Curral Das Freiras, a charming village surrounded by steep mountains and lush landscapes, is a highlight for travelers seeking authentic Madeira experiences. Its dramatic scenery and secluded vibe make it an ideal base for a variety of memorable tours. Whether you’re into scenic drives, hiking, or off-road adventures, there’s something here for every type of traveler. We especially appreciate the Madeira Tour – Santana East Tour Straw Thatch Roofed Houses for its blend of cultural charm and natural beauty—plus, the chance to see iconic traditional houses. For those who love adventure, the Pico do Arrieiro Sunrise and Stairs to Heaven Hike offers an unforgettable dawn experience with stunning mountain vistas. If a private, flexible day on the island sounds appealing, the Private Full-Day 4×4 Tour is perfect for customizing your journey. Whatever your interests, Curral Das Freiras serves as an excellent launching point for exploring Madeira’s diverse landscapes.
Quick Overview
This list features tours that highlight Madeira’s natural scenery, cultural sights, and outdoor adventures. Options include scenic mountain drives, sunrise hikes, off-road 4×4 explorations, and cultural visits to traditional villages—each with its own distinct flavor. For a comprehensive experience, consider the Santana East Tour, which combines panoramic views with visits to local rum factories, or opt for the adrenaline rush of the Sunrise Quad Bike Adventure. For customization and privacy, the Full-Day Private 4×4 Tour stands out. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each top-rated tour.
1. MADEIRA TOUR – SANTANA EAST TOUR STRAW THATCHED ROOFED HOUSES
At number 1, this Santana East Tour offers a perfect combo of cultural charm and scenic beauty. It’s a 7.5-hour journey that takes you through Madeira’s northeastern landscape, with plenty of stops at iconic sites. The main highlight is the visit to Santana’s famous traditional straw-thatched houses, which are a must-see for anyone interested in local architecture. You’ll also get panoramic views from Pico do Areeiro, one of Madeira’s highest peaks, and enjoy a scenic finale at Ponta de São Lourenço, known for its rugged cliffs and sweeping ocean vistas. A visit to the Porto da Cruz Rum Factory includes tastings, adding a flavorful local touch, and a walk at Ribeiro Frio offers a chance for a gentle forest stroll in a UNESCO-listed World Heritage site.
This tour balances sightseeing, local culture, and natural scenery, making it ideal for travelers wanting a well-rounded Madeira experience. Guests praise the scenery and the guide’s knowledge, although some note the early pickup timing can be a challenge. Overall, it’s a fantastic way to see Madeira’s diverse northeastern corner in one day.
Bottom Line: Ideal for culture and nature lovers wanting a comprehensive, scenic tour with authentic local stops.
2. MADEIRA: PICO DO ARRIEIRO SUNRISE AND STAIRS TO HEAVEN HIKE
Number 2 on our list is the Pico do Arrieiro Sunrise and Stairs to Heaven Hike. For $69 per person, this 4-hour adventure begins with a jeep ride to the top of Pico do Arieiro to witness the awe-inspiring sunrise—an experience that’s both peaceful and invigorating. After sunrise, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the Valley of the Nuns and explore some of Madeira’s most dramatic mountain scenery. The tour includes a visit to Cabo Girao, famed for its towering cliffs and the sky walk, where you can test your nerve on the glass-floor platform.
This experience is well-suited for those who love early mornings, mountain vistas, and a bit of thrill—especially the off-road jeep ride. Guests describe it as “an unforgettable sunrise adventure,” with many noting the views are worth waking up early for. It’s a perfect option if you want an active, scenic escape with a touch of adrenaline.
Bottom Line: A top choice for sunrise viewing, mountain scenery, and off-road adventure in a compact, easy-to-fit time frame.
3. PICO DO AREEIRO – EPIC SUNRISE QUAD BIKE OFF-ROAD ADVENTURE
This number 3 pick is the Epic Sunrise Quad Bike Adventure, perfect for thrill-seekers. Priced at $227 per group, this 4-hour tour starts very early with a guided quad bike ride to Pico do Arieiro for sunrise. The ride involves scenic mountain roads and thrilling off-road trails, making it perfect for those wanting a mix of adrenaline and natural beauty.
Guides are experienced and friendly, and reviews mention the “breathtaking views and the sense of adventure” as highlights. The tour is suitable for small groups (up to 2 people), offering a private, personalized experience. The tour is especially recommended if you’re comfortable on a quad and want to combine stunning scenery with a bit of adrenaline.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers who want a private and exhilarating start to their day, with a focus on mountain landscapes and off-road fun.
4. MADEIRA: LATE EAST TOUR WITH PICO DO AREEIRO VIEWS
Number 4 is the Late East Tour with Pico do Areeiro Views. For $51 and a 7-hour duration, this tour offers a relaxed exploration of Madeira’s eastern side. It’s perfect for those who prefer a later start, with visits to Santana’s traditional houses, Ribeiro Frio, and scenic coastal viewpoints.
The tour includes a scenic drive to Pico do Arieiro, providing spectacular viewpoints, and a walk through Ribeiro Frio. Guests appreciate the guide’s friendliness and the chance to see Madeira’s villages, coastline, and cliffs all in one day. It’s ideal for travelers who want to enjoy the landscape at a leisurely pace without long hikes or strenuous activities.
Bottom Line: An accessible, scenic tour for those seeking a relaxed introduction to Madeira’s east with beautiful coastal vistas and cultural stops.
5. MADEIRA: PRIVATE FULL-DAY 4×4 TOUR WITH HOTEL PICKUP
Number 5, the Private Full-Day 4×4 Tour, offers the most flexibility. At $409 for up to six people, it’s a full day of tailored exploration. Your guide will craft a route based on your interests, visiting highlights like Câmara de Lobos, Fanal Forest, and Cabo Girao.
This tour is perfect if you want a personalized experience with the convenience of hotel pickup. The itinerary can include scenic viewpoints, forest walks, and stops at local villages, making it suitable for families or small groups who want a private, stress-free discovery of Madeira. Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and the flexibility of the schedule.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a custom, private day with the flexibility to focus on their preferred sights.
6. SUNSET TOUR & TRADITIONAL SNACK
Coming in at number 6, the Sunset Tour & Traditional Snack is a charming way to end your day. For $58, this 4-hour experience takes you to Pico do Arieiro during the magic hour of sunset, with stunning vistas and a relaxed atmosphere. You’ll enjoy local snacks as you watch the sun dip below the mountains, creating a warm, memorable atmosphere.
Ideal for those seeking a romantic or peaceful finish, this tour captures Madeira’s dusk magic. Reviews mention the “breathtaking views” and the chance to “be a local” during sunset. It’s a great option if you prefer a shorter, scenic experience that ends with a cozy taste of local flavors.
Bottom Line: Perfect for sunset lovers wanting an intimate, scenic end-of-day experience with a taste of local culture.
7. FROM SANTANA TO PR1 AND PR1.2 RUIVO – ARIEIRO
Number 7 is a specialized hiking transfer service that takes you from Santana to Achada do Teixeira, the starting point for Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo trails. It’s a 5-hour transfer that makes hiking easier by avoiding tricky roads and parking issues.
Guests appreciate the straightforward transfer, with one reviewer stating, “Everything worked out perfectly.” This option is best for active hikers ready to tackle Madeira’s iconic peaks without the hassle of transport logistics. It’s a practical choice for hikers who want to explore the trails independently after an easy transfer.
Bottom Line: A hassle-free way for hikers to access Madeira’s most renowned trails, ideal for those comfortable with independent trekking.
8. DISCOVER MADEIRA’S IDYLLIC HIKES & BEAUTY ON FOOT & WHEELS!
Number 8 combines hiking and scenic drives into one day, offering an 8-hour guided tour that takes you through rugged terrain and lush forests. For $284, up to three people can enjoy a personalized experience, with visits to top hiking spots, levada walks, and panoramic viewpoints.
The tour is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who want a mix of adventure and comfort, with a guide to help navigate the trails and scenic routes. Reviews highlight the engaging guides and the chance to escape the crowds, making it ideal for those wanting an active, yet intimate experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers seeking a balanced day of foot and wheel exploration in Madeira’s natural landscapes.
$284 per group up to 3
9. FUNCHAL: EXPLORE MADEIRA ISLAND IN 4X4 NORTH EAST
Number 9 is a full-day Funchal 4×4 North East Tour. For $318, it’s a comprehensive exploration of Madeira’s northeastern microclimates, mountain vistas, and small villages. The route includes scenic drives, photo stops, and a visit to the Santo António Da Serra with coffee break.
This tour is designed for those who want a broad, detailed look at the region’s diverse landscapes. With plenty of off-road adventure and cultural stops, it appeals to travelers who enjoy both nature and local life. Reviewers praise the guide’s local knowledge and the variety of stops.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those wanting a full, landscape-rich exploration of Madeira’s northeast with off-road fun.
$318 per group up to 6
10. MADEIRA SURPRISE TOUR 4×4
The Madeira Surprise Tour is perfect for adventurous travelers seeking flexibility. For $250, a 7-8 hour off-road journey takes you through mountains, forests, and hidden spots not on typical tourist maps. The guide tailors the day, including photo stops, walks, and potentially a sunset.
Guests note the driver’s friendliness and the “hidden gems” featured during this tour. It’s best suited for those who want to leave the itinerary open and enjoy Madeira’s less-visited areas.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who prefer a spontaneous, personalized adventure with plenty of off-the-beaten-path sights.
$250 per group up to 2
11. MADEIRA: PRIVATE CANYONING EXPERIENCE WITH GUIDE
Number 11 is a private canyoning tour designed for thrill-seekers. For $155 per person, you’ll rappel down waterfalls, jump into pools, and slide along water slides in Madeira’s pristine wilderness. The guided experience ensures safety and personalized attention, making it perfect for those seeking a unique, adrenaline-filled activity.
Guests mention the thrill of rappelling and the chance to escape crowds, enjoying the lush scenery from a different perspective. The private setting makes it suitable for families or groups wanting exclusivity.
Bottom Line: Best for active travelers craving an adrenaline rush and a chance to explore Madeira’s natural water features up close.
$155 per person
How to Choose Your Madeira Tour
When selecting your tour, consider your budget, fitness level, and what kind of experience you want. If a full-day private adventure sounds appealing, the Full-Day 4×4 Tour offers flexibility and comfort. For a short but spectacular sunrise experience, the Pico do Arrieiro Sunrise and Sky Walk is hard to beat.
Hikers and outdoor lovers should check out the Hike and Discover Madeira for a combined foot and vehicle day, while thrill-seekers might prefer the Quad Bike Sunrise Tour. If you’re more interested in cultural sights, the Santana East Tour offers a well-rounded visit with local flavor.
To sum it up, Curral Das Freiras and its surrounding areas offer an impressive variety of tours suited to many interests. From scenic mountain drives and hikes to private off-road adventures and cultural explorations, you can tailor your Madeira experience to match your energy and curiosity. For best results, book early—many tours fill up quickly, especially in peak seasons. Whether you’re after breathtaking vistas, cultural insights, or adrenaline rushes, Madeira’s landscapes are ready to impress.