Pico do Arieiro, Santana & more Full Day Tour With PickUp

Exploring Madeira’s East Side: A Quiet, Authentic Adventure

This full-day tour of Madeira’s east coast offers a refreshing alternative to noisy, polluting buses. Instead, it’s conducted in eco-friendly electric vehicles—an important detail for those who care about sustainability and want to experience the island without disturbing its peaceful atmosphere. From the majestic Pico do Arieiro to the rugged Ponta de São Lourenço, each stop promises incredible views and memorable moments.

What immediately catches your attention is the small group size, limited to just seven travelers per tour, which means you’re treated more like a guest than a number. The guides, like Roberto and Marc, are praised for their deep knowledge and engaging storytelling. I also love the focus on responsible tourism—making sure Madeira’s natural beauty stays intact for future visitors.

A potential consideration is that this tour involves some walking, particularly during the Levada walk in Ribeiro Frio. While the pace is relaxed, it’s worth noting if you’re less mobile or prefer purely scenic drives. Also, since meals are not included, you’ll want to budget for lunch in Santana, though the guides often recommend good local spots.

This tour combines comfort, eco-consciousness, and a genuine love for the island’s landscapes. It’s perfect for travelers seeking an intimate, high-quality experience that respects Madeira’s environment while offering breathtaking sights and fascinating stories.

Key points / Takeaways

Eco-Friendly Vehicles: The tour uses electric cars, making it quieter and more environmentally responsible.
Small Group Experience: Limited to 7 guests, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.
Expert Guided Tours: Guides like Roberto and Marc share detailed insights about flora, fauna, and local culture.
Stunning Stops: From Pico do Arieiro’s panoramic vistas to Ponta de São Lourenço’s dramatic cliffs, the scenery will wow you.
Levada Walks & Local Charm: Walking through Ribeiro Frio’s Laurissilva forest offers lush greenery and birdwatching opportunities.
Delicious Local Food: Lunch in Santana features regional specialties and a glimpse into Madeira’s vibrant architecture.

When I read about a tour that promises seven hours of scenic beauty, tasty food, and engaging guides, I know it’s worth a closer look. This particular experience from Madeira Electric Tours offers just that—an intimate journey through some of Madeira’s most iconic landscapes, all in an environmentally sustainable way.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What really sets this tour apart is its commitment to sustainability and personalized service. Using electric vehicles means no exhaust fumes or loud engines disrupting the peaceful mountain air—something I find genuinely important when exploring nature. Plus, small group sizes, limited to 7 participants, mean you’ll get more attention from your guides, Roberto and Marc, who are highly praised for their knowledge and friendly manner.

Two things I particularly love are the stops at Pico do Arieiro, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views from over 1,800 meters, and the Levada walk in Ribeiro Frio. These moments offer not just scenery, but a chance to really connect with Madeira’s lush environment. Plus, the local lunch in Santana—famous for its traditional triangular, thatched houses—gives you a taste of authentic Madeiran culture.

One consideration is that the tour involves some walking and outdoor exposure. While it’s generally relaxed, bringing comfortable shoes and a windbreaker is advisable. Also, since meals aren’t included, you’ll need to budget for lunch, but the guides often recommend good options.

In the end, this experience feels like a well-balanced mix of comfort, adventure, and cultural insight. It’s a fine choice for those who want to see Madeira in a way that respects nature and offers genuine local flavor.

Here are more great tours and experiences we've reviewed in Funchal

Key Points / Takeaways

Eco-conscious travel using electric cars minimizes environmental impact.
Small groups foster a more intimate, flexible experience.
Expert guides like Roberto share stories about flora, fauna, and the island’s history.
Spectacular viewpoints at Pico do Arieiro and Ponta de São Lourenço are the highlights.
Levada walk provides a green respite and birdwatching opportunities.
Authentic lunch in Santana offers regional dishes and colorful architecture.

Detailed Tour Breakdown

Starting Point: Funchal Pickup

Your day begins with a convenient pickup in Funchal, the island’s vibrant capital. This arrangement means you start relaxed, without the hassle of navigating to a meeting point. The tour duration is about seven hours, which sounds long but flies by with the variety of stops and stories.

Pico do Arieiro: A Mountain Marvel

The first major landmark is Pico do Arieiro, at 1,818 meters. This is Madeira’s third-highest peak and offers some of the most breathtaking views you’ll find on the island. Expect a bit of a winding ascent—your guide will likely share interesting facts about the mountain’s geology and climate.

Many reviews mention how stunning the vistas are from here, with one traveler noting the “stunning views from Pico do Arieiro are unforgettable.” It’s an excellent spot for photos, breathing in crisp mountain air, and soaking up the sense of altitude.

Here's some more things to do in Funchal

Ribeiro Frio & the Laurissilva Forest

Next, the tour takes you downhill into Ribeiro Frio, a tiny village famous for its Levada walk through the Laurissilva forest. This UNESCO-listed forest feels like stepping into a verdant cathedral—teeming with birdlife like firecrests and chaffinches.

The walk can be leisurely, and guided, with explanations about the unique flora. Several reviews highlight how guides like Roberto make this part especially engaging, sharing details about the island’s plant life and wildlife. It’s an excellent way to see Madeira’s natural beauty up close without strenuous hiking.

Santana: Colorful Houses and Local Flavor

After working up an appetite, the group heads to Santana, a town known for its traditional triangular, thatched-roof houses. The colorful architecture is photogenic and offers a glimpse into Madeira’s rural past. Here, you’ll enjoy a local lunch—often praised for its quality and regional authenticity.

Many reviews rave about the guides’ restaurant choices, noting they are well-selected to showcase Madeira’s flavors. It’s a good chance to relax and chat about the island’s history and traditions.

Miradouro Guindaste: Floating Over the Ocean

From Santana, the tour proceeds to Miradouro Guindaste, a glass-and-steel lookout that appears to hover above the ocean. Standing on this balcony, it’s easy to feel like you’re floating above the waves. The view is stunning, and you’ll want your camera ready.

Guests often mention how this viewpoint provides a “breath-taking” perspective—truly one of the most memorable stops.

Ponta de São Lourenço: Wild and Rugged Coastline

The final stop is Ponta de São Lourenço, Madeira’s easternmost point. This rugged peninsula is characterized by dramatic cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and a windswept landscape. It’s a perfect spot for a short walk and photos of the wild Atlantic.

Since this is the last stop, many travelers comment on the striking contrast between the lush mountains and the stark, rocky coast—highlighting Madeira’s diverse landscapes.

Return to Funchal

After a full day of discovery, the electric vehicle returns you to Funchal, tired but enriched by the scenery and stories. The tour ends comfortably, allowing you to relax and reflect on the spectacular views and cultural insights.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This experience is ideal for travelers who value sustainability, small-group intimacy, and local insights. It’s perfect if you’re interested in scenery, nature walks, and a deeper understanding of Madeira’s culture. It’s also suitable for those who prefer a quieter, more respectful way to experience the island’s beauty.

However, it’s not the best fit for travelers with mobility issues or those afraid of heights, given the nature of some stops. Also, since meals are not included, be prepared to budget for lunch.

Price and Logistics

While the exact price isn’t specified here, this tour offers excellent value considering the inclusion of professional guides, vehicle transportation, and multiple scenic stops. The small group size enhances the experience, making it more personal and flexible.

Pickup is within Funchal, which is convenient for most travelers staying in or near the city. The tour runs for about seven hours—enough time to see a variety of landscapes without feeling rushed.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira East Tour by Madeira Electric Tours combines eco-conscious transportation, expert guides, and unforgettable scenery. It’s especially appealing for travelers who prioritize sustainability and authentic experiences over large, crowded tours. Expect to see Madeira’s most iconic viewpoints, walk through lush forests, and enjoy regional cuisine—all in a relaxed, intimate setting.

If you’re looking for a way to experience Madeira’s natural beauty responsibly and comfortably, this tour offers excellent value. It’s particularly suited for curious travelers who want to learn, explore, and leave a lighter footprint.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 3 years old, and younger kids might find some walking or heights challenging. Check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, a windbreaker, sunglasses, sunscreen, a credit card, personal medication, and a charged smartphone are recommended.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included. You should plan to buy lunch in Santana or bring snacks.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. The stops at Pico do Arieiro, Miradouro Guindaste, and Ponta de São Lourenço are perfect for photos.

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

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Italian, French, Dutch, and Portuguese.

Is it possible to do this tour with a large group?
No, it’s limited to small groups of 7, which helps keep the experience personal.

Do I need to worry about altitude sickness?
Since the highest stop is Pico do Arieiro at 1,818 meters, those with altitude sickness should consider their comfort level before booking.

To sum it up, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic vistas, nature walks, cultural sights, and expert guidance—all on a quiet, eco-friendly transport. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a meaningful, responsible way to explore Madeira’s east coast, with the added bonus of small group intimacy and top-notch storytelling.