Madeira: Full-Day Tour of Eastern Madeira

Madeira’s eastern region offers a captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural gems. This full-day tour provides an immersive experience, showcasing the island’s diverse landscapes and inviting visitors to explore its charming towns. From the panoramic vistas of Pico do Arieiro to the serene Levada dos Balcões hike, the tour promises an unforgettable journey. With expert guidance and a focus on local cuisine, this small-group excursion unveils the essence of Madeira’s enchanting eastern side.

Key Points

• Explore the natural landscapes and cultural highlights of eastern Madeira on a full-day small-group tour.
• Visit the third-highest peak Pico do Arieiro for breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged mountainous terrain.
• Enjoy a 1.5-hour hike along the Levada dos Balcões, showcasing lush forests and cascading waterfalls.
• Discover the charming town of Santana, known for its traditional thatched-roof houses and local cuisine.
• Explore the scenic Porto da Cruz and the Ponta de São Lourenço, offering spectacular ocean and mountain vistas.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Full-Day Tour Overview

This full-day tour of eastern Madeira showcases the island’s stunning natural landscapes and cultural highlights.

The small-group experience, limited to 6 participants, offers an intimate exploration led by a live guide available in multiple languages.

Highlights include the breathtaking views from Pico do Arieiro, a scenic hike along the Levada dos Balcões, and visits to the charming town of Santana and the dramatic Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula.

Breathtaking views from Pico do Arieiro, a scenic hike along the Levada dos Balcões, and visits to charming Santana and dramatic Ponta de São Lourenço.

Transportation is provided, and guests can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

This comprehensive tour is a must for those seeking to discover the natural wonders of eastern Madeira.

Visiting Pico Do Arieiro

As visitors begin their journey, they first stop at Pico do Arieiro, the third-highest peak in Madeira.

At an altitude of 1,000 meters, the viewpoint offers breathtaking panoramas of the island’s rugged mountainous landscape. Guests can spend approximately 30 minutes exploring the area, taking in the sweeping vistas that stretch across the central highlands.

This dramatic introduction sets the tone for the rest of the day’s adventure, whetting their appetite for the natural wonders that await further along the route through eastern Madeira.

Exploring Ribeiro Frio and Levada Dos Balcões

After marveling at the breathtaking vistas from Pico do Arieiro, the tour proceeds to Ribeiro Frio, where guests embark on a 1.5-hour walk along the Levada dos Balcões.

This levada, or water channel, offers a picturesque journey through lush forests, past cascading waterfalls, and across scenic bridges.

The tranquil surroundings and gentle incline make it an accessible and enjoyable hike for most visitors.

Along the way, guests can admire the region’s diverse flora and fauna, including unique Laurisilva trees.

The entrance fee of 3€ provides access to this verdant, well-maintained trail.

Santana and Local Cuisine

Next, the tour heads to the charming town of Santana, where participants can enjoy a break and sample the local cuisine.

Santana is known for its traditional thatched-roof houses, offering a glimpse into Madeira’s architectural heritage.

During the stop, travelers have the opportunity to indulge in typical Madeiran dishes, such as espetada (skewered meat) or lapas (limpets).

This break allows them to recharge and experience the authentic flavors of the island before continuing the adventure.

With free time to explore Santana’s quaint streets and sample local specialties, this stop is a highlight of the tour.

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Scenic Photo Stop at Faial

The tour then proceeds to the scenic Faial (Miradouro do Guindaste), where participants can enjoy a 30-minute photo stop.

The tour takes visitors to the scenic Faial (Miradouro do Guindaste), where they can spend 30 minutes capturing the breathtaking views.

This viewpoint offers stunning panoramic vistas of the rugged coastline and nearby mountains. Visitors can capture breathtaking shots of the dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and lush greenery.

This is an excellent opportunity to soak in Madeira’s natural beauty and take memorable photographs.

After the photo session, the tour continues to the next destination, allowing guests to fully experience the diverse landscapes of eastern Madeira.

Discovering Porto Da Cruz and Engenho Do Norte

From Faial, the tour continues its exploration of eastern Madeira by visiting the charming town of Porto da Cruz. Guests have an hour to explore the area, with an optional swim.

The highlight is the Engenho do Norte rum factory, where they can learn about the local rum production process and perhaps sample the island’s famous spirit.

After Porto da Cruz, the tour moves on to the Ponta de São Lourenço, a stunning natural peninsula with panoramic ocean and mountain vistas, rounding out an adventurous day discovering the best of eastern Madeira.

Exploring Ponta De São Lourenço

After exploring the charming town of Porto da Cruz and the Engenho do Norte rum factory, the tour heads to the stunning Ponta de São Lourenço.

This rocky peninsula offers spectacular ocean and mountain views. Visitors will spend 1 hour exploring the area, taking in the dramatic landscape and snapping photos.

The trail is an easy 3km hike, making it accessible for most travelers. Ponta de São Lourenço is known for its diverse flora and fauna, providing a unique glimpse into Madeira’s diverse natural wonders.

This is the final stop on the Eastern Madeira tour before returning to Funchal.

Transportation and Accessibility

Pickup is included from hotels in Funchal and São Vicente, allowing travelers a convenient start to their Eastern Madeira tour. For private groups, pickup can be arranged from any area in Madeira. However, this tour may not be suitable for certain individuals, as it is not recommended for pregnant women, those with back problems, mobility impairments, or altitude sickness.

Accessibility	Suitable	Not Suitable
Pregnant Women	❌
Back Problems	❌
Mobility Impairments	❌
Altitude Sickness	❌

The tour offers a well-rounded exploration of Eastern Madeira, catering to a diverse range of travelers.

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on the tour. The tour is limited to 6 participants, and large bags or luggage are also not permitted. The focus is on providing a comfortable and accessible experience for all guests.

Is There a Vegetarian or Vegan Meal Option?

The tour doesn’t specify if there are vegetarian or vegan meal options. It’s best to contact the tour provider directly to inquire about any dietary accommodations they can offer.

Can I Extend the Tour to Include Additional Sites?

Yes, you can likely extend the tour to include additional sites. The tour operator may be able to customize the itinerary for an additional fee. It’s best to inquire about options when booking the tour.

Do I Need Special Permits to Visit Any of the Locations?

No, special permits aren’t required to visit the tour locations. The tour operator handles all necessary arrangements, including entrance fees. Visitors just need to bring appropriate attire and be prepared for the activities.

Is There Storage Available for My Luggage During the Tour?

According to the tour overview, large bags and luggage are not allowed on the tour. However, there is no mention of storage options for participants’ belongings during the day trip.

The Sum Up

Madeira’s eastern region showcases its breathtaking natural beauty, from the panoramic views at Pico do Arieiro to the lush forests and waterfalls along the Levada dos Balcões. Explore the charming town of Santana, savor local cuisine, and discover the coastal wonders of Porto da Cruz and Ponta de São Lourenço, all while guided by an expert in a small group setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: