Madeira : East Tour – Santana North Side

Discover Madeira’s East Side with Flora Travel Madeira’s Santana North Tour

If you’re planning to explore Madeira, this East Tour – Santana North Side offers an engaging way to see the island’s most iconic sights without the hassle of driving yourself. For just $36 per person, you’ll spend a full day uncovering the island’s peaks, traditional villages, and breathtaking viewpoints, all in a small-group setting that promises intimacy and attention.

One of the standout features of this tour is the chance to visit Pico do Areeiro, Madeira’s third-highest mountain, offering panoramic views that are nothing short of spectacular. We love that the tour combines nature, local traditions, and scenic vistas into one smooth experience.

However, keep in mind that the tour is rain or shine, so if you’re expecting perfect weather, be prepared for changing conditions. This tour suits curious travelers who enjoy outdoor scenery, cultural insights, and a flexible, well-organized itinerary. It’s ideal for those who prefer a guided adventure over self-driving, especially if you want to learn more about Madeira’s history and landscape from a knowledgeable guide.

Key Points

• Affordable and Value-Packed: At $36, this tour delivers a full day of exploration with hotel pickup included.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 15 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.
• Breathtaking Views: Visit the third-highest peak on the island and Ponta do Rosto for unforgettable vistas.
• Cultural Insights: Experience Santana’s traditional thatched houses and learn about local customs.
• Diverse Scenery: From mountainous peaks to lush forests and seaside villages, the tour showcases Madeira’s diversity.
• Guided Expertise: The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who provide detailed explanations, making it educational as well as scenic.

Exploring Madeira’s East Side: A Detailed Review

The Starting Point: Camacha and Local Sports Heritage

The tour kicks off with a visit to Camacha, a charming parish famous as the birthplace of football in Portugal. As you drive through this quaint village, you might notice how locals have preserved their traditions, including handcrafts like wickerwork and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The guide—whose friendly and informative style was highlighted in reviews—often shares fun tidbits here, like how football was played here before it became a national obsession.

Ascending to Pico do Areeiro

Next stop is Pico do Areeiro, at 1,818 meters above sea level. This is a highlight for many, especially those who enjoy panoramic mountain vistas. The road up offers impressive switchbacks, and once you arrive, you’re greeted with sweeping views over Madeira’s rugged central massif. The experience of standing at the third highest peak gives you an authentic sense of island geography—a true highlight for nature lovers.

According to reviewers, the guides—particularly Heinz—make the journey informative and engaging, explaining the landscape and history with enthusiasm. One traveler noted that Heinz “hervorragend geführt,” or “excellent guiding,” which seems to be a common sentiment. The cool mountain air and the visual drama of clouds hugging the peaks make this a photo-worthy stop.

Ribeiro Frio: Endemic Forest and Trout Nurseries

Descending from the mountains, the tour takes you to Ribeiro Frio Forest Park. Here, you can observe some of Madeira’s endemic flora and fauna, including the laurel tree (Laurus novocanariensis). The park’s trout nurseries present an interesting glimpse into local aquaculture, and you might find the opportunity to learn about Madeira’s environmental efforts.

Travelers often praise this part for its peaceful atmosphere and the chance to walk a bit in the lush Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. It’s a great contrast to the mountain heights, offering a quiet space to absorb Madeira’s natural beauty.

Santana’s Traditional Thatched Houses

A cultural highlight of the trip is Santana, known worldwide for its picturesque “hanging houses” with steep, straw-thatched roofs. These houses are more than just charming—they’re a symbol of Madeira’s rural heritage. In reviews, visitors mention how this stop offers a real sense of local tradition, with plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to stroll around the small town.

The guide usually shares insights into local architecture and customs, making it more than just a quick look. The authenticity of Santana’s character is what makes this stop worthwhile for culturally curious travelers.

Porto da Cruz and the Rum Experience

On the way back, the tour dips down to Porto da Cruz, a seaside village known for its sugar cane production and local rum. Many travelers find this visit particularly enjoyable, especially if they like sampling local spirits—some tours include a visit to a rum factory, which adds an authentic touch.

Though not explicitly included, the mention of a “rum factory visit” suggests a chance to taste some of Madeira’s famous sugar cane liquor, adding a delicious and authentic flavor to your day. Reviewers highlight this as a fun, flavorful part of the tour, with Heinz sharing insights into the island’s sugar and rum heritage.

Ponta do Rosto and Ponta de São Lourenço

The eastern tip of Madeira is marked by Ponta do Rosto, a viewpoint offering stunning views of the cliffs and rugged coastline. Here, you can enjoy sweeping vistas over the Atlantic and the north coast. It’s a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the feeling of standing on the edge of the island.

The last scenic stop is at Ponta de São Lourenço, a nature reserve known for its dramatic cliffs and unique landscapes. The views here are especially memorable, and many visitors appreciate the chance to walk along the coastal trail.

Final Stop: Pico do Facho Viewpoint

Before returning to Funchal, the group passes the Pico do Facho viewpoint, overlooking the Machico valley. This spot offers a panoramic view of the island’s northeastern landscape and acts as a scenic capstone to a day full of diverse scenery.

The Logistics: Timing, Comfort, and Value

With an 8-hour itinerary, the tour balances driving, sightseeing, and some flexible time at each stop. The small-group format—limited to 15 people—means you’ll get more personalized attention and less time waiting around. Pickup and drop-off are included, which simplifies planning, especially if you’re staying in Funchal.

The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or pregnant women, likely due to the uneven terrain and mountain roads. Since it happens rain or shine, packing for weather is advisable, especially for the mountain and coastal viewpoints.

What’s the Real Value?

Considering the price of $36, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Madeira’s east side. The combination of scenic drives, cultural stops, and natural parks makes it a solid choice for those wanting a rundown without the cost of private tours. The inclusion of hotel pickup adds convenience, and the small group size enhances the experience.

From the positive reviews—highlighting guides like Heinz and Pauline—it’s clear that knowledgeable guides who explain the sights make a difference. The tour also seems to strike a good balance between sightseeing and leisure, with enough time at each stop to appreciate the views and take photos.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want to see Madeira’s highlights without renting a car or navigating on their own. It’s suitable for those interested in nature, culture, and scenic viewpoints in a manageable, small-group setting. If you enjoy learning from guides and having a flexible, organized day, this tour is a strong choice.

However, if you’re seeking adventure activities or extensive hiking, this might not be the best fit, as the focus is on sightseeing and cultural insights with minimal walking. Also, those with mobility issues or pregnant women should consider alternative options.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient and hassle-free.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts around 8 hours, with starting times depending on availability.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, French, German, Spanish, and Portuguese, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to purchase refreshments during the stops.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
The tour is generally suitable for families, but it’s not recommended for people with mobility impairments or pregnant women.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, sun protection, and a camera to capture the stunning views.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
The tour operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly. Mountain and coastal viewpoints may be less clear in bad weather.

Final Thoughts

The Madeira East Tour – Santana North Side offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and scenic viewpoints for a very reasonable price. The inclusion of mountain peaks, traditional houses, and seaside vistas makes it a comprehensive introduction to the island’s east side.

Thanks to the knowledgeable guides—like Heinz— travelers report a friendly atmosphere and informative commentary, which enriches the experience beyond just sightseeing. The tour’s small-group style ensures you won’t feel rushed, and the varied stops keep the day engaging from start to finish.

This tour is ideal for those wanting a full day’s exploration without the stress of planning, perfect for first-time visitors or those eager to see Madeira’s most iconic sights in one go. If you’re after an affordable, scenic, and culturally enriching experience, this tour will suit you well.

This Madeira East Tour from Flora Travel Madeira combines scenic adventure with cultural insights, making it a worthwhile choice for curious travelers eager to explore more of the island’s diverse landscapes.