Madeira Funchal:East Tour Pico Arieiro & Santana&Laurissilva

Thinking about a tour that truly captures the natural beauty and local charm of Madeira? This Madeira Funchal: East Tour offers a fantastic overview of some of the island’s most scenic and iconic sights. It’s a popular choice for travelers looking to make the most of their day without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What we love about this tour is how flexible and well-paced it is. The small group setting means you’re not just another face in a crowd, and the extra time at stops makes all the difference when you want to really soak in the views or snap that perfect photo. Plus, the knowledge and friendliness of guides shine through in the reviews, making the experience more enjoyable and enriching.

That said, a potential consideration is that the tour runs slightly longer than the advertised 7 hours—some reviews mention it’s a bit of a relaxed pace, which might not suit everyone if you prefer a very tight schedule. Also, note that the lunch stop might feel a tad long for some, at about an hour and a half, but it’s a good chance to relax and enjoy local cuisine.

This tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive day trip with diverse highlights, from mountain peaks to lush forests and traditional villages. It’s especially ideal if you’re curious about Madeira’s natural landscape and want a guided experience that balances sightseeing with comfort.

Key Points

• All-inclusive pick-up and drop-off save you time and effort, with flexible arrangements.
• Small group ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Expert guides with extensive knowledge and friendly personalities enhance the experience.
• Excellent value for the price, considering the variety of sights covered.
• Extra time at each stop allows for genuine exploration and photos.
• Diverse itinerary from mountain peaks and forests to charming villages and scenic viewpoints.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Madeira East Tour

This tour packs a lot into a single day, making it a great way to see Madeira’s highlights without the need for multiple trips or complicated planning. It’s designed to give travelers a balanced mix of scenic vistas, cultural sights, and natural wonders, all while maintaining a comfortable pace.

Convenient Pick-up and Small Group Experience

One of the first things you’ll appreciate is the pick-up service. The tour offers options from Caniço, Funchal, and Câmara De Lobos, so wherever you stay, your guide will come directly to your accommodation. Reviews highlight how smooth this process is, with guides like Nelson and Jose being praised for their punctuality, friendliness, and helpfulness.

Traveling in a small group means fewer crowds and more personalized interaction. Guests consistently mention how guides go above and beyond, sharing interesting facts and making everyone feel comfortable. This setup is perfect if you prefer a more intimate experience compared to larger bus tours.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off with a visit to Terreiro da Luta and Senhora da Paz Sanctuary in Funchal. These sites set a respectful, reflective tone for the day, highlighting Madeira’s history and cultural significance. The monument on the island commemorates the resilience of Madeira’s people during wartime, carved beautifully in marble, and offers a meaningful photo stop.

Next, you’ll head to Pico do Arieiro, the third-highest peak in Madeira at 1818 meters (5965 feet). This is a highlight for many because of the spectacular mountain views and the chance to see the sunrise or just enjoy the vast panoramas. The scenic drive up to the peak is as impressive as the views at the top. Guests often comment on the breathtaking scenery and the feeling of being on top of the world, with some noting it’s an unforgettable experience.

From there, the tour moves to Ribeiro Frio in the Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This lush, green area offers a short, easy walk to the viewpoint known as Balcões, which presents an incredible vista of the surrounding valleys and mountains. The scenery here, especially in the Laurissilva, is a real highlight—many reviewers mention how peaceful and untouched it feels.

The next stop is Santana, famous for its traditional thatched houses. This charming village provides a slice of Madeira history and architecture. The tour includes some free time here, giving visitors a chance to explore, shop for souvenirs, or enjoy local snacks. The lunch stop in Santana is often praised for its beautiful setting and reasonably priced meals. Some reviewers note that the 1.5-hour break can feel a little long, but it’s a good opportunity to relax and digest all the impressions.

Then, the route heads to Miradouro do Guindaste. This viewpoint offers a spectacular panoramic perspective of the north coast, perfect for photos. Many guests remark on how dramatic and impressive the scenery is from here.

The journey continues to Porto da Cruz, a small seaside village with a lovely promenade. You’ll also visit the Engenho do Norte, a historic sugar factory site, which provides a glimpse into Madeira’s colonial past and sugar production history. Expect a peaceful walk along the coast and some insight into local industries.

Next, the tour takes you to Pico do Facho, a stunning overlook giving a balcony-like view of the sea and mountains. It’s a brief but impactful stop, ideal for a quick photo or a moment to appreciate the rugged landscape.

Finally, you’ll arrive at Ponta de São Lourenço, often called the ‘Grand Canyon of Madeira’. Its rocky formations, sea views, and unique climate make it a must-see. The 15-minute walk here is relatively easy and offers some of the best scenery of the entire trip.

The Experience and Atmosphere

What makes this tour stand out, based on reviews, is the quality of guides. Guests talk about guides like Nelson, Angelo, and Jose, praising their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to adapt to weather changes or individual interests. Their stories and insights turn a sightseeing trip into a meaningful experience.

The pace of the tour is generally relaxed, giving plenty of time for photos, walking, or just soaking in the views. This is especially appreciated in places like Balcões or Ponta de São Lourenço, where the scenery encourages lingering.

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The Value for Money

At $36 per person, this tour offers excellent value. It covers a wide swath of Madeira’s east coast, including mountain peaks, lush forests, picturesque villages, and dramatic viewpoints. The all-inclusive pick-up and drop-off service simplifies logistics, and the extra time at stops allows for genuine exploration rather than rushed photo ops.

The price doesn’t include meals or snacks, but the tour’s lunch stop is an affordable and scenic option that many reviews praise. Considering the number of stops and the diversity of experiences, most travelers agree it’s a worthwhile investment for a full day of sightseeing.

Potential Drawbacks

The main caveat, as some reviews mention, is that the tour might run longer than 7 hours, especially if you linger at stops or enjoy a relaxed pace. If you’re in a rush or prefer tightly scheduled trips, this might be a concern.

Also, the longer lunch break—about 1.5 hours—may feel like a pause that could be shortened for those wanting a more compact day. However, for most, this is a perfect time to unwind and enjoy local flavors.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a rundown of Madeira’s east coast without the hassle of planning each stop. It’s ideal if you enjoy scenic drives, easy walks, and cultural sites, complemented by insightful guides.

Because of the easy walk to Balcões and the accessible stops, it’s suitable for most ages, but those with mobility issues should confirm ahead, especially for mountain or levada walks.

If you love mountain vistas, lush forests, and traditional villages, this tour will satisfy your curiosity. It’s also a good fit if you prefer a relaxed pace and value small-group intimacy over large bus excursions.

FAQ

How long is the tour in total?
It lasts around 7 hours, but some reviews mention it might run a bit longer depending on the pace and stops.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from hotels, houses, or residences in Funchal or Caniço. Just be ready outside your accommodation at the scheduled time.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Spanish, and Portuguese, offering a good range of options for international visitors.

Are meals included?
No, meals and snacks are not included. The tour provides a stop for lunch, which is optional, and many guests find the local options affordable and tasty.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly advertised as family-focused, the easy walks and scenic stops make it generally suitable for most ages, provided children are comfortable with a full day of sightseeing.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, a camera, some water, and weather-appropriate clothing. If the weather looks cloudy or rainy, bring layers or an umbrella.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility if your plans shift.

In sum, the Madeira Funchal: East Tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally enriching day for those wanting to see the best of Madeira’s eastern side. With knowledgeable guides, plenty of stunning viewpoints, and a relaxed pace, it’s a solid choice for travelers looking to explore Madeira comfortably and in depth.

You can check availability for your dates here: