Madeira’s east coast offers a captivating experience for travelers seeking to enjoy the island’s natural beauty and local culture. This comprehensive tour takes visitors on a journey through stunning landscapes, vibrant markets, and awe-inspiring vistas. From the breathtaking Pico do Arieiro to the charming Santo da Serra Market, the tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Madeira’s enchanting wonders. With personalized attention and small group sizes, the experience is tailored to ensure a truly memorable day.
Key Points
- This 8-hour guided tour explores the East Coast of Madeira, including Pico do Arieiro, Santo da Serra Market, Cristo Rei statue, and Machico.
- Participants can enjoy scenic views, local food exploration, and photo opportunities throughout the tour.
- Transportation is provided from meeting points in Funchal Center, Lido, and Caniço, with drop-off at Supermercado Mendonça and Hotel Porto Mare.
- The small group size of up to 8 participants ensures personalized attention from the local driver/guide.
- Comfortable clothing, rain gear, and sun protection are recommended due to the unpredictable weather conditions.
Tour Overview and Pricing
The tour from $71.04 per person offers an 8-hour experience with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
An 8-hour tour for $71.04 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Guests can reserve their spot now and pay later. The small group is limited to 8 participants, with transportation provided from meeting points in Funchal Center, Lido, and Caniço.
Travelers will visit highlights along the east coast, including Pico do Arieiro, Santo da Serra Market, Cristo Rei statue, Miradouro São Lourenço, and Machico.
The tour includes a local driver/guide, refreshments, market snacks/lunch, and insurance coverage.
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Itinerary Highlights
This tour takes guests on an immersive journey along Madeira’s east coast, starting from various pickup locations in Funchal Center, Lido, and Caniço.
The first stop is Pico do Arieiro, where guests have 40 minutes for a photo stop and guided tour.
Next, they visit the Santo da Serra Market for a 1.5-hour break, photo stop, and local food market exploration.
The tour continues to the Cristo Rei statue in Caniço, the scenic Miradouro São Lourenço, and Pico do Facho for 15 minutes of scenic views.
The final stop is a 20-minute guided tour and photo stop in Machico.
Transportation and Group Size
With a small group limited to 8 participants, this tour provides personalized transportation from various meeting points in Funchal Center, Lido, and Caniço.
The tour includes drop-off locations at Supermercado Mendonça, Hotel Porto Mare, Cable Car – Lower Station, and Shuttle Bus Drop-off point.
The tour includes convenient drop-off locations at various points of interest throughout the Funchal area.
This small group size ensures an intimate and immersive experience, allowing for more personalized attention from the local driver/guide.
The transportation arrangements cater to the needs of the participants, making it convenient to join the tour from different areas of Funchal and its surrounding regions.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Although the tour includes various inclusions, there are also some exclusions for participants to be aware of.
The tour provides a local driver/guide, bottled water, a local drink, coffee, and a market snack/lunch. Insurance is also included as required by local law.
However, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 12 or wheelchair users. Participants should bring comfortable shoes, clothes, rain gear, sun hat, and sunscreen.
Smoking and vaping aren’t allowed in the vehicle. Given Madeira’s unpredictable weather, flexibility may be required for potential itinerary changes.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information
Participants should ensure they bring comfortable shoes, clothes, rain gear, sun hat, and sunscreen, as the tour operates rain or shine.
Smoking and vaping aren’t allowed in the vehicle.
Madeira’s climate can be unpredictable, so travelers should be prepared for potential changes to the itinerary.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 12 or wheelchair users.
Based on a single review, the tour receives an overall 5/5 rating, with praise for the engaging guide and immersive experience at the local market.
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Pico Do Arieiro: Breathtaking Views
The tour’s first stop at Pico do Arieiro promises breathtaking panoramic views.
Situated at an elevation of 1,818 meters, this iconic peak offers sweeping vistas of Madeira’s rugged central mountain range.
Situated at an impressive 1,818 meters, this iconic peak provides sweeping vistas of Madeira’s rugged central mountain range.
Visitors will have 40 minutes to explore the area, snapping photos and joining a guided tour to learn about the island’s unique geography and ecology.
From this lofty perch, guests can gaze out over the undulating peaks and valleys, with the shimmering Atlantic Ocean in the distance.
An exhilarating start to a day immersed in Madeira’s natural wonders.
Santo Da Serra Market: Taking in Local Culture
Next, the tour spends 1.5 hours exploring the lively Santo da Serra Market. This local farmers market offers a vibrant glimpse into Madeira’s culture and cuisine:
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Browse an array of fresh produce, including tropical fruits, vegetables, and herbs
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Sample regional specialties like "bolo do caco" (traditional Madeiran flatbread)
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Chat with local vendors and learn about their family-run businesses
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Discover unique handicrafts and artisanal goods, from woven baskets to handmade ceramics
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Enjoy the bustling atmosphere and soak up the vibrant sights, sounds, and aromas
Cristo Rei Statue and Miradouro São Lourenço: Scenic Vistas
After exploring the vibrant Santo da Serra Market, the tour continues to the Cristo Rei statue in Caniço. This iconic 28-meter statue, overlooking the Atlantic, offers a serene and contemplative experience. Visitors can appreciate the scale and artistry of the sculpture, as well as the breathtaking vistas of the surrounding coastline.
| Statue | Viewpoint |
|——–|———–|
| Towering over Caniço | Panoramic ocean views |
| Intricate religious details | Dramatic cliffs and sea |
| Commanding presence | Peaceful atmosphere |
| Emblematic of Madeira | Ideal for photographs |
From here, the tour moves on to Miradouro São Lourenço, a scenic overlook showcasing Madeira’s dramatic eastern coastline.
The Sum Up
Enjoy Madeira’s enchanting east coast on this comprehensive tour. Witness breathtaking landscapes, savor local delicacies, and explore the vibrant Santo da Serra Market. With personalized attention and small group sizes, this journey promises unforgettable memories that capture the essence of Madeira’s natural beauty and cultural richness.
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