Madeira Funchal:East Tour Pico Arieiro & Santana&Laurissilva

Madeira Funchal: East Tour Pico Arieiro & Santana & Laurissilva — A Deep Dive

If you’re visiting Madeira and want to see a good chunk of the island’s natural beauty in one day, the East Tour by Icon Travel Madeira offers a well-rounded experience. For just $36 per person, you’ll explore a mix of dramatic mountain peaks, charming villages, lush forests, and breathtaking coastlines over approximately 7 hours. The tour includes popular spots like Pico do Arieiro, Santana, and Ponta São Lourenço, with plenty of opportunities for photos, walks, and local insights.

What we especially appreciate about this tour is its small group size, which ensures a more personal and flexible experience. Plus, the extra time at stops means you won’t feel rushed, giving you chances to fully enjoy the scenery and snap those perfect Instagram shots. The guides, often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, truly elevate the trip by adding context and humor.

A potential consideration is the length of the lunch stop in Santana, which some reviews mention as being a bit longer than necessary, possibly affecting the overall pacing of the day. If you’re someone who prefers a more brisk schedule, this is worth noting. Still, for lovers of authentic local experiences and stunning vistas, this tour hits the right notes.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate nature, scenic drives, and cultural highlights with the comfort of hotel pickup and drop-off. Whether you’re on your first visit or a repeat visitor wanting a rundown, this tour delivers a memorable slice of Madeira.

• Authentic Small Group Experience: Personalized service and a more intimate atmosphere.
• Stunning Natural Highlights: From mountain peaks to lush forests and rugged coastlines.
• Flexible and Comfortable: Pick-up/drop-off from any Funchal or Caniço residence; relaxed schedule.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly guides who enrich the journey with insights.
• Extra Time at Stops: Ample opportunity for photos, walks, and soaking up the atmosphere.
• Value for Money: At $36, you get a full day of diverse sights and local flavor.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Madeira East Tour

We’re here to help you decide whether this tour fits your travel style, so let’s unpack what makes it tick, how it might meet your expectations, and where it could do a little better.

Starting the Day: Pickup and First Stops

The journey begins with hotel pickup from three central locations—Caniço, Funchal, or Câmara De Lobos—making it convenient no matter where you’re staying. The guides are praised for their punctuality and friendly greetings, setting the tone for a smooth day.

The first notable stop is Terreiro da Luta in Funchal for a quick photo and a chance to start soaking in the scenery. This spot is historically significant as it commemorates Madeira’s resilience during wartime, with a marble monument honoring Nossa Senhora do Monte — a meaningful introduction to the island’s heritage.

Mountain Majesty: Pico do Arieiro

Next, we head to Pico do Arieiro, sitting at 1818 meters (about 5965 ft) — the third highest point on Madeira. Known as the island’s drivable mountain peak, it’s a favorite for sunrise views and awe-inspiring panoramas. Visitors often say it’s strikingly beautiful, with dramatic mountain vistas that make you feel like you’re on top of the world.

According to reviews, the stop here includes scenic views, photo opportunities, and a brief walk or free time. It’s a highlight because of its breathtaking scenery and the feeling of being above the clouds. One reviewer notes, “the views are very beautiful with a unique and unforgettable panorama,” which is no exaggeration.

Lush Forest: Ribeiro Frio and Laurissilva Forest

Ribeiro Frio is a gateway to the Laurissilva, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999. The lush, green, and moss-covered forest offers a contrast to the mountain peaks and is perfect for nature lovers. You’ll often find the trout pools here, and the area still maintains much of its original vegetation.

The optional easy walk to Balcões viewpoint, about 20 minutes flat, is highly praised. Reviewers mention that this short hike offers spectacular views of the mountain ranges, and it’s a genuine chance to stretch your legs and enjoy Madeira’s verdant landscape.

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Charming Village: Santana

Santana is famous for its small, triangular, thatched houses — a snapshot of traditional Madeira architecture. The village is perfect for a lunch break, shopping for souvenirs, or simply wandering through its quaint streets. Reviewers frequently mention the delicious local food and the charming atmosphere, making it an excellent place for a relaxed pause.

The tour allocates about 1.5 hours here, which some guests find generous for exploring, shopping, and enjoying local treats. One visitor remarks, “the meal with a view was very reasonable,” highlighting the value of the local culinary experience.

Coastal Views and Unique Vantage Points

Stops like Miradouro do Guindaste and Porto da Cruz offer spectacular coastal vistas. Guindaste, with its glass walkways suspended over the ocean, provides a thrilling viewpoint and a great spot for photos. Porto da Cruz, with its sea promenade and historical sugar production site, adds a slice of local history and seaside charm.

Ponta São Lourenço and the Eastern Coast

The tour’s finale takes you to Ponta São Lourenço, often compared to the Grand Canyon for its rugged, rocky landscape. The 15-minute walk here offers stunning views of the ocean, cliffs, and unique rock formations. This area is known for its arid, windswept terrain, similar to Porto Santo, making it a stark contrast to the forested interior.

End of the Day and Return

The tour concludes with a return drop-off at your hotel or residence, with some guides being praised for their warmth and knowledge. Notably, reviews highlight guides like Nelson, Jose, and Angelo for their friendly, insightful, and fun approach, which greatly enhances the experience.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

The real charm of this Madeira East Tour lies in its diverse itinerary—from mountain peaks to lush forests and coastal cliffs—all in one day. The small group size creates a more relaxed and engaging atmosphere, allowing guides to tailor some stops to the group’s interests, and to answer questions in depth.

The extra time at each stop means you won’t be rushing through the highlights, giving you a real chance to absorb the beauty and take plenty of photos. The value at $36 is clear when you consider the number of locations visited, the included transportation, and the knowledgeable guides.

Why We Like It

We love the balance of nature, culture, and scenic drives. The stops are well-chosen, showcasing Madeira’s stunning mountain vistas, lush forests, and traditional villages. The informative guides make these places come alive with stories, facts, and local tips—something you’d miss if you were self-driving.

A Little Room for Improvement

Some reviews mention that the lunch break can feel a bit long—around 1.5 hours—which might be too much for travelers eager to see more. If you prefer a more compact schedule, you might find this part slightly leisurely. Yet, for those who enjoy authentic local cuisine and a relaxed pace, it’s a definite bonus.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for budget-conscious travelers who want to see a lot without renting a car or planning their own route. It’s also perfect for nature lovers, photographers, or anyone interested in experiencing Madeira’s diverse landscapes in one day.

Travelers who appreciate informative guides and small groups will find this experience particularly satisfying. If you’re someone who likes flexibility, the pick-up and drop-off options make it easy and convenient.

However, if you’re seeking a full-day, high-intensity adventure, or prefer customized private tours, this might not be your best fit. Still, for a value-packed, scenic overview of Madeira’s east coast, it’s a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour involves only a less than 20-minute walk at the Balcões viewpoint, which is flat and easy, making it accessible for most.

Can I customize the itinerary or choose specific stops?
Since it’s a small group tour, guides may be flexible to some extent, especially regarding timing for photo stops and breaks. However, the main stops are pre-planned.

Are meals included?
No, the tour does not include breakfast, lunch, or snacks, but there is an optional lunch stop in Santana with good reviews for its quality and reasonable prices.

What languages are available for the tour guide?
Guides speak English, Spanish, and Portuguese, making it accessible for many travelers.

How long are the stops?
Most stops range from 10 to 45 minutes, with extra time available if you wish to explore more or take additional photos.

Is hotel pickup available in all areas of Funchal?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included at any residence or accommodation in Funchal or Caniço, with instructions on where to wait.

What is the optimal time of year to take this tour?
While not explicitly mentioned, Madeira’s mild climate makes this tour suitable year-round, but keep in mind weather conditions can affect mountain views and the coastal scenery.

What should I bring along?
Comfortable shoes for walking, layered clothing for changing weather, camera, and some water. The tour is generally relaxed, but mountain and coastal areas can be breezy.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira East Tour offers an engaging, well-organized way to see some of the most iconic sights on the island. You’ll venture into mountains, forests, villages, and coastal cliffs, all while relaxing in a comfortable, small-group setting. The knowledgeable guides, ample time at each stop, and fantastic views make it a value for money choice for many travelers.

Perfect for those wanting a rundown without the hassle of self-driving, this tour will satisfy your curiosity about Madeira’s diversity of landscapes and culture. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning for a second look, you’ll find plenty to love here—especially if stunning scenery and insightful commentary are your travel priorities.

Madeira Funchal: East Tour Pico Arieiro & Santana & Laurissilva is a solid, dependable way to taste the island’s best natural and cultural highlights in just one day, with guides who genuinely care about your experience. It’s a trip you’ll remember for its beauty, relaxed pace, and friendly atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here: