Madeira’s lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage have long captivated travelers, and the island’s eastern region promises an unforgettable experience. The Madeira East Island Tour whisks guests through a tapestry of natural wonders, from the renowned wicker works of Camacha to the UNESCO-protected Laurissilva forest. But the real draw lies in the chance to witness the island’s unparalleled beauty firsthand, from the panoramic vistas of Pico do Arieiro to the charming A-framed cottages of Santana. With a delectable lunch and immersive levada walk, this tour offers a seamless gateway to exploring Madeira’s eastern marvels. What secrets might this enchanting region unveil?
Key Points
- This 8-hour shared tour explores the east side of Madeira island, including Camacha’s wicker works, Pico do Arieiro’s panoramic views, and a levada walk in the Laurissilva forest.
- The tour includes a 3-course lunch, drinks, and transportation with pickup and drop-off at hotels in Funchal, Canico, or the cruise ship harbor.
- Visitors can admire the iconic A-framed cottages in Santana and take in stunning views of Ponta de São Lourenço, Machico, and the island’s airport.
- The knowledgeable driver guides the tour, providing insights into Madeira’s cultural heritage, natural wonders, and geological features.
- The tour is well-organized and covers the key highlights of Madeira’s eastern side, offering a comprehensive and hassle-free experience for visitors.
Tour Overview
This 8-hour east side of Madeira island tour takes visitors on a shared experience with 8-14 other people, guided by a knowledgeable driver.
Guests will be picked up from their hotels in Funchal and Canico, or from the harbor if they’re cruise ship travelers. The tour departs between 8:30-9:00 AM and returns to Funchal by 5:00 PM.
Along the way, travelers will explore Camacha’s wicker works, hike through the Laurissilva forest of Ribeiro Frio, and visit Santana’s A-framed cottages.
The tour also includes stops at the 3rd highest peak, Pico do Arieiro, and scenic viewpoints like Pico do Facho and Machico.
A 3-course lunch with drinks, a bottle of local wine, and water are all included in the tour.
Pick-up and Drop-off
The tour picks up guests from their hotels in Funchal and Canico, or from the harbor for cruise ship travelers whose ships have arrived by 8:00 AM and depart after 5:00 PM. Pickup times are scheduled between 8:30 and 9:00 AM.
This ensures everyone is ready to embark on the exciting 8-hour journey across the east side of Madeira Island.
Once the tour concludes, guests will be dropped off back in Funchal by 5:00 PM, allowing ample time for further exploration or return to their accommodations.
The seamless pickup and drop-off logistics make this tour a convenient and hassle-free experience for visitors to make the most of their time on the island.
Tour Highlights
During the East Island Tour, visitors explore several captivating highlights that showcase Madeira’s diverse landscapes and cultural heritage.
Camacha is known for its renowned wicker works, providing a glimpse into the island’s traditional craftsmanship.
Ascending to the 3rd highest peak, Pico do Arieiro, affords awe-inspiring panoramic views of Madeira’s rugged interior.
At Ribeiro Frio, the ancient Laurissilva forest beckons travelers to embark on a levada walk to the scenic Balcões viewpoint.
The tour also features the charming village of Santana, famous for its distinctive A-framed cottages, and the Pico do Facho viewpoint, which offers stunning vistas of Ponta de São Lourenço, Machico, and the island’s airport.
Each destination offers a unique opportunity to take in Madeira’s natural and cultural wonders.
Camacha: Wicker Works
In Camacha, visitors can witness the intricate process of traditional Madeira wicker works, where skilled artisans deftly craft an array of woven products, from baskets and furniture to decorative items.
This centuries-old craft is a source of pride for the local community, who’ve mastered the art of weaving the island’s abundant native willow.
Visitors can browse the workshops and admire the meticulous handiwork that goes into each piece, from the selection of materials to the precise shaping and finishing touches.
The tour offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Madeira, showcasing the enduring skill and creativity of its people.
Pico Do Arieiro
Towering at 1,818 meters, Pico do Arieiro is the third-highest peak on the island of Madeira, offering visitors a breathtaking panoramic view of the island’s rugged, mountainous terrain.
As the tour makes its way up the winding roads, the stunning landscapes unfold, revealing dramatic cliffs, deep valleys, and lush greenery. Visitors can explore the rocky trails, taking in the crisp mountain air and soaking in the awe-inspiring vistas.
Whether it’s gazing out over the rolling peaks or marveling at the intricate network of levadas (irrigation channels), Pico do Arieiro is a highlight of the East Island tour, showcasing the island’s natural beauty and geological wonders.
Ribeiro Frio
The tour continues on to Ribeiro Frio, where visitors can explore the lush Laurissilva forest and embark on a levada walk to the Balcões viewpoint.
This ancient laurel forest is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its diverse flora and fauna. The levada walk provides a peaceful and scenic experience, winding through the dense greenery and offering stunning views.
Hikers can admire the unique Laurissilva trees, some of which are centuries old. The Balcões viewpoint, situated at the end of the trail, offers a breathtaking panorama of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
This tranquil natural haven is a highlight of the East Madeira tour, allowing visitors to enjoy the island’s remarkable natural beauty.
Santana: A-framed Cottages
Next, the tour group arrives at the charming village of Santana, known for its iconic A-framed cottages. These quaint, triangular-shaped houses, with their thatched roofs and wooden exteriors, are a unique architectural tradition that has become a symbol of Madeira’s cultural heritage.
Visitors can explore the village and witness:
- The careful craftsmanship that goes into building these traditional homes, with their intricate thatching techniques.
- The vibrant colors and patterns adorning the wooden facades, showcasing the island’s artistic flair.
Local artisans demonstrating the creation of traditional handicrafts, such as woven baskets and embroidered linens.
The warm hospitality of the Santana residents, who are proud to share their way of life with travelers.
Inclusions and Important Information
This East Island tour includes a delicious 3-course meal with drinks, as well as a bottle of local wine and water for guests’ enjoyment.
Plus, all necessary entrance fees are covered, providing a seamless and inclusive experience.
Visitors should wear warm clothing, as the tour ventures to higher altitudes where temperatures can be cooler.
While the planned route is comprehensive, it’s important to note that it may be subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances.
With a knowledgeable guide and driver, travelers can expect a well-organized and informative tour that showcases the highlights of Madeira’s eastern side, including the stunning Laurissilva forest and the picturesque Santana cottages.
Recap
The Madeira East Island Tour offers an immersive experience showcasing the island’s eastern highlights. It’s a convenient and hassle-free way to explore Camacha’s wicker works, the stunning Pico do Arieiro viewpoint, the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest, the charming Santana village, and breathtaking vistas of the island’s coastline.
With a 3-course lunch, drinks, and all necessary entrance fees included, it’s an ideal way to discover Madeira’s eastern wonders.
