Madeira East Island Special & Levada Walking Tour
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8h
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About this experience
Experience the natural beauty and contrasts of eastern Madeira on a full-day guided tour through mountains, forests, and coastal landscapes. Start with a convenient hotel pickup in Funchal and enjoy scenic viewpoints overlooking the city. Travel high into the mountains to Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak, and take in breathtaking views. Continue to Ribeiro Frio to visit a traditional trout farm and enjoy an easy levada walk to the Balcões viewpoint within the Laurissilva forest. Discover Santana’s iconic thatched houses and stop for lunch in the north of the island. Afterward, follow the coast to Faial’s skywalk viewpoint and Porto da Cruz for a local rum tasting. End the day with impressive views of Ponta de São Lourenço, Machico, and nearby islands before returning to Funchal.
✔ Pico do Arieiro panoramic mountain views
✔ Levada walk in Ribeiro Frio Laurissilva forest
✔ Santana thatched houses and lunch stop
✔ Faial Skywalk, Porto da Cruz rum tasting
Available options
Madeira East Island & Levada Walk
Food and drinks included<br/>Pickup included
Offer Price
Pickup included
What's included
Free hotel pickup in Caniço, Funchal, and Câmara de Lobos
3-course lunch with drinks (shared tour only)
Private tours meet directly at the ship exit
Free visit to a local rum factory with tasting
Shared cruise tours meet at the CR7 Museum
Detailed itinerary
1
Begin your day with a comfortable pick-up from your hotel and travel by van toward the east of Madeira.
2
Stop 2
Travel by van on a scenic drive from Funchal into Madeira’s mountainous interior, enjoying ever-changing landscapes from coastal views to lush forests. Arrive at Pico do Arieiro, the island’s third-highest peak (1,818 m), where you’ll stop for photos and take in breathtaking panoramic views of dramatic mountain ridges and valleys, often rising above the clouds—one of Madeira’s most iconic highlights.
3
Visit Ribeiro Frio and enjoy a walk along PR11 – Levada dos Balcões, one of Madeira’s most beautiful and accessible levada trails. The walk takes you through lush laurel forest to a scenic viewpoint overlooking green valleys and rugged mountains, offering excellent photo opportunities.
Note: This visit is optional and an extra fee applies.
4
Stop at Miradouro do Guindaste, a spectacular coastal viewpoint offering panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean and Madeira’s dramatic north coast—perfect for photos and a short break.
5
Visit Santana, famous for its traditional A-frame thatched houses, one of Madeira’s most iconic symbols. Enjoy free time to explore the village, take photos, and soak in the local atmosphere. This stop also includes time for lunch or tasting regional food in the northern part of the island
6
Stop in Porto da Cruz, a charming coastal village on Madeira’s north coast. Enjoy sightseeing and photo opportunities, along with an aperitif and free Madeira rum tasting, while taking in the ocean views
Kindly note that the itinerary may change and is shared as an example.
7
Continue along Madeira’s scenic north coast, stopping at viewpoints that offer incredible views of Ponta de São Lourenço, the rugged coastline, and surrounding landscapes. On clear days, you may also see the Desertas Islands and Porto Santo. The tour then passes through Machico, one of the island’s oldest towns, with a brief optional photo stop to admire the bay and historic setting, depending on time and conditions.
8
Relax on the return journey to Funchal along a scenic route, enjoying views of the coastline and lush landscapes as you conclude your east Madeira tour.
9
You can choose to be dropped off at either Funchal city center or Caminho do Lombo Segundo 6, making it convenient to return to your hotel or next destination. The tour is expected to conclude around 17:00.
Please be aware that the itinerary is only an example and may vary.
What's not included
Levada walk entrance fee (optional)
Hotel pickup in Santa Cruz: additional
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
PT
EN
FR
ES
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
This activity is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.
Please bring comfortable shoes and a jacket for your comfort during the activity.
Although Funchal can be quite warm in winter, please bring warm clothing as temperatures are cooler at higher altitudes.
The tour duration is approximately 8 hours.
Pick-up is available from all hotels in Funchal and Caniço.
The tour starts between 08:00 and 09:00, with return scheduled before 17:00.
The excursion is conducted with a qualified guide in English, German, French, or Spanish.
The itinerary may change due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions or traffic restrictions.
The levada walk has an additional cost of €3.00, payable on the day of the walk.
Visitors typically receive their final tickets or vouchers by email 3 to 5 days prior to the tour date.
Important notes
A voucher with an exact meeting point and all necessary information will be e-mailed to you very soon (based on the travel date).
About Funchal
Funchal, the vibrant capital of Madeira, is a city where lush landscapes meet charming architecture. Known for its subtropical climate, beautiful gardens, and dramatic coastal scenery, Funchal offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it a captivating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Botanical Garden
A stunning garden with a wide variety of exotic plants, offering panoramic views of Funchal and the Atlantic Ocean.
Nature
1-2 hours
€7.50
Sé Cathedral
A beautiful 15th-century Gothic cathedral located in the heart of Funchal, featuring intricate architecture and historical significance.
Historical/Religious
30-45 minutes
Free (donations welcome)
Mercado dos Lavradores
A bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, flowers, and local crafts, providing a glimpse into Madeira's culture and daily life.
Market
1 hour
Free to enter, prices vary for purchases
Cabo Girão Skywalk
A breathtaking glass platform extending over the cliffs of Cabo Girão, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the coastline.
Nature/Adventure
1-2 hours
€5
Santana
A charming traditional village known for its iconic triangular thatched-roof houses, showcasing the unique architectural heritage of Madeira.
Cultural
Half day
Free to explore
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bolo do Caco
A traditional Madeiran bread made with sweet potato, often served with garlic butter and grilled meats.
Bread
Contains gluten
Espetada
A skewer of beef marinated in wine, garlic, and spices, grilled to perfection.
Main Course
Contains beef, gluten
Poncha
A traditional Madeiran cocktail made with aguardente (a type of brandy), honey, and lemon or orange juice.
Drink
Contains alcohol
Bacalhau à Madeirense
Salted cod cooked with onions, peppers, and sometimes raisins and olives, a popular dish in Madeira.
Main Course
Contains fish, may contain gluten
Popular Activities
Hiking
Paragliding
Cable car rides
Beach relaxation
Spa treatments
Gardens and parks
Museum visits
Historical sites
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
This is the best time to visit Funchal, with pleasant temperatures, lower rainfall, and fewer tourists. The weather is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.
18°C to 25°C
64°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+0 (WET) / GMT+1 (WEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Funchal is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or distractions
Getting there
By air
- Madeira Airport (Funchal Airport) • 20 km from Funchal
By bus
Funchal Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and efficient, with frequent services connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town (Zona Velha)
Funchal Marina
Monte
Day trips
Porto Santo
100 km from Funchal • Full day
A beautiful island known for its golden sandy beaches and relaxed atmosphere, offering a perfect escape from the bustle of Funchal.
Santana
30 km from Funchal • Half day
A charming traditional village known for its iconic triangular thatched-roof houses, showcasing the unique architectural heritage of Madeira.
Pico do Arieiro
20 km from Funchal • Half day
A stunning mountain peak offering breathtaking views of the island and the Atlantic Ocean, with various hiking trails and scenic drives.
Festivals
Madeira Flower Festival • March/April
Atlantic Festival • August
Christmas and New Year's Celebrations • December/January
Pro tips
- Visit the local markets for fresh produce, flowers, and unique souvenirs
- Take a cable car ride for a scenic and memorable experience
- Try local dishes like Bolo do Caco and Espetada for an authentic culinary experience
- Explore the Old Town for historic charm, vibrant nightlife, and local shops
- Participate in a wine tasting tour to learn about the island's winemaking traditions
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
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Free cancellation available
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