East Madeira Guided Tour with Balcões Levada Walk

Madeira is famous for its rugged coastline, lush landscapes, and charming villages — and on the East Madeira Guided Tour with Balcões Levada Walk, you get a good dose of all three in one memorable day. For just $45.86 per person, this seven-hour excursion takes you from the heights of Pico do Areeiro to the scenic Ponta de São Lourenço, with plenty of stops along the way.

Our guides, especially the friendly Diogo, bring a real sense of enthusiasm and knowledge that makes this trip stand out. Two things we particularly love? First, the breathtaking viewpoints like Pico do Areeiro and Ponta de São Lourenço, which offer some of the island’s most spectacular vistas. Second, the opportunity to sample local Madeira rum at the North Mills Distillery, providing a tasty taste of the island’s spirits culture.

That said, a potential drawback is the unpredictable weather—it can turn foggy or rainy, especially at higher altitudes like Pico do Areeiro. If you’re sensitive to weather changes or dislike cold winds, it’s worth packing an extra layer and being flexible.

This tour is ideal for travelers who appreciate a mix of scenic views, local culture, and some light walking. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy engaging guides, as many reviews mention how knowledgeable and entertaining the guides are. If you’re after a well-balanced, authentic look at Madeira’s east side without breaking the bank, this tour fits the bill nicely.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: From Pico do Areeiro to Ponta de São Lourenço, the scenery is unforgettable.
• Authentic Experience: Visit Santana’s traditional houses and sample Madeira rum at North Mills Distillery.
• Flexible Walks: The Balcões Levada walk offers a scenic peek at Madeira’s lush landscape.
• Good Value: At less than $50, it combines multiple highlights with a knowledgeable guide.
• Weather Considerations: High-altitude spots may be foggy or rainy, so prepare accordingly.
• Group Size: Limited to 16 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Pico do Areeiro (1818 meters)

This is where your day begins, on Pico do Areeiro, the third-highest point on the island. Standing at over 1800 meters, the views encompass an expansive landscape of mountain ridges and cloud-kissed peaks. Many reviewers mention how the spectacular vistas make the early start worthwhile — “The view from Areeiro was spectacular,” one traveler noted. The admission is free, making it a great starting point without additional costs.

Expect to spend about 30 minutes here. The cool mountain air and panoramic scenery set a dramatic tone for the day. While it’s an easy stop, the altitude means it can be breezy or chilly, especially if the weather isn’t clear.

Balcões de Ribeiro Frio and Levada Walk

Next, you’ll head to Balcões de Ribeiro Frio, a favorite among visitors for its short but rewarding levada walk. The walk takes you to a beautiful viewpoint, offering sweeping views of the lush landscape. If walking isn’t your thing, you can opt to visit the nearby trout nursery — a nice alternative for those preferring a more relaxed visit.

Many reviews highlight this stop as a highlight: “Very well informed guides and a very scenic walk,” says one traveler. The walk lasts about 40 minutes, but you can spend more time enjoying the scenery or taking photos. The levada paths are generally easy, suitable for most fitness levels.

Miradouro do Guindaste

A quick stop at Miradouro do Guindaste offers a stunning northeast coast view. It’s a brief 15-minute stop, but the scenery is impressive — dramatic cliffs, crashing waves, and the vast Atlantic stretching to the horizon. For many, this viewpoint is a perfect snapshot of Madeira’s rugged coastline. It’s free, quick, and adds a touch of coastal drama to your day.

Santana Village

The largest stop of the day is Santana, renowned for its traditional A-frame houses with thatched roofs. You’ll have about 1.5 to 2 hours to enjoy a local lunch, explore the village, and soak in the authentic atmosphere. Visitors often mention how charming and colorful the houses are, and some reviews praise the local lunch, despite some noting that not all meals hit the same high note (one reviewer mentioned the beef being tough). Still, it’s a chance to taste regional flavors and see a real Madeira village.

Porto da Cruz and Rum Tasting

A brief stop in Porto da Cruz offers an opportunity to visit the North Mills Distillery and enjoy a free taste of Madeira rum. The reviews repeatedly highlight the rum tasting as a fun, authentic experience, giving a glimpse into the island’s spirits tradition. It’s a quick stop (about 20 minutes), but one many travelers find memorable.

Ponta de São Lourenço

The easternmost point, Ponta de São Lourenço, is a must-see. This stunning peninsula features a ridgetop walk with views over the North and South seas, often with views of Porto Santo on clear days. The scenery here is stark and wild — rocky cliffs and open vistas that make it feel like the edge of the world.

Many reviewers rave about this spot: “The views from São Lourenço are amazing,” and it’s a perfect way to finish your day with some breathtaking photo opportunities. The 30-minute stop is mostly for photos and soaking in the scenery. Be prepared for wind and variable weather, as it’s quite exposed.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation and Group Size

The tour includes pickup from Funchal, which is convenient for travelers staying in the city. The group is limited to 16 people, fostering a friendly, intimate atmosphere. The transportation is comfortable, and guides are certified, meaning they’re well-trained to provide engaging commentary.

Duration and Timing

Starting at 9:00 am, the tour lasts about 7 hours, ending back at the original meeting point. The schedule is tight but well-paced, with enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. Keep in mind that unpredictable weather can influence the experience — especially at high altitudes and exposed viewpoints.

Cost and Value

Pricing at $45.86 makes this tour an excellent value, considering the number of locations visited and the included rum tasting. If you’re an enthusiastic sightseer who appreciates diverse scenery and local culture, this tour delivers a lot for the price.

What’s Not Included

Food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring some snacks or plan to eat during the Santana stop. Entrance fees for paid attractions are also extra — though most stops are free or included in the tour.

Authentic Experiences That Shine

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, especially noting Diogo’s humor and expertise. These guides enhance the experience, making the scenery more meaningful with stories and local insights. The viewpoints are genuinely stunning, and the local rum tasting adds a fun, authentic touch to the day.

What to Pack

Given the variable weather, bring a light rain jacket and layers. Comfortable walking shoes are advised, especially for the levada walk and the Ponta de São Lourenço trail. Don’t forget your camera — the scenery is truly photo-worthy.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is perfect for active travelers who want to see a broad slice of Madeira’s east side without the hassle of planning. It suits those interested in scenic vistas, local culture, and light walking. Families, groups, and solo travelers alike will appreciate the small group setting and the friendly, informative guides.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

In a nutshell, the East Madeira Guided Tour with Balcões Levada Walk offers excellent value for money with a well-rounded blend of breathtaking viewpoints, cultural sights, and local tastes. The friendly guides, especially the witty and knowledgeable Diogo, make the day engaging and enjoyable. The stops are carefully chosen to showcase Madeira’s natural beauty and cultural charm, making it a perfect introduction for first-timers or those wanting a rundown of the east side.

While the weather can sometimes be a wildcard, the variety of stops and the relaxed pace make this tour appealing for most travelers. It’s especially suited for those who love a good mix of scenic beauty, authentic experiences, and a dash of humor along the way.

If you’re looking for an accessible, affordable way to see Madeira’s highlights and enjoy some local Rum, this tour hits the mark — just be prepared for a full day of adventure and incredible views.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s especially good for those who enjoy light walking and scenic viewpoints. The group size is limited, making it more personal.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, pickup at the Funchal area is included, and transportation is provided for the entire day.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 7 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning to the meeting point in Funchal.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You’ll have about 1.5 to 2 hours in Santana for lunch, but the tour does not cover food or drinks.

What should I bring?
Pack layers, a rain jacket, comfortable shoes, and your camera. Bringing some snacks is also a good idea, especially if you want to skip the limited food stops.

What about the weather?
Weather can be unpredictable, especially at high altitudes. Be prepared for fog, rain, or wind and check the forecast beforehand.

This guided tour provides a thorough, engaging look at Madeira’s eastern coast — perfect for travelers who want to see a variety of landscapes and experience authentic local sights in one organized, friendly day.