Machico is a fantastic base for exploring Madeira’s diverse landscapes and culture. Its proximity to dramatic coastlines, lush forests, and charming villages makes it ideal for a variety of tours. We especially like the Madeira: Surreal East Experience for a mix of stunning viewpoints and local flavor, and the Madeira: East Coast Paradise With Santana Cable Car for its breathtaking scenery and iconic cable car ride. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures, culture, or underwater exploration, Machico offers a wide array of options. Let’s look at the top tours to help you decide what suits your travel style.
Quick Overview
This list features hiking, surfing, off-road safaris, scenic drives, snorkeling, and diving—something for every outdoor enthusiast and curious traveler. Some tours, like the Madeira: Hike Transfer to Ponta de São Lourenço, focus on coastal views and wildlife, while others, such as the Madeira East Wonders 4X4 Tour Safari, offer rugged off-road experiences. For underwater lovers, options like snorkeling and diving at Ponta de São Lourenço are hard to beat. Now, let’s explore each one in detail.
1. Madeira: Hike Transfer to Ponta de São Lourenço (PR8)
At number 1, this 5-hour coastal hike is a superb way to see Madeira’s volcanic coastline. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation, making it an easy, hassle-free way to get into nature. You’ll walk at your own pace through trails showcasing unique rock formations and panoramic ocean views, truly unmatched for their rugged beauty. The area is a classified Nature Reserve, so you’re likely to spot some rare wildlife along the way.
The highlight? Finishing with a swim or a boat ride along the scenic coast, which adds a refreshing touch to an already memorable day. The small group shuttle, driven by a knowledgeable guide, means you get personalized insights and flexibility. Reviewers consistently praise the stunning volcanic scenery and the fact that they can explore at their own pace. Perfect for active travelers who enjoy a mix of hiking and relaxing by the sea.
Bottom Line: If coastal walking and wildlife spotting in a protected area appeals to you, this hike offers a memorable experience with easy logistics.
2. Madeira: Surf Lessons
Number 2 on our list is an energetic 2-hour surf lesson that’s perfect for beginners and intermediates alike. For around $80 per person, you’ll get expert coaching and top-quality equipment in a fun, supportive environment. The lessons take place on some of Madeira’s most beautiful beaches, where waves are suitable for all skill levels.
This tour stands out because it blends learning new skills with enjoying stunning coastline views. The instructor’s encouragement makes it a great choice for those new to surfing or for anyone wanting to improve. Reviewers often mention how much they appreciated the personalized attention and how the instructor made the whole experience fun and approachable.
If you’re craving an active, water-based adventure that’s manageable in just a few hours, this is a solid pick. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to connect with Madeira’s coastline, especially if you’re a fan of water sports.
Bottom Line: Perfect for beginners and anyone looking for a quick, fun introduction to surfing in Madeira.
3. Madeira: Surreal East Experience
Number 3 offers an all-day adventure exploring Madeira’s eastern landscapes and cultural highlights. The tour includes a glass skywalk with sweeping views, a scenic hike, and a visit to a local distillery for rum tasting. You’ll also explore traditional Madeira houses and capture stunning photos of the coastline.
What makes this tour special is its diverse itinerary, blending adventure, scenery, and local flavor. The journey starts with a pickup from multiple locations, then visits Pico do Arieiro, one of the island’s highest peaks, providing panoramic views. The hike along the Ribeiro Frio trail offers a chance to see native bird species. The visit to the distillery adds a cultural touch, while the focus on traditional houses gives insight into local life.
This tour’s reviews highlight the beautiful vistas and well-paced activities. It’s suited for travelers who want a balance of outdoor activity and cultural discovery.
Bottom Line: If you want a comprehensive day of sightseeing, hiking, and tasting, this tour offers a well-rounded experience.
4. Madeira East Wonders 4X4 Tour Safari
Number 4 is an 8-hour off-road adventure on the island’s east side, ideal for those craving a rugged exploration. Using Land Rovers, this tour covers Pico do Arieiro, Ribeiro Frio, Santana, and spectacular viewpoints like Ponta de São Lourenço.
The tour’s off-road segments in the laurissilva forest allow you to experience Madeira’s lush greenery away from the crowds. The itinerary includes lunch in Santana, famous for its traditional houses, and visits some of the most dramatic cliffs and viewpoints. The guide, Francisco, is praised for his storytelling and knowledge of the island’s culture and environment.
This experience is best suited for active travelers who are comfortable with bumpy rides and walking. The combination of off-road fun and scenic stops makes it a full-day adventure that’s worth every euro.
Bottom Line: For those who love off-road exploration and natural beauty, this safari delivers a rich, hands-on experience.
$58 per person
5. Madeira East Coast Paradise With Santana Cable Car
Number 5 highlights a full-day tour of Madeira’s eastern coast, featuring the Rocha do Navio cable car ride and visits to Santana’s traditional houses. Starting from several locations, you can enjoy a scenic electric car ride along the coast, culminating in a memorable cable car experience.
The scenic viewpoints, including Ponta de São Lourenço, showcase Madeira’s rugged coastline. You’ll also get a taste of local culture and architecture at Santana, with free time to explore and shop. The tour emphasizes breathtaking views of the northern east coast, making it ideal for travelers who want a combination of scenery and cultural stops.
Reviews mention the spectacular cable car ride and the beautiful landscapes. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace with plenty of photo opportunities.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a scenic, leisurely day with iconic views and cultural visits.
$89 per person
6. Madeira: Ponta de São Lourenço Shore Dive (certified divers)
Number 6 caters to certified divers ready to explore Madeira’s undersea world. The shore dive at Ponta de São Lourenço lasts about 2 hours and offers a chance to see marine life such as octopuses, barracudas, rays, and moray eels.
This dive takes place at a protected area, making it a prime spot for underwater biodiversity. The tour is suitable for those with certification, and the experience is described as easy yet exciting, with plenty to see in the crystal-clear waters.
Many divers appreciate the chance to “see a different side of Madeira,” and reviews praise the rich underwater life. If you’re a certified diver, this is an easy way to add a memorable underwater adventure to your trip.
Bottom Line: A must-do for certified divers wanting a quality reef exploration.
$38 per person
7. Private tour | Ponta de São Lourenço (Scuba & Snorkeling)
Number 7 offers a private, customized experience for up to 12 people. You can choose between snorkeling or scuba diving at Ponta de São Lourenço, with the entire three-hour tour tailored to your interests.
This tour is perfect for groups or couples seeking exclusivity and flexibility. The private boat ensures a relaxed pace, and you may even have the chance to see the rare Monk Seal. The crystal waters are ideal for exploring marine life, and your guide can focus on your specific interests.
Reviews mention the personalized service and the chance to explore in comfort. It’s best suited for those who prefer a more intimate experience or have specific underwater interests.
Bottom Line: Ideal for private groups wanting a flexible, exclusive diving or snorkeling adventure.
$739 per group up to 12
8. Boat Trip – Ponta de São Lourenço + Snorkeling
Number 8 provides a 2.5-hour boat cruise along Ponta de São Lourenço, with snorkeling gear provided. It’s a relaxing way to see the coast from the water and enjoy the beautiful landscapes while swimming in the clear Atlantic.
This trip is straightforward but offers a lot of scenic value. It’s perfect if you want a short, stress-free activity that combines coastal views with underwater exploration. The reviews highlight the beautiful scenery and the quality of the snorkeling equipment.
It’s suitable for families or travelers looking for a quick, enjoyable boat trip with the chance to see marine life close-up.
Bottom Line: For a relaxing, scenic sea adventure, this cruise offers a compact but memorable experience.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting your ideal Madeira experience from Machico, consider your interests, fitness level, and time constraints. If you love outdoor hiking and wildlife, the coastal Ponta de São Lourenço hike is unbeatable. For water sports lovers, the surf lessons or snorkeling tours provide active ways to enjoy the coast. Those seeking cultural insights and scenic views will find the East Coast Paradise appealing.
Also, consider your budget—the off-road safari is a full-day adventure worth its price, while snorkeling or boat trips are shorter and more affordable. Book early, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred date.
Final thoughts
Machico offers a wide range of tours that suit many preferences. For those wanting a robust outdoor experience, the Madeira: Hike Transfer to Ponta de São Lourenço and the East Wonders 4X4 Safari stand out. If underwater adventures are your thing, the shore dive or private snorkeling tours are excellent choices. For a more relaxed or scenic day, the East Coast Paradise offers gentle exploration.
Whatever your style, Machico’s tour options promise memorable ways to see Madeira from its coast to its peaks. Be sure to book early to avoid missing out on your preferred adventure.