Discover Madeira In 2 Days (from 09h To 17h – Each Day)

Discover Madeira In 2 Days (from 09h To 17h – Each Day): An In-Depth Look

Travelers craving a quick but comprehensive taste of Madeira’s natural beauty, historic villages, and dramatic coastlines will find the “Discover Madeira In 2 Days” tour fits the bill. Run by Feeling Madeira – Tours & Walks, this carefully curated experience offers a blend of scenic drives, cultural stops, and memorable viewpoints, all within a manageable two-day schedule. With a solid rating of 4.5/5 from 36 reviews and a high recommendation rate of 92%, this tour seems to strike a good balance between value and authentic exploration.

One feature that stands out immediately is the diverse itinerary, which includes everything from traditional fishing villages to panoramic mountain vistas and natural swimming pools. The tour’s inclusion of pickup service and mobile ticketing adds to its convenience, especially for travelers who prefer to skip the hassle of organizing transport. However, a possible consideration is the extensive travel distance for just two days—if bad weather hits, some mountain views could be obscured, as noted by a reviewer who was disappointed with visibility on a rainy day.

This tour is best suited for those who want a comprehensive snapshot of Madeira without the hassle of organizing multiple excursions or renting a car. It caters well to those interested in natural landscapes, local culture, and iconic viewpoints, especially if you’re limited on time but want to maximize your experience. The small group size (up to 15 travelers) ensures a more intimate and flexible atmosphere, which many guests seem to appreciate.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary combining natural scenery, cultural spots, and panoramic views
• Guides praised for their knowledge and professionalism
• Good value for money considering the number of stops and sights covered
• Flexible and convenient with pickup and mobile tickets
• Weather can impact visibility, so check forecasted conditions before booking
• Suitable for travelers wanting a comprehensive, guided overview of Madeira in just two days

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Coastal Charm to Natural Pools

The tour kicks off early around 8:30 am, with a pickup option that ensures a smooth start. Your first stop is Baia de Camara de Lobos, a picturesque fishing village just five kilometers from Funchal. This spot is famously linked to Winston Churchill, who enjoyed painting its colorful scenery. Here, you gain a taste of local life and traditional fishing culture. The best part? It’s a free stop, giving you time for photos and a leisurely stroll.

Next, you’ll head to Cabo Girao, often claimed as Europe’s highest sea cliff. The glass skywalk at the viewpoint offers a daring perspective over the cliff’s edge—definitely a highlight for those who love a thrill and stunning vistas. The only caveat is that admission isn’t included, so budget some extra if you want to step onto the glass platform.

Afterward, a quick visit to Ribeira Brava Beach introduces you to a charming coastal town with a dark, volcanic shoreline and laid-back vibe. It’s a brief stop but worth soaking in the sea air and taking some photos of the seafront.

A drive up the Caminho Real da Encumeada PR12 promises incredible views from the pass at 1004 meters. This winding road offers a unique perspective of both the south and north coasts, making it a favorite among those who love scenic drives. It’s a short 15-minute stop, but the views can be unforgettable—weather permitting.

The day’s highlight is Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools, where you’ll spend about two hours. These pools, carved from volcanic rocks, are some of the most famous natural attractions in Madeira. Many reviews rave about their beauty and tranquility, with some mentioning it’s a relaxing spot for swimming and sunbathing. As one reviewer put it, Porto Moniz “seems to have fallen from above into the northern sea”—a poetic description fitting for these otherworldly pools.

The final stops are Miradouro do Veu da Noiva for mountain and sea views, and São Vicente, a quaint village with a notable coastal boulder and a small chapel. These stops round out a day filled with natural beauty, local culture, and scenic photography opportunities.

Day 2: Mountain Peaks, Forests, and Eastern Wonders

The second day begins with a visit to Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak at 1818 meters. The drive here is a highlight, and on clear days, you can see Porto Santo, Madeira’s neighboring island. The views are spectacular, making it a perfect spot for panoramic photos.

From there, the route takes you to Balcoes de Ribeiro Frio, a popular starting point for levada walks. The lush vegetation and remnants of the prehistoric Laurissilva forest make it a botanist’s dream and a perfect place for nature lovers.

Next is Fortress of Faial, offering sweeping views of both the rugged north coast and the calmer south. It’s a brief stop but one that rewards you with expansive sea vistas.

A more substantial stop occurs at Santana, famous for its iconic triangular straw houses. These structures, built of natural stone and straw, have served as dwellings and stables for centuries and give a real sense of local architecture and traditional life.

The trip then ventures to Ponta de São Lourenço, a nearly untouched stretch of coastline known for its dramatic rocks, sea cliffs, and rugged landscape. It’s an ideal spot for nature seekers wanting to stand amid raw, unspoiled scenery.

Finally, you’ll visit Loja do Mercado de Machico, where explorers first landed in 1419. This town blends history with modern life, giving a final taste of Madeira’s maritime past.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

The tour operates with a small group size, capped at 15 travelers, which enhances flexibility and intimacy. The transportation is vehicle-based, with most stops being accessible by car, including Pico do Arieiro, which is reachable without a hike. This setup suits travelers who prefer comfort and ease while still seeing a variety of landscapes.

The tour begins at 8:30 am, providing a full day of exploration from about 9 am to 5 pm, with scheduled breaks for each stop. The mobile ticketing option makes check-in straightforward, and pickup service minimizes logistical headaches for visitors.

Pricing and Value

At roughly $75 per person, this tour delivers good value considering the diversity of sights and the guided experience. Many reviewers note the professionalism of guides Gloria and Renato, who are praised for their knowledge and engaging commentary. One reviewer said, “Our guides, Gloria and Renato, are real professionals who do their job perfectly,” which speaks to the quality of the guiding.

While the price doesn’t include some entrance fees—like Cabo Girao’s skywalk—the main attractions are free, and the convenience of having an organized route through Madeira’s highlights saves you time and effort. For those wanting a rundown without the hassle of transport planning, it’s a solid investment.

Real Experiences from Travelers

A reviewer expressed delight with the scenery and service, stating, “It was a beautiful time, very good service,” highlighting the professionalism of guides. Conversely, a guest named Kathryn was disappointed due to weather conditions limiting mountain views and port access. This underscores the importance of checking weather forecasts, especially for mountain and coastal stops.

Others appreciated the small group size and the informative guides, with one noting, “The guides were kind and constantly provided information about the places visited.” Several travelers also mentioned the stunning scenery of both Madeira’s east and west coasts as a highlight, confirming that this tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of the island’s best.

The Sum Up

This two-day Madeira tour offers a practical, engaging way to see a broad spectrum of the island’s highlights within a short time. It’s perfect for travelers who want a guided experience with reliable transportation, meaningful stops, and insightful commentary. The combination of natural wonders, historical towns, and panoramic viewpoints makes it a strong choice for those keen to get a well-rounded impression of Madeira.

While weather can sometimes be unpredictable—especially in the mountains—the guides and itinerary are designed to maximize your experience when conditions cooperate. It’s an excellent option for first-timers or those on a tight schedule who want to hit Madeira’s most iconic sites with minimal fuss.

Ideal for those seeking value, diversity, and guided convenience, this tour delivers a memorable Madeira experience packed into just two days. Whether you’re after photo-worthy vistas, cultural insights, or relaxing natural pools, this trip covers it all in a friendly, small-group setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately two days, with each day running from 09h to 17h, giving you a full day of sightseeing with some breaks.

Does the tour include pickup services?
Yes, pickup is offered, making it easier to start your day without worrying about transportation logistics.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs about $74.96 per person, which covers the guided experience and transportation, excluding some optional entrance fees like Cabo Girao’s skywalk.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, since most stops are accessible by vehicle and involve short walks or viewpoints, it’s suitable for most travelers, though some stops involve walking on uneven terrain.

Are guides bilingual?
While some reviews mention guides speaking multiple languages, the tour is mainly delivered in English, with some guides possibly fluent in other languages.

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

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and a camera for the many photo opportunities.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour may be canceled or modified in case of poor weather, particularly in mountain or coastal areas. You will be offered a different date or a full refund if canceled.

This Madeira two-day tour offers a well-rounded and enriching snapshot of the island’s best sides. With knowledgeable guides, scenic viewpoints, and cultural stops, it’s a fantastic way to make your limited time on Madeira count.