From Funchal: Santana and Pico Do Areeiro East Island Tour

Madeira’s breathtaking landscapes take center stage on this captivating tour. Soaring peaks, charming villages, and UNESCO-protected natural wonders await. Travelers will marvel at the panoramic vistas from Pico do Areeiro, discover Santana’s unique thatched-roof houses, and explore the lush Ribeiro Frio. This seamless excursion provides an opportunity to take in Madeira’s rich cultural heritage and natural splendor. What secrets and surprises might this tour unveil?

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Key Points

This 8-hour excursion explores the eastern side of Madeira, offering visits to Pico do Areeiro, Santana, Ribeiro Frio, Faial, and Machico.
The tour provides breathtaking panoramic views from the summit of Pico do Areeiro, a peak standing at 1,818 meters.
Santana features charming thatched-roof triangular houses, showcasing Madeira’s rich cultural heritage and traditional architecture.
The tour explores the UNESCO-protected Laurissilva forest in Ribeiro Frio, providing insights into the island’s diverse ecosystem.
Machico, the first area encountered by Portuguese navigators, offers a glimpse into Madeira’s colonial past and historical significance.

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Tour Overview

The "From Funchal: Santana and Pico do Areeiro East Island Tour" is a popular 8-hour excursion that provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the eastern side of the island of Madeira.

Priced from $43.78 per person, the tour is offered in multiple languages and features a flexible cancellation policy.

Priced from $43.78 per person, the tour is offered in multiple languages and features a flexible cancellation policy.

Highlights include visits to Pico do Areeiro, Santana, Ribeiro Frio, Faial, and Machico, allowing participants to enjoy Madeira’s stunning natural landscapes, traditional architecture, and cultural heritage.

Transportation is provided via round-trip minibus, and the tour is led by a knowledgeable guide who shares insights on the local culture and traditions.

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Exploring Pico Do Areeiro

As the tour begins, visitors are taken to the island’s third-highest peak, Pico do Areeiro, which stands at an impressive 1,818 meters. The panoramic views from the summit are nothing short of breathtaking, showcasing Madeira’s rugged terrain and lush vegetation. Visitors can explore the unique rocky formations and snap photos of the stunning vistas. To highlight the diverse scenery, the tour includes a table showcasing the types of landscapes encountered:

| Landscape | Description |

| — | — |

| Mountainous | Steep, rocky slopes with dramatic cliffs |

| Forested | Lush, green Laurissilva forest |

| Coastal | Picturesque sea views and seaside towns |

The Pico do Areeiro segment provides a captivating introduction to Madeira’s natural beauty.

Discovering Santana

After exploring the dramatic vistas of Pico do Areeiro, the tour takes visitors to the charming village of Santana.

Here, the group enjoys a long stop, allowing time for an optional lunch and a chance to wander through the unique thatched-roof triangular houses that are iconic to the region.

These traditional dwellings offer a glimpse into Madeira’s rich cultural heritage.

The stop in Santana provides an opportunity to immerse in the local way of life and appreciate the architectural and scenic delights that make this destination a highlight of the East Island tour.

Venturing Into Ribeiro Frio

Next, the tour ventures into the lush Laurissilva forest at Ribeiro Frio. Visitors explore this UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, marveling at the verdant, ancient laurel trees.

The guide provides insight into the unique ecosystem and its protected status. At the trout farm, travelers can observe the freshwater fish in their natural habitat.

The Laurissilva forest’s cool, moist atmosphere offers a refreshing respite from the coast. This stop allows participants to enjoy Madeira’s natural wonders and learn about the island’s rich biodiversity.

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Observing Faial’s Penha De Águia

The tour then proceeds to Faial, where visitors observe the Penha de Águia, a striking rock formation that separates the island from Porto da Cruz.

This natural wonder features impressive cliffs and jagged peaks, carved by the relentless forces of wind and water over time.

The guide explains the geological significance of this landmark, as well as its importance in the region’s history and culture.

The guide elaborates on the geological significance of the Penha de Águia and its cultural importance in the region.

Visitors take in the breathtaking views, capturing photos to preserve the memory of this unique and awe-inspiring natural feature of Madeira’s diverse landscape.

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Uncovering Machico’s History

The tour then explores Machico, the first area encountered by the Portuguese navigators when they first arrived on the island of Madeira.

Visitors discover the historical significance of this coastal town, learning about the early settlement and its role in the island’s exploration. The guide shares insights about the town’s development and how it became an important port.

Guests have the chance to wander the charming streets, taking in the local atmosphere and architecture. This stop provides a glimpse into Madeira’s past and the beginnings of its European colonization.

Transportation and Guided Experience

For this comprehensive East Island Tour, round-trip minibus transportation is provided with pickup and drop-off from Funchal.

A knowledgeable guide leads the tour, sharing insights on Madeira’s local culture and traditions. Guests can sit back and enjoy the lush greenery, diverse flora, and scenic land and sea views as the guide navigates the island’s winding roads.

The tour experience is designed to provide a well-rounded exploration of Madeira’s natural beauty and unique heritage, including stops at iconic landmarks like Pico do Areeiro and Santana’s traditional thatched-roof houses.

Important Considerations and Feedback

Booking flexibility allows guests to reserve their spot without upfront payment, while luggage restrictions prohibit oversized items.

Though start and end times may vary slightly, the well-reviewed transportation and guided tour consistently deliver a positive experience.

With an overall rating of 4.6/5 from 39 reviews, customers praise the tour’s variety of stops and cultural insights, though some suggest the guide’s delivery could be improved.

At $43.78 per person, the tour offers strong value for money according to 4.8/5 ratings in this category.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour, as it provides an opportunity to capture the stunning natural landscapes and cultural highlights visited. However, guests should be mindful of any restrictions or guidelines provided by the tour guide.

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

Travelers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator for any specific restrictions or recommendations regarding food and beverages during the excursion.

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The tour’s group size varies, but it typically accommodates small groups. The booking information doesn’t specify an exact group size, so it’s best to check with the tour provider for the most up-to-date details on group size.

Can I Make Any Special Requests for the Tour?

Customers can make special requests for the tour, such as dietary requirements or accessibility needs. The tour provider aims to accommodate these requests to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. Travelers of all ages are welcome to participate, though those under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The tour’s activities and transportation are suitable for a wide range of ages.

The Sum Up

The "From Funchal: Santana and Pico Do Areeiro East Island Tour" offers a captivating journey through Madeira’s stunning landscapes. Visitors will be awestruck by the panoramic views from Pico do Areeiro, enchanted by Santana’s unique thatched-roof houses, and immersed in the lush UNESCO-protected Ribeiro Frio. This comprehensive tour provides an excellent opportunity to explore Madeira’s rich cultural heritage and natural wonders, leaving guests with unforgettable memories.