EAST: Pico do Arieiro & Laurissilva Forest – Full Day tour

If you’re planning a trip to Madeira and want to see its most iconic sights without spending days on the road, this east Madeira tour offers a packed 8-hour experience. From soaring mountain peaks to lush UNESCO forests and charming villages, it’s designed to give you a taste of Madeira’s diverse landscapes. The tour includes convenient hotel pickup, a guided experience, and plenty of opportunities for stunning photos, making it an excellent choice for travelers with limited time who crave authentic sights and stories.

What we really appreciate about this tour is its blend of scenic viewpoints and cultural highlights. Plus, the small-group setting ensures you’ll get more personalized attention from your guide. However, keep in mind that weather can impact some of the mountain views — a reminder that Madeira’s weather can be as unpredictable as its terrain. This tour is perfect for those who want a comprehensive, value-packed day with knowledgeable guides and access to some of the island’s most beloved spots.

Key Points

• All-in-one itinerary: Covers mountain peaks, forests, viewpoints, and villages in one day.
• Excellent value: For under $40, you get a full day of sightseeing, transport, and expert guidance.
• Authentic experiences: Visit traditional villages and learn about Madeira’s culture and landscape.
• Flexible and accessible: Pickup included in Funchal and surrounding areas, with small group sizes for better interaction.
• Weather considerations: Cloud cover can obscure mountain views, but guides adapt and share plenty of knowledge.
• Authentic insights: Guided commentary makes the experience more engaging and informative.

Detailed Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting Point and First Stop: Miradouro do Cristo Rei do Garajau

The day kicks off with a visit to this iconic viewpoint, renowned for its giant Christ statue reminiscent of Rio. Here, you’ll get sweeping views of Funchal’s coastline and the busy cruise ships docking at the harbor. As one reviewer noted, “It offers fine views of Funchal and passing cruises,” which makes it a perfect spot for a quick photo and to understand Madeira’s role as a port.

Camacha: A Village of Traditional Charm

Next, your group heads to Camacha, a high-altitude village famous for its wickerwork crafts and the birthplace of Portuguese football — apparently, soccer was played here first in 1875. The drive through orchards and blooming agapanthus in summer makes the journey visually appealing, and the 15-minute stop allows you to soak in rural Madeira life. Reviewers mention the “beautiful surroundings and quaint houses,” emphasizing its authenticity and pastoral charm.

Pico do Arieiro: The Island’s Third Highest Peak

Arguably the highlight for many, Pico do Arieiro reaches 1,818 meters (about 5,965 feet). As you ascend, the lush green woodland transforms into rocky terrain, and the views over endless ridges and sheer cliffs are truly breathtaking. Clouds often drift through the valleys, adding an element of drama. Multiple reviews praise this stop, with one saying, “The views are impressive, and the sheer cliffs are incredible,” though some mention that fog can obscure visibility. A guide like Oscar or Nelson makes this spot more memorable by sharing insights into Madeira’s geology and climate.

Balcoes de Ribeiro Frio: Walking Among UNESCO Forests

Continuing into the Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999, this part of the tour offers a peaceful walk along the levada. The spot is lush and green, a stark contrast to the rocky peaks. While the walk itself is not included in the tour price, many guests leave raving about the “beautiful greenery” and the chance to see local flora. Reviewers appreciate guides who share their knowledge here, making the experience educational as well as scenic.

Santana: The Traditional Houses and Agricultural Prosperity

Santana is a charming village, famous for its triangular thatched houses used by farmers for cattle sheds. The greenery of terraced fields and orchards paints a picture of rural prosperity. One reviewer highlights the “spacious farm buildings” and the chance to understand traditional Madeira life. The 1.5-hour stop allows enough time to explore and take photos of these iconic structures.

Miradouro do Guindaste: Coastal Views and Geological Marvels

Perched above Foz da Ribeira do Faial, this viewpoint offers spectacular views of Madeira’s rugged north coast, with cliffs, green mountains, and the Atlantic crashing below. Visitors can also see the pebble beach and the columnar disjunctions—an impressive geological feature from lava flows. It’s a perfect spot for panoramic shots and to appreciate the island’s volcanic origins.

Pico do Facho Viewpoint and Machico Bay

Next, the tour visits Pico do Facho, a 320-meter-high peak with historic significance — it’s where a beacon was lit to warn residents of pirates. From here, you get a sweeping view of Machico Bay, the first landing site of Madeira’s discoverers. Reviewers mention the “beautifully shaped valley” and the importance of the sugarcane industry historically boosting Madeira’s economy.

Ponta de São Lourenço: Easternmost Point with Dramatic Cliffs

The rugged, windswept Ponta de São Lourenço is the eastern tip of the island, offering dramatic scenery and a different type of vegetation, including the ice plant. You can see the north and south coasts simultaneously, and on clear days, even Porto Santo is visible. The 15-minute stop is brief but packed with photo opportunities and fresh sea air.

Porto da Cruz: A Rustic Coastal Village

Finally, the tour winds down on Madeira’s north coast, stopping at Porto da Cruz. Known for its old sugar mill and seaside promenade, it’s a quiet spot to stretch your legs and enjoy views of steep terraces and the Penha d’Aguia rock. Visitors often mention the “beautiful sea promenade,” and the stop allows for a relaxed end to the busy day.

What to Expect from the Tour

This tour offers a comprehensive look at Madeira’s east, combining natural beauty with cultural insights. The transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, and with a small group of up to 30 people, you’ll find it easier to interact with your guide and ask questions. The itinerary is tightly packed, so expect a day filled with scenic drives, short walks, and plenty of photo stops.

The guide’s knowledge is a major upgrade — reviews highlight guides like Oscar, Nelson, and Carlos for their friendly, informative, and sometimes humorous style. They’re adept at sharing facts about flora, fauna, geology, and history, making the scenery more meaningful.

Weather and Viewing Considerations

While Madeira’s weather can be unpredictable — often cloudy or foggy at high altitudes — guides are quick to adapt. Several reviews mention how fog can block mountain views, but guides often share fascinating facts about the landscape regardless. Some travelers found that the weather limited their mountain vistas but enjoyed the other stops just as much.

Value for Money

At $38.98, this tour offers an excellent value for the diverse sights covered. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Funchal and nearby areas, which adds convenience. A few reviews mention that, although the tour doesn’t include lunch, the stops for local food are worthwhile, and the overall experience is worth the price.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits nature lovers, those interested in Madeira’s culture, and anyone wanting a full, efficient overview of the east side of the island. If you enjoy guided stories, panoramic viewpoints, and visiting villages that feel like living postcards, you’ll find this tour a great match. Be prepared for some early starts and a fair amount of driving — but in return, you’ll gain a full day of authentic Madeira.

The Sum Up

This east Madeira tour offers a balanced mix of spectacular viewpoints, lush forests, and rural villages, all packed into a manageable 8-hour window. It’s ideal for travelers who want a guided, engaging experience that covers highlights without the hassle of planning each stop. The guides, often praised for their friendliness and knowledge, turn a scenic drive into an educational journey that will enhance your appreciation of this volcanic island.

While weather can sometimes limit mountain views, the overall experience remains rewarding thanks to the variety of stops and the depth of local stories shared. The value for money is undeniable, especially considering the included hotel transfers and the small-group atmosphere that ensures more personalized attention.

If you’re after a well-organized, scenic, and culturally enriching tour that offers solid value and accessible adventures, this Madeira east tour is a fantastic pick — just remember to bring your camera, a sense of adventure, and patience for the unpredictable weather.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included? Yes, the tour offers hotel or port pickup in Funchal and surrounding areas, making it easy to start your day without logistical worries.

How long is the tour? It lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What’s the group size? The tour is limited to a maximum of 30 travelers, providing a more intimate experience and better access to your guide.

Does the tour include lunch? No, lunch is not included, but there are stops where you can choose local food options if you wish.

Are there any additional costs? Yes, the Balcoes Walk has an extra €3 entrance fee, and some stops like Ribeiro Frio may have optional walking.

What if the weather is foggy or rainy? Guides are experienced at adapting to weather conditions. While mountain views might be obscured, they provide plenty of interesting commentary and alternative sights.

Can I bring my own food or drink? You are welcome to bring snacks or water; however, the tour does not include meals, so plan accordingly if you have dietary preferences.

Is this tour suitable for all ages? Generally, yes, especially since the walking is limited and the vehicle is comfortable, but always check with the operator if traveling with young children or those with mobility issues.