Full Day East Madeira – Pico do Ariero, Ribeiro Frio, Portela, Santana

If you’re planning a day trip to Madeira, this full-day tour of east Madeira offers a well-rounded taste of the island’s diverse scenery, charming villages, and authentic crafts. With a mix of mountain vistas, traditional houses, and local artisan visits, it ticks many boxes for travelers eager for a practical, engaging experience. Most travelers seem to find it a good value at around $45, and with hotel pickup included, it’s super convenient.

One of the things we appreciate about this tour is its balance: it’s not just about sightseeing but about getting a glimpse of Madeira’s craftsmanship and natural beauty. That said, it’s worth noting that the experience isn’t entirely perfect—some reviews mention variable weather and a few less inspiring stops. It’s best suited for those who want a comprehensive, flexible look at the eastern side of the island and don’t mind a 8-hour day on the go.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary covering mountain peaks, villages, and artisan workshops
• Excellent guide and driver whose knowledge and friendliness shine through
• Stunning views from Pico do Ariero and cliffside stops
• Authentic local experiences including wickerwork and traditional houses
• Comfortable transportation via air-conditioned vehicle for a large group
• Value for money with included lunch and multiple sightseeing highlights

An Introduction to the Tour: What You Can Expect

This full-day experience kicks off with convenient hotel pickup in Funchal around 9:00 am, either from your hotel or the Avenida do Mar bus stop. The tour, operated by Intertours, is designed for small groups—usually around 15 travelers—which means a more personalized feel. The vehicle is air-conditioned, which is a welcome relief given Madeira’s often warm weather.

The day is structured to showcase the best of east Madeira, starting with a visit to Camacha, a village renowned for its wickerwork. Here, you’ll see artisans at work, weaving baskets, animal figures, and chairs—an authentic craft passed down through generations. Reviewers highlight the friendly guides and the opportunity to purchase handcrafted souvenirs directly from the workshops.

Next, you’ll ascend to the island’s second-highest summit, Pico do Arieiro. This is arguably the highlight for many, offering breathtaking views, often above the clouds, and a chance to see Porto Santo in the distance on clear days. Many reviewers describe this as a “stunning” or “spectacular” viewpoint that justifies the trip alone. Be prepared for cool mountain air and possibly fog, which can obscure the views, as some guests experienced.

From there, the tour heads to Ribeiro Frio, a natural park famous for its lush valley, trout hatchery, and scenic hiking opportunities. The peacefulness of Ribeiro Frio is a refreshing change from the busier tourist spots, and the fishermen’s hatchery is both interesting and photo-worthy. Travelers report that this stop is a perfect way to connect with Madeira’s natural environment.

The journey continues with a quick visit to Faial, a small village with traditional houses, before arriving at Santana, famed for its triangle-shaped, straw-roofed cottages. These houses look straight out of a fairy tale and are a must-see for photography lovers. The picturesque setting makes it a favorite among visitors, even if some mention that it can get crowded.

A lunch break follows, often described as tasty and authentic, with some noting that it offers good value. After lunch, the group heads to Portela, a stunning cliffside viewpoint at 2,198 feet (670 meters) above sea level, where you can admire the Eagle’s Cliff and the coastline views. The climb offers more scenic vistas and photo opportunities.

Finally, the tour winds down with a visit to Machico, Madeira’s historic seaside town. It’s noted for being where Portugal’s early navigators arrived in 1420, adding a bit of historical charm to the day. The trip concludes with return to your original departure point in Funchal.

Deep Dive Into Each Stop: What Makes It Special

Camacha and Wickerwork

Starting with Camacha allows you to see local artisans at work weaving traditional wicker items. Reviewers rave about the friendly guide, who took them to places off the beaten track. You might find baskets, animal figures, or chairs—perfect souvenirs to take home. If you’re a fan of crafts, this is a genuine glimpse into Madeira’s heritage. One reviewer mentioned feeling like they got a fuller experience because the guide took them to less touristy spots.

Pico do Ariero

The second-highest point on the island offers sweeping views that many describe as “breathtaking.” The clouds often add a layer of drama, and on clear days, you might catch sight of Porto Santo. Guests mention the crisp mountain air and the sheer thrill of standing at 1,818 meters above sea level. It’s a photo spot that justifies the early start, and some travelers say it’s worth the trip for the vistas alone. Be aware, though, that fog or clouds can sometimes obscure visibility, as some reviews noted.

Ribeiro Frio

This natural park is a peaceful contrast to the mountain peaks. The trout hatchery is often highlighted as a fascinating stop, especially for nature lovers. Guests enjoy walking among the greenery and seeing Madeira’s native flora. Reviewers appreciated the opportunity to relax and take in the lush scenery, making this a highlight for those wanting to connect with nature.

Santana and Its Fairytale Cottages

Santana’s triangle-shaped straw-roofed houses are a must-see for most visitors. The colorful, quaint structures give a real sense of Madeira’s rural architecture. Some reviewers note that the village gets busy, but the overall charm remains intact. Photography options abound, and the local guides often share interesting tidbits about the history and traditions of the area.

Lunch and Portela

The included lunch is generally described as tasty and provides a good opportunity to enjoy local cuisine. Reviewers emphasize the value of having a meal included, especially after a busy morning of sightseeing. After lunch, the climb to Portela rewards you with more spectacular views of the coastline and Eagles Cliff. The ascent provides another perspective of Madeira’s dramatic cliffs and ocean views.

Machico and the Return Journey

On your way back, the visit to Machico offers insight into Madeira’s maritime history. As the first landing point for Portuguese explorers, it’s a small but historically significant town. Guests tend to enjoy the relaxed seaside atmosphere before heading back to Funchal.

Considerations and Challenges

While the tour scores well overall, some points are worth noting. Weather can be unpredictable; a cloudy or foggy day might limit some of the scenic views at Pico do Ariero or Eagles Cliff. One reviewer pointed out that viewing peaks might be canceled in poor weather, so it’s worth checking the forecast if views are a priority.

Another aspect to consider is the long stops for shopping or factory visits, which some travelers find less appealing. A few reviews mention that these stops can feel a bit touristy or overpriced, though others appreciated the opportunity to buy handmade crafts directly from artisans. If you’re more into sightseeing than shopping, it’s worth noting this when booking.

The lunch is generally enjoyed, but a reviewer described it as “pretty dreadful,” suggesting that food quality might vary depending on the restaurant chosen. Still, the inclusion of lunch adds good value, especially when contrasted with other tours that charge extra.

Lastly, some guests mentioned that the group size—up to 15 travelers—helps keep the experience personable. The guides often speak multiple languages, and reviewers liked the knowledgeable, friendly drivers who kept the day engaging and smooth.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview of Madeira’s east side. If you enjoy a mix of panoramic views, cultural insights, and authentic local crafts, this experience provides a balanced taste. It’s also suited for those who prefer a comfortable, guided journey rather than self-driving or planning each stop. Travelers who aren’t bothered by some tourist stops and are prepared for a full day on the move will find it both enjoyable and worthwhile.

Final Thoughts

For around $45, this full-day tour of east Madeira offers a compelling combination of natural beauty and cultural charm. The itinerary covers key highlights like Pico do Ariero, Ribeiro Frio, and Santana’s iconic cottages, giving you a well-rounded experience without the hassle of planning multiple excursions.

The guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude shine through, and many reviewers commend the value, especially with included lunch and hotel pickup. While weather can impact the views, the scenic stops and authentic experiences make it a worthwhile option for those seeking to see Madeira’s diverse landscape.

If you’re interested in visiting quaint villages, enjoying spectacular mountain vistas, and learning about Madeira’s artisan traditions, this tour is a solid pick. Just keep in mind that a few stops are geared toward tourist shopping, and weather can affect the best photo opportunities.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient.

What’s the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, providing a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed.

How many people are in a group?
Most tours have a maximum of 15 travelers, allowing for a more personal experience.

Is lunch included?
Yes, if you select the option, a tasty local lunch is included, offering good value.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
Key highlights include Pico do Ariero, Ribeiro Frio, Santana’s straw cottages, and Machico.

Can I expect scenic views?
Absolutely, especially from Pico do Ariero and Eagles Cliff, though weather can sometimes obscure visibility.

Are there shopping opportunities?
Yes, stops at artisan workshops and factory visits are part of the itinerary—and you can buy handcrafted souvenirs directly from artisans.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate; however, those with limited mobility may find some stops challenging due to terrain or walking.

What should I wear or bring?
Dress comfortably and in layers—mountain weather can be cooler and windier. Bring sun protection and a camera for the views.

In all, this Madeira tour offers a solid, balanced experience of the island’s east side. From panoramic mountain vistas to charming villages and artisan crafts, it’s a practical choice for travelers eager to get a comprehensive feel of Madeira without overextending their day.