Madeira East Island Tour and Levada Walk

Exploring Madeira’s eastern coast with a guided tour offers an excellent way to see some of the island’s most iconic landscapes and cultural gems. This 8-hour experience takes you through dramatic mountain vistas, lush forests, charming villages, and scenic viewpoints—all in a comfortable, small-group setting. With local guides who know the ins and outs of Madeira, you’ll get not just sightseeing but storytelling that brings the island to life.

What we particularly like about this tour is its variety: from high-altitude peaks to lush levada walks, plus delicious local food and tastings. The inclusion of lunch at Santana’s traditional thatched cottages really adds to the experience, offering a taste of Madeira’s authentic cuisine. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is that some stops, like the levada walk, have an extra fee and involve some walking that might not suit those with mobility issues. This tour is perfect if you’re after a well-rounded, immersive glimpse of Madeira’s east side, especially if you appreciate knowledgeable guides and scenic vistas.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering mountain peaks, forests, villages, and viewpoints
• Small group size (8-14 people) enhances comfort and personalized service
• Inclusion of a traditional Madeira lunch adds great value and local flavor
• Expert guides like Lucy, Toni, and Carlos bring insights and enthusiasm
• Additional costs include levada walk entrance fee (€3) and optional private pickup fees
• Ideal for active travelers who enjoy scenic walks, stunning views, and cultural sights

What to Expect From This Madeira East Island Tour

This tour is a carefully curated journey into Madeira’s scenic and cultural highlights on the island’s east side. It’s designed to showcase the best viewpoints, mountain peaks, forests, and local villages—delivered in a way that balances sightseeing with authentic experiences.

Pickup and Transport

The tour begins with hotel pickup between 8:00 and 9:00 AM, depending on your accommodation. For cruise passengers, pickup from the harbor is free, which is a big plus if you’re visiting Madeira on a cruise. The transport is in a modern, air-conditioned minibus that fits 8-14 people, which helps keep things intimate and allows for some flexibility with stops and conversations.

The drive itself is part of the fun, with scenic routes that reveal the island’s lush landscape and rugged coastline. The focus on comfort and small group size means you won’t be stuck with a giant coach, and the guides have the chance to pay more attention to individual needs.

The Itinerary: A Breakdown of Highlights

Viewpoint above Funchal and Funchal City

The day kicks off with a viewpoint over Funchal, giving you an instant dose of the city’s charm from above. It’s a quick but impressive introduction, setting the stage for the natural grandeur ahead. Reviewers love the way guides point out local sights and share stories about the city’s history and culture, making the experience more personal.

Pico do Arieiro: Madeira’s Third Highest Peak

Next stop is the spectacular Pico do Arieiro (at 1,818 meters), renowned as the island’s third highest summit. The air here is crisp, and the panoramic views stretch across clouds and mountains. One reviewer called it “a breathtaking spot” and appreciated the 35-minute pause to take photos and soak in the scenery. Be prepared for potentially cooler temperatures and some wind at this altitude—bring a jacket even if it’s warm in Funchal.

Miradouro do Guindaste

This short stop offers a different perspective—more photos, more awe-inspiring views. It’s a quick 15-minute stop, but reviewers mention that each vantage point showcases Madeira’s rugged beauty in a new light. It’s perfect for snapping pictures and appreciating the island’s diverse landscape.

Ribeiro Frio and the Levada Walk

Ribeiro Frio is a highlight for many. It’s a lush, green area with a trout farm, but the real magic is the Levada walk to “Balcões,” a viewpoint with sweeping views of the lush valley. This part of the tour is often praised for its natural beauty. The walk is about 1.5 hours and includes a small entrance fee (€3). Reviewers note that guides like Lucy go above and beyond, stopping to show flora and share tidbits about local agriculture and wildlife.

One guest shared, “Lucy’s knowledge was fantastic. She stopped to show us different fruits, trees, and plants along the way,” which adds a special layer of authenticity to the experience. The walk is relatively easy but does involve some uneven terrain, so wear comfortable shoes.

Santana’s A-Frame Cottages

After the walk, the tour moves to Santana, famous for its traditional thatched houses. Here, you’ll get a quick 1.5-hour visit, with ample time for photos and wandering through the quaint streets. Many reviewers mention the charm of these homes and the chance to buy local crafts. It’s a brief yet enriching stop that captures Madeira’s rustic character.

Lunch at Santana Centre

Lunch is included in the tour price and is typically a 3-course meal with regional flavors. Reviewers describe it as tasty and hearty, often mentioning the opportunity to try local dishes and drinks. One reviewer noted that the lunch was “really nice and worth the stop,” although it’s worth confirming if the restaurant updates its location, as some noted changes since Covid.

Faial Skywalk and Porto Cruz Rum Tasting

The Faial Skywalk offers an exhilarating view—standing on a glass platform over the cliffs, you’ll feel like you’re floating above the landscape. It’s a photographer’s dream.

Following that, a visit to Porto da Cruz includes a free rum tasting at the Porto Cruz village, which is a fun way to experience local spirits. Many travelers found the tasting enjoyable and informative, with some mentioning that guides like Fernando made the experience memorable.

Ponta de São Lourenço and Final Coastal Views

The tour rounds off with scenic drives along the coast, where you’ll get views of Machico, Desertas Islands, and even Porto Santo on clear days. The Ponta de São Lourenço, in particular, offers dramatic cliffs and a chance to see Madeira’s rugged eastern tip—perfect for photos and a sense of the island’s wild side.

The End of the Day

You’ll be returned to your hotel or designated drop-off points around 5 PM, feeling you’ve experienced Madeira’s highlights without the hassle of planning multiple trips or rentals.

Authentic Insights From Travelers

Many reviewers emphasize the knowledgeability and friendliness of the guides. Lucy, Toni, Carlos, and Fernando are frequently praised for their enthusiasm, storytelling, and attention to detail. One reviewer shared, “Lucy’s passion for the island shone through,” and others mention how guides go out of their way to show extra viewpoints or share personal stories.

The small-group setup means you get more personalized attention and the chance to ask questions about Madeira’s flora, fauna, and history—something truly appreciated by those interested in the cultural context of the sights.

The Value and Practicalities

Considering the cost of the tour, including lunch, multiple viewpoints, a levada walk, local tastings, and a knowledgeable guide, the experience offers excellent value. The extra fee for the levada walk (€3) is minimal, especially given the quality of the walk and the beauty of the scenery.

Transportation quality is another plus—modern, comfortable, with enough space for everyone. The timing feels well-balanced, with enough time at each stop without feeling rushed, according to many reviews.

For those with limited mobility, it’s important to note that the tour involves walking and uneven terrain, especially on the levada trail. Also, bring warm clothing for higher altitudes, especially in winter.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for active travelers who enjoy scenic drives, light walking, and cultural stops. It suits those looking for a full-day immersive experience without the hassle of self-driving or planning every detail. The inclusion of local food, tasteful tastings, and picturesque viewpoints make it perfect for those who want both natural beauty and a taste of Madeira’s authentic culture.

Couples, small groups, and travelers interested in photography or nature will find it particularly rewarding. The guides’ enthusiasm and the variety of stops ensure you’ll leave with a well-rounded impression of Madeira’s east side.

The Sum Up

This Madeira East Island Tour and Levada Walk offers a fantastic way to experience the island’s diverse landscapes and cultural highlights in one day. With knowledgeable guides, a well-organized itinerary, and authentic local touches like traditional lunch and rum tastings, it provides excellent value for the price.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want a balanced mix of nature, culture, and comfort without the stress of navigating alone. The small-group setting enhances the experience, making it more personal and flexible. While it involves some walking and a bit of extra cost for the levada entrance, many find these details add to the overall richness of the experience.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply eager to see Madeira’s iconic viewpoints, this tour makes a memorable day out on the island’s east side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup is available from all hotels in Funchal and Canico, and from the harbor for cruise ship passengers.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking and a jacket for higher altitudes are recommended, especially if visiting in winter.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting between 8:00 and 9:00 AM and returning by 5:00 PM.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a 3-course regional meal is included for shared tours. Private tours do not include lunch.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, the levada walk has an entrance fee of €3. paid on the day. Additional pickup fees may apply for certain locations.

Can I do this tour if I have mobility issues?
The tour involves walking and uneven terrain, so it might not be suitable for those with mobility impairments.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides are available in English, French, German, Portuguese, and Spanish.

What are the main highlights?
Expect breathtaking viewpoints, Pico do Arieiro, the levada walk in Ribeiro Frio, Santana’s cottages, local lunch, Faial Skywalk, rum tasting, and coastal views.

How does the small group size enhance the experience?
Fewer people mean more personalized attention, flexibility at stops, and a chance to ask questions or explore at your own pace.

Is this tour good value for money?
Absolutely. It combines transport, guide service, multiple scenic stops, a delicious meal, and local tastings—all in one well-organized package.

This in-depth look at the Madeira East Island Tour reveals an experience that balances scenic beauty, cultural authenticity, and comfort, making it a top choice for anyone wanting a memorable day exploring Madeira’s stunning east side.