Madeira: Pico Do Arieiro & Laurissilva Forest - East Tour

Madeira’s "Pico do Arieiro & Laurissilva Forest – East Tour" promises an unforgettable adventure. Explore the island’s stunning landscapes, from the breathtaking views at Ponta do Garajau to the ancient Laurisilva Forest. Along the way, discover iconic sites like Pico do Arieiro and charming Santana. Led by knowledgeable guides, this well-organized tour caters to diverse travelers seeking natural wonders and rich cultural traditions. But the best part? You’ll have to experience it for yourself to truly understand the magic of this tour.

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Key Points

This 8-hour tour takes visitors to the highlights of Madeira’s east coast, including the third-highest peak Pico do Arieiro and the UNESCO-listed Laurisilva Forest.
The tour includes stops at scenic viewpoints, cultural sites like Camacha for wickerwork, and the picturesque town of Santana with its iconic A-frame houses.
Knowledgeable guides provide commentary in multiple languages, ensuring a comprehensive and immersive experience for diverse travelers.
The tour offers flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours and a focus on natural wonders and cultural traditions.
Customers praise the tour’s exceptional guide knowledge, well-organized itinerary, and ample photography opportunities, reflected in its high 4.8/5 rating.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This tour, known as "Madeira: Pico do Arieiro & Laurissilva Forest – East Tour," is priced from $32.77 per person.

The 8-hour experience includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a knowledgeable guide, and all food and drinks. Travelers can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The flexible booking allows reserving a spot without upfront payment. Key stops include Pico do Arieiro, the Laurissilva Forest, and Santana.

Live guides are available in multiple languages, and the group size can be private or small. An additional €3 fee applies for the Balcao walk.

Looking for more options in Madeira? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with a 30-minute stop at Ponta do Garajau, offering panoramic views of the southern coast.

Ponta do Garajau offers panoramic views of Madeira’s southern coast, kicking off the tour with a 30-minute stop.

Next, the group spends 15 minutes in Camacha, known for its wicker and wickerwork.

At the highlight of the tour, guests explore Pico do Arieiro, the third-highest peak in Madeira, for 45 minutes.

Afterward, they spend an hour immersed in the ancient Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The itinerary continues with stops in Santana, Miradouro do Guindaste, Porto da Cruz, Pico do Facho, and Ponta de São Lourenço, showcasing Madeira’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.

Tour Experience

Experienced guides lead the tour, providing commentary in German, Spanish, French, English, and Portuguese. Guests explore Madeira’s natural wonders in private or small groups, seeing the island’s rich culture and traditions. The tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about the significance of the A-frame houses and walk through the ancient Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

| Tour Highlights | Duration |

| — | — |

| Ponta do Garajau | 30 minutes |

| Camacha | 15 minutes |

| Pico do Arieiro | 45 minutes |

| Laurisilva Forest | 1 hour |

| Santana | 1.5 hours |

This well-organized itinerary allows ample time for photography and cultural exploration, ensuring a memorable experience for visitors.

Included and Not Included

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a knowledgeable tour guide, as well as all food and drinks.

However, there’s a €3 entrance fee for the Balcao walk. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and pets and smoking aren’t allowed.

There’s a €3 entrance fee for the Balcao walk. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and pets and smoking aren’t allowed.

The tour offers a comprehensive experience, with all the essentials covered. Travelers should keep in mind the additional entrance fee and accessibility limitations when booking.

With these details in mind, guests can fully enjoy the scenic landscapes and culture this tour provides.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

The tour boasts an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on 110 reviews.

Travelers consistently praise the tour guides for their exceptional knowledge and emphasis on safety. The well-organized itinerary with ample photo opportunities also receives high marks.

Reviewers highlight the tour’s ability to provide a genuine culture and stunning scenic views. The tour appeals to a diverse range of travelers, including couples, groups, solo adventurers, and families.

While the forest walk incurs a small additional fee, the overall tour experience appears to exceed guest expectations, making it a popular choice for exploring Madeira’s natural wonders.

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Exploring Pico Do Arieiro

As visitors ascend the winding roads to Pico do Arieiro, they’re greeted by the dramatic, jagged peaks of Madeira’s third-highest mountain.

At 1,818 meters, Pico do Arieiro offers panoramic views of the island’s rugged, volcanic landscape.

Travelers can explore the walking trails and observation decks, marveling at the deep ravines and lush valleys below.

The guided tour allots 45 minutes for visitors to soak in the breathtaking scenery and learn about the mountain’s geological significance.

With its stark, otherworldly beauty, Pico do Arieiro is a must-see highlight of the Madeira: Pico Do Arieiro & Laurissilva Forest – East Tour.

Discovering the Laurissilva Forest

After exploring the dramatic peaks of Pico do Arieiro, visitors continue their journey to the UNESCO-protected Laurissilva Forest.

This ancient laurel forest, over 20 million years old, is a botanical treasure trove. Travelers will wander amidst towering laurel trees, diverse ferns, and endemic flora and fauna.

The guided walk through this verdant landscape offers insights into the forest’s ecological significance and cultural history. Visitors are captivated by the serene atmosphere and sense of timelessness.

This natural wonder, with its lush greenery and unique ecosystem, is a highlight of the Madeira experience.

Cultural Insights and Local Traditions

Beyond the natural wonders, the tour also offers rich cultural insights into the local traditions of Madeira.

Guests learn about the significance of the distinctive A-frame houses, known as "Palheiros," that dot the landscape. They’ll explore the charming village of Santana, where these traditional homes are preserved, and gain an appreciation for the island’s deep-rooted architectural heritage.

The guides share stories about local life, customs, and the resilience of the Madeiran people, providing a well-rounded experience that goes beyond just sightseeing.

This culture adds depth to the tour, leaving visitors with a greater understanding of Madeira’s unique identity.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

There is no minimum age requirement listed for this tour. The tour appears suitable for all ages, though it may not be appropriate for young children or individuals with mobility challenges due to the nature-focused activities.

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

Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, the tour includes any necessary refreshments, so bringing additional supplies may not be necessary. It’s advised to check with the tour operator for any specific policies regarding outside food and drinks.

Are There Any Physical Fitness Requirements to Participate?

The tour doesn’t have any strict physical fitness requirements, but participants should be able to walk for extended periods and navigate uneven terrain. Those with mobility issues may find certain aspects of the tour challenging.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration, but travelers can explore the sights at their own pace during the included stops. The standard 8-hour itinerary provides ample time to experience the key highlights.

Can I Request a Specific Language for the Tour Guide?

Yes, you can request a specific language for the tour guide. The tour offers live guides available in German, Spanish, French, English, and Portuguese, so you can choose the language that works best for your group.

The Sum Up

The "Madeira: Pico do Arieiro & Laurissilva Forest – East Tour" offers an unforgettable adventure through Madeira’s stunning landscapes. With breathtaking views, cultural exploration, and knowledgeable guides, this well-organized tour promises an immersive experience that caters to diverse travelers. Whether you’re seeking natural wonders or rich traditions, this tour ensures an unforgettable day in Madeira.