Full Day East Madeira – Pico Do Ariero, Ribeiro Frio, Portela, Santana

Exploring the eastern region of Madeira Island offers travelers a captivating journey through the island’s diverse natural landscapes and cultural heritage. From the towering peaks of Pico do Arieiro to the tranquil trout hatchery of Ribeiro Frio, this full-day tour promises an unforgettable experience. Visitors will explore the artistry of traditional wickerwork, marvel at the iconic triangular cottages of Santana, and gaze upon the dramatic coastal vistas from Portela. As the day unfolds, it becomes clear why this captivating corner of Madeira has long enchanted those who venture beyond the island’s well-trodden paths.

This experience made our list of the 20 Best Full-Day Tours In Funchal.

Key Points

• This full-day tour explores the highlights of East Madeira, including a wickerwork factory, scenic views from Pico do Arieiro, and the natural park and trout hatchery at Ribeiro Frio.

• Visitors can admire the unique triangular cottages in Santana and enjoy a local lunch as part of the immersive cultural experience.

• The tour features comfortable transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off, and a maximum group size of 15 for personalized attention from the guide.

• At the wickerwork factory in Camacha, travelers can witness skilled artisans crafting intricate baskets and furniture, providing a glimpse into Madeiran craftsmanship.

• The scenic viewpoint at Portela offers breathtaking vistas of Madeira’s rugged coastline, showcasing the island’s dramatic geography and natural beauty.

Tour Overview and Highlights

This full-day tour of East Madeira departs from Funchal, offering visitors the chance to explore the island’s artisanal crafts, scenic viewpoints, and historic sites.

The highlights include visiting a wickerwork factory in Camacha, taking in the breathtaking views from Pico do Arieiro, and exploring the natural park and trout hatchery at Ribeiro Frio.

The tour also includes a stop in Santana to admire the unique triangular cottages and enjoy a lunch option.

Visitors will then climb to the Portela viewpoint at 2,198 feet (670 meters) for stunning coastal vistas before returning via the historic town of Machico, the arrival point of the Portuguese navigators in 1420.

Itinerary and Experience

The tour begins with pickup at 9:00 am from designated locations in Funchal, allowing travelers to embark on their exploration of East Madeira.

The first stop is the picturesque town of Camacha, known for its vibrant wickerwork industry. Guests will have the opportunity to witness skilled artisans at work and learn about the traditional craft.

Next, the tour ascends to the breathtaking Pico do Arieiro, the second-highest summit on the island, offering stunning views of the nearby island of Porto Santo.

The journey continues to Ribeiro Frio’s natural park, where visitors can explore the trout hatchery before heading to the charming town of Santana to admire its iconic triangular cottages and enjoy a delightful lunch.

Transportation and Logistics

Travelers are transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle to ensure a pleasant and relaxing experience throughout the tour. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included for added convenience, allowing participants to seamlessly integrate the tour into their Madeira itinerary. The group size is limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, creating an intimate atmosphere and facilitating personalized attention from the guide.

Transportation	Pickup/Drop-off	Group Size
Air-conditioned	Included	Max 15
Comfortable	From hotels	Intimate
Relaxing	Convenient	Personalized

The tour’s transportation and logistics are designed with the traveler’s comfort and convenience in mind, ensuring a hassle-free and memorable exploration of East Madeira.

Wickerwork Factory in Camacha

After departing from Funchal, the first stop on the tour is the wickerwork factory in Camacha, located just 20 minutes away.

Visitors can observe the skilled artisans as they meticulously craft a variety of wicker products, from intricate baskets to furniture, showcasing the rich tradition of wicker weaving that has been an integral part of Madeiran culture for generations.

The factory provides an inside look at the intricate process, from the selection of the raw materials to the intricate weaving techniques that create the distinctive Madeiran wicker designs.

Travelers can witness the artisans’ deft hands as they transform simple strands of wicker into beautiful and functional works of art, offering a unique glimpse into this time-honored craft.

Pico Do Arieiro Scenic Views

Upon departing the wicker workshop, the tour ascends to the summit of Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s second-highest peak at an elevation of 1,818 meters (5,961 feet).

From this lofty vantage point, visitors are afforded sweeping panoramic views stretching out across the island’s rugged central mountain range, with the distant silhouette of the neighboring island of Porto Santo visible on the horizon.

The viewing platform provides ample opportunities to admire the dramatic geological formations and deep valleys carved into the landscape over centuries.

Tour participants can snap photos of the breathtaking scenery while learning about the unique natural history and ecology of this remarkable mountain environment.

Ribeiro Frio’s Natural Park

The tour next whisks travelers into the lush, verdant expanse of Ribeiro Frio’s natural park, a protected ecological reserve renowned for its rich biodiversity and captivating natural beauty. Visitors can explore the park’s network of hiking trails, which wind through towering laurel forests and alongside crystal-clear streams teeming with native trout. At the trout hatchery, guests can witness the meticulous process of cultivating and releasing these prized fish back into the waterways. The park’s tranquil ambiance and diverse array of flora and fauna offer a peaceful respite from the bustle of the city, making it a true highlight of the East Madeira tour.

Key Features	Description
Hiking Trails	Well-maintained network of trails through laurel forests and alongside streams
Trout Hatchery	Facility showcasing the cultivation and release of native trout species
Biodiversity	Rich and diverse array of plant and animal life within the protected reserve

Triangular Cottages in Santana

Amidst the lush, verdant hills of East Madeira lies the charming village of Santana, renowned for its distinctive triangular-shaped cottages that have become an iconic symbol of the region.

These quaint, traditional dwellings, known as ‘Palheiros,’ boast thatched roofs and are built with locally sourced materials, showcasing the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Madeiran people.

Visitors can explore the intricate craftsmanship and learn about the historical significance of these unique structures, which were originally designed to provide shelter and storage for agricultural tools.

The Santana cottages not only captivate travelers but also serve as a testament to the island’s rich cultural heritage and enduring architectural traditions.

• Triangular-shaped thatched roof cottages

• Constructed with locally sourced materials

• Historical significance as agricultural shelters

• Showcase Madeiran craftsmanship and ingenuity

• Iconic symbol of East Madeira’s cultural heritage

Coastal Views From Portela

Scaling the lofty Portela at 2,198 feet (670 meters), visitors are rewarded with breathtaking vistas of Madeira’s rugged coastline, where crashing waves meet towering sea cliffs and verdant hills.

From this elevated vantage point, one can gaze out over the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean, marveling at the island’s dramatic natural beauty.

The panoramic views showcase the island’s dramatic geography, with the deep blue waters contrasting against the verdant green slopes and dramatic rock formations.

Whether admiring the crashing surf or scanning the horizon for distant islands, the Portela offers an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Madeira’s stunning coastal landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Any Photos During the Tour?

Yes, guests are encouraged to take photos during the tour. The operator allows and welcomes photography at all the scenic stops and attractions visited throughout the day, providing ample opportunities to capture the beautiful landscapes and cultural sites.

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour has a flexible cancellation policy, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. This gives travelers the freedom to adjust their plans without penalty if necessary.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Children?

The tour operator offers discounted prices for seniors aged 65 and over, as well as for children under 12 years old. However, the specific discount amounts are not specified in the tour details provided.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, passengers are welcome to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a lunch option is included if selected, so bringing your own meal may not be necessary unless you have dietary restrictions.

Is the Tour Guide Fluent in English?

The tour guides on this East Madeira excursion are fluent in English. Reviewers have praised the guides’ knowledgeability and ability to provide an informative, engaging experience for English-speaking participants throughout the scenic tour.

Recap

The Full Day East Madeira tour offers an unforgettable experience, showcasing the island’s stunning natural beauty.

From the wicker factory in Camacha to the breathtaking views at Pico do Arieiro, the tranquil Ribeiro Frio, the iconic cottages in Santana, and the dramatic coastal vistas from Portela, this tour provides a comprehensive glimpse into Madeira’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

This makes it a must-do for visitors to the island.