Funchal: Pico Arieiro, Cristo Rei and Dolphins Watching

Funchal, the vibrant capital of Madeira, beckons travelers with its captivating blend of natural wonders and cultural heritage. This immersive tour promises to unveil the island’s stunning landscapes, from the dizzying heights of Pico do Arieiro to the iconic Cristo Rei viewpoint. But the real highlight? An exhilarating catamaran adventure in search of the majestic marine life that calls these waters home. As you set sail, prepare to be enchanted by the grace and power of dolphins and whales, a truly unforgettable experience that will leave you yearning to uncover more of Madeira’s hidden gems.

Key Points

1. The tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Funchal’s natural and cultural highlights, including visits to Pico do Arieiro, Cristo Rei, and a dolphin watching experience.

2. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views from the summit of Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak, and enjoy the island’s endemic forests during an off-road adventure.

3. The iconic Cristo Rei viewpoint provides an opportunity to explore the historical and religious significance of the monumental statue while enjoying views over Funchal and the Atlantic Ocean.

4. The catamaran trip focuses on observing dolphins and whales in their natural habitat, with knowledgeable crew members providing insights on various cetacean species.

5. The tour includes professional local guides, necessary insurances, and safety measures, ensuring an informative and secure experience for participants.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This Funchal tour package offers a comprehensive exploration of the island’s natural and cultural highlights, featuring visits to the iconic Pico Arieiro, the renowned Cristo Rei viewpoint, and an immersive dolphin watching experience.

Priced from €89.00 per person, the tour lasts 8 hours and is available in English, Portuguese, and Spanish. Participants can enjoy the convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the intimacy of a small group limited to 9 people.

The tour includes pickup from Funchal’s central area and port, as well as all necessary insurances and safety measures, making it a well-rounded and hassle-free experience.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary showcases Funchal’s scenic wonders, starting with a stop at Largo do Miranda, offering panoramic views over the city.

The next highlights include Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak at 1,818 meters, providing breathtaking panoramas.

An off-road adventure through endemic forests follows at Santo da Serra.

The tour then visits the iconic Cristo Rei, a significant historical and religious viewpoint.

The experience culminates with a 3-hour catamaran trip along the south coast, focusing on dolphin and whale watching.

Visitors may have the chance to swim below the Cabo Girão cliff during the summer season before returning to Funchal’s harbor.

Dolphin Watching Experience

The catamaran trip along the south coast emphasizes the opportunity to observe dolphins and whales. Knowledgeable crew members provide insightful information about the various cetacean species found in the area.

The tour also offers a chance to take a refreshing swim below the iconic Cabo Girao cliff during the summer months.

Additionally:

1. The catamaran provides a comfortable platform to spot dolphins and whales in their natural habitat.
2. Guests can learn about the unique characteristics and behaviors of these marine mammals from the expert crew.
3. The tour culminates with a return to Funchal’s harbor, completing the immersive dolphin watching experience.

Inclusions and Safety Measures

Professional local guides accompany participants throughout the tour, ensuring a seamless and informative experience.

All necessary insurances are included, as required by Portuguese law. Vehicles are sanitized with ozone and equipped with alcohol-gel for added safety. Local taxes are also covered in the tour price.

However, the tour may not be suitable for certain individuals, such as children under 3, pregnant women, and wheelchair users.

Safety is a top priority, and the tour operator takes necessary precautions to provide a secure and enjoyable experience for all participants.

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Customer Feedback

According to the available reviews, customers have provided an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars for this tour based on 33 reviews.

Highlights from the feedback include:

1. Positive feedback on the off-road experience and the knowledgeable guides who provided valuable information throughout the tour.

2. Some concerns were raised about the timing at certain stops, as well as the crowding during the catamaran trip for the dolphin watching experience.

3. Recommendations were made for allowing more time at the scenic stops and improving the overall boat experience for the dolphin watching portion of the tour.

Panoramic Views From Pico Do Arieiro

As one of the highlights of the Funchal tour, visitors are treated to a breathtaking panoramic vista from the summit of Pico do Arieiro, which stands tall at an impressive 1,818 meters.

From this lofty vantage point, guests can gaze out over Madeira’s rugged, mountainous landscape, taking in the dramatic peaks and valleys that characterize the island’s terrain.

The views span for miles, offering a unique perspective on the island’s natural beauty.

Visitors often remark on the sheer scale and grandeur of the scene, finding themselves awestruck by the sweeping panorama that unfolds before them from this remarkable lookout point.

Off-Road Adventure in Endemic Forests

After marveling at the sweeping panorama from the summit of Pico do Arieiro, the tour moves on to an off-road adventure through Madeira’s endemic forests.

The small group embarks on a thrilling journey, venturing deep into the lush, untamed greenery of Santo da Serra.

Along the way, they encounter:

1. Towering laurel trees, relics of Madeira’s primeval laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. Glimpses of endemic bird species like the Madeira Firecrest, flitting between the vibrant foliage.
3. Geological formations sculpted by the island’s volcanic past, providing a sense of Madeira’s ancient, untamed character.

This off-road excursion offers a chance to take in the island’s unique natural wonders, showcasing the diversity and beauty of Madeira’s protected landscapes.

Iconic Viewpoint of Cristo Rei

From the off-road adventure through the endemic forests of Santo da Serra, the tour progresses to the iconic viewpoint of Cristo Rei.

This monumental statue of Christ, situated atop a hill, offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. Visitors can gaze out over Funchal and the sparkling blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

The Cristo Rei is a site of historical significance, representing the Catholic faith that has long been an integral part of Madeira’s culture. Guests have the opportunity to explore the grounds, learn about the statue’s history, and capture breathtaking photographs from this elevated vantage point before continuing on to the final leg of the tour – the dolphin watching expedition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

The tour is not suitable for children under 3 years old. Pregnant women and wheelchair users are also prohibited from participating, likely due to safety concerns.

Does the Tour Include Lunch or Other Meals?

The tour does not include any meals. Participants are responsible for their own lunch and snacks during the 8-hour tour. The itinerary focuses on sightseeing activities rather than meal service.

What Is the Best Season to Spot Dolphins and Whales?

The best time to spot dolphins and whales is during the summer months. Warmer waters attract more cetaceans, providing the highest chances of sightings from the catamaran tour’s dolphin watching experience.

How Often Do the Tour Guides Change?

The tour guides on this Funchal excursion generally remain the same, as they are professional local guides employed by the tour company. The guides’ experience and knowledge of the area is a key part of the tour’s quality.

Can I Book This Tour as a Private Group?

Yes, you can book this tour as a private group. The tour operator offers private group options, allowing you to customize the experience and enjoy a more personalized and exclusive adventure with your own group.

Recap

This Funchal tour offers an unparalleled glimpse into Madeira’s natural beauty. From the breathtaking panoramas of Pico do Arieiro to the exhilarating dolphin and whale watching experience, it’s a day filled with wonder and adventure. Visitors will marvel at the island’s iconic landmarks, enjoy its lush endemic forests, and create lasting memories of Madeira’s captivating landscapes and wildlife.

You can check if your dates are available here: