Full Day Ponta De São Lourenço – Natural Reserve

The Ponta de São Lourenço Natural Reserve offers an immersive hiking experience for the moderately fit traveler. Spanning a scenic 6 km trail with a 100-meter elevation gain, this full-day excursion showcases the region’s breathtaking coastal landscapes, unique vegetation, and diverse wildlife. Guided by knowledgeable experts, participants can dive into the area’s geography and ecology, all while enjoying convenient hotel pickups, engaging van rides, and breaks at local cafés. For those seeking an active and enriching adventure, this tour provides a captivating window into one of Portugal’s remarkable natural wonders.

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

Key Points

• Explore the unique volcanic geography and diverse flora of the Ponta de São Lourenço natural reserve through a 6 km hike with scenic drives.
• Enjoy complimentary hotel pickup from 45 locations and a flexible cancellation policy for this 6-hour excursion priced at €45.00 per person.
• Witness potential sightings of Deserted Islands and protected seabirds like Cory’s shearwater along the rugged coastline.
• Experience a combination of transportation modes, including van rides and scenic drives, to enhance the overall tour experience.
• Suitable for moderately fit individuals, with a focus on the region’s geography, wildlife, and botanical diversity.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The Full Day Ponta de São Lourenço – Natural Reserve activity consistently offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of Madeira’s eastern peninsula.

Priced from €45.00 per person, this 6-hour excursion includes complimentary hotel pickup across 45 locations.

Guests can expect a dynamic itinerary, with a van ride, scenic drives, and a 6 km hike with stunning vistas.

The activity is available in multiple languages and features a flexible cancellation policy, allowing for free cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.

Catering to moderately fit individuals, this immersive experience promises a deep dive into the region’s unique geography, wildlife, and flora.

Itinerary and Experience

Guests should be ready 10 minutes before their scheduled pickup time as the guides will wait only 5 minutes before departing.

The tour starts with a 1-hour van ride to Ponta de São Lourenço. On the way, there will be two scenic drives of 30 and 15 minutes, with stops at local cafés for 15 and 30 minutes.

The main event is a 6 km hike with a 100-meter elevation gain, which takes approximately 3.5 hours. Highlights include scenic views, unique vegetation, and the opportunity to spot protected seabirds.

After the hike, the tour will stop at Casa do Sardinha for a break before returning.

Travel Details

The tour begins with a 1-hour van ride to the stunning Ponta de São Lourenço.

Along the way, guests will enjoy scenic drives of 30 minutes and 15 minutes, with breaks at local cafés for 15 minutes and 30 minutes.

This allows participants to rest, refuel, and take in the beautiful surroundings before embarking on the hike.

The combination of van rides and scenic drives ensures guests get to experience the diverse landscapes of Madeira’s eastern end, from the volcanic peninsula to the charming local villages.

Hiking Details

After the initial transportation, the hike covers a 6 km distance with an elevation gain of 100 meters. The estimated hiking time is 3 hours and 30 minutes.

The hike showcases the natural highlights of the Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula:

• Scenic views of the rugged coastline and potential sightings of the Deserted Islands and Porto Santo
• Unique vegetation, including the Everlasting and Ice Flower
• Opportunities to observe protected seabirds like Cory’s shearwater and Madeiran storm-petrel
• A rest stop at Casa do Sardinha for a break before returning
• The moderate fitness level required for this activity.

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Highlights and Natural Features

The tour delves into the captivating geography of the Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula, situated at the eastern end of Madeira.

This volcanic landform offers a unique landscape, with the opportunity to spot seabirds like Cory’s shearwater and Madeiran storm-petrel.

Along the hike, visitors can admire the scenic views, which may include sights of the Deserted Islands and Porto Santo.

The flora of the area is also noteworthy, with the presence of distinctive plants such as Everlasting and Ice Flower, adding to the natural diversity of the reserve.

This segment of the excursion immerses guests in the captivating geographical and ecological features of this protected coastal region.

Participant Requirements

For this full-day excursion to the Ponta de São Lourenço natural reserve, a moderate fitness level is required.

The hike covers 6 km with a 100-meter elevation gain, lasting approximately 3.5 hours.

This activity isn’t suitable for those with:

• Severe health issues
• Limited mobility
• Respiratory problems
• Heart conditions
• Recent surgeries

Plus, children under 8 years old aren’t permitted to participate.

Participants should consider their physical capabilities before booking this tour to ensure they can fully enjoy the stunning landscapes and wildlife spotting opportunities.

What to Bring

Guests should come prepared for the Ponta de São Lourenço hike by packing comfortable shoes, food and drinks, sunscreen, rain gear, and appropriate clothing.

Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must for the 6 km trail, which has some uneven terrain. Bringing a water bottle and snacks will help sustain energy levels during the 3.5-hour hike.

Sunscreen and a hat are recommended to protect from the island’s strong sun. Since the weather can be unpredictable, it’s wise to pack a light rain jacket or poncho.

Layered clothing is also advised to account for temperature changes. Guests should avoid sandals and large bags that could be cumbersome during the trek.

Customer Reviews

According to the available information, customers have overwhelmingly praised the Full Day Ponta de São Lourenço tour, with an impressive overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 46 reviews.

Reviewers have highlighted several key aspects of the experience:

• Excellent transportation, with punctual and comfortable pickups from designated hotels
• Exceptional value for money, offering a full day of exploration at a reasonable price
• Knowledgeable and engaging guides who provide insightful commentary on the natural wonders
• Well-organized logistics, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable trip
• Stunning scenery and the opportunity to witness unique flora and fauna along the hike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Hike?

Yes, participants are encouraged to bring their own snacks and drinks for the hike. Food and drinks are specifically listed as items to bring for the activity.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Tour?

There are designated rest stops with restroom facilities available during the tour. Participants can use the restrooms at the Casa do Sardinha cafê, which is located at the end of the hiking trail.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Hiking Equipment?

For this moderate hike, hikers should bring sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good traction. While no special equipment is required, hikers may also consider bringing hiking poles to assist with the elevation gain.

Is There an Option to Shorten the Hike or Take Breaks?

The tour includes scenic drives and scheduled breaks, allowing participants to rest between the 6 km hike. While the full hike takes 3.5 hours, guests can opt to shorten the route if needed.

Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, this tour can be booked for a private group. The provider offers flexible arrangements to accommodate private groups, allowing for customized experiences and schedules. Contact the tour operator for more details on booking a private tour.

Recap

The Ponta de São Lourenço Natural Reserve excursion offers an immersive experience for the moderately fit, showcasing the region’s stunning coastal views, unique vegetation, and diverse wildlife. With a scenic 6 km hike, knowledgeable guides, and convenient hotel pickups, this tour provides an engaging and insightful exploration of the area’s rich geography and ecology. It’s a must-do for anyone seeking to connect with the natural wonders of the Madeira Islands.

You can check if your dates are available here: