Go East Tour – Madeira Island Excursion

Exploring Madeira’s East: A Friendly Look at the Go East Tour

If you’re dreaming of Madeira’s stunning landscapes, charming villages, and scenic viewpoints, the Go East Tour promises a well-rounded day exploring the island’s eastern side. This guided excursion offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and convenient logistics—all for around $45 a person. It’s designed for those who want to see the highlights without the hassle of driving or planning every stop themselves.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances a well-structured itinerary with a small-group vibe that feels personal and relaxed. Plus, the stops at breathtaking viewpoints like Ponta de São Lourenço and Pico do Arieiro guarantee some of the island’s most striking scenery. On the flip side, a possible snag is that some travelers might find certain stops brief, especially if they’re eager for more time at each spot. Still, if you’re after a straightforward way to experience Madeira’s east side, this tour could be a good fit.

It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of nature, culture, and easy logistics. If you’re traveling solo, with a partner, or even a small group, you’ll find the small-group format more engaging than a large bus tour. And because transport and commentary are included, you can relax and just soak it all in. For those who prefer a structured day with a knowledgeable guide, this trip ticks many boxes.

Key Points

• Small group experience allows for more personalized attention.
• Convenient round-trip transfers from central Funchal save on hassle.
• Diverse stops showcase Madeira’s natural beauty, traditional villages, and viewpoints.
• Live commentary enriches the experience with cultural and geographic insights.
• Price point offers good value, considering the variety of stops and scenic views.
• Tour duration is around 7 hours 45 minutes, making it a full but not exhausting day.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The tour kicks off at Pico do Arieiro, one of Madeira’s highest peaks. Here, the views are truly impressive—an open invitation to breathe in the fresh mountain air and snap photos of the expansive vistas. With about 20 minutes allocated, it’s enough to soak in the scenery without feeling rushed. Of course, weather can influence visibility, but even on a cloudy day, the mountain’s grandeur makes an impression.

Next, the tour visits Ribeiro Frio, famed for its lush laurel woods and trout fish farm. This stop provides a peaceful break in nature and a chance to see Madeira’s native flora. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of the area, making it more than just a photo stop. Again, around 20 minutes gives you time to stroll or take a few pictures.

Santana is a highlight for many—its iconic triangular houses are instantly recognizable and offer a glimpse into island life’s traditional architecture. The 1 hour 30-minute stay here is perfect for wandering the village, perhaps grabbing a snack, or simply admiring the unique houses. Travelers mention it’s a “famous for its typical triangular houses,” making it a true photo-worthy stop.

The Miradouro da Portela provides a jaw-dropping viewpoint of the northern coast, including Porto da Cruz and Penha d’Águia. This brief 20-minute stop is ideal for panoramic photos and catching your breath before the next adventure. Expect stunning views that make you feel like you’re on top of the world.

Ponta de São Lourenço offers a privileged view of both the north and south coasts of Madeira. With about 15 minutes here, you’ll get a quick but memorable look at the rugged coastline, which is especially dramatic in good weather. The natural landscape is quite stark compared to other parts of the island, and it’s a favorite among those who love striking scenery.

Finally, Machico, the oldest town on the island, provides a mellow ending to the day. Known for its beautiful bay and lush valley, this stop is about 30 minutes long. It’s a peaceful place to reflect on the day while observing the natural beauty that has drawn visitors to Madeira for centuries.

What Travelers Say

Many reviews highlight how the knowledgeable guides truly elevate the experience. One reviewer called the guide “a star of the tour,” praising their confidence and driving skills, especially when weather or traffic caused a change of plans. Others appreciated the varied scenery, from mountain peaks to charming villages, describing the views as “spectacular” and “breathtaking.”

Some travelers note the brief stops at certain locations but feel that the overall structure balances sightseeing with enough time for photos and quick explorations. One review mentioned that although the guide’s commentary was excellent, they couldn’t benefit from the Italian language option because it wasn’t available at the time, which is worth considering if language is a priority for you.

The value for money seems clear—especially considering that admission tickets are free at all stops, and the tour includes insurance and live commentary. The small group size of up to 18 travelers means you’re less likely to feel lost in a crowd and more likely to ask questions or take your time.

Practical Details and What You Should Know

The tour is priced at about $45.28 per person, which is a reasonable rate for a nearly 8-hour guided experience that covers a lot of ground. The cost includes transportation, insurance, and live commentary—no hidden fees, which adds to the transparency. You’ll need to bring your own lunch or snacks, as the tour doesn’t include food, but that’s typical for such excursions.

Start and end points are in central Funchal, with pickup options available, making it easy to join without additional transportation. The tour operates daily from early morning, between 8:30AM and 9:00AM, giving you plenty of flexibility in planning your day.

Weather can affect the tour—if conditions are poor, it might be canceled or rescheduled, but they offer full refunds or alternative dates if that happens. You’ll want to keep an eye on the forecast, especially for mountain and coastal viewpoints.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for visitors who want a rundown of Madeira’s east side without the hassle of self-driving. It suits those interested in scenic viewpoints, traditional villages, and natural landscapes but prefer a relaxed, guided format. If you’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and brief stops, you’ll likely find this tour very satisfying.

It’s less suited for travelers craving in-depth hikes or extended exploration at each stop. And while families might enjoy the scenic views, the itinerary is more geared toward adults or older children who can appreciate the sightseeing rather than very young kids needing specific activities.

The Sum Up

The Go East Tour offers an accessible and well-planned way to see some of Madeira’s most stunning sights. With a friendly guide, comfortable transportation, and a balanced schedule, it provides genuine value for those wanting a snapshot of the island’s eastern beauty. You’ll love the panoramic views, the chance to learn about local culture, and the ease of having everything organized for you.

If you’re after a stress-free day with plenty of photo-worthy moments and insightful commentary, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially good for travelers who enjoy a small-group setting and want to avoid the complications of self-driving on unfamiliar roads. While it’s not the most exhaustive tour, it hits many of Madeira’s highlights and leaves plenty of room for spontaneous enjoyment.

This experience is best suited for curious explorers who want a convenient, scenic, and culturally enriching day. For those who prefer a more in-depth or active experience, other options might be better, but for a reliable and enjoyable overview, the Go East Tour has a lot to offer.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour provides round-trip transfers from central Funchal, making it easy to join without arranging your own transport.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7 hours and 45 minutes, giving you a full day of sightseeing without feeling overly rushed.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 18 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and allows for more personal attention from the guide.

Are meals included?
No, lunch and snacks are not included, but you’re welcome to bring your own food to enjoy during the stops.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour, eligible for a full refund.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour can be enjoyed by many, it’s best suited for older children and adults, especially those interested in sightseeing rather than physical activity.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, and a camera are recommended. Don’t forget sun protection and water, especially on sunny days.

This tour is a straightforward, scenic way to get a taste of Madeira’s east side. Whether it’s your first visit or a repeat trip, it offers a reliable snapshot of the island’s natural beauty and charming villages without the stress of planning every detail yourself.