Funchal: Pico Arieiro, Cristo Rei and Dolphins Watching

Funchal, the picturesque capital of Madeira, offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural delights. Set out on a tour that showcases the island’s breathtaking scenery, from the soaring Pico do Arieiro to the iconic Cristo Rei statue. Witness the playful acrobatics of dolphins in their natural habitat, creating memories that will linger long after the adventure has ended. This comprehensive tour promises to immerse visitors in the essence of Madeira, leaving them eager to uncover more of this enchanting destination.

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Key Points

This comprehensive tour offers a full-day experience exploring Pico do Arieiro, Cristo Rei, and a dolphin watching excursion in Funchal.
The tour is priced from $96.61 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
Highlights include panoramic views from Pico do Arieiro, an off-road adventure in Santo da Serra, and a 3-hour dolphin watching trip on a catamaran.
The tour provides the opportunity to witness the dramatic "Rola Bola" rock formation and learn about the geological and cultural significance of the visited sites.
The dolphin watching excursion offers the chance to see diverse dolphin species in their natural habitat, with an option to swim during summer months.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour offers visitors a comprehensive experience, including visits to Pico do Arieiro, Cristo Rei, and dolphin watching.

Priced from $96.61 per person, the 8-hour tour provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.

Pickup is included from Funchal’s central area and port, with an extra fee for other locations. The small group size is limited to 9 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

Travelers can also take advantage of the professional live guide, who offers commentary in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, and receive positive feedback for their knowledge and helpfulness.

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Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at Largo do Miranda, offering panoramic views of Funchal.

Next, guests visit Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak, for breathtaking landscapes.

The adventure continues off-road in Santo da Serra, with scenic drives through the countryside.

Scenic drives through the countryside of Santo da Serra promise an off-road adventure.

Travelers then stop at Cristo Rei, a renowned statue providing sightseeing and historical insights.

The tour culminates in a 3-hour dolphin watching excursion on a catamaran, where guests may even have the chance to swim during summer months.

Exploring Pico Do Arieiro

Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak at 1,818 meters, offers breathtaking vistas that captivate visitors.

The tour includes:

Panoramic views of the rugged, volcanic landscape
Opportunity to hike along scenic trails at the summit
Chance to witness the dramatic "Rola Bola" rock formation
Exploration of the unique flora and fauna endemic to the region
Informative commentary from the knowledgeable local guide about the mountain’s geological and cultural significance.

Visitors are left in awe of Pico do Arieiro’s natural splendor and the chance to enjoy Madeira’s stunning natural environment.

Off-Road Adventure in Santo Da Serra

After visiting the towering Pico do Arieiro, the tour transports guests on an off-road adventure through the scenic Santo da Serra region.

Traversing rugged terrain, the Jeep navigates winding mountain roads, offering breathtaking panoramic views. Along the way, the guide shares insights into the area’s history and natural features.

Guests delight in the thrill of the off-road experience, as the Jeep traverses challenging paths, providing an adrenaline-filled journey through the captivating landscape.

This excursion promises an unforgettable exploration of Madeira’s untamed wilderness, leaving travelers with a deeper appreciation for the island’s diverse natural beauty.

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Visiting Cristo Rei

Next, the tour takes guests to the iconic Cristo Rei monument, perched atop a hillside overlooking the city of Funchal.

The Cristo Rei statue offers:

Panoramic views of Funchal and the surrounding coastline
Insightful historical context about its construction and significance
Photo opportunities at the monument’s scenic viewpoints
A chance to learn about Madeira’s religious and cultural heritage
Time to explore the grounds and facilities at the site

With its commanding presence, the Cristo Rei landmark provides a meaningful stop on the tour’s itinerary, offering a unique perspective of Funchal and its picturesque landscape.

There's plenty more to explore in Madeira

Dolphin Watching Excursion

Following the tour of Cristo Rei, guests embark on a captivating dolphin watching excursion. The 3-hour catamaran trip offers opportunities to spot various dolphin species in their natural habitat. Guests can even take a dip in the summer months. The tour highlights are summarized in the table below:

| Feature | Details |

| — | — |

| Duration | 3 hours |

| Season | Year-round, with swimming in summer |

| Sightings | Diverse dolphin species |

| Vessel | Comfortable catamaran |

| The Sum Up | Returns to Funchal Marina at 6 PM |

The excursion concludes the comprehensive tour, providing an unforgettable encounter with Madeira’s marine life.

Tour Guide and Experience

Live tour guides are available for the excursion in English, Portuguese, and Spanish. The guides are praised for their knowledge and helpfulness, ensuring a fun and accommodating experience.

Highlights of the tour guide experience include:

Knowledgeable guides who provide historical and cultural insights
Friendly and approachable demeanor that puts guests at ease
Effective communication skills to engage the small group
Flexibility to adjust the itinerary based on guests’ interests
Dedication to ensuring a memorable and enjoyable tour

Positive traveler feedback emphasizes the guides’ ability to make the Jeep excursion and dolphin watching truly memorable.

Safety and Amenities

A professional local guide is included on the tour to ensure guests’ safety and provide a seamless experience.

The vehicles are sanitized with Ozone, and alcohol-gel is available for added peace of mind. All insurances are in accordance with Portuguese law, providing a layer of protection.

While local taxes are included, food and drinks aren’t provided. It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for children under 3, pregnant women, or wheelchair users. Pets and large bags are also not allowed.

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

The tour does not provide food or drinks, but guests are allowed to bring their own. However, large bags are not permitted on the tour.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Activities?

Guests don’t need to bring any special equipment for the activities. The tour provides all necessary gear, including lifejackets for the dolphin watching cruise. Lightweight, comfortable clothing and proper footwear are recommended for the hiking and off-road portions of the tour.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not explicitly mention any discounts for seniors or students. However, it’s best to inquire with the tour provider directly as they may offer special rates for these groups.

Can I Request a Private or Customized Version of the Tour?

Yes, the tour operator offers private and customized tour options. Customers can request a private tour or customize the itinerary to suit their preferences. Additional fees may apply for these personalized tour experiences.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. There’s also a reserve now & pay later option if you need to reschedule. Guests can take advantage of these flexible policies to adjust their plans as needed.

The Sum Up

This unforgettable tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through Funchal’s breathtaking landscapes, from the majestic Pico do Arieiro to the iconic Cristo Rei, culminating in an exhilarating dolphin-watching excursion. With its panoramic vistas, rugged off-road adventures, and the chance to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, this tour offers an unparalleled experience in Madeira’s picturesque paradise.