From Funchal: Santana and Pico do Areeiro East Island Tour

From Funchal: Santana and Pico do Areeiro East Island Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive look at Madeira’s eastern landscape, combining stunning mountain vistas, charming villages, and lush natural forests. For $45 per person, you’ll spend around 8 hours exploring some of the island’s most iconic sights—perfect for travelers who want a taste of both nature and local culture. The tour includes visits to Pico do Areeiro, the colorful houses of Santana, and the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances scenic viewpoints with authentic local flavor. The stops at Santana for a glimpse of those iconic triangular thatched houses make you feel like you’re stepping into a postcard. Meanwhile, Pico do Areeiro delivers breathtaking 360-degree views that remind you why Madeira’s rugged terrain is so captivating. Plus, visiting a Laurissilva forest helps you understand how Madeira became a conservation success story—lush, vibrant, and full of life.

A potential consideration is the weather—being high up at Pico do Areeiro can mean clouds and mist, which might cloud some views. Also, since the tour involves several stops, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and some walking.

If you’re someone who loves scenic mountain drives, picturesque villages, and learning about local traditions, this tour is likely to hit the mark. It’s especially good if you want a guided experience that covers a lot of ground without the hassle of planning each stop yourself.

Key Points

• Diverse landscapes: From mountain peaks to lush forests, the tour showcases Madeira’s natural beauty.
• Authentic culture: Santana’s colorful, triangular houses offer a genuine glimpse into local architecture and traditions.
• Breathtaking views: Pico do Areeiro provides panoramic vistas, perfect for photos and memorable moments.
• Natural UNESCO site: Ribeiro Frio is a top spot for appreciating Madeira’s unique Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Expert guide: Knowledgeable guides add depth and context, making the experience more meaningful.
• Full-day adventure: With multiple stops, the tour offers a well-rounded day of exploration, suitable for all ages.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Madeira East Island Tour

Starting Off: Comfort and Convenience

This tour begins with hotel pickup and drop-off, which means you don’t have to worry about navigating public transport or parking. The transportation is on a minibus, providing a cozy yet comfortable setting for the approximately 8-hour journey. The price of $45 per person is quite reasonable when you consider the number of stops, transportation, and guided commentary included.

The tour is offered in multiple languages, including English, German, French, Portuguese, and Spanish, ensuring many travelers can enjoy the experience in their preferred language. While the exact starting time varies, checking with the operator ensures you’re prepared for a full day out.

The Road to Pico do Areeiro: High-altitude Marvels

One of the highlights is the visit to Pico do Areeiro, the third-highest point on Madeira at 1818 meters (about 5970 feet). The drive up is a scenic adventure in itself, with switchbacks that reveal increasingly dramatic views. Once there, you’ll see rock formations piercing through the clouds—a view that often looks like a scene from another planet.

The reviews note that “rocky formations can be seen piercing through the clouds creating one-of-a-kind visuals” and that the “view from Pico do Areeiro is unbeatable, offering panoramic island vistas.” On a clear day, you’ll spot neighboring islands and the rugged coastline, but even if clouds roll in, the experience of being so high up is worth it. Remember, weather at this elevation can be temperamental, so layers are advisable.

Ribeiro Frio and the Laurissilva Forest: Nature’s Treasure

Next, the tour takes us to Ribeiro Frio, a UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest that is home to nearly all of Madeira’s native laurel trees. This forest is believed to be 90% primary forest, meaning it’s largely untouched by modern development. Walking here, we loved the “variety of plants and species in their natural habitat,” as highlighted by guides.

You’ll also get to see a trout farm, built with stone enclosures and flowing levada water, adding to the charm of this naturally rich environment. It’s a chance to breathe in pure mountain air and appreciate the island’s natural resilience. The lush greenery here offers a stark contrast to the mountain peaks, showcasing Madeira’s ecological diversity.

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Santana and Its Colorful Houses

A stop in Santana offers a delightful break. The famous triangular, thatched-roof houses are painted in cheerful primary colors, making for fantastic photos. We love how this village preserves traditional architecture, giving insight into Madeira’s rural life.

The tour allows for ample time for lunch here, so you can sample local dishes or enjoy a snack in a cozy restaurant. Many reviews mention that “the local houses are charming, and there’s enough time to explore and take photos.” It’s a perfect opportunity to slow down and soak in the village atmosphere.

The Rugged Coastline and Ponta São Lourenço

Moving eastward, the tour takes you to Ponta São Lourenço, the easternmost point of Madeira. This area features dramatic rock formations at the edge of the Atlantic, with a landscape characterized by rugged cliffs and sea views. It’s ideal for nature lovers, offering striking scenery and photo ops.

The experience here is about appreciating the wild coastline and the way the land meets the ocean—a reminder of Madeira’s impressive geological history.

Ending in Machico: A Historic Touch

The final stop is Machico, Madeira’s first landing point for Portuguese explorers. It’s a lively town with a relaxed vibe, and a good place to reflect on the day before returning to Funchal. The return trip wraps up the full 8-hour adventure, bringing you back to your hotel or starting point.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Compared to booking individual excursions or self-driving, this tour presents value in its all-inclusive approach—transport, guiding, and multiple premium stops. Plus, the reviews praise the “knowledgeable guides” for enhancing understanding and appreciation of each site. The $45 price is reasonable considering the comprehensive itinerary, especially since lunch isn’t included, giving you flexibility to choose what and where to eat.

The guided format ensures you won’t miss key details about Madeira’s geology, flora, and culture, which you might otherwise overlook if exploring on your own.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a full-day, hassle-free exploration of Madeira’s east side. It suits those interested in nature, scenic views, and local culture, especially if you prefer guided commentary to deepen your understanding. It’s also good for families, couples, or solo travelers who appreciate comfort and convenience.

However, if you’re a very independent traveler or prefer to customize your own stops, this might feel a bit structured. But for most, the balance of guided insights and free time makes for a satisfying day.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from your hotel or accommodation.
How long is the tour? The total experience lasts about 8 hours—be prepared for a full day of sightseeing.
What languages are available? The tour is offered in English, German, French, Portuguese, and Spanish.
Is lunch included? No, lunch is not included, giving you the flexibility to choose where and what to eat during the stop in Santana.
What should I bring? Bring layers for varying weather, especially at Pico do Areeiro, along with a camera for those incredible photos.
Are there any physical requirements? The stops involve some walking, but it’s generally manageable for most travelers.
Can I cancel? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is this tour suitable for children? Yes, it’s family-friendly, especially since there are many scenic and safe stops with plenty to see.
What is the overall value? Considering the transportation, guide, and multiple highlights, the price offers good value for a full-day guided tour.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira east coast tour combines the best of natural beauty, local culture, and scenic mountain vistas in a convenient and well-paced package. The stops at Pico do Areeiro and Santana are standout moments that make the tour memorable. The knowledgeable guides and well-organized itinerary ensure you gain meaningful insights into Madeira’s landscape and traditions.

We think it’s especially suited for travelers craving a comprehensive day that balances stunning views with cultural stops without the stress of planning. If you’re eager to see Madeira’s highlights, appreciate expert commentary, and enjoy a comfortable group setting, this tour offers genuine value.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or someone curious about Madeira’s charm, this trip provides a satisfying glimpse of the island’s eastern delights. Just remember to dress in layers, bring your camera, and get ready for a day packed with scenic beauty and authentic experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here: