Discover the east

Experience the Best of Madeira’s East with a Full-Day Tour

If you’re looking to get a taste of Madeira’s diverse landscapes and traditional villages without the hassle of planning, the “Discover the East” tour offers a well-rounded introduction. Priced at just over $40 per person, this 8-hour guided journey takes you through some of the island’s most iconic spots—from mountain peaks to colorful hamlets.

What we love about this tour is how it balances stunning natural scenery with cultural charm. The stops at Pico do Arieiro and Ribeiro Frio are particularly memorable, offering breathtaking views and a chance to see the UNESCO-protected Laurissilva Forest. Plus, the visit to Santana’s traditional houses provides a window into Madeira’s distinctive architectural style.

One potential consideration is the short time allocated at each stop—most are about 20 to 30 minutes—which can feel rushed if you want a more leisurely experience. But if your goal is a comprehensive snapshot of Madeira’s east coast, this tour hits the mark. It suits travelers who enjoy a mix of natural beauty, small-town character, and guided convenience.

If you prefer organized excursions that cover key sights with easy transport and friendly narration, you’ll find this tour very worthwhile—especially if you’re short on time but eager to see the highlights.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary: Visits to mountains, forests, villages, and viewpoints.
• Excellent value: At around $40, it covers many key sights in one day.
• Guided experience: Led by a friendly, knowledgeable driver, with ample time at each stop.
• Stunning viewpoints: Pico do Arieiro and Miradouro da Portela offer memorable vistas.
• Cultural insight: Santana’s traditional houses showcase Madeira’s architectural charm.
• Natural beauty: Ribeiro Frio and Ponta de São Lourenço highlight Madeira’s diverse landscapes.

An In-Depth Look at the “Discover the East” Tour

The Itinerary and What It Means for You

This tour begins early in the morning, with pick-up included, setting out around 9:00 am. It’s designed to maximize your exposure to Madeira’s most striking natural and cultural sights in a manageable day.

Stop 1: Camacha
We start with a visit to Camacha, a picture-perfect village famous for its traditional crafts and folklore. Sitting over 700 meters high, it’s a peaceful introduction to Madeira’s rural charm. Here, you might appreciate the chance to see local artisans at work or simply soak in the tranquil mountain air. The review from Lynsey highlights this stop as a highlight: “Excellent value tour of key sights of east Madeira,” with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery.

Stop 2: Pico do Arieiro
Next, we ascend to Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest point at 1,818 meters. The views here are breathtaking, with clouds drifting below and the rugged peaks of the Central Mountain Massif surrounding you. This spot is ideal for photos and feeling the raw power of volcanic geology. The quick 20-minute stop ensures you get a sense of this majestic landscape without it eating into your schedule. Reviewers like GhostDoggyWoofWoof have raved about the vistas, calling it a “full day, 9-6 pm” with “very knowledgeable guides.”

Stop 3: Ribeiro Frio
In Ribeiro Frio, you step into the Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This lush, green wonderland of moss-covered trees and serene streams offers a calming contrast to the mountain peaks. For nature lovers, this is a highlight. The stop is short but sweet—ample enough time to appreciate the diverse flora and perhaps walk a short levada trail if you wish.

Stop 4: Fortress of Faial
The charming parish of Faial, perched on the north coast, offers a glimpse into local history. The fortress and the nearby chapel, believed to have been built from a single cedar trunk, showcase Madeira’s resourcefulness. A brief 20-minute stop allows you to admire this peaceful coast and imagine how it served as a defense point.

Stop 5: Santana
Iconic for its triangular, thatched-roof houses, Santana is a must-see for anyone interested in Madeira’s traditional architecture. Two hours here give you a good window into local life and a chance to walk through the colorful streets. Reviewers particularly appreciated the time allocated, as it allows for photos and a leisurely stroll.

Stop 6: Miradouro da Portela
Perched at 670 meters, this viewpoint offers sweeping views of mountains meeting the sea. It’s perfect for a quick photo op and simply soaking in the landscape. It’s a peaceful spot that leaves a lasting impression—something we definitely loved.

Stop 7: Ponta de São Lourenço
This volcanic peninsula is a stark but striking contrast to Madeira’s lush interior. Its arid, basaltic terrain and lack of trees make it seem almost lunar. It’s a favorite among travelers for the dramatic landscape and the fresh ocean air. The 30-minute stop is enough to walk along the trail and take in the rugged scenery.

Stop 8: Machico
Finally, the tour ends with a visit to Machico, a historic bay with a panoramic view from Pico do Facho. It’s a fitting finale, offering vistas of the deeply colored Ponta de São Lourenço. This last stop leaves you with a sense of Madeira’s varied terrain—mountains, forests, and coastlines all in one day.

Transportation and Group Size

Traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned minibus, we found the transport to be smooth and accommodating. The maximum group size of 15 travelers means it’s intimate enough to ask questions and enjoy some camaraderie. The reviews mention the friendly driver, who also shared insights along the way, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.

Value for Money and Overall Experience

At $40.52, the tour offers excellent value considering the diversity of sights and the guided narration. The reviews consistently mention the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views, confirming that for a modest price, you’re getting a comprehensive look at Madeira’s east coast. We appreciated the balance of structured stops and free time—enough to explore but not so much as to cause fatigue.

What Could Be Better?

The main consideration is the short duration at each stop—most around 20 minutes—so if you’re someone who loves to linger and explore sites at your own pace, you might find this limiting. Also, some stops involve walking or standing, so comfortable footwear is advisable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a guided overview of Madeira’s eastern highlights without the hassle of car rentals or complicated planning. It appeals especially to those who value stunning vistas, cultural insights, and easy logistics. Families, first-time visitors, or anyone with limited time will benefit from this well-organized day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off, traveling comfortably in a minibus, which helps you avoid the stress of parking or navigation.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am, with breaks at each stop for sightseeing and photos.

What’s the group size?
A maximum of 15 travelers ensures a friendly, personalized experience.

Are there any additional costs?
Most stops are free; there’s no mention of entry fees, so the main cost is the tour price itself.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s mostly accessible for most travelers but consider the walking involved at some stops. It’s best for those comfortable with short walks and standing.

What makes this tour stand out?
The blend of natural beauty, cultural sights, and friendly guides makes it a popular choice, especially for first-time visitors eager to see Madeira’s east coast efficiently.

Is lunch included?
No, the tour doesn’t include meals, so plan accordingly if you’ll need refreshments.

Final Thoughts

The “Discover the East” tour presents a solid option for anyone wanting an affordable, insightful day exploring Madeira’s eastern landscapes. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, showcasing everything from mountain peaks and forests to quaint villages and dramatic coastlines. Guided by friendly and knowledgeable drivers, you’ll gain a good understanding of the island’s diverse scenery and cultural heritage without feeling rushed.

If you’re after a balanced, well-organized experience that hits all the key highlights, this tour will meet your needs. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer to relax in a small group and enjoy expert commentary, making it an excellent way to make the most of your limited time on Madeira.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply eager to see the island’s most scenic spots, this tour offers a practical, value-packed way to explore Madeira’s stunning east side.