Funchal: East Madeira Island Guided Tour & Laurissilva Walk

Madeira’s eastern reaches have long captivated visitors with their rugged beauty. This guided tour takes travelers on a journey through the island’s natural wonders, from the awe-inspiring peaks of Pico do Arieiro to the lush Laurissilva forest. Along the way, they’ll discover traditional villages, sample local rum, and embark on a scenic levada walk – all while gaining unique insights from knowledgeable guides. It’s an immersive experience that promises to leave a lasting impression.

Key Points

• A 7-hour guided excursion through the eastern region of Madeira Island, including stops at Pico do Arieiro, Ribeiro Frio, Santana, and Porto da Cruz.
• Tour priced at £33.65 per person, with hotel pickup and drop-off, multilingual guides, and insurance coverage included.
• Offers a 40-45 minute Levada walk (with additional fee) or visit to a trout nursery at Ribeiro Frio.
• Includes a 1.5-hour lunch break and self-guided tour in Santana, as well as a photo stop at Guindaste viewpoint.
• Not suitable for wheelchair users due to uneven terrain, and participants must sign a waiver form before the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Funchal: East Madeira Island Guided Tour & Laurissilva Walk is a 7-hour excursion that takes visitors on a journey through the stunning landscapes of eastern Madeira Island.

Priced from £33.65 per person, the tour is available in Portuguese, English, French, and Spanish.

Hotel pickup and drop-off in the Funchal area are included, and the guide waits up to 5 minutes after the scheduled time.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Availability varies, so guests should check for starting times.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at the Pico do Arieiro, the third-highest peak in Madeira located at an altitude of 1818 meters, offering scenic views.

Next, the group heads to Ribeiro Frio, where they can enjoy a 40-45 minute Levada walk (3€ fee not included) or visit a trout nursery.

After that, the tour stops in Santana for a 1.5-hour break for lunch and a self-guided tour of the village.

The final stops include:

1. Faial: A photo stop at the Guindaste viewpoint for northeast coast views (15 minutes).

2. Porto da Cruz: A 20-30 minute visit to the North Mills Distillery for a local rum tasting.

3. Ponta de São Lourenço: A photo stop with views of the North and South Madeira Sea (20 minutes).

Inclusions and Exclusions

According to the information provided, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in the Funchal area, along with a multilingual guide and insurance as per Portuguese law.

However, the tour doesn’t include food, drinks, or entrance fees. Guests should be aware that the itinerary is subject to change and is provided for reference only.

Plus, the tour may not be suitable for wheelchair users. Customers have the flexibility to reserve their spot without immediate payment, allowing for changes as needed.

Participant Profile

Based on the information provided, the Funchal: East Madeira Island Guided Tour caters to a wide range of participants.

The tour accommodates guests of various ages, interests, and physical abilities:

1. Active Explorers: Participants who enjoy moderate hiking and scenic viewpoints along the Levada walk.

2. Culture Enthusiasts: Visitors interested in exploring the unique architecture and traditions of Santana village.

3. Foodies: Travelers keen on sampling local rum and other Madeiran delicacies during the tour.

4. Sightseers: Guests who appreciate the opportunity to capture stunning vistas of Madeira’s coastal landscapes.

More Great Tours Nearby

Booking and Flexibility

Booking the Funchal: East Madeira Island Guided Tour is a flexible process, allowing visitors to reserve their spot without immediate payment.

This "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option provides the convenience of securing a place on the tour while having the flexibility to pay closer to the departure date.

The itinerary is subject to change, serving as a general reference, which gives the tour operator the ability to adapt to unforeseen circumstances.

Customer Testimonials

Travelers consistently praise the Funchal: East Madeira Island Guided Tour for its exceptional customer experience.

Travelers consistently praise the Funchal: East Madeira Island Guided Tour for its exceptional customer experience.

According to reviews, the tour earns high marks across several key areas:

1. Knowledgeable Guides: Guests highlight the tour guides’ extensive knowledge of Madeira’s history, culture, and natural wonders, as well as their engaging storytelling abilities.

2. Seamless Organization: Reviewers note the smooth logistics, from hassle-free hotel pickups to efficient time management throughout the itinerary.

3. Value for Money: Customers appreciate the tour’s comprehensive offerings and rate it as an excellent value compared to the price.

4. Overall Satisfaction: With an average 4.7/5 rating, the tour consistently delights travelers with its memorable experiences.

Safety and Accessibility

Although this tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, the company takes safety seriously and provides comprehensive insurance coverage as per Portuguese law.

All participants must sign a waiver form before the tour begins. The guide is trained in first aid and carries a medical kit.

Sturdy walking shoes are recommended, as the Laurissilva Walk involves uneven terrain. Extreme weather conditions may lead to itinerary changes for safety reasons.

With proper preparation and caution, guests can enjoy this tour’s stunning natural landscapes without concern. The company’s priority is ensuring a memorable and secure experience.

Itinerary Changes and Disclaimers

The company notes that the itinerary is subject to change based on factors like weather conditions or unforeseen circumstances. Clients should view the itinerary as a reference only.

Key points:

1. Stops and durations may be adjusted to accommodate group needs or unexpected events.

2. Entrance fees, if any, aren’t included in the tour price and are payable on the day.

3. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to uneven terrain and steps at certain sites.

4. Reserve Now & Pay Later option allows booking without immediate payment for flexibility.

The Sum Up

The "Funchal: East Madeira Island Guided Tour & Laurissilva Walk" offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the breathtaking natural beauty of Madeira. From the majestic Pico do Arieiro to the serene Levada walk, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure. With knowledgeable guides, convenient hotel pickup, and flexible booking options, it’s the perfect way to experience the best of Madeira’s east coast.

You can check availability for your dates here: