Madeira East Island Tour with Levada Walk and Lunch

If you’re planning a trip to Madeira and wondering how to capture the island’s stunning eastern landscapes in a single day, this tour might be just what you need. Promising a full day filled with breathtaking viewpoints, charming villages like Santana and Camacha, and a scenic levada walk, it’s designed for those who want to see Madeira’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What really catches our eye about this experience is the small-group format—limiting it to eight people—ensuring a more personal and flexible journey. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup, a traditional 3-course lunch, and visits to iconic spots make it a good value for the price. That said, some reviews indicate it can be quite busy on certain days, with larger groups and some logistical hiccups, so it’s worth considering whether a more intimate experience suits your style.

This tour appeals most to travelers who love scenic drives, authentic local villages, and are eager to explore Madeira’s lush landscape without the stress of self-guided touring. If you enjoy guided experiences with knowledgeable guides and want to maximize your day with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insights, this could be a great pick.

Key Points

• Small-group experience offers a more personalized feel, limited to 8 travelers
• Includes hotel pickup, round-trip transport, and a 3-course lunch for convenience and value
• Varied itinerary covers key villages, scenic viewpoints, and a levada walk
• Authentic local visits like Santana’s thatched houses and Camacha’s craft heritage
• Potential for larger groups on some days, which may affect the intimacy of the experience
• Ideal for those seeking scenic beauty, cultural insights, and a relaxed yet active day

Exploring Madeira’s East Coast: What to Expect

This tour is a well-rounded introduction to the eastern side of Madeira, offering a fine balance of natural beauty, local culture, and fun walking. Here’s a breakdown of what makes each part of the itinerary special—and what you might want to keep in mind.

Pickup and Transportation

Starting at 9:00 am, the tour begins with hotel pickup from selected areas. We appreciate the air-conditioned vehicle, which is especially important given Madeira’s hilly roads and variable weather. The group size tends to be small—up to 8—but some reviews mention encountering larger groups, sometimes up to 16, which can impact the intimacy and comfort.

The driver/guide, such as Carlos or Michael, often earns high praise for being friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive to safety—something crucial when navigating Madeira’s narrow, winding roads.

First Stop: Santana and the Traditional Houses

Santana is the highlight for many visitors. Famous for its thatched triangular houses, it’s a picture-perfect spot and a favorite for photographers. Reviewers like Georgina highlight how the lunch in Santana was “very good,” and Carlos, the guide, is described as “excellent,” making the experience even more enjoyable.

But be aware: depending on when you visit, there may be local festivals or crowds, especially in peak season, which can make the visit busier. Some travelers find that their timing coincided with local festivals, adding a lively atmosphere but also making parking and navigation more challenging.

Village of Camacha: Craft Heritage

Next, the tour takes you to Camacha, renowned for its wickerwork craft traditions. This stop offers a glimpse into Madeira’s artisanal side and allows you to pick up unique souvenirs. Many reviews mention the guide’s detailed stories and enthusiasm about Madeira’s craft-making heritage. It’s a chance to see the skill and tradition that still thrives in the local community.

Scenic Views: Ribeiro Frio and Pico do Arieiro

The trip includes stunning viewpoints over Ribeiro Frio and Pico do Arieiro, two of the most iconic spots on the island. Expect panoramic vistas, often above the clouds, and plenty of opportunities for photos. Reviewers who visited Pico do Arieiro note the chilly weather at the summit and suggest dressing warmly, especially since it can be quite cold at the top.

The Levada Walk

One of the tour’s highlights is the short walk along the levadas—the historic water channels carved into the landscape. According to reviews, the walk can be muddy, so sturdy footwear is advisable. For example, one reviewer mentioned the walk being more extensive than the anticipated 45 minutes, leading to a bit of rush and a minor injury. This highlights the importance of good shoes and realistic expectations about the walk’s length and difficulty.

Trout Farm and Faial Island

After the walk, the group visits a trout farm—an educational stop where you learn about local aquaculture—and then heads to Faial Island for the included lunch. The scenic setting at Grutas do Faial offers a unique backdrop for a traditional three-course meal, which many reviewers found very tasty. The lunch includes wine, adding to the enjoyment.

Final Stops: Porto da Cruz, Machico, and More

The tour wraps up with visits to Porto da Cruz and Machico, giving you a rounded view of the island’s eastern coast. These stops are great for stretching your legs, enjoying the seaside atmosphere, and taking last photos before the return journey.

The Value Proposition: What You Get for the Price

At around $54 per person, this tour offers a good deal, especially considering the included hotel pickup, transport, and a three-course lunch with wine. Many reviews emphasize the value, highlighting how the guide’s local knowledge enriched the experience and how the scenic stops justified the cost.

However, some criticisms point out that on busy days, the group size can swell beyond the ideal small-group vibe, making some stops feel less personal. Also, lunch arrangements can be rushed if the day overlaps with local festivals or peak times, as one reviewer noted.

The Realities of the Day

Expect a full day—about 8 hours—packed with scenic drives, sightseeing, and light walking. Timing is generally well-paced, but weather can influence the route, and some stops might be skipped if access is blocked, as happened during a local Fiesta.

The guided commentary is another highlight, with guides like Tony or Carlos sharing insights into Madeira’s flora, fauna, and history. Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their friendliness and knowledge, which can really elevate a standard sightseeing tour.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive look at Madeira’s east coast without the stress of organizing multiple trips. It suits those who enjoy scenic drives, cultural visits, and light outdoor activity—like the levada walk. It’s also good value for families or groups who want a hassle-free day with included meals and transport.

However, if you have mobility issues or dislike large groups, you might find the potentially unpredictable size of the tour less ideal. Also, those expecting a very intense hiking experience should be aware that the levada walk is relatively short and can be muddy.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off from selected areas, making it convenient to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, covering multiple scenic stops, cultural visits, and walking.

What’s included in the lunch?
A three-course meal with wine is included. Reviewers note that the food is very tasty and a highlight of the day.

Can I participate if I am not very mobile?
The tour is not recommended for travelers with mobility problems, especially considering some walking and uneven terrain on the levadas.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Are the guides multilingual?
Yes, guides are often multilingual and will speak in all required languages. If there are five or fewer people speaking the same language, they might be mixed with guides speaking other languages but will still provide all necessary commentary.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira east coast tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally rich day out. It balances breathtaking views, charming villages, and light physical activity, all in a convenient package. The inclusion of a tasty lunch and hotel pickup adds significant value, making it an attractive choice for those wanting to see Madeira’s highlights without the hassle.

While larger groups and weather can influence the experience, the guides’ local knowledge and friendly attitude seem to consistently elevate the trip. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who appreciate storytelling, photography, and a good mix of outdoor and cultural activities.

If you’re seeking a full day packed with Madeira’s iconic scenery and authentic villages, this trip could be the highlight of your visit. Just remember to wear appropriate footwear, dress for the weather, and arrive with an open mind and camera ready.