Madeira: Go East Island Tour

Madeira: Go East Island Tour — A Full-Day Journey into the Heart of Madeira’s Natural and Cultural Charm

If you’re looking to get a comprehensive taste of Madeira beyond Funchal, the Go East Island Tour offers an enriching 8-hour adventure exploring the island’s eastern highlights. Guided by knowledgeable local guides, this tour takes you through some of Madeira’s most scenic spots, from panoramic viewpoints to traditional villages, all with enough time to soak in the views and culture without feeling rushed.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it balances stunning natural scenery with cultural insights, such as Santana’s charming triangular houses and Machico’s historic bay. The second standout feature is the variety of viewpoints, especially Ponta do Rosto, which offers a jaw-dropping view of both the North and South coasts.

One important consideration is the tour’s pace—while it offers a good overview, it involves several stops with some walking and driving in varied terrain, so comfortable shoes are a must. Lastly, this tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic vistas, cultural sights, and local flavor, especially those who appreciate authentic experiences rather than just hurried sightseeing.

If you’ve got a day to explore Madeira’s east side and want a well-rounded, scenic, and informative tour, this is a solid choice. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with others who want to see a blend of natural beauty and local life, and if you’re eager to capture some stunning photos along the way.

Key Points

• Variety of Scenery: From mountain viewpoints to coastal bays, the tour covers Madeira’s most striking vistas.
• Cultural Highlights: Santana’s traditional triangular houses and the historic town of Machico add authentic local flavor.
• Panoramic Views: Expect breathtaking perspectives from Terreiro da Luta, Ponta do Rosto, and Portela viewpoints.
• Natural Beauty: The drive through Laurissilva Forest and Pico do Arieiro offers memorable encounters with Madeira’s lush landscape.
• Flexible Pace: Ample time at each stop allows for photos, exploration, and soaking in the views.
• Value for Money: The guided tour, transport, and multiple sightseeing stops offer a convenient way to experience Madeira’s east side.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Madeiran East Coast Experience

Starting at Funchal’s Estrada Monumental, we begin early, ready for a day packed with scenic eye candy and cultural gems. The first stop—Terreiro da Luta—is notable not just for its sweeping views of Funchal but also for the statue of Our Lady of Peace supported by Roman columns. It’s a peaceful spot to stretch your legs and catch your first glimpses of the landscape.

Next, we ascend to Pico do Arieiro, one of Madeira’s highest points at 1818 meters. The views from here are nothing short of spectacular—mountains rolling into the clouds, valleys carved by nature’s hand, and a sense of being on top of the world. The photo opportunities are endless, and the cool mountain air is refreshing after the lower elevations.

As we descend into the Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the lush greenery is a reminder of Madeira’s unique environment. Here, we visit the Ribeiro Frio Trout Farm, a favorite among visitors. The farm showcases how freshwater from the Levada feeds into the fish tanks, making it a fascinating stop for anyone interested in local agriculture and ecology. We loved the way the farm offers insight into local farming traditions, and the chance to see trout up close.

Santana stands out as a highlight for its brightly colored, triangular houses with thatched roofs—a picture-perfect scene that feels straight out of a storybook. You’ll have free time here to wander, take photos, or sample local snacks. It’s a reminder of Madeira’s rich cultural tapestry.

Driving onward, we arrive at Portelas Viewpoint, perched at 670 meters, offering sweeping vistas of mountains flowing down to the sea. It’s a place to truly appreciate the island’s rugged beauty and the contrast between land and ocean.

The Ponta do Rosto viewpoint is a dramatic stop, with its famous rock formation known as Penha d’Águia. Here, the views of both the North and South coasts are staggering—cliffs plunging into the Atlantic on one side and lush valleys on the other. It’s an ideal spot for photos and just taking a moment to breathe in the scenery.

Finally, we conclude our day in Machico, Madeira’s first landing point in 1419. Walking along the bay and through the historic streets, you get a sense of the island’s early days of settlement. It’s a fitting end, combining natural beauty with history.

Throughout the trip, the guides—like the one who reviews the tour—are friendly, knowledgeable, and often share fun facts that add depth to the experience. The transport in a comfortable mini-bus makes for a smooth journey between stops, and the pacing generally allows enough time for photos and brief exploration.

While the tour doesn’t include lunch, there’s a stop in Santana where you can purchase local food, which offers a chance to sample Madeira’s regional cuisine. The tour’s duration of 8 hours makes it a full but manageable day, packed with memorable sights.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a rundown of Madeira’s eastern side without the hassle of planning multiple outings. It suits those interested in scenic views, small charming villages, and local culture. If you enjoy photo opportunities and learning about the island’s landscape and history, you’ll find plenty to love.

It’s also well-suited for active travelers who enjoy a bit of walking and exploring, though it’s not designed for wheelchair users or those with limited mobility. The pace is relaxed enough to enjoy each stop, but be prepared for some driving and uneven terrain at viewpoints.

Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the value of guided transportation and planned stops, especially as lunch and personal expenses are not included. This tour offers a rich, varied slice of Madeira’s east coast in one well-organized day.

FAQs About Madeira: Go East Island Tour

• How long is the tour?
  The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon.

• What is included in the price?
  The guided tour, transport by mini-bus, and visits to all listed viewpoints and stops are included. Lunch and personal expenses are not.

• What should I bring?
  Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended.

• Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
  The tour is best suited for those who can manage some walking and uneven terrain. It’s not recommended for wheelchair users.

• Can I cancel if my plans change?
  Yes, cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance.

• Will I see the sunrise or sunset?
  The tour is mainly during daylight hours, so sunrise or sunset views are unlikely.

• Are meals included?
  No, but there’s a stop in Santana for food purchases.

• Is there free time at each stop?
  Yes, generally there is enough time to explore, take photos, and enjoy the scenery.

• Are there restrooms during the tour?
  Restroom breaks are available at some stops like Santana and Machico.

• How many people are in each group?
  The tour typically runs in small groups in a comfortable mini-bus, making it easier to hear the guide and ask questions.

In all, the Madeira Go East Island Tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and cultural slice of Madeira’s east side. It’s a great way to see the island’s best viewpoints, explore traditional villages, and learn about its natural environment—all in one day. Whether you’re an avid photographer, history buff, or nature lover, this tour provides a good balance of everything Madeira has to offer.

You can check availability for your dates here: