Pico do Arieiro, Santana & more Full Day Tour With PickUp

If you’re imagining a day filled with dramatic cliffs, charming villages, and lush green landscapes, this full-day tour from Madeira Electric Tours promises just that — all comfortably and sustainably. While I haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a compelling picture of what travelers can expect, making it clear why this experience has earned a perfect 5-star rating.

What immediately stands out is the commitment to eco-friendly transportation, with electric vehicles ensuring you enjoy stunning sights without the noise or pollution. The small group size promises a more personal experience, often missing in larger tours. Plus, the thoughtfully curated stops highlight Madeira’s natural beauty and cultural charm, perfect for those who crave authentic, immersive moments.

However, keep in mind that this tour lasts about 7 hours and involves some walking and outdoor exposure, so it’s best suited for active travelers with suitable clothing and footwear. If you’re comfortable with heights and are looking for a well-rounded, informative day exploring Madeira’s east side, this might just be your ideal adventure.

Key Points

• Eco-friendly transport: Uses electric vehicles, supporting sustainable tourism.
• Personalized experience: Small group size (limited to 7 participants).
• Diverse stops: From mountain summits to lush forests and iconic villages.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable drivers who share insightful commentary.
• Authentic sights: Panoramic viewpoints, traditional houses, and scenic levada walks.
• Value for money: Full-day experience with multiple highlights, all within a reasonable price point.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why This Tour Stands Out

Madeira is a jewel of Portugal, famous for its rugged coastlines, verdant forests, and picturesque villages. While many visitors explore by car or bus, this tour emphasizes quiet, environmentally friendly transportation, which enhances the overall experience. It’s perfect for those who want to see Madeira’s highlights while minimizing their carbon footprint.

The tour’s small group size—limited to just seven people—means you get more time, personalized attention, and the chance to ask questions about Madeira’s flora, fauna, and history. As multiple reviews highlight, guides like Roberto and Marc are not just drivers but knowledgeable storytellers, sharing their passion for the island.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting from Funchal

The adventure begins with a convenient pickup from your accommodation in Funchal. This ensures a stress-free start, with the comfort of knowing transportation is sorted and eco-friendly.

Pico do Arieiro: A Mountain Top at 1,818 Meters

The first major stop is Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak. The winding ascent offers thrill and spectacular views, and the summit is often described as breathtaking—literally and figuratively. Reviewers like Frank praise the guided tour and the carefully chosen photo stops, emphasizing how the guide Roberto “explained so much about the island and its flora.”

Reaching Pico do Arieiro offers sweeping vistas that make it worth every switchback. It’s a place where you can breathe in the mountain air, snap striking photos, and appreciate the island’s rugged terrain.

More Great Tours Nearby

Ribeiro Frio and the Levada Walk

Descending from the heights, the tour takes you into Ribeiro Frio, a tiny village famous for its levada walks. Here, you’ll get to stretch your legs on a leisurely walk through the Laurissilva forest—a UNESCO World Heritage site. Expect lush greenery, the sound of birdcalls, and the chance to spot local species like firecrests and chaffinches, as one reviewer fondly recalls being able to observe the island’s birdlife up close.

This stop balances adventure with relaxation and provides a chance to appreciate Madeira’s unique ecosystem. The guided commentary helps you understand the significance of the flora and fauna, making it an educational highlight.

Santana: Colorful Houses and Traditional Charm

Next, the tour heads to Santana, a town distinguished by its iconic, triangular, thatched-roof houses. These vibrant structures aren’t just postcards—they offer a glimpse into Madeira’s past and rural life. Reviewers mention the delicious lunch and the opportunity to explore at your leisure, soaking up local culture.

Santana is a favorite for many, partly because of its picture-perfect houses and partly because it’s a lively little village with authentic charm. The leisurely break here allows for photos, shopping for local crafts, or simply enjoying the relaxed pace.

Miradouro Guindaste: A Floating Viewpoint

After lunch, the adventure continues to Miradouro Guindaste, an incredible glass-and-steel platform that seems to hover above the ocean. Standing here feels like being on the edge of the world, and reviews describe the views as “stunning,” with some noting it as a “photo haven.” It’s a perfect spot to take a breath and marvel at Madeira’s dramatic coastline.

Ponta de São Lourenço: Madeira’s Rugged Coastline

The final major stop is Ponta de São Lourenço, a peninsula with striking cliffs, rugged terrain, and sweeping ocean views. This area showcases Madeira’s wild side, with rocky outcrops and cliffs that challenge even seasoned photographers. Expect a walk along well-maintained trails, with plenty of opportunities to admire the Atlantic’s power.

The Benefits of Choosing This Tour

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable

Madeira Electric Tours’ commitment to using electric vehicles isn’t just about reducing emissions—it enhances the peace and quiet of your journey. Reviewers like Gomet mention that the quiet, respectful mode of transport combined with the knowledgeable guides makes the experience more immersive and enjoyable.

Expert Guides and Personal Touch

The guides, including Roberto and Marc, receive high praise for their knowledge and friendliness. They’re not just chauffeurs—they’re storytellers, explaining the island’s flora, fauna, and history with enthusiasm. This personal touch elevates the trip from a simple sightseeing tour to a memorable learning experience.

Authentic and Varied Stops

The tour offers a well-rounded taste of Madeira—mountains, forests, villages, viewpoints, and rugged coastlines. Many review comments highlight the stops at places that other tours might overlook, giving you a richer, more intimate experience of the island’s diversity.

Comfortable, Small-Group Experience

Traveling with a small group creates a relaxed atmosphere, allowing for spontaneous photo stops or questions. It also means you’re less likely to feel rushed, and the guides can tailor parts of the trip to your interests.

Value for Price

Given the duration, the number of stops, and the inclusion of a professional guide, this tour offers excellent value. It’s a full day out packed with diverse scenery and stories, all in an environmentally responsible package.

Practical Tips and Considerations

• Clothing: Bring comfortable shoes, warm clothes, and a windbreaker—weather in the mountains can change quickly.
• Sun Protection: Sunscreen and sunglasses are essential, especially on open viewpoints.
• Timing: Check available start times; the tour lasts about 7 hours.
• Extras: Remember to bring cash or a credit card for souvenirs or extras, and ensure your phone is charged for photos.
• Limitations: This tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility issues or afraid of heights, as some viewpoints are exposed or involve walking on trails.

What’s Not Included

Meals, entrance fees, and personal expenses aren’t included in the price, but the tour includes a delicious local lunch and a high level of guidance, making it feel complete.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those seeking a quiet, eco-conscious way to see Madeira’s highlights. It’s perfect if you appreciate expert guidance, small groups, and authentic scenery. Travelers who want a mix of adventure, education, and cultural insight will find plenty to enjoy.

If you value sustainability and want to experience Madeira with minimal impact, this tour hits all the right notes. However, if you’re not comfortable with heights or outdoor walking, it’s worth considering your personal limits.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour isn’t recommended for children under 3 years old due to walking and outdoor activities. It’s best suited for active older children and adults.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a windbreaker, sunglasses, sunscreen, cash or credit card, insect repellent, a charged smartphone, and personal medication are recommended.

Are pets allowed?
No, pets are not permitted on the tour, except for assistance dogs.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel plans.

Is food included?
Lunch is included, and reviewers praise it as a highlight, but other meals or snacks are not provided.

Is this tour suitable for people afraid of heights?
Probably not, as some viewpoints are exposed and involve walking on trails with significant drops.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Italian, French, Dutch, and Portuguese, ensuring clear communication for international travelers.

Final Thoughts

This full-day Madeira tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, education, and authentic scenery, all delivered in a sustainable package. It’s especially appealing for travelers who want to explore at a relaxed pace, learn from passionate guides, and see the island’s diverse landscapes without the noise and pollution of traditional tours.

With its emphasis on small groups, eco-friendly transport, and carefully curated stops, it provides genuine value for those eager to experience Madeira’s east side in a respectful and memorable way. Whether you’re capturing the views from Pico do Arieiro, wandering through lush forests, or marveling at the cliffs of Ponta de São Lourenço, this tour promises a beautiful day out.

If your travel style aligns with these values—active, curious, and environmentally conscious—you’ll find this experience to be a highlight of your Madeira visit.

Note: Always check availability, start times, and weather conditions before booking to ensure a smooth and enjoyable day.

You can check availability for your dates here: