All Madeira In 2 Days Tour

Two days exploring Madeira’s best sights—what’s not to love? This tour, priced at around $76 per person, offers an efficient way to see the island without the hassle of driving. Led by knowledgeable guides like Gloria, Paulo, and Renato, you’ll visit iconic spots such as Baía de Câmara de Lobos, Cabo Girão, Porto Moniz Natural Pools, Santana’s traditional houses, and the Pico do Arieiro peak. The trip spans approximately two days and includes hotel pickup, making it convenient for travelers with limited time but a desire to understand Madeira’s unique landscape, culture, and geology.

What we particularly appreciate are the stunning viewpoints like Cabo Girão’s glass skywalk—a perfect photo op—and the chance to see Porto Moniz’s famous natural swimming pools, which many reviews call “fabulous” and worth the visit. The guides are praised for their enthusiasm and local knowledge, making the journey not just scenic but also educational. The only caveat? The itinerary can be quite packed, and some travelers noted that the weather or closed attractions might limit certain experiences.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a rundown of Madeira without renting a car or planning every stop themselves. It’s ideal if you’re interested in seeing iconic landscapes, enjoying authentic villages, and learning about the island from passionate guides. If you prefer a flexible, less structured approach, this may not be your best fit, but for most, it offers a balanced and value-packed way to experience Madeira.

Key Points

• Comprehensive two-day itinerary covers west and east Madeira highlights
• Expert guides enhance the experience with local stories and insights
• Stunning viewpoints like Cabo Girão offer unforgettable photo moments
• Natural attractions such as Porto Moniz pools are included for a unique experience
• Convenient pickup and group size (max 15 travelers) make for a smooth trip
• Value for money with 57 reviews averaging 4.5/5

An In-Depth Look at the All Madeira In 2 Days Tour

Getting to know Madeira in just two days might seem ambitious, but this tour makes it manageable. It’s designed for those who want a well-rounded snapshot of the island’s top sights, combined with the comfort of transportation and guided commentary. Priced at around $75.92 per person, it offers good value considering the number of places covered and the included commentary.

The First Day: West Coast Wonders

The tour kicks off early at 8:30 am, with hotel pickup options that save you the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads. The initial stop is Baía de Câmara de Lobos, a charming fishing village famed for its picturesque scenery and the inspiration for Winston Churchill’s paintings. Travelers consistently praise this stop as “beautiful” and “authentic,” offering a taste of local life away from tourist crowds. One reviewer, Daniell, mentioned, “Gloria with her big smile and constant interesting facts made the first day a joy.”

Next comes Cabo Girão, often called Europe’s highest sea cliff. The glass skywalk here offers a “breathtaking” view of the ocean below, and while the admission isn’t included, it’s a highlight for many. You’ll get about 30 minutes here, enough to stand on the glass and take in the dramatic vistas. This spot is perfect for those who love drama in nature, but be aware that the weather can impact visibility, so clear days are best.

Moving southward, the tour visits Ribeira Brava Beach, a good spot for photos and a quick stretch. Then, you’ll traverse the Caminho Real da Encumeada, a scenic mountain pass at 1004 meters elevation. This winding road offers incredible panoramic views of both the north and south coasts, making it a favorite among photo enthusiasts. This part of the tour is free of charge but provides incredible insight into Madeira’s geology and landscape diversity.

The afternoon features Porto Moniz’s natural swimming pools—a two-hour stop that many reviewers find the “best part” of the day. Porto Moniz feels as if it has fallen from above into the ocean, with volcanic pools that are both scenic and fun to explore. Visitors like Herdeep_M noted, “Feeling Madeira arrived on time, and Paulo’s narration made the experience even better.” The pools are free to visit, and you’ll have plenty of time to dip in or simply admire the view.

Lastly on Day 1, you’ll visit Miradouro do Veu da Noiva for panoramic sea views and Seixal’s volcanic pools. This area offers “beautiful sea and mountain vistas” and is perfect for a final photo before heading back to your accommodation.

The Second Day: Mountain Peaks and Eastern Charm

Day 2 begins with a visit to Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third highest peak, accessible by car. At 1,818 meters, it offers spectacular views, especially when the weather is clear enough to see Porto Santo in the distance. Travelers rave about the stunning scenery; Olga_P called it “absolutely stunning,” with some saying it’s the highlight of their trip.

From here, the tour moves to Ribeiro Frio, famous for its Laurissilva forest relic, a grove of prehistoric origin. This stop is a favorite for nature lovers and offers a chance to appreciate Madeira’s lush vegetation. As one reviewer said, “You still see much of the original vegetation here,” making it a great educational point.

Next is Fortress of Faial, providing spectacular views of the north coast, followed by Santana’s iconic thatched houses—small, traditional dwellings that are perfect for photos and understanding native architecture. The village’s straw-roofed houses are called out by visitors as “charming” and “authentic,” giving a glimpse of rural Madeira life.

The tour then heads to Ponta de São Lourenço, an untouched peninsula where rock formations and sea clash in natural harmony. It’s an ideal spot for those craving raw, natural beauty. The reviews highlight the spectacular scenery, and the 30-minute stop here is sufficient to take in the wild landscape.

Finally, you’ll visit Machico, one of Madeira’s oldest towns, known for its history and beautiful bay. Enthusiasts appreciate the historical significance, as Machico was where Portuguese explorers first arrived in 1419.

The tour wraps up with a visit to the Cristo Rei statue in Garajau, offering unique coastal views and a memorable statue. While the admission isn’t included, it’s a renowned landmark for its scenic setting.

What Makes This Tour Valuable for Travelers?

The value of this tour lies in its combination of diverse landscapes, cultural insights, and the convenience of guided transport. At just over $75, you’re getting an experience that covers mountain peaks, lush forests, charming villages, and dramatic coastlines—all with the benefit of local guides who really know their stuff. The tours are scheduled for two full days, allowing you to experience Madeira’s contrasting terrains without feeling rushed.

The guides, such as Gloria and Paulo, are frequently praised for their enthusiasm and wealth of local knowledge. As Olga_P pointed out, “Both guides were very knowledgeable and passionate,” which enhances the overall experience significantly. The small group size (max 15) also ensures a more personalized and less chaotic journey, allowing for better interactions and more tailored attention.

However, note that weather can influence your experience, especially at viewpoints and mountain stops. Some attractions might be closed or less impressive if it’s cloudy or rainy. This is a common aspect of mountain and coastal journeys, so it’s wise to plan for flexible expectations.

Practical Considerations

The tour departs early at 8:30 am, and includes hotel pickup, which is a big plus for convenience. The mobile ticket system makes it easy to confirm your reservation and avoid paper hassles. Each day includes stops of about 30 minutes to 2 hours, balancing sightseeing with travel time.

While admission costs are mostly not included—such as at Cabo Girão or Cristo Rei—the value comes from expert narration and transportation. One reviewer noted, “Guides are very dedicated, and their love for Madeira shines through,” adding a layer of authenticity that’s hard to find in self-guided tours.

The group size being limited to 15 travelers ensures a relaxed atmosphere, but it’s best to book 41 days in advance—a sign of its popularity. The cancellation policy allows for full refunds if canceled 24 hours ahead, adding peace of mind.

Overall Impression: Who Is This Tour For?

This guided two-day tour is an excellent choice for first-time visitors who want a thorough introduction to Madeira’s highlights without the stress of planning every detail. It’s perfect for travelers who value knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and the comfort of organized transport. The stops are carefully chosen to give a balanced view of island life, nature, and history—making it a worthwhile investment.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic experiences but prefers the ease of a guided group, then this tour checks many boxes. It’s especially suitable if you love spectacular viewpoints, charming villages, and natural landscapes but don’t want to rent a car or worry about navigation.

That said, if you’re highly independent or crave a flexible schedule, this might feel a bit structured for your taste. Also, remember that the tour’s success depends heavily on the weather and the guides’ enthusiasm, so keep those factors in mind when booking.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers pickup from your accommodation, making it easier to start your day.

How long does the tour last? Each day’s activities are designed to fit into roughly a 2- to 4-hour window, with the full experience spread over two days.

What is the price per person? About $75.92, which includes guided transportation, detailed commentary, and visits to key sights.

Are admission fees included? Most are not—such as Cabo Girão’s skywalk or Cristo Rei—so budget accordingly for these optional costs.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sun protection, and a camera for snapshots of spectacular views.

Is this suitable for all ages? It’s suitable for most travelers, including families and seniors, as long as they’re comfortable with walking and mountain viewpoints.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start.

How many people are in a group? A maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

What if the weather is bad? The tour requires good weather; in case of poor conditions, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled with a full refund.

Are guides fluent in English? Yes, guides like Gloria, Paulo, and Renato are fluent and engaging, making the experience informative and enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to Madeira, this two-day tour offers an excellent mix of scenic viewpoints, charming villages, and natural wonders. The knowledgeable guides and small group size make it a standout for those who want a personalized touch and a relaxed pace.

While some attractions might be weather-dependent or occasionally closed, the overall experience captures the essence of Madeira’s diverse landscapes and rich culture. The value for money, combined with the convenience and expert narration, makes it a smart choice for first-time visitors eager to see the highlights with minimal fuss.

For travelers looking for authentic sights, stunning vistas, and cultural insights, this tour is worth considering. It’s especially suitable for those who prefer guided experiences and want to maximize their time on this beautiful island. Be sure to book in advance, and prepare for two full, memorable days exploring Madeira’s natural beauty.