Return to Madeira Island in 2 days

Exploring the 2-Day Return to Madeira Island Tour: A Practical and Authentic Adventure

This highly-rated, well-organized tour offers an excellent way to see Madeira’s highlights in just two days. As someone who’s always on the lookout for tours that balance scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and value, I find this experience particularly appealing. It’s designed for those short on time but eager to soak in the island’s diverse landscapes—from rugged coastlines and charming villages to mountain peaks and natural pools.

What really caught our eye about this tour is the inclusion of local villages like Santana and Porto Moniz, offering authentic insights into Madeira’s traditional lifestyle and natural wonders. The knowledgeable guides are also a clear highlight, making the journey both informative and personable.

One thing to keep in mind is that the tour involves quite a bit of driving, so those prone to motion sickness or with limited mobility might want to plan accordingly. Also, the itinerary is quite full, which means early mornings and a packed schedule—perfect if you love a whirlwind of sights but possibly less ideal if you prefer a more leisurely pace.

This tour is best suited for travelers who enjoy scenic drives, cultural discoveries, and natural beauty all wrapped into a compact two-day experience. It’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors wanting a rundown or those with limited time but a desire to see Madeira’s most iconic sights.

Key Points

• Comprehensive two-day itinerary: Covers everything from scenic viewpoints to cultural villages and natural pools.
• Knowledgeable guides: Receive insightful commentary, making each stop more meaningful.
• Value for money: At $86.76 per person, you get a full, guided experience with transportation and entry fees included.
• Balanced mix of activities: From sightseeing and tasting local wines to walking along levadas and relaxing at natural pools.
• Small group experience: With a maximum of 8 travelers, there’s plenty of room for personal attention.
• Flexible cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect from Each Day

Day 1: Discovering Madeira’s Western Wonders

The adventure begins early, with a pickup in Funchal around 8:30 am. The first stop is Porto Moniz, home to its famous natural swimming pools—a highlight for many. We loved how the tour allows some free time to splash around in these volcanic rock formations filled with crystal-clear water. It’s a perfect way to cool off and take in the impressive landscape.

Next, the journey takes us to Câmara de Lobos, a quaint fishing village that even inspired Sir Winston Churchill’s artwork in 1950. The guide shared interesting tidbits about the village’s history and its legendary status in Madeira.

From there, we ascend to Cabo Girão, the highest sea cliff in Europe at 580 meters. The glass platform offers a vertigo-inducing view of the coast and terraced vineyards below—an absolute must for panoramic photo lovers. The guide’s commentary highlighted the importance of these wine fields for Madeira’s famous wine production, making the visit both scenic and educational.

The tour then heads inland to Ribeira Brava and the Encumeadas viewpoint, where the views of rugged coastlines and lush greenery are breathtaking. We crossed the Paúl da Serra plateau, a vast, windswept landscape that feels like another world—cooler, open, and dramatic.

The day wraps up with a scenic drive back to Funchal, passing by Véu da Noiva (a beautiful miradouro with cascading waterfalls) and some of the island’s charming villages.

Day 2: Mountain Peaks and Cultural Highlights

Day two kicks off with a drive toward Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak at 1,818 meters, accessible by car. The views here are astonishing—craggy mountain ranges stretching into the clouds. Our guide explained how this is a favorite spot for sunrise watchers and photographers.

Next, we descended to Ribeiro Frio, located within the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest, known for its lush greenery and tranquility. Here, the trout pond is a peaceful stop, with some walking along the Levada dos Balcões offering close-up encounters with Madeira’s unique irrigation channels and beautiful vistas.

The tour then continues to Santana, famous for its traditional thatched roof houses. Viewing the colorful, quaint cottages gives a real glimpse into Madeira’s rural past. The guide shared insights about local architecture and customs, making this stop both visually charming and culturally enriching.

A leisurely lunch in Faial provides regional flavors, allowing travelers to relax and recharge. Afterwards, the journey takes us along the north coast to Ponta de São Lourenço, a striking peninsula with rugged rocks and sweeping ocean views—ideal for walking and photography.

Finally, we visit Machico, known as the first landing site of Madeira’s discoverers in 1419, adding a historical layer to the landscape. The tour concludes with a scenic drive back to Funchal, passing the Véu da Noiva viewpoint once again—this time with a different perspective.

Why This Tour Works for Travelers

The combination of transportation, guided commentary, and scheduled stops ensures you get a broad yet detailed snapshot of Madeira’s diverse scenery and culture. The tour’s small-group format (up to 8 travelers) allows more personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere, even with a full itinerary.

The inclusion of natural wonders like the Porto Moniz pools, the towering cliffs of Cabo Girão, and the lush Laurissilva forest makes this experience visually captivating. Meanwhile, visits to Santana’s traditional houses and local villages add cultural authenticity.

The price point of $86.76 might seem modest given the extensive coverage and included entry fees, but it offers excellent value—particularly when you consider the well-paced itinerary and knowledgeable guides. The tour also emphasizes authentic regional experiences, from wine tasting to local cuisine, elevating it beyond just sightseeing.

One of the reviews mentions the guides’ high language proficiency and friendly demeanor, which can make a big difference in how engaging and informative the experience feels. On the downside, some reviewers noted slight delays on the first day, often due to pickup logistics, so patience is advised.

The tour’s flexibility with free cancellation up to 24 hours before helps travelers feel more comfortable booking in advance, especially during unpredictable weather or changing plans.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience appeals most to first-time visitors wanting an all-encompassing snapshot of Madeira’s highlights. It’s perfect for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and those eager to see iconic viewpoints without the hassle of planning each stop independently.

Travelers with limited time who still want to experience a mix of landscapes—coastal cliffs, mountain peaks, lush forests, and charming villages—will find this tour hits the mark. If you enjoy guided insights and small groups, this tour ensures a more personalized experience.

Those interested in local food, wine, and authentic cultural insights will also appreciate the stops for regional tastings and visits to traditional villages.

However, if you’re seeking a very relaxed, unhurried pace or prefer to explore at your own leisure, a different, more flexible option might be better.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. For a fair price, this tour packs in an impressive array of Madeira’s most photogenic and culturally significant sights. It delivers a balanced mixture of natural beauty, adventure, and cultural discovery with guides who are knowledgeable and friendly.

While it’s a full-on experience that demands early mornings and a good level of physical activity, those who enjoy sightseeing with a purpose will find it rewarding. Plus, the small group size ensures you won’t feel like just another number—more like a part of an intimate adventure.

This tour suits travelers who want to maximize their time on the island and love a mix of scenic vistas, local stories, and authentic regional flavors. It’s a fantastic way to get a rundown of Madeira’s diverse landscapes in just two days.

FAQ

How long is each day’s tour?
Each day lasts approximately two hours of sightseeing, with some longer stops for meals, walking, and photo opportunities.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation is provided between all stops, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery without worry.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes for walking, sun protection, and possibly a swimwear if you want to enjoy the Porto Moniz pools.

Are meals included?
Lunch is included on the second day, with some stops allowing for local food and wine tasting, but snacks or additional drinks are not provided.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, offering flexibility if your plans change or weather is poor.

Who is this tour best suited for?
Travelers who love guided small-group tours that cover a wide range of scenery and cultural sites, and those comfortable with a busy itinerary.

To sum it up, this two-day Madeira tour is a wonderful introduction to the island’s varied landscapes, cultural spots, and natural wonders. It’s particularly suited for those eager to see as much as possible without sacrificing depth or authenticity. The guides’ friendliness and knowledge, combined with the thoughtfully planned itinerary, ensure a memorable experience that balances adventure, education, and leisure. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, history buff, or simply after stunning photos, this tour offers a well-rounded snapshot of Madeira’s best.