Madeira Funchal:East Tour Pico Arieiro & Santana&Laurissilva

Introduction to the Madeira Funchal: East Tour Pico Arieiro & Santana & Laurissilva

If you’re looking to explore Madeira beyond Funchal’s city streets, this East Tour offers a well-rounded, immersive experience of the island’s most iconic natural and cultural highlights. Running around 7 hours, with a flexible pickup and drop-off service, it’s ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day without feeling rushed. As highlighted in countless reviews, guides like Albino, Nelson, Pedro, and Jose make this trip particularly memorable thanks to their local knowledge and friendly approach.

What I genuinely appreciate about this tour is the blend of spectacular scenic stops and authentic cultural touches—from the traditional thatched houses in Santana to the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest. The price point of $36 per person offers real value considering the number of destinations visited and the inclusion of comfortable transportation. That said, some travelers have mentioned the tour running slightly longer than advertised, especially the 1.5-hour lunch break in Santana, so managing expectations about timing is wise.

Two standout features are the guided commentary at each stop and the chance to see Madeira’s dramatic landscapes from various vantage points. Plus, the stops for coffee, photos, and brief walks ensure you’re soaking in the atmosphere without feeling like you’re just ticking boxes. The guides go beyond the standard script, sharing personal insights and local tips, making the journey both enjoyable and educational.

Key points / Takeaways

• Expert local guides like Albino, Nelson, Pedro, and Goe make the experience engaging and informative.
• Breathtaking viewpoints such as Pico do Arieiro and Miradouro do Guindaste are highlights for landscape lovers.
• Flexible pickup and drop-off options mean you won’t waste time navigating taxis or public transport.
• Authentic cultural stops include Santana’s traditional thatched houses and the historical Engenho do Norte.
• Well-paced itinerary with plenty of time at each stop for photos, walks, and enjoying the scenery.
• Value for money at $36 per person, especially considering the variety of locations visited and included services.

Exploring Madeira’s East Coast: What You Can Expect

This tour packs a lot into a single day, offering a perfect overview of Madeira’s natural grandeur and unique traditions.

Starting Point and Pickups

Your day begins with a flexible pickup from three convenient locations: Caniço, Funchal, and Câmara De Lobos. The company is quite accommodating if your accommodation isn’t a hotel—just wait outside your residence for the guide to arrive.

Terreiro da Luta and the Senhora da Paz Sanctuary

Your first stop is a quick photo opportunity at Terreiro da Luta, home to the symbolic Nossa Senhora do Monte monument. This marble sculpture, built in 1917 after the bombing raids, is a touching tribute to resilience. It’s a short stop but offers a chance to appreciate Madeira’s community spirit and history.

Pico do Arieiro: A Mountain Marvel

Next, you’ll ascend to Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak at 1818 meters (5965 ft). The views from this spot are truly unforgettable—vast mountain ranges, dramatic ridges, and a feeling of standing on top of the world. Many reviews praise the breathtaking panoramas, especially at sunrise, but even during the day, the scenery is captivating. This is a driveable peak, and the stop includes some free time to take photos, soak in the vistas, and perhaps do a short walk if you’re feeling adventurous.

Ribeiro Frio and Laurissilva Forest

The journey continues to Ribeiro Frio, the gateway to Madeira’s UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest, a lush, emerald-green wonderland. Here, you’re encouraged to enjoy the easy flat walk to Balcões, about 20 minutes round-trip, which offers a fantastic view of the surrounding mountains and verdant valleys. The forest is a living piece of natural history, and many reviewers cite the scenic trout pools and untouched flora as highlights. One guest noted how this stop provided a chance to enjoy the island’s original vegetation.

Santana’s Traditional Houses

A highlight for many is Santana, famous for its distinctive triangular thatched houses. This charming village feels like stepping back in time and offers a relaxed atmosphere with a quaint church, local cafes, and gift shops. It’s a perfect break for lunch or just wandering through the colorful streets. The 1.5-hour stop has received positive feedback for its authenticity and photo opportunities—though some mention the timing feels a bit generous, with a few suggesting a slightly shorter break might keep the day more balanced.

Guindaste Viewpoint and the New Glass Walkways

The Miradouro do Guindaste provides a stunning vantage point along Madeira’s northern coast. Recently enhanced with glass walkways suspended over the ocean, this spot is a favorite among visitors for dramatic photos and a sense of being suspended above the waves. Even in less-than-ideal weather, many reviewers found this stop awe-inspiring, emphasizing how the new features add excitement.

Porto da Cruz and Sugar History

Your next stop is the traditional fishing village of Porto da Cruz, featuring a lovely sea promenade. It’s a peaceful spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the sea breeze. Nearby, Engenho do Norte offers a glimpse into Madeira’s sugar production history, making this stop both scenic and educational. Many guests appreciate the chance to understand the island’s industrial past and enjoy a quick walk along the coast.

Pico do Facho and Ponta de São Lourenço

Heading towards the eastern tip, Pico do Facho offers panoramic views, with about 10 minutes to soak in the landscape. Then, at Ponta de São Lourenço, you’ll witness a landscape reminiscent of a grand canyon—rock formations, rugged coastline, and salty air. This spot is often noted as the most “wild” part of the island, with some reviews calling it a must-see for nature lovers.

End of the Day and Drop-offs

Your day concludes with a return to your initial pickup points, with drop-off options aligning with your morning pickup. The company’s flexible approach and courteous drivers make the exit smooth and convenient.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This guided trip offers excellent value—for just $36, you gain access to many of Madeira’s most iconic natural sights and cultural landmarks. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off means you avoid the hassle of organizing transport, and the small group size ensures a more personalized experience. The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and friendliness, which turns a sightseeing day into an engaging story about Madeira.

The scenic stops are thoughtfully chosen to showcase the island’s diversity—from mountain peaks and lush forests to traditional villages and rugged coastlines. The stops for photos, short walks, and local food make the experience lively without feeling rushed.

However, a few reviewers mention that the lunch stop in Santana can feel a bit long, and the tour might run over the advertised 7 hours. If you’re on a tight schedule, this is worth considering, but for most, it adds to the relaxed, unhurried atmosphere.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who loves stunning landscapes and authentic culture, this tour hits the mark. It’s suited for those who prefer guided experiences—especially if you want local insights and stories—and for anyone curious about Madeira’s natural beauty beyond the city. The easy walk to Balcões makes it accessible even for those who aren’t avid hikers, but it’s wise to be comfortable with some light walking.

This experience is especially good for first-time visitors or those short on time but eager to see a broad slice of the island. Given the value for money and the variety of sights, it’s a practical choice for budget-conscious travelers who want a richer picture of Madeira.

Price and Value

At $36 per person, the tour delivers strong value. You’re getting a full day of exploring with a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transport, and multiple iconic stops. While meals and snacks aren’t included, the stops at Santana and other locations offer plenty of options to grab a local snack or lunch at your leisure.

Many reviews emphasize the quality of guides and the beautiful scenery as worth the price, especially considering the convenience of hotel pickup and the thoughtfully curated itinerary. It’s a balanced choice for those who want a guided introduction to Madeira’s east coast without paying a premium.

The Sum Up

This Madeira East Tour is a smart pick for anyone wanting a comprehensive, memorable day exploring the island’s natural and cultural treasures. The friendly guides, breathtaking views, and well-paced stops make it a top-rated choice. It’s especially suited for travelers who value authentic experiences and good value for money.

If your goal is to see mountain peaks, lush forests, charming villages, and rugged coastlines all in one day, this tour covers all the bases. It’s a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural insight, and practical comfort—a trip that will leave you with lasting impressions of Madeira’s diverse landscape.

FAQ

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, though some reviews mention it can run slightly longer, especially the lunch break.

Are pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the company offers flexible pickup and drop-off at hotels, houses, or apartments in Funchal or Caniço. For non-hotel accommodations, expect to wait outside your property.

What languages are available for the tour?
The tour is conducted in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, with guides sharing insights in these languages.

Is the tour suitable for people with limited mobility?
The tour involves some walking, including a short flat walk to Balcões and brief stops; it’s considered easy level. Confirm with the provider if you have specific mobility concerns.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, sun protection, camera, and a light jacket in case of cooler mountain weather. Lunch isn’t included, but stops offer options for food and drinks.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour good in bad weather?
Many reviews mention that guides adapt the itinerary if weather conditions are poor. Despite rain or wind, guides like Nelson ensure the experience remains enjoyable.

How much free time is there at each stop?
Stops typically include 10-20 minutes for photos and quick walks. Santana and other longer stops provide about 1.5 hours for lunch, shopping, and exploring.

In essence, this Madeira East Tour offers a well-balanced, authentic, and scenic introduction to the island’s highlights—all with guides who genuinely care about your experience.