Full Day – Madeira East

A Full Day Discovering Madeira’s East Coast

This Madeira East tour offers a well-rounded look at the island’s natural beauty, traditional culture, and stunning landscapes. For around $34.70 per person, you’ll spend about eight hours visiting iconic locations like the Pico do Areeiro, the village of Santana, and the Ponta de São Lourenço. Highlights include a visit to a wicker factory, a walk through aromatic forests, and panoramic stops with breathtaking views of the Atlantic and lush valleys. Your day begins at 9:00 am, with pickup included, and wraps up around 5:00 pm.

What makes this tour stand out for us are the knowledgeable guides—many reviewers praise their enthusiasm, humor, and insights into Madeira’s rich landscape. The spectacular mountain vistas, especially from Pico do Areeiro, are truly worth the early start, and the charming Santana houses provide a glimpse into local tradition. A second highlight is the Ponta de São Lourenço, where the guide’s pointing out native flora and fauna adds a layer of depth to the experience.

One consideration is the group size and transportation—with a maximum of 15 travelers, the experience remains intimate, but some may find the vehicle a bit cramped, especially on a full day with many curves. Also, some reviewers noted that a guide’s language skills can vary, so if you’re looking for flowing explanations in a specific language, it’s worth confirming.

This tour suits those wanting a rundown of Madeira’s east side—perfect for first-timers or travelers with limited time who still want to see the highlights. Nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone eager for stunning views and authentic scenery will find much to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary with a mix of natural scenery, cultural sights, and viewpoints.
• Knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with insights and humor.
• Stunning mountain vistas, especially from Pico do Areeiro, are a highlight.
• Affordable value for a full-day, well-structured tour.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention, but vehicle comfort might vary.
• Ideal for first-time visitors wanting an overview of Madeira’s east side.

Exploring Madeira’s East Coast: A Detailed Look

Getting to Know the Tour

This full-day guided tour is designed to give you a taste of Madeira’s diverse east side, combining natural beauty, local culture, and spectacular views. For $34.70, you get roughly eight hours of sightseeing, with pickup included, ensuring no fuss about transportation. The tour is suitable for most travelers—most can participate, and service animals are allowed—making it accessible to many.

The group size is limited to 15 people, which helps keep the experience intimate and allows your guide to give more personalized attention. Many reviews highlight guides like Ronaldo and Sergio for their enthusiasm, humor, and depth of knowledge—they often make the day memorable beyond just the sights.

What We Love About This Tour

First, the diversity of stops. You’ll visit a wicker factory early on, where you can see traditional craftsmanship, which adds an authentic touch. Later, the ascent to Pico do Areeiro, Madeira’s third highest point, offers breathtaking volcanic landscapes and panoramic vistas that are sure to wow you. Many reviewers mention the “amazing views” from this summit, making it clear that this spot alone justifies the trip.

Second, the charming village of Santana. Known for its triangular, thatched-roof houses, this spot feels like stepping into a living postcard. The colorful houses and relaxed atmosphere make it a highlight for many. One visitor said, “Santana is one of the nicest and most colorful villages in Madeira,” and it’s easy to see why.

A Possible Drawback

Some travelers have noted that the vehicle can be small, especially for those prone to motion sickness or needing more space during long drives with many curves. Also, the language skills of guides can vary; a review mentioned difficulty understanding a guide speaking German. If your language needs are specific, confirming this beforehand might be wise.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors or those with limited time who want a rundown. Nature lovers will appreciate the mountain views and forests, while cultural enthusiasts will enjoy the Santana houses and the wicker factory. It’s also great for travelers who prefer organized transportation and guided commentary over self-driving.

In-Depth Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Miradouro do Cristo Rei do Garajau

You start your day with a quick stop at this iconic lookout. The statue of Cristo Rei, perched high above the coast, offers a spectacular view of the Atlantic and the rugged coastline below. It’s a real photo opportunity, especially for capturing the contrast between land and sea. It’s a free stop lasting about 20 minutes, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy sweeping vistas.

Stop 2: Fortress of Faial and Santana

Next, you’ll visit the main town of Santana. This charming village has a distinctive look, with its traditional triangular, thatched-roof houses, known locally as Palheiros. Many travelers love this spot for its authentic charm and photos. One review mentions, “Santana is one of the nicest and most colorful villages,” making it a highlight for those looking to experience Madeira’s rural character.

Stop 3: The Wicker Factory

Before heading to the highlands, a visit to a wicker factory lets you see how local artisans craft traditional baskets and other items. Watching the process provides insight into Madeira’s cultural heritage, and you might even pick up a unique souvenir.

Stop 4: Ribeiro Frio and Balcoes

This aromatic forest area is a treasure for nature lovers. Surrounded by lush greenery, you can enjoy a walk or just take in the cool, forested environment. The fish farm here is a practical nod to local cuisine—the trout raised are often served in local restaurants. One reviewer appreciated the “welcoming environment” and noted that this is part of Madeira’s beautiful natural parks.

Stop 5: Pico do Areeiro

The trip’s highlight for many is the ascent to Pico do Areeiro, standing at 1,818 meters. The views from this mountain are simply breathtaking—vast volcanic landscapes, jagged peaks, and deep valleys as far as the eye can see. A quick 30-minute stop here allows you to breathe in the scenery and snap some fantastic photos. It’s a must-see for any visitor wanting a sense of Madeira’s volcanic origins.

Stop 6: Ponta de São Lourenço

This peninsula offers rugged cliffs and native flora. Your guide will point out native plants and wildlife, making this stop especially informative. The sweeping views of the Atlantic and exposed coastline are a favorite among reviewers. One noted that “having a guide to point out the flora and fauna really enriches the experience.”

Stop 7: Machico

Finally, you visit Machico, Madeira’s historic landing point. It’s a small, scenic cove, and many are interested in its historical significance—it was where the first Portuguese sailors landed in 1420. The relaxed atmosphere and ocean views make for a peaceful conclusion to your day.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

The tour uses a small vehicle, which allows access to narrow roads and scenic viewpoints. The intimate size fosters a friendly atmosphere, and guides like Sergio and Lionel are praised for their knowledge and humor. That said, some reviews note that the vehicle can be cramped for a full day, especially for those who prefer more space or air conditioning.

Timing is well-paced, with roughly 20-minute stops at most locations and longer stays at Santana and Pico do Areeiro—giving plenty of time to appreciate each site without feeling rushed. The early start and late finish are typical for full-day tours but ensure you get a complete picture of Madeira’s eastern wonders.

Authenticity and Practical Value

This tour offers a great balance between natural sights and cultural experiences. For those who value guided insights—many reviews mention guides sharing interesting facts and jokes—it’s a good way to learn about Madeira’s history and landscapes without the hassle of self-driving. The price point is competitive, especially considering the number of stops and the inclusion of transportation.

Most travelers find the value for money worthwhile, especially since the tour covers so many highlights in one day. The small group size helps keep the experience personal, and the variety of stops ensures there’s something for all—from breathtaking mountain views to charming local villages.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re eager to see a broad spectrum of Madeira’s east side in a single day, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suitable for first-time visitors or those who prefer an organized, guided experience over self-driving. Nature lovers will enjoy the mountain vistas and forests, while culture buffs will appreciate the Santana houses and local craftsmanship.

Families, seniors, or solo travelers will find this tour convenient and engaging, thanks to its small group size and well-paced itinerary. Keep in mind that those seeking a more relaxed pace or luxury transportation might want to consider other options.

The Sum Up

This Full Day Madeira East Tour offers a comprehensive, value-packed way to explore some of the most scenic and culturally rich parts of Madeira. From the panoramic heights of Pico do Areeiro to the colorful streets of Santana, you’ll get a varied look at the island’s natural beauty and traditions. The guides are often praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, turning a sightseeing trip into a genuinely enjoyable experience.

While the vehicle size and occasional language issues might not suit everyone, most travelers will appreciate the well-structured stops, stunning vistas, and authentic local culture. It’s an excellent choice if you want to maximize your time and see Madeira’s east side without the stress of planning or driving.

In essence, this tour is perfect for adventurers who like scenic views, curious travelers eager for cultural insights, and those seeking affordable, guided exploration of Madeira’s diverse landscape. It’s a day that promises stunning sights, engaging stories, and a memorable taste of the island’s charm.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The full-day tour runs for approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am and returning around 5:00 pm.

Is pickup included?
Yes, pickup from your hotel is included, making it easy to start your day without additional arrangements.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour groups are limited to 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal and manageable.

Are there any additional costs?
Most stops are free of charge, but note that Balcoes de Ribeiro Frio does not include an admission fee, and some stops like Pico do Areeiro are free of charge.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Generally, yes, but travelers who dislike curvy roads, long walks, or small vehicles might find it less comfortable. Be sure to check if your group can handle mountain elevations and vehicle space.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Will I learn about Madeira during this tour?
Absolutely. Guides are praised for their informative commentary, sharing insights into Madeira’s landscape, culture, and history throughout the day.

This Madeira east coast tour combines spectacular scenery, cultural charm, and expert guidance, making it a solid choice for those seeking a well-rounded, affordable day trip. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply eager to see Madeira’s highlights, this experience offers a worthwhile glimpse into the island’s diverse allure.