Madeira East Island Tour and Levada Walk

Introduction: A Taste of Madeira’s East Coast in a Day

This Madeira East Island Tour with Levada Walk offers a well-rounded glimpse of the island’s dramatic landscapes, from soaring peaks to lush forests and charming villages. It’s praised by many for its comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and a focus on authentic experiences. As someone who appreciates a mix of natural beauty and cultural insight, I find this tour hits the sweet spot for travelers wanting a comprehensive taste of Madeira without renting a car or arranging multiple excursions.

Two things stand out in reviews: first, the guides, such as Lucy and Tony, are consistently highlighted for their knowledge, friendliness, and extra effort—some even going 90 minutes over the schedule to show more viewpoints. Second, the scenery is truly breathtaking, especially the panoramic viewpoints like Pico do Arieiro and the Skywalk at Faial. The included lunch, with regional dishes, adds a hearty touch to the day, making it great value.

A potential drawback? The tour does feel quite packed, and some travelers mention it can be a bit rushed—particularly at the busier stops. Also, the levada walk costs a small additional fee (€3), and the itinerary might change depending on weather or traffic, so flexibility is key. But, for most, these are minor trade-offs for such a rewarding day out.

Key points / Takeaways

• Expert guides like Lucy and Tony make the day informative and engaging, adding personal touches and extra stops.
• Stunning viewpoints including Pico do Arieiro and Faial Skywalk deliver incredible photo opportunities.
• Authentic local lunch in Santana offers regional food and a chance to relax mid-day.
• Levada walk inside the Laurissilva forest is a highlight, with an affordable €3 fee adding to the value.
• Small group size ensures a more intimate experience and personalized attention.
• Flexible scheduling and pickup options suit varied travel plans, including cruise passengers.

Exploring Madeira’s Natural Wonders in Comfort

This tour is a smart choice if you want a full day of sightseeing without the hassle of driving or navigating unfamiliar roads. The modern, air-conditioned minibus comfortably seats 8-14 people, making for a cozy but not crowded setting. The experience begins with a hotel pickup between 8:00 and 9:00, giving you a relaxed start to the day as your guide kicks off with the first panoramic stop above Funchal. From there, the day unfolds with carefully curated highlights, blending scenic drives with outdoor walks and cultural visits.

What I appreciate most about this experience is how it balances nature, culture, and food. You’ll get to see the island’s third-highest peak, Pico do Arieiro, standing at 1818 meters, where clouds often drift below your feet—an ethereal moment. Then, a visit to Ribeiro Frio’s trout farm offers a peek into local farming traditions, followed by a gentle levada walk to the famous Balcões viewpoint in the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest. It’s a chance to breathe in some of Madeira’s most lush and ancient woods.

The Scenic Highlights of the Day

Each stop on this tour is designed to showcase Madeira’s diverse landscape. The viewpoints above Funchal and Pico do Arieiro are simply stunning—your guides often stop for photos, and reviews rave about the views. One traveler described Pico do Arieiro as “a must-see,” noting the cool mountain air and panoramic vistas.

The visit to Santana is a cultural treat—its thatched cottages are iconic, and the short stop allows enough time to browse souvenirs and snap photos of these charming, traditional houses. The guide will usually share stories behind these uniquely shaped homes, giving you a window into local life. The nearby Porto da Cruz offers a different perspective, with rum tasting at Porto Cruz Village—an authentic experience that many reviews highlight as a fun and flavorful addition.

Further along, the Skywalk at Faial provides a modern but equally impressive viewpoint with glass flooring overlooking the coast. It’s a favorite spot for photos and awe. The drive along the coast offers sweeping views of Ponta de São Lourenço, Machico, and on clear days, the Desertas Islands and Porto Santo, adding to the spectacular scenery.

The Levada Walk: A Forest Adventure

The highlight for many is the Levada walk inside the Laurissilva forest. It’s a gentle hike suitable for most fitness levels, with a small €3 fee payable on-site. Visitors describe it as a magical experience, wandering through dense, ancient woodland, with the sound of bird calls and the sight of lush greenery all around. The walk to the Balcões viewpoint is particularly popular, offering sweeping views of the island’s rugged cliffs and valleys.

Several reviews emphasize how guides like Lucy go above and beyond by pointing out local plants, sharing stories about the forest’s ecology, and adding spontaneous extra stops—sometimes asking if you’d like to see a different viewpoint or explore a side trail. This personal touch makes the walk more engaging and memorable.

Lunch at Santana: A Regional Feast

Lunch takes place at the Santana Centre, famed for its thatched houses and regional cuisine. The included 3-course meal with drinks is a good value, especially given the high quality of the food. Many reviewers mention the delicious local dishes, praising the hearty, authentic flavors. It’s an excellent chance to relax and chat with fellow travelers, or simply enjoy the scenery from the outdoor seating.

Note that for private tours, lunch isn’t included, but the shared tour provides a convenient and tasty break. The tour’s reviews suggest the restaurant is well-chosen, with some noting it’s a better experience than the original cave restaurant since Covid caused a change in location.

Coastal Views and Rum Tasting

After lunch, the tour continues eastward along the coast with spectacular views of Ponta de São Lourenço and Machico. The Faial Skywalk offers a glass-floored platform that makes for memorable photos. Then, a visit to Porto da Cruz includes free rum tasting at the Porto Cruz Village, a highlight for those interested in Madeira’s famed spirits.

The last scenic stops include viewpoints over Porto Santo and the Desertas Islands—on clear days, the views are incredible, and many reviews are full of praise for how much ground the tour covers in just one day.

Practicalities and Value

The tour lasts about 8 hours, starting between 8:00 and 9:00 and returning around 17:00. The small group size means more personalized attention, and reviews frequently mention friendly, knowledgeable guides like Lucy, Tony, and Carlos who enhance the experience with local insights and stories.

Price-wise, the cost includes all the major stops, a delicious regional lunch, and in many cases, free hotel or cruise port pickup—offering good value considering the variety of experiences packed into a single day. The slight extra fee for the levada walk (€3) is a modest addition for an immersive forest experience.

Flexibility is a plus, as the route can be adjusted based on weather or traffic, ensuring safety and enjoyment. Also, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, booking can be done with confidence.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive day without the stress of planning every detail themselves. If you enjoy stunning vistas, walking in forests, and sampling local food and spirits, this tour will satisfy. It’s especially good for those short on time but eager to see a variety of landscapes and cultural highlights in one go.

People who dislike rushed schedules might find it tight, but most reviews suggest the pace is just right for a full, engaging day. The guides’ enthusiasm and local knowledge often turn a sightseeing trip into a memorable storytelling experience.

Those with mobility issues might find some parts strenuous, especially the levada walk, but for most, it’s accessible and rewarding.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira East Island Tour with Levada Walk is a solid choice for travelers wanting to see the island’s best viewpoints, lush forests, and cultural sights in a single day. The combination of scenic drives, outdoor walks, local cuisine, and friendly guides offers excellent value. Many reviews highlight the knowledge and enthusiasm of guides such as Lucy and Tony, who go beyond the itinerary to make the day special.

If you’re after a well-organized, authentic experience that balances sightseeing with cultural stops, this tour will deliver. It’s an ideal way to get a comprehensive introduction to Madeira’s east side, especially if you’re pressed for time but want to capture the essence of the island.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, pickup is available from all hotels in Funchal and Canico, and also from cruise ships arriving before 8:00.
What’s the duration of the tour? Expect around 8 hours, starting between 8:00 and 9:00 and returning by 17:00.
Are meals included? The shared tour includes a 3-course regional meal and drinks, but private tours do not include lunch.
How much does the levada walk cost? It costs €3, payable on the day of the walk.
Can I join if I’m on a cruise? Yes, the tour can accommodate cruise passengers, with pickups from the harbor or your hotel.
What should I wear? Comfortable shoes and a jacket—higher altitudes can be cooler, even in warmer months.
Is the tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues? It’s generally not suitable for mobility-impaired travelers due to walking parts.
Can I customize the experience? Private groups are available, and guides often add spontaneous extra stops if asked.
What are the main highlights? Pico do Arieiro, Ribeiro Frio, Santana’s thatched houses, Faial Skywalk, Rum tasting in Porto da Cruz, and scenic coastal drives.
What if the weather is bad? The route may change depending on conditions, but the guides will do their best to ensure a memorable day regardless.

This tour offers a genuine taste of Madeira’s lush landscapes and authentic charm, all wrapped up in a day that’s both fun and full of discovery.