Experience the natural beauty of eastern Madeira on an 8-hour excursion from Funchal. This tour takes you to the island’s third-highest peak, Pico de Arieiro, for panoramic views. Explore the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva Forest, one of the last remaining laurel forests on Earth. Visit the charming towns of Santana and Machico, enjoying Madeira’s cultural heritage. With a professional guide, you’ll discover the region’s dramatic landscapes, unique ecosystems, and vibrant history. For those seeking an in-depth exploration of Madeira’s eastern wonders, this tour offers a comprehensive and captivating experience.
Key Points
- An 8-hour excursion exploring the rugged eastern side of Madeira island, including a visit to the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva Forest.
- Ascent to Pico de Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak, for panoramic views of the island’s dramatic landscapes.
- Visits to the charming towns of Santana and Machico, showcasing Madeira’s unique cultural heritage and traditional architecture.
- Exploration of the striking geological formations and diverse ecosystems along the Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula.
- Professional guide-led tour with hotel pickup and drop-off in Funchal, providing expertise and maximizing the overall experience.
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Tour Overview
The Madeira East Tour from Funchal is an 8-hour excursion that takes visitors on a journey to explore the stunning natural landscapes on the eastern side of the island.
It’s an ideal tour for lovers of nature and outdoor adventures.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Funchal, ensuring a convenient and stress-free experience.
During the tour, you will have the opportunity to ascend to Pico de Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak, and enjoy the ancient Laurissilva Forest.
The tour also features visits to the colorful towns of Santana and Machico, as well as panoramic views from the Ponta de São Lourenço.
With a professional guide leading the way, visitors can expect an informative and enjoyable experience.
Key Highlights
One of the key highlights of the Madeira East Tour is the ascent to Pico de Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the island’s rugged terrain.
Visitors can then explore the ancient Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases Madeira’s unique and well-preserved ecosystem.
The tour also includes visits to the charming towns of Santana, known for its traditional thatched-roof houses, and Machico, the site of Madeira’s first settlement.
Highlights of the tour include:
- Ascend to Pico de Arieiro for stunning vistas
- Discover the prehistoric Laurissilva Forest
- Explore the colorful towns of Santana and Machico
- Admire the dramatic landscapes of Ponta de São Lourenço
Inclusions
This tour includes a professional guide to lead participants through the day’s activities. All taxes and fees are covered in the tour price.
Free hotel pickup and drop-up in Funchal are provided, though lunch isn’t included. The guide’s expertise ensures visitors make the most of their time, while the included transportation simplifies the logistics.
With hotel transfers, travelers can relax and enjoy the sights without the hassle of driving. Though lunch isn’t provided, the guide can recommend local restaurants to sample Madeira’s cuisine.
Pickup and Meeting
Pickup for the tour is available from Funchal hotels or other locations, though an extra cost may apply for pickups outside the city center.
There are several meeting point options for the tour:
- Hotel pickup from your Funchal accommodation
- A central meeting point in Funchal
- A designated pickup location outside the city
- Private transportation can also be arranged for an additional fee
The meeting time and location will be confirmed after booking. Guests are advised to be ready at the agreed pickup time to ensure a prompt start to the day’s adventure exploring eastern Madeira.
Additional Information
Confirmation for the tour is received at the time of booking, ensuring guests have all the necessary details. Infant seats are available upon request. The tour may be operated by a multi-lingual guide, catering to diverse language preferences. However, the tour is not wheelchair accessible. Service animals are allowed to accompany guests. The tour’s meeting point is conveniently located near public transportation options. A minimum number of travelers is required for the tour to operate. Guests can cancel their booking up to 24 hours before the experience for a full refund.
| Accessibility | Languages Supported | Cancellation Policy |
|---|---|---|
| Not wheelchair accessible | Multi-lingual guide | Up to 24 hours before for full refund |
| Service animals allowed | ||
| Near public transportation |
Ascend to Pico De Arieiro
The tour takes guests on an ascent to Pico de Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the island’s natural landscapes.
From the summit, visitors can:
- Gaze out over the rugged, mountainous terrain of eastern Madeira
- Spot the distinctive laurel forests of the Unesco-listed Laurissilva
- Marvel at the sweeping vistas that stretch out to the Atlantic Ocean
- Photograph the striking geological formations and dramatic coastline
This highlight of the tour allows travelers to truly appreciate the awe-inspiring beauty and grandeur of Madeira’s dramatic volcanic scenery. The journey to Pico de Arieiro is both visually stunning and physically invigorating, setting the stage for the rest of the day’s adventures.
Explore Laurissilva Forest
Next, the tour delves into the ancient Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site that covers a significant portion of Madeira’s eastern landscape.
This prehistoric forest, recognized for its outstanding universal value, is one of the last remaining examples of a laurel forest ecosystem that was widespread across the Mediterranean region during the Tertiary period.
Visitors can enjoy the lush, verdant canopy, home to diverse flora and fauna, including the Madeiran laurel pigeon. The towering laurel trees, some reaching over 50 meters in height, create a serene and mystical atmosphere.
As the tour explores this natural wonder, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for Madeira’s rich ecological heritage and the importance of preserving these ancient ecosystems.
Visit Santana and Machico
After exploring the ancient Laurissilva Forest, the tour progresses to the colorful towns of Santana and Machico, providing visitors with a glimpse into Madeira’s vibrant culture and history.
Santana, famous for its distinctive A-frame thatched-roof houses, offers a charming and authentic experience, allowing travelers to enjoy the local architecture and traditions.
The tour also visits Machico, the second-largest city on the island, renowned for its picturesque harbor and rich maritime legacy.
Highlights of these stops include:
- Admiring the unique Santana houses and learning about traditional building techniques
- Strolling through Machico’s quaint streets and harbor, soaking in the coastal atmosphere
- Exploring the historical sites and museums that showcase Madeira’s seafaring heritage
- Interacting with friendly locals and sampling traditional Madeiran cuisine and crafts.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Type of Clothing Should I Wear on the Tour?
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended for this tour. Layers are suggested, as the weather can be variable with changes in elevation. Sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes are advised to navigate the natural landscapes visited during the excursion.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour does not have any age restrictions. Children of all ages are welcome to participate. Participants should note that some activities may not be suitable for very young children due to the nature of the terrain.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
Participants can bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, a lunch option is not included in the tour price. It’s best to check with the tour provider for any restrictions or recommendations regarding outside food and beverages.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
Yes, the tour can be extended for an additional fee. Travelers can choose to extend the duration of the tour to explore more of the island’s natural wonders at their own pace. The length of the extension can be discussed with the tour operator.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The tour’s maximum group size is not specified in the details provided. Group sizes for small-group tours can vary, but are often limited to ensure a more personalized experience. Travelers should check with the tour operator for the exact maximum group size.
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Recap
This guided tour of Madeira’s eastern wonders offers a captivating exploration of the island’s natural beauty.
From scaling the iconic Pico de Arieiro to wandering the ancient Laurissilva Forest, travelers will enjoy Madeira’s breathtaking landscapes.
The tour also includes visits to the charming towns of Santana and Machico, providing a comprehensive experience of the region’s vibrant culture and architecture.