Madeira: Pico do Arieiro & Laurissilva Forest – East tour

If you’re planning a trip to Madeira and love soaking in breathtaking scenery, this Pico do Arieiro & Laurissilva Forest tour could be just what you need. It’s a well-loved experience, with a high rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on over 120 reviews, which says a lot about how much travelers enjoy it. For just $34 per person, you get a full day exploring some of the island’s most iconic natural and cultural sights.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it combines spectacular panoramic views from the high peaks with insightful local stories about traditional houses and the island’s history. Plus, walking in the 20-million-year-old Laurissilva Forest is a real highlight—imagine wandering through lush greenery that UNESCO designated as a World Heritage Site. On the flip side, some travelers mention that the itinerary can feel a bit rushed at times, especially if you want to linger longer at certain stops. But overall, this tour is ideal for those wanting an accessible yet comprehensive taste of Madeira’s natural beauty and rural charm.

If you’re someone who appreciates cultural insights mixed with scenic drives, and if you’re comfortable with a full day on a bus, this experience will suit you well. It’s not designed for those with mobility challenges, but for most others, it offers a good balance of sightseeing, walking, and relaxing.

Key Points

• Affordable price for a full-day tour packed with highlights.
• Stunning views from Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak.
• Rich cultural stops like Santana’s traditional A-frame houses.
• Walks in Laurissilva Forest offer a taste of untouched, ancient woodland.
• Varied scenery from mountains to coastal viewpoints and charming villages.
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local stories and insights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An in-depth look at the tour experience

This tour offers a carefully curated journey through some of Madeira’s most photogenic and culturally interesting sites. Starting from your hotel, whether in Funchal, Câmara de Lobos, or Caniço, the trip begins with a scenic drive, setting the tone for the day ahead. The tour is designed for those who want a flexible, yet structured, exploration of the east side of the island, covering everything from high mountain vistas to lush forest floors.

The journey begins with a visit to Camacha

The first stop is in Camacha, where you’ll get a glimpse of the island’s local life. Here, you’ll see the monument celebrating Portugal’s first organized football game—a quirky but meaningful piece of local history. The stop is brief—about 15 minutes—but it’s a good chance to stretch your legs and gather your first impressions. Some reviews mention this stop being a bit underwhelming compared to later sites, but it’s worth noting that it sets the tone for the tour’s cultural insights.

Ponta do Garajau and the scenic coastal views

Next, a quick photo stop at Ponta do Garajau offers a chance to appreciate the coastline’s rugged beauty. It’s a short 30-minute sightseeing break, but the views here are worth it. Expect to see the Atlantic crashing against cliffs, and it’s a fine spot for snapping some memorable pictures.

The highlight: Pico do Arieiro

This is the star of the day. At 1,818 meters, Pico do Arieiro is the island’s third-highest peak. The drive uphill is a treat in itself, with winding roads revealing increasingly dramatic scenery. Once at the top, you’ll be treated to panoramic views that stretch across knife-edge ridges and towering cliffs. It’s an experience that makes you appreciate Madeira’s rugged landscape.

Most reviewers mention that the view from Pico do Arieiro is truly breathtaking. One said, “The views are tremendous, and the drive up was scenic and fun.” Keep in mind, however, that the time spent here is around 45 minutes—enough to take photos and enjoy the scenery, but some felt it wasn’t quite long enough to explore thoroughly. On a clear day, you might even spot neighboring Porto Santo, which adds an extra wow factor.

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Walking in the Laurissilva Forest

Descending from the peaks, you’ll enter the Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This forest is estimated to be about 20 million years old, which means it’s a living relic of the island’s ancient landscape. The walk here is gentle but immersive, with lush greenery, moss-covered trees, and a peaceful atmosphere. Visitors often find the forest to be one of the most memorable parts of the tour. One reviewer described it as “beautiful natural treasure,” and it’s easy to see why.

The forest’s climate is moist and cool, so dress accordingly. The walk doesn’t require strenuous effort, but comfortable shoes are a must. The hour-long stop here allows for plenty of photo opportunities and time to soak in the tranquility of this ancient woodland.

Santana’s traditional houses

From the forest, the tour continues to Santana, famous for its iconic A-frame houses with steep, triangular thatched roofs. These structures are a window into Madeira’s rural past, and you get to see how locals lived and built these surprisingly spacious homes. It’s a quick stop—about 1.5 hours—giving you time to explore, take photos, and learn about local traditions. Some reviews highlight how interesting it is to see the craftsmanship and ingenuity behind these houses.

Guindaste viewpoint and the northern coast

Next, the tour takes you to the Guindaste viewpoint perched on a slope overlooking the Atlantic. The views here are spectacular, especially on clear days, when you can see the northern coastline stretching from Faial to the eastern tip at Ponta de São Lourenço. The scene is a mix of lush green mountains, rugged cliffs, and shimmering blue waters.

This stop is brief but packed with visual drama—a perfect photo op. Visitors frequently comment on how stunning the scenery is from here, with one mentioning it provides a “spectacular perspective of Madeira’s north coast.”

Porto da Cruz and Ponta de São Lourenço

Continuing along the coast, you’ll visit Porto da Cruz, a small fishing village with charming alleys and a scenic sea promenade. The village is a peaceful spot to get a feel for local life, and some visitors enjoy wandering the streets or popping into cafes. The guided tour here lasts about 30 minutes, offering a relaxed break.

Lastly, a short walk at Ponta de São Lourenço showcases dramatic cliffs and unique geological formations. It’s a quick 15-minute walk, but the views of the Atlantic and the rugged coastline make it a memorable end to the day. On a clear day, you might even see Porto Santo across the water.

Pico do Facho and Foz da Ribeira do Faial

The last scenic stop is at Pico do Facho, where a beacon once warned ships of pirates. It’s a 30-minute stop with great views of the coastline and Pico do Fago. Afterward, the drive down to Foz da Ribeira do Faial reveals more lush scenery and the pebble beach, adding a relaxing touch before heading back.

Return trip with scenic coastal views

As you head back to your hotel, enjoy the views of the coast and the rare Madeira junipers, which are becoming scarcer as time passes. The whole day is designed to give a well-rounded portrait of Madeira’s natural and cultural landscape.

What’s included and what’s not?

This tour is priced reasonably at $34, and it includes hotel pickup and drop-off—which is a big plus for convenience. The guide is also part of the package, adding depth with their local knowledge and storytelling. You’ll be traveling in a comfortable vehicle, and the small group setting keeps things intimate and manageable.

What isn’t included is food and drinks, so plan to bring some snacks or purchase something at the stops. Given the full-day length, a packed lunch or some cash for local snacks might be worth considering.

The reviews tell it all

The feedback on this tour is overwhelmingly positive. Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, especially highlighting their ability to share interesting stories and answer questions. One review notes, “Christian was very knowledgeable about the places we visited,” while others mention the “friendly” and “polite” guides making the day enjoyable. Several reviewers also appreciated the scenic drives and the opportunities to take stunning photos.

Some minor downsides include limited time at Pico do Arieiro, where one traveler felt 20 minutes wasn’t enough to appreciate the views properly. Still, most agree that the itinerary is well-organized, and the guides aim to balance sightseeing with comfort.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, cultural enthusiasts, and those seeking a full day of scenic exploration. It’s suitable for most travelers who are comfortable spending a day on a bus and walking a bit, but it’s not designed for wheelchair users. The pace is relaxed but can feel a little rushed if you prefer more time at each stop.

If you love sweeping mountain vistas, ancient forests, and charming villages, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. It’s also a good value—offering a comprehensive look at Madeira’s east side for a very reasonable price.

Final thoughts

This Madeira tour packs a lot into a single day, offering a well-balanced mix of breathtaking views, cultural insights, and peaceful walks. The price is attractive, especially considering the included hotel transfers and guided commentary. The experience’s success hinges on the guide’s knowledge and the clear, scenic stops that keep everyone engaged.

For travelers who want a hassle-free way to see Madeira’s highlights, especially if they’re short on time or prefer not to drive themselves, this tour offers a solid option. It’s especially perfect for those eager to capture stunning photos, learn about local traditions, and enjoy the island’s natural beauty without the stress of planning each stop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, most children who enjoy walking and scenery will likely have a good time. However, the full day on a bus and walking in forested areas means it’s best suited for older kids comfortable with that pace.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes are a must for walking, especially in Laurissilva Forest. Also, consider bringing water, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera or smartphone for all the photo opportunities.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included. It’s advisable to bring some snacks or plan to buy something at the stops, especially at Santana or Porto da Cruz.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak German, Spanish, French, English, and Portuguese, providing flexibility depending on your language preference.

How long is each stop?
Stops vary from around 20 to 45 minutes, giving enough time for photos, short walks, and enjoying the scenery. Some travelers mention that time at Pico do Arieiro could be a bit tight.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The tour offers options for private or small groups, which helps keep things more personal and flexible. Standard group sizes aren’t specified, but the overall experience feels intimate.

If you’re after a day of spectacular vistas, cultural insights, and peaceful walks in Madeira’s lush landscape, this tour hits the mark. It’s a solid choice for anyone eager to see the best of what the island’s east side has to offer without the hassle of organizing each detail themselves.

You can check availability for your dates here: