Madeira’s stunning natural landscapes come alive on the Amazing East Tour. Guests ascend to the top of Pico do Arieiro, enjoy the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of Santana, and sample local rum biscuits. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, travelers explore ancient laurel forests, witness a trout hatchery, and stroll through quaint villages. This personalized excursion promises an enriching adventure – one that whets the appetite for more of Madeira’s captivating wonders.
Key Points
- The Amazing East Tour offers exploration of ancient forests, eucalyptus, and mimosa trees in Portugal, including a visit to a trout hatchery.
- The tour includes a stroll through the Santana UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, showcasing traditional thatched houses and vineyards.
- Participants have the option to embark on a 45-minute Levada Walk – Balcões, providing a unique nature experience.
- The tour provides a personalized experience with a maximum of 19 travelers and includes rum biscuit tasting and lunch.
- The tour features stunning vistas, knowledgeable guides, and well-organized experiences, with high overall ratings among travelers.
Tour Overview and Highlights
The Amazing East Tour in Portugal offers travelers a chance to explore the region’s ancient forests, eucalyptus, and mimosa trees.
Participants ascend Pico do Arieiro, then descend to Ribeiro Frio and visit a trout hatchery.
The tour strolls through the Santana UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, showcasing traditional thatched houses and vineyards.
Travelers drive through a sugarcane village, taste rum biscuits, and enjoy a lunch stop after touring Santana.
An optional 45-minute Levada Walk – Balcões is also available.
With 93% traveler recommendation and 29 reviews, this comprehensive tour provides an immersive experience of Madeira’s natural wonders.
Inclusions and Costs
The Amazing East Tour includes a rum biscuit tasting, which provides travelers a chance to indulge in local delicacies.
Lunch is also included, though not in the tour price. All fees and taxes are covered, making it a hassle-free experience.
However, there are some additional costs to consider – a €6 pickup from Santa Cruz and a €3 Levada walk fee starting in 2025.
Prices for the tour start from $31.98 per person, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance at no charge.
Pickup Information
Where can travelers be picked up for the Amazing East Tour? The tour offers pickup at various locations, though Machico, Ponta do Sol, and Calheta aren’t included.
Shared tours for cruise and ship guests are available at the CR7/Museum bus stop. For the convenience of all travelers, the tour accommodates infant seats, strollers, and wheelchair accessibility.
With a maximum of 19 travelers per tour, the experience ensures a personalized and enjoyable journey through Madeira’s stunning landscapes.
Travelers should confirm their preferred pickup point when booking the tour for a seamless start to their Amazing East adventure.
Tour Experience and Feedback
What do travelers say about their experience on the Amazing East Tour?
Overwhelmingly, reviewers highlight stunning vistas, knowledgeable guides, and well-organized experiences. Travelers rave about the beautiful scenery, from ancient forests to traditional thatched houses.
They praise the engaging tour guides, like Michael and Carlos, who provide informative stops along the way. While some note crowded conditions and limited time at certain locations, the overall ratings for value and experience remain high.
Specific mentions of the tour’s highlights, such as the Pico do Arieiro ascent and Santana Biosphere Reserve, demonstrate its appeal to nature enthusiasts.
Additional Information
Although tours may change due to weather, road closures, or heavy rain and snow, the Amazing East Tour give you a consistent, high-quality experience for travelers.
The tour organizers recommend wearing comfortable shoes and jackets, especially for the mountain areas. Pets are allowed if they’re small, but larger animals are only permitted on private tours.
Confirmation is provided at booking, with specific instructions for service animals and accessibility.
Travelers can expect a well-organized tour that showcases Madeira’s stunning natural beauty, from ancient forests to traditional thatched houses and vineyards.
Exploring Ancient Forests and Scenic Vistas
The Amazing East Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through Madeira’s ancient forests and breathtaking vistas. Travelers will explore lush, green landscapes dotted with towering eucalyptus and mimosa trees. The tour ascends the renowned Pico do Arieiro, offering panoramic views of the island’s rugged peaks and valleys. Descending to Ribeiro Frio, guests will visit a trout hatchery, gaining insights into the region’s natural resources. The tour then ventures into the Santana UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, where traditional thatched houses and thriving vineyards paint a picturesque scene.
| Highlights | Experiences |
|---|---|
| Ancient forests | Ascend Pico do Arieiro |
| Eucalyptus and mimosa trees | Visit Ribeiro Frio trout hatchery |
| Pico do Arieiro viewpoint | Explore Santana Biosphere Reserve |
| Ribeiro Frio trout hatchery | Witness traditional thatched houses |
Discovering Santana’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
As the Amazing East Tour ventures deeper into Madeira’s interior, travelers are immersed in the captivating Santana UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Amidst the lush greenery, they discover the region’s iconic thatched-roof houses, a testament to the island’s traditional architecture.
Strolling through the picturesque villages, visitors marvel at the harmonious blend of nature and human settlement.
Rows of grapevines and fragrant flowers dot the landscape, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere.
The tour highlights the importance of preserving this unique cultural and environmental heritage, leaving travelers with a deeper appreciation for Madeira’s treasured Biosphere Reserve.
Optional Levada Walk and Culinary Experiences
For those seeking a more immersive experience, the Amazing East Tour offers an optional 45-minute Levada walk along the Balcões trail.
This gentle hike through the lush Laurisilva forest provides a closer look at Madeira’s unique ecosystem. Towering ancient trees, vibrant wildflowers, and the soothing sound of the Levada waterway create an enchanting atmosphere.
After the walk, travelers can indulge in a traditional rum biscuit tasting, savoring the local flavors.
The tour also includes a lunch stop, allowing guests to further enjoy Madeira’s culinary delights.
These optional add-ons enhance the overall adventure.
More Of Our Reviews In This Region
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Discounts Available for Larger Groups?
Yes, there are discounts for larger groups on this tour. According to the information provided, an extra cost applies for groups of 8 or more travelers. Customers should inquire about specific group rates when booking the tour.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Travelers on this tour can bring their own food and drinks, though a lunch stop is included. Bringing your own snacks and water is allowed, but the tour focuses on the rum biscuit tasting experience.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Tour?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour date. This flexible policy allows travelers to change their plans without penalty, providing peace of mind when booking the tour.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
While the tour doesn’t offer an option to extend the duration, travelers can add-on the 45-minute Levada Walk – Balcões for an additional fee. This allows them to experience more of Madeira’s stunning landscapes during their tour.
Are There Any Photography Restrictions During the Tour?
The tour generally allows photography throughout, but visitors should be mindful of not disrupting the experience for others. There may be some restrictions in sensitive areas, so travelers are advised to check with the guide before taking photos.
The Sum Up
The Amazing East Tour provides an immersive experience showcasing Madeira’s natural splendor. From the dramatic peaks of Pico do Arieiro to the charming thatched houses of Santana, this tour offers a captivating blend of scenic landscapes, cultural heritage, and authentic culinary delights. With attentive guides and a small group size, travelers can revel in the island’s enchanting beauty and uncover its hidden gems during this enriching adventure.