Canico is a fantastic base for exploring Madeira thanks to its proximity to both natural wonders and charming villages. Unlike bus tours that sometimes feel rushed, many of the options here focus on personalized experiences, scenic drives, or active adventures. One of our favorites is the Madeira: East Island Tour with Rum Tasting, which combines breathtaking views with authentic local flavors, giving you a well-rounded taste of the island’s east coast. Whether you prefer a guided private experience, a self-guided bike ride, or a cruise ship stop, Canico offers tours that fit a variety of interests, budgets, and activity levels.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we explore four top tours in Canico. These include a comprehensive guided tour of Madeira’s east coast, a self-guided e-bike adventure from Ponta São Lourenço to Funchal, a private Mercedes tour of the east and south coasts, and a private cruise port experience. Each offers something unique—whether it’s scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, or flexibility—so read on to find out which best suits your travel style.
1. Madeira: East Island Tour with Rum Tasting
At number 1, this 8-hour guided tour shines for those who want a mix of spectacular scenery and local flavor. Starting with pickup options from Funchal or Madeira, you’ll venture to the island’s iconic spots like Pico do Arieiro, the third-highest peak with panoramic views, and Santana, famous for its thatched-roof houses. The tour continues to the Cristo Rei viewpoint, where the statue gazes over the coast, and the Ponta do Rosto, known for dramatic northern vistas.
One of the key highlights is the visit to Engenhos do Norte for a rum tasting—a real treat for those interested in Madeira’s local spirits. The itinerary also includes stops at the North Mills Distillery and a photo opportunity at Canical. The full-day experience offers a well-rounded look at Madeira’s diverse landscapes and culture, making it ideal for first-time visitors who want an overview without sacrificing depth.
This tour’s value lies in its comprehensive nature and expert guide, who shares insights about the island’s history and landscape. For just $53 per person, it offers an excellent taste of Madeira’s east coast with a friendly group atmosphere and plenty of time for photos and exploration.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a full day of scenic vistas, local flavors, and cultural insight—especially if you’re in Funchal and want a well-organized, affordable adventure.
2. Self-Guided Road E-Bike Tour Ponta São Lourenço to Funchal
For those who prefer to chart their own course, the Self-Guided Road E-Bike Tour from Ponta São Lourenço to Funchal offers an excellent way to explore Madeira at your own pace. Starting early at 7am during sunrise, you’ll ride comfortable e-bikes along scenic roads, guided only by GPS navigation. The roughly 5-hour route takes you from Ponta São Lourenço, known for its rugged cliffs and ocean views, back toward Funchal.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of independence and scenic beauty. You’ll have the freedom to deviate to viewpoints or small villages, all while enjoying the island’s fresh air. The route is designed to be manageable for most fitness levels, and the bikes are described as excellent, making the ride smooth and enjoyable. The itinerary includes a stop at the Teleférico Funchal-Monte, giving a convenient start and end point.
If you’re a confident cyclist who loves the idea of a flexible, active day, this is a great choice. With 5-star reviews praising the quality of bikes and the well-organized GPS system, it offers both adventure and convenience at a reasonable cost.
Bottom Line: Ideal for active travelers who want a personalized, scenic experience without the constraints of a group tour—just bring your sense of adventure and a good pair of shoes for potential walking.
3. Madeira East and South: Private Tour in Mercedes – Viewpoints and Typical Places
At number 3, the private tour in a Mercedes offers a flexible, personalized way to see both the east and south coasts of Madeira. For around $111 per group (up to 4 people), you get a customized 12-hour itinerary that hits all the major viewpoints and charming villages. The itinerary includes stops at Miradouro do Pinaculo, Santa Cruz, Praia de Machico, and Ponta de São Lourenço, with plenty of time for photos, walks, and local sightseeing.
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized pace—you can linger at spots that interest you most and skip others that don’t. The host is very flexible, and the Mercedes vehicle ensures comfort while traversing Madeira’s sometimes winding roads. Highlights include the Pico Ruivo hike option for those who want a bit of a walk and the Eira do Serrado viewpoint with stunning views of the valley below.
This tour suits travelers who want a more intimate experience and can be tailored to specific interests. It’s a good value considering the private setting and all-day coverage, especially for small groups or couples. The one potential downside is that it doesn’t include a fixed, detailed itinerary—so it’s best for those comfortable with a degree of spontaneity.
Bottom Line: A great pick for travelers who value privacy, flexibility, and a relaxed pace, especially for groups seeking a tailored day in Madeira.
4. Madeira: Private Tour for Cruise Ship Passengers
Finally, for cruise passengers on a time crunch, the Private Tour for Cruise Ship Passengers offers a 8.5-hour, flexible sightseeing experience directly from Funchal’s port. This tour is designed to ensure you see Madeira’s highlights without the stress of timing or tight schedules. The private driver is friendly and knowledgeable, ready to customize the day based on your preferences.
Popular stops include Cabo Girão, Monte, and Câmara de Lobos, with scenic drives through some of the most photogenic spots on the island. The tour guarantees timely return to your ship, which is crucial if you’re on a strict itinerary. The small-group experience ensures personalized attention, and the private vehicle means you won’t be herded around with strangers.
This tour is an excellent value at $235 per group (up to 8 people), especially if you want the peace of mind of a private, flexible itinerary. It’s perfect for cruise travelers who want a stress-free, curated day with the flexibility to include or skip sites.
Bottom Line: Best for cruise passengers wanting a private, efficient Madeira experience tailored to their timetable.
How to Choose
Picking the right tour depends on your budget, time, activity level, and interests. If you want a well-rounded, guided day with local flavors, the Madeira: East Island Tour with Rum Tasting offers excellent value. For those who prefer independence and active exploration, the Self-Guided Road E-Bike Tour provides maximum flexibility. If you’re traveling with family or a small group that values privacy, the private Mercedes tour is perfect. Lastly, cruise visitors should consider the dedicated private tour from Funchal port, designed for time efficiency.
Think about how much walking you want to do, whether you prefer guided commentary or self-paced exploration, and if your budget aligns with a more exclusive experience. Booking early is recommended—especially for private and bike tours—to secure your preferred date and time.
Final Thoughts
Canico offers a wide range of tour options to match every traveler’s style. For a full-day adventure combining landscapes and local flavors, the Madeira: East Island Tour with Rum Tasting is hard to beat. Active travelers will appreciate the flexibility of the self-guided e-bike ride, while those seeking comfort and personalized attention might prefer the private Mercedes tour. Cruise visitors should prioritize the dedicated port tour for a hassle-free experience.
No matter which you choose, Madeira’s diverse scenery and welcoming atmosphere ensure a memorable day. Be sure to book early, especially if you’re traveling during peak season, to make the most of your time on this beautiful island.