Madeira East Island Tour with Levada Walk and Lunch

If you’re dreaming of exploring Madeira’s lush landscapes, rugged coastlines, and vibrant villages, a guided tour like this one promises to tick all those boxes. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and details paint a vivid picture of a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally enriching experience. Whether you’re a nature lover, history enthusiast, or simply after some spectacular views and local flavor, this tour offers a taste of it all.

What we love about this experience is the small-group size, which ensures a more intimate and flexible journey. The scenic levada walk is a highlight, offering a close-up look at Madeira’s famous canal systems amid breathtaking scenery. Plus, the local villages of Santana and Camacha bring authentic Madeiran charm, and the lunch included offers good value for money.

A possible consideration is that the itinerary can vary depending on weather and local conditions, and some reviews note that the lunch might not always be included as advertised, so it’s worth double-checking when booking. This tour is perfect for travelers who seek a blend of nature, culture, and scenic viewpoints in a manageable, small-group setting.

Key Points

• Small-group experience limits the tour to 8 people, enhancing personalization.
• Spectacular views of Ribeiro Frio, Pico do Arieiro, and Laurissilva forest make it visually memorable.
• Authentic villages like Santana and Camacha give insight into local craft traditions and architecture.
• Levada walk offers an up-close nature encounter, with some reviews mentioning muddy conditions and proper footwear.
• Inclusion of lunch and transport provides excellent value, especially considering the scenic stops.
• Guide expertise is consistently praised, with guides like Tony, Carlos, and Michael sharing detailed info and friendly service.

An In-Depth Look at the Madeira East Island Tour

What the Tour Covers and Why It Matters

This full-day trip covers a broad area of Madeira’s east coast, with stops at some of the most iconic sites and hidden gems. It’s designed to give travelers a well-rounded experience, combining stunning scenery, cultural insights, and active elements like the levada walk.

Starting from Funchal, the tour makes its way through villages, mountain viewpoints, and lush forests, offering plenty of opportunities for photography, learning, and relaxation. The 8-hour duration ensures you visit numerous spots without feeling rushed, although some reviews mention that the timing can be tight if certain sites are closed (like Santana during local festivals), or if lunch gets a little rushed.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Santana and the Traditional Houses
The tour begins with a visit to Santana, famous for its thatched, triangular houses. These buildings aren’t just picturesque; they’re a snapshot of Madeira’s architectural style and rural life. Many reviews highlight the authentic feel of this village, with some mentioning a lovely meal reservation at local restaurants like O Colin, where the lunch is described as very good.

Village of Camacha
Next, the group visits Camacha, renowned for its craft heritage, especially wickerwork. This stop offers a cultural glimpse into Madeira’s artisan traditions and provides opportunities to pick up unique souvenirs. Tour guides often point out the craftsmanship techniques, adding depth to the visit.

Scenic Mountain Views & Laurissilva Forest
The views from Pico do Arieiro and Ribeiro Frio are standout moments, with spectacular vistas of the mountains and forest canopy. The Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a highlight for nature lovers. Expect photo-worthy landscapes and the chance to appreciate Madeira’s lush, endemic flora.

Levada Walk
One of the tour’s most treasured features is the levada walk, often described as a gentle canal-side stroll. According to reviews, the walk can be muddy, so good footwear is essential. Some guides underestimate the duration, leading to rushed returns, but generally, it offers a peaceful, close-up experience of Madeira’s verdant environment.

Visit to Trout Farm and Local Attractions
A short visit to a trout farm adds a fun, educational element, with some reviewers noting the farm’s charm and informative displays. Other stops include the Faial caves and Porto da Cruz, adding variety to the day.

Lunch on Grutas do Faial
A three-course lunch on the island of Grutas do Faial is included, often praised for its quality and local flavor. Travelers frequently mention the wine pairings, making it a relaxing break amid the sightseeing. Some reviews indicate that the lunch might be quick during busy festival times, so managing expectations is wise.

Transportation, Group Size, and Overall Value

The tour uses air-conditioned vehicles that comfortably seat up to 8 travelers, ensuring a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. Many reviewers appreciate the professionalism and safety of guides like Tony, Carlos, and Michael, noting their extensive knowledge and friendly demeanor.

Cost-wise, at around $53.68 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the included lunch, transport, and personalized attention. For those wanting a balanced mix of activity, culture, and scenery, it’s a good investment.

Guides and Guest Experiences

Multiple reviews mention the guides’ expertise. Tony is praised for being very knowledgeable and friendly, while Carlos gets kudos for his personable approach and local insights. Michael is remembered as engaging and informative, with many travelers emphasizing how their guides made the day special.

However, some reviews highlight inconsistencies—such as larger groups arriving on some days, or misunderstandings about lunch inclusion. It’s wise to clarify these details when booking to ensure the experience matches expectations.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, especially for the levada walk, which can be muddy or uneven.
• Bring layers, as mountain weather can change quickly—some travelers mention it being cold near Pico do Arieiro.
• Confirm the lunch inclusion when booking, as some reviews suggest it’s not always included or might be rushed.
• Be prepared for photography—the views are truly postcard-worthy, especially from Pico do Arieiro.
• If you’re prone to motion sickness, note that the roads can be winding and narrow, so take appropriate precautions.
• Since the tour is small, advance booking is recommended, especially during peak season or local festivals.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature enthusiasts keen on walking along levadas and exploring lush forests, as well as those interested in Madeira’s cultural villages. It’s perfect if you enjoy small-group tours where guides can share detailed insights and you can avoid large, crowded buses.

Travelers with a moderate walking ability will appreciate the levada walk and mountain viewpoints, while kids or mobility-challenged travelers might find some parts challenging. The inclusion of transport, a quality lunch, and scenic stops makes for a value-packed day that showcases Madeira’s east coast at its best.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour requires some walking, so younger children should have good mobility and be prepared for uneven paths.

What should I wear for the levada walk?
Comfortable, sturdy footwear is essential—preferably waterproof if the weather is wet. Layered clothing is recommended as temperatures can vary, especially at higher elevations.

Is lunch really included in the price?
According to the tour info, a three-course lunch with wine is included, but reviews note that sometimes it may not be. Confirm at booking to avoid surprises.

How long is the levada walk?
The guide describes it as a short walk, with some reviewers mentioning it takes about 45 minutes, but actual distances can vary based on the route and pace.

What are the main sights I will see?
Expect scenic viewpoints of Ribeiro Frio and Pico do Arieiro, traditional villages like Santana, the Laurissilva forest, and the levada canal system.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
This tour is not recommended for travelers with mobility problems due to walking and uneven terrain.

What is the group size?
Limited to 8 participants, which keeps the experience intimate and allows for personalized attention from the guide.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is subject to weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 25 days in advance, indicating high demand, especially during peak seasons.

Final Thoughts

The Madeira East Island Tour with Levada Walk and Lunch promises a well-curated combination of scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and small-group comfort. With experienced guides, stunning viewpoints, and a delicious included meal, it covers many highlights of Madeira’s east coast in one engaging day.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who want a manageable, personal experience with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insights. If you enjoy combining gentle hikes with sightseeing and local cuisine, this tour ticks all those boxes. Just remember to check on the lunch details and pack appropriate footwear for the walk.

For those seeking a flexible, scenic, and enriching introduction to Madeira’s east side, this tour offers a memorable and worthwhile way to spend a day on the island.