Canical is a fantastic base for exploring Madeira’s diverse attractions, thanks to its scenic coastline and proximity to natural wonders. While it’s known for its charming fishing village vibe, it also offers a range of exciting tours for all interests. We especially love the Madeira off-road buggy adventure for its adrenaline rush and stunning views, and the snorkeling boat trip along the east coast for its unique underwater sights. If you’re after a more relaxed experience, the half-day photo tour captures the island’s beauty with professional guidance. For those seeking a private experience, the catamaran and boat rentals provide a flexible way to explore at your own pace. No matter your style, Canical’s tours promise a memorable Madeira experience.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of the best tours in Canical, covering everything from thrilling off-road rides and snorkeling to scenic walks and exclusive boat trips. Each offers a different way to soak in Madeira’s spectacular landscapes and marine life.
1. Madeira: OFF-ROAD BUGGY ADVENTURE TO FUNDURAS
At number 1 on our list, the Madeira off-road buggy adventure delivers a perfect blend of excitement and natural beauty. This tour takes you through the Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with the added thrill of driving your own buggy through mountain trails. You’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the sea and the lush landscape that Madeira is famous for. The tour lasts around 2.5 hours, giving you enough time to feel the rush and see some of the island’s best-kept secrets.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on hands-on fun—you’re in control of your buggy, navigating rugged terrain with guidance from expert guides like Nuno, who are detailed and friendly. Visitors consistently praise the experience, with one reviewer saying, “Greg was a great guide and we had so much fun!! A must-do experience when visiting Madeira.” The tour also provides waterproof jackets and goggles, making it suitable even if the weather turns damp or dusty.
Key highlights include multiple viewpoints, lush landscapes, and the chance to explore Madeira’s hidden natural wonders. This tour is ideal for adventure seekers who want an active, immersive way to explore the island’s interior.
Bottom line: If you’re craving adrenaline and stunning vistas, this buggy tour offers a memorable ride through Madeira’s wild side.
2. Madeira: Ponta de São Lourenço Snorkeling Boat trip
Number 2 on our list is the Ponta de São Lourenço snorkeling boat trip, a two-hour tour along Madeira’s rugged eastern coast. You’ll start at Marina da Quinta do Lorde and sail out to explore the crystal-clear waters, renowned for their biodiversity and scenic beauty. This tour combines speedboat thrills with guided snorkeling, letting you discover underwater marine life in protected waters since 1982.
This experience is perfect for those who want to see Madeira’s vibrant aquatic world without diving deep. The guides, Nico and Tiago, are known for their friendly approach and help with equipment, ensuring beginners feel comfortable. One reviewer happily noted, “We could snorkel with him or on our own,” confirming the flexible nature of the trip.
Highlights include panoramic views of cliffs and sea stacks, snorkeling in pristine waters, and the chance to see Madeira’s marine biodiversity up close. The boat is equipped for safety and comfort, with fins, masks, and life jackets.
Bottom line: This tour offers an active, scenic way to experience Madeira’s coast, perfect for families and water-lovers alike seeking a two-hour adventure.
3. North-East Madeira: Santana, Porto da Cruz, Faial, Canical
Ranked third, this full-day tour explores the rugged and contrasting scenery of Madeira’s north-east. Over approximately 6.5 hours, you’ll visit Santana’s iconic thatched houses, the fishing village of Canical, the sugarcane rum distilleries of Porto da Cruz, and the spectacular cliffs of Faial. The route covers the earliest volcanic eruptions and offers sweeping ocean views, making it ideal for travelers interested in both natural and cultural sights.
The itinerary includes multiple stops for photos and exploration, with highlights like the majestic Penha de Águia viewpoint. The guides are knowledgeable and passionate, providing insights into local traditions, such as sugarcane rum production. This is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive introduction to Madeira’s north-east corner in one day.
Guests appreciate the contrast in scenery—ranging from lush valleys to rugged coastlines—and the opportunity to experience authentic local villages. The tour costs $68 per person, making it a good value for a full day of sightseeing.
Bottom line: This tour suits history and nature enthusiasts, offering a well-rounded day in Madeira’s north-east with plenty of photo-worthy moments.
4. Madeira: Half-Day Guided Photo Tour
Number 4 is the half-day guided photo tour, designed for travelers who want to capture Madeira’s scenic beauty through professional guidance. It lasts about 7 hours and includes stops at iconic spots like Canical, Ribeiro Frio, Santana, and other scenic locations. The tour is tailored to help you get the best shots and create lasting memories, with guides who are experts at finding the perfect angles and lighting.
What makes this tour special is its focus on photography and authentic local views. You’ll visit varied locations, from coastal vistas to mountain villages, and have plenty of time to snap photos. The tour includes pickup from multiple hotels like Les Suites at The Cliff Bay, Savoy Palace, and others, ensuring convenience. The price is $927 for up to four people, reflecting a private, tailored experience.
Guests love the opportunity to have their holiday memories professionally captured, with one reviewer saying, “We guide you to unique places so you can live an unforgettable experience.” It’s best suited for travelers eager to document their trip and those who appreciate a personalized approach.
Bottom line: For keen photographers or anyone wanting high-quality photos of Madeira’s highlights, this tour delivers professional results and personalized service.
5. Madeira Levada Walk with Poncha Tasting
Number 5 brings you a scenic 2-hour levada walk along Madeira’s eastern coast, combined with a traditional poncha tasting. This walk covers about 5 km along the levada irrigation channels, offering stunning views of Ponta de São Lourenço. It’s an excellent way to see Madeira’s lush landscape and learn about local farming traditions.
After the walk, you get to sample poncha, Madeira’s famous sugarcane-based drink, in a local setting. This combination of nature and local flavor makes for a well-rounded experience. The tour offers multiple pickup points, including Pestana and Hotel Porto Santa Maria, making it accessible.
Guests comment on the “stunning views” and the authentic experience of tasting the local drink. The tour is particularly well-suited for those who want a gentle walk mixed with cultural elements.
Bottom line: If you love combining outdoor activity with local flavors, this short but sweet tour is a great choice for a relaxed day.
6. Madeira: Private Boat Rental in Caniçal Without a Captain
Ranked sixth, this private boat rental lets you explore Madeira’s coast at your own pace. For four hours, you can cruise the waters of Caniçal and the Ponta de São Lourenço, discovering hidden bays and the famous lighthouse. No captain is included, so you’ll need a valid boating license, making it ideal for confident boaters.
This experience offers freedom and flexibility—perfect if you prefer customizing your day on the water. It’s especially suited for groups of friends or families seeking a private escape from organized tours.
Highlights include enjoying the wind in your hair, exploring at leisure, and appreciating the stunning coastline from a different perspective. It’s a practical, no-fuss way to enjoy Madeira’s sea.
Bottom line: Best for experienced boaters wanting control over their adventure, or those looking for a quiet day on the water with friends.
7. Madeira Private Catamaran Tour in Ponta de São Lourenço
This private 3-hour catamaran tour offers an upscale way to experience Madeira’s coast. Starting at Quinta do Lorde Resort Hotel Marina, you’ll sail along the Ponta de São Lourenço, with options to snorkel, paddleboard, or just relax and enjoy the scenery. The vessel can hold up to 12 people, providing an intimate setting.
The tour includes snorkeling equipment and a welcome drink, making it a luxurious yet laid-back experience. Guests love the customizable itinerary—whether you want to focus on marine life or simply soak up the sun. The crew is attentive and eager to ensure you have a memorable trip.
Additional perks include paddleboards and kayaks, giving you multiple ways to explore the water. This is perfect for families or small groups wanting a private, flexible day on the sea.
Bottom line: For a personalized, comfortable experience with options for water activities, this catamaran tour is a standout.
8. Madeira: Private Jet Ski Rental
Number 8 offers the thrill of zooming across Madeira’s coast on a Yamaha VX Jet Ski. With a valid boating license, you can rent a jet ski for one hour, exploring the Ponta de São Lourenço at your own pace.
This activity is ideal for those who prefer independence and a bit of speed. It’s easy to get started with full fuel, safety vests, and clear instructions. You’ll experience Madeira from a different perspective—fast and close to the water.
Highlights include the freedom to navigate along the coast, with excellent scenery and the thrill of controlling your own machine. No guided tour here—just pure, self-driven fun.
Bottom line: Best suited for experienced boaters or thrill-seekers wanting a quick, exciting way to see Madeira’s coastline.
9. Madeira: Stingray Diving Experience in Caniçal
For those interested in marine life, the stingray diving experience takes you into the waters of Caniçal, where you can observe stingrays in their natural habitat. This one-hour activity includes a safety briefing and a gentle underwater encounter.
The activity is limited to small groups (up to 4 participants), ensuring personal attention from instructors. It’s suitable for swimmers with diving certification and those comfortable in the water. The marine biodiversity here is rich, with the chance to see various ray species, making it a unique underwater adventure.
Guests highlight the peaceful nature of the stingrays and the educational aspect of learning about local marine creatures. The activity takes place at Praia da Ribeira de Natal, providing a convenient base.
Bottom line: Ideal for marine life enthusiasts and certified divers seeking a close encounter with rays in a safe, controlled environment.
10. Red Flying Dress Photoshoot & Drone Video in Madeira
Last but not least, the red flying dress photoshoot offers a glamorous way to immortalize your trip. Over 1.5 hours, professional photographers capture you in a stunning flying dress, with drone footage providing cinematic quality videos. The scenic backdrop and expert editing make for unforgettable keepsakes.
This experience is perfect for those wanting high-quality photos and videos with a touch of elegance. The locations are carefully chosen for their scenic appeal, and the photos are suitable for sharing or framing. The price is $296 per person, reflecting its premium nature.
Guests rave about the visual results, and many say it’s a highlight of their Madeira visit. It’s best suited for travelers who want a glamorous, fun photoshoot that captures both their personality and the landscape.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for memorable, professionally shot photos with a dramatic flair, this photoshoot guarantees stunning results.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Canical
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, interests, and fitness level. For thrill-seekers, the Buggy Adventure offers an adrenaline rush, while snorkeling is perfect for water lovers. If you’re after a relaxed yet picturesque day, the photo tour or levada walk with poncha are excellent choices.
For those wanting a private experience, the catamaran and boat rentals provide flexibility, and the jet ski rental is perfect for independent explorers. Keep in mind, some tours like the stingray experience require certification and comfort in the water.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred dates. Think about combining tours—for instance, a scenic walk with a photoshoot—to create a personalized Madeira adventure.
Final Thoughts
Canical offers a surprising variety of tours that cater to adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking memorable photos. Whether it’s the thrill of exploring off-road trails, snorkeling along spectacular cliffs, or capturing stunning images, you’ll find something to suit your style.
For families, the snorkeling trip or Levada walk might be best, while couples seeking romance might opt for the catamaran or photoshoot. Solo travelers and adrenaline junkies will love the buggy adventure or jet ski rental. Whatever your choice, booking in advance will help you make the most of your time in this beautiful corner of Madeira.
