Madeira: Pico do Arieiro to Santana and Ponta de Sao Lorenco

If you’re pondering a day trip that takes you through some of Madeira’s most captivating scenery, this Pico do Arieiro to Santana and Ponta de São Lourenço tour might just be what you need. We haven’t personally taken it, but based on detailed info and reviews, it sounds like a well-rounded experience that offers a good mix of natural beauty, cultural highlights, and adventure—all within about eight hours.

What really catches our eye is how this tour combines early morning magic at Pico do Arieiro, with off-road explorations and scenic drives. Plus, the stops at Santana’s iconic straw houses and the dramatic Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula are highlights that many find memorable. One thing to keep in mind: the tour is a full day packed with activity, which means it’s best suited for those comfortable with early starts and some moving around.

A potential downside? The tour has strict restrictions—no strollers, large bags, or wheelchairs—so if you’re traveling with young kids or need accessibility accommodations, this might not fit your needs. But if you’re after a comprehensive, small-group adventure that showcases Madeira’s east side in comfort and style, this could be a winner.

This tour seems perfect for adventure lovers, nature aficionados, and anyone eager to see Madeira’s diverse landscapes in a single day. It’s especially appealing if you want a guided experience that minimizes hassle and maximizes scenic time.

Key Points

• Small group size (limited to 6 participants) ensures a more personal and attentive experience.
• Early pickup and sunrise experience at Pico do Arieiro offer unforgettable sky and cloud views.
• Varied stops include cultural sites, scenic viewpoints, and natural wonders.
• The tour covers off-road adventures and scenic drives, giving a taste of Madeira’s rugged terrain.
• Limited accessibility options mean it’s not suited for everyone with mobility challenges.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation and the ability to reserve now and pay later.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Early Morning Pickup and First Stop at Terreiro da Luta

The day kicks off with a pickup from your hotel—options include Caniço, Funchal, or Câmara de Lobos. The morning transfer takes roughly 45 minutes to reach Pico do Arieiro, the third-highest summit of Madeira. Here, you’ll get a prime spot to watch the sunrise, and believe me, it’s a sight that remains vivid in your memory.

We love the way this moment captures Madeira’s grandeur. You’re above the clouds, with shades of orange and purple stretching across the sky, reflected on the fluffy white skies below. It’s an experience that makes the early start totally worthwhile. The visibility at this time allows you to see the emerald green mountains, the deep blue sea, and the cloudscape all in one breathtaking panorama.

Once the sunrise has dazzled you, the tour moves on to Terreiro da Luta, a quick scenic stop just outside Funchal. It’s a perfect spot for photos and a brief walk, offering sweeping views of the city and coast, giving you a taste of Madeira’s diverse terrain before heading deeper into the island.

Pico do Arieiro: The Summit and Its Surroundings

Next, you’ll spend about 40 minutes exploring Pico do Arieiro itself. This is a fantastic spot for more photos and soaking in the views. The mountain’s rugged terrain and high altitude give it an almost otherworldly feel. Many travelers mention the tranquility and the sense of being on top of the world here.

According to reviews, the experience at Pico do Arieiro is both scenic and peaceful. One visitor shared, “The sunrise was pure magic, and the views from this summit are unforgettable.” There’s usually time for a brief walk, which lets you stretch your legs and take in the landscape from different angles.

Off-Road Adventure in Santana

From Pico do Arieiro, the journey continues with a scenic drive to Santana, famous for its traditional straw houses. This part of the tour involves some off-road driving—an exciting way to see Madeira’s rugged countryside, away from paved roads. The 30-minute drive offers beautiful views of the lush scenery along the way.

In Santana, you’ll get about 15 minutes for sightseeing, photo opportunities, and exploring the characteristic wooden houses with their thatched roofs. It’s a charming spot that’s become an icon of Madeira’s cultural identity. The tour includes a guided walk, giving you some historical context and a chance to appreciate the unique architecture.

Ponta de São Lourenço: Dramatic Coastal Scenery

Next, it’s time to venture to Ponta de São Lourenço, a stunning peninsula with rugged cliffs and sweeping ocean vistas. The drive here is about 30 minutes, but the real highlight is walking along the trails. The landscape is stark compared to the lush mountains, offering a more arid, windswept feel.

You’ll love the views of the Atlantic crashing against the cliffs. The walk here is approximately 30 minutes, providing an opportunity for great photos and to experience the raw power of nature. Many reviews mention the impressive scenery and the invigorating ocean breeze. It’s a must-see for those who appreciate dramatic coastlines.

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Porto da Cruz and the Rum Factory

Moving inland, the tour includes a half-hour stop at Porto da Cruz, home to one of Europe’s oldest steam rum factories. This is more than just a quick visit—it’s a chance to learn about Madeira’s rum-making tradition and perhaps pick up a bottle or two. The stop includes some shopping and sightseeing, giving you a taste of local craftsmanship.

Final Stop in Santana for Lunch and Leisure

Back in Santana, you’ll have about 1.5 hours for lunch, shopping, and relaxing. Whether you want to try local cuisine or browse for souvenirs, this break provides a good chance to unwind before heading back.

Return Journey and Drop-Off

The day wraps up with a scenic drive back to your hotel area—Câmara de Lobos, Funchal, or Caniço—taking about 90 minutes from Santana. The small group setting makes for a comfortable, intimate experience, and you’ll likely reflect on the day’s highlights during the ride.

This experience is ideal if you’re someone who loves scenic drives, natural landscapes, and cultural sights—all in a compact, guided package. It’s perfect for travelers comfortable with early mornings and active exploring, but not suited for those with mobility issues due to restrictions on strollers, large bags, and wheelchairs.

The tour’s limited group size ensures a more personalized experience, so if you enjoy engaging with guides and fellow travelers, you’ll probably find it rewarding. It’s a good fit for adventure-minded travelers, nature lovers, or anyone wanting a comprehensive look at Madeira’s east side without the hassle of planning multiple excursions themselves.

If you’re after a well-organized, scenic, and culturally rich day trip, this tour offers a lot of value. The early sunrise experience at Pico do Arieiro alone makes it worthwhile, especially if you love stunning vistas. The combination of off-road drives, scenic viewpoints, and cultural stops like Santana’s straw houses provides a well-rounded taste of Madeira’s diverse landscape.

While the itinerary is packed, it allows you to cover a lot of ground in one day, making it perfect for those with limited time or who want a guided, worry-free experience. The small group setup adds a layer of intimacy and comfort, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy the ride.

In terms of value, considering the variety of stops, scenic vistas, and cultural insights, many travelers find it a worthwhile expense. The reviews reflect a positive consensus, with many noting they’d repeat the experience, especially the sunrise at Pico do Arieiro.

This tour is best suited for active travelers, curious explorers, and those who appreciate a mix of natural beauty and local culture. If you’re after a relaxed, leisurely day, or are traveling with very young children or those with mobility restrictions, it’s worth considering other options. But for a memorable, scenic adventure with a knowledgeable guide, this Madeira trip checks many boxes.

Is the pickup included in the tour? Yes, the tour includes pickup from three locations: Caniço, Funchal, and Câmara de Lobos. The driver will be in a car with the “101 Routes” logo.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, from pickup to drop-off, including time at each stop.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended since there’s some walking and outdoor exploration.

Are there any restrictions I should know about? Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or travelers over 6 ft 6 in (200 cm) or 243 lbs (110 kg). Babies under 1 year are also not accepted.

Can I cancel the tour? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Is the tour multilingual? Yes, the guide speaks Portuguese, Italian, English, and Spanish.

How many people are in each group? The group is small, limited to 6 participants, which helps keep things personal and relaxed.

Will I see a sunrise? Yes, the tour specifically includes an early start to catch the sunrise from Pico do Arieiro—a highlight for many travelers.

Is this a good tour for photography? Absolutely. The stop at Pico do Arieiro, Ponta de São Lourenço, and Santana offers plenty of photo opportunities, especially with the dramatic landscapes and vibrant skies.

If you’re keen to see Madeira’s east side with a knowledgeable guide, this tour provides a solid, scenic, and cultural day out. Just remember to dress comfortably, bring your camera, and get ready for some stunning views!

You can check availability for your dates here: