deepen your appreciation for this beautiful island.

Happy exploring, and I hope your Madeira trip turns out as beautiful as you’re imagining.

You can check availability for your dates here: