Funchal: East Madeira Island Guided Tour & Laurissilva Walk

If you’re exploring Madeira and want to see a diverse swath of the island’s highlights in one day, this guided tour from Funchal might be just what you need. It offers a scenic journey through the island’s eastern side, showcasing towering mountains, lush forests, quaint villages, and coastal vistas. For those who love a mix of nature, culture, and local flavors, this tour packs in a lot of value.

One of the things we particularly like about this experience is the expert guidance—the guides are well-informed, friendly, and fluent in several languages, ensuring a smooth and engaging day. The inclusion of a short levada walk and a visit to the Santana houses adds authentic touches that go beyond just sightseeing. A possible consideration is that some stops, like Santana and the rum distillery, can be crowded, especially during peak season, which might detract slightly from the experience. Still, the overall itinerary is well-paced and thoughtfully curated, making it ideal for travelers eager to cover a lot of ground without feeling rushed. This tour suits those who enjoy a blend of scenic views, cultural insights, and light outdoor activity—all at a reasonable price point.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering top east Madeira sights in one day
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights
• Scenic mountain and coastal views throughout the day
• Authentic visits to Santana houses and the Madeira rum distillery
• Light walking included, with options for less active travelers
• Excellent value for the price, offering diverse experiences

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

This tour, priced at $45 per person, offers a full 7-hour exploration of Madeira’s eastern landscapes with hotel pickup and drop-off in Funchal, making logistics one less thing to worry about. The value is clear when you consider the variety of sights, the inclusion of guide services in five languages, and the opportunity to enjoy Madeira’s natural beauty and local culture in one seamless day.

Starting at Pico do Areeiro

The journey begins with a visit to the magnificent Pico do Areeiro, perched at 1,818 meters. This is arguably the star of the tour—standing on the mountain offers breathtaking panoramic views that stretch across the island. Reviewers frequently mention that the vistas are spectacular, even if weather conditions like fog or rain can sometimes limit visibility.

One guide, Guilherme, is praised for his friendly demeanor and local knowledge, making this high-altitude stop not just a photo op but an educational experience. The altitude and winding roads mean the drive up can be a bit nerve-wracking for some, but the scenery makes every minute worth it. A noteworthy point from reviews is that, while weather might block views at the top, the journey itself is still rewarding due to the stunning landscapes along the way.

Ribeiro Frio and the Levada Walk

Next, the tour takes you to Ribeiro Frio, famous for its levada walk—a gentle trail that lasts about 40-45 minutes and offers a close-up of Madeira’s lush vegetation and waterfalls. There’s a small fee (around €3) for the walkway, not included in the ticket, but many see this as a worthwhile investment to access such a beautiful viewpoint.

Several reviewers have emphasized that the walk is “easily manageable,” even for those not used to hiking, and some mention that they enjoyed visiting the Trout nursery instead if walking isn’t their thing. The walk provides a chance to appreciate Madeira’s microclimates and plant life, with some catching glimpses of colorful birds and the chance to appreciate the serenity of the Laurissilva forest.

Santana and Traditional Houses

The tour’s highlight for many is the stop at Santana village, famous for its iconic triangular thatched houses. This is a popular spot, and reviews point out that it can be crowded, which may make it harder to enjoy the quaint charm fully. Still, it’s a unique place to see traditional Madeira architecture and perhaps pick up a few souvenirs.

Lunch here is typically arranged at a local restaurant, allowing guests to sample regional dishes—reviewers often praise the local fish, banana desserts, or the freshly prepared fare. The 1.5-hour stop gives enough time to wander, take photos, and soak in the village’s colorful atmosphere.

Coastal and Mountain Views at Faial and Ponta São Lourenço

Driving along the northeast coast, you’ll stop at Faial for a quick photo opportunity at the Guindaste viewpoint, which offers sweeping views of the coastline and Atlantic Ocean. It’s an excellent spot for a quick snapshot and to appreciate Madeira’s rugged cliffs.

The final highlight is Ponta São Lourenço, a must-visit viewpoint at the easternmost tip of Madeira. The scenery here is dramatic, with cliffs dropping into the sea on both sides, offering some of the most striking views on the island. Reviewers note that even if the weather isn’t perfect, the scenic vistas make it worthwhile. This area is relatively easy to access, and the viewpoints provide a perfect way to conclude the journey with a sense of the island’s wild beauty.

Rum Tasting at Porto da Cruz

A fun and authentic stop is at the North Mills Distillery in Porto da Cruz, where you can taste local Madeira rum. Reviewers love this part of the trip, often describing it as a highlight. The tasting is free, and it offers a chance to learn about Madeira’s tradition of spirits production. The brief visit allows for some shopping or just a moment to relax and savor the flavors of the island’s unique rum.

The Overall Experience

Throughout the day, the guides are consistently praised for their friendly, engaging manner, and multilingual skills. Many reviews mention guides like Diego, Luca, Guilherme, and Bruna, who all manage to keep the group entertained and informed, making the long day feel relaxed and fun. They’re also skilled drivers, navigating Madeira’s often narrow and winding roads with ease.

The tour timing is well-structured, allowing around 20-30 minutes at each stop, giving enough time to explore without feeling rushed. Some guests comment that the stops are curated to highlight Madeira’s most photogenic and culturally significant spots.

Practical Considerations and Tips

While the tour offers excellent value, it’s worth noting that entrance fees for activities like the levada walk are not included**—so budget accordingly if you wish to participate. The activity isn’t suited for wheelchair users, given the walking involved and terrain.

Weather can vary, especially at Pico do Areeiro, so dress in layers and bring rain gear if the forecast isn’t clear. Also, since the tour is quite full, arriving on time for pickup is essential. The guides are punctual and friendly about ensuring everyone is accounted for.

For those who prefer a slower pace or dislike walking, the levada walk is optional, and many stops are more about sightseeing and photos—so it’s suitable for mixed fitness levels.

Authenticity and Value

This tour strikes a good balance between organized sightseeing and authentic local experiences. Visiting Santana houses, sampling local rum, and enjoying the coastal views give a genuine taste of Madeira’s culture and natural beauty. The price point is reasonable, especially considering the inclusions like hotel pickup and multilingual guides.

The reviews reinforce that the tour is well-liked for its informative guides, stunning vistas, and organized flow. Some mention that the experience surpasses expectations, even when weather isn’t perfect, thanks to the guides’ professionalism and knowledge.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This is an ideal choice for travelers seeking a full day of varied scenery without the hassle of planning multiple excursions. It’s perfect if you’re interested in nature, local culture, and scenic viewpoints, but don’t want strenuous hiking or overly long walks. The tour is also well-suited for first-time visitors wanting a rundown of Madeira’s east side.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or even solo and want a guided experience that’s both informative and fun, this trip fits the bill. Keep in mind it’s not tailored for wheelchair users or those who prefer a very leisurely, slow-paced visit.

Final Thoughts

This guided tour from Funchal offers an excellent way to see Madeira’s east coast in one day, with a mix of spectacular mountain vistas, charming villages, and coastal scenery. The guides’ local knowledge and friendly approach make the experience more engaging and educational, while the variety of stops ensures you get a well-rounded taste of the island.

The highlight for many is the view from Pico do Areeiro, which, even on cloudy days, delivers a sense of grandeur. The visit to Santana houses and the rum tasting add authentic touches that make this more than just a typical sightseeing tour. At a reasonable price, it’s a solid choice for those wanting to maximize their time and experience the best of Madeira’s east side.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or just looking for an easy, guided way to explore, this tour checks many boxes. Be prepared for some crowds at popular stops, but overall, it’s a fun, rewarding way to get a broad sense of Madeira’s stunning landscape and vibrant culture.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off in the Funchal area, making it convenient for travelers staying there.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts around 7 hours, with the starting times depending on availability.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, tours are led by guides who speak Portuguese, English, French, Spanish, and German.

What is included in the price?
The price covers guide services, insurance, and transportation. Food, drinks, and entrance fees for activities like the levada walk are not included.

Can I participate in the levada walk?
Yes, the walk is optional. If you choose to do it, there’s a small fee (€3) that’s not included in the tour price.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
It’s generally suitable for most ages, but the walk and mountain roads may be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I wear?
Bring layers, as weather can change quickly at higher altitudes. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for the levada walk and exploring villages.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, offering flexibility for last-minute plans.