Madeira : East Tour – Santana North Side

Madeira’s East Tour – Santana North Side promises an immersive exploration of the island’s picturesque northern regions. Visitors can expect to discover the charming village of Santana, known for its traditional thatched houses, and witness the breathtaking views from Pico do Areeiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak. The tour also includes a visit to the tranquil Ribeiro Frio Forest Park, where unique flora and trout nurseries await. With complimentary pick-up, diverse language options, and a focus on cultural and natural beauty, this adventure offers an opportunity to uncover the enchanting landscapes that have captivated travelers for decades. What secrets might this tour reveal about Madeira’s northern wonders?

Key Points

• The tour covers Madeira’s northern regions, including the iconic thatched houses in Santana and the scenic Pico do Areeiro viewpoint.
• Participants can explore the Ribeiro Frio Forest Park, known for its trout nurseries and lush Laurissilva forests.
• The tour includes a visit to Camacha, the birthplace of football in Portugal, where visitors can observe traditional wicker basket and furniture production.
• The tour operates rain or shine, with various starting times available, and offers complimentary pick-up and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour is primarily suited for able-bodied participants, with significant walking, stair climbing, and traversing uneven terrain required.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

Offering a comprehensive exploration of Madeira’s eastern side, the Madeira: East Tour – Santana North Side promises an immersive experience.

This 8-hour tour covers the island’s northern regions, showcasing its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Priced from €35 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 15 participants and is available in multiple languages.

Complimentary pick-up and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance add to the convenience. The itinerary highlights include the picturesque town of Santana, the Ribeiro Frio Forest Park, and the stunning viewpoints of Pico do Areeiro and Ponta do Rosto.

Though not suitable for those with mobility issues or pregnant women, the tour caters to couples, groups, and solo travelers alike.

Itinerary Highlights

The Madeira: East Tour – Santana North Side showcases the island’s diverse landscapes and cultural treasures throughout its itinerary.

Travelers can explore the parish of Camacha, where football was first played in Portugal. The tour also visits the breathtaking Pico do Areeiro, the third-highest peak at 1,818 meters, offering panoramic views of the central mountains.

In Ribeiro Frio Forest Park, they’ll observe trout nurseries and endemic Laurissilva forest species. The famous thatched houses of Santana, the only town on the island’s north side, are a highlight.

An optional stop at a sugar cane rum factory in Porto da Cruz and scenic viewpoints along the tour complete the experience.

Booking Information

Travelers can reserve their spot on the Madeira: East Tour – Santana North Side without upfront payment. The tour operator offers a "Reserve Now & Pay Later" option, allowing customers to secure their place without an immediate full payment.

Travelers can check availability for different starting times, as the tour operates rain or shine. It’s important to note that the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or pregnant women.

With an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 based on 4 reviews, the tour has received positive feedback from travelers from Poland, Austria, and Italy.

Participant Restrictions

The Madeira: East Tour – Santana North Side caters primarily to able-bodied participants, as it may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or pregnant women.

The tour involves significant walking, stair climbing, and traversing uneven terrain. Participants should be prepared for:

• Navigating steep inclines and uneven paths
• Exploring the Laurissilva forest, which may have challenging terrain
• Visiting viewpoints with limited accessibility
• Potentially encountering inclement weather conditions

While the tour aims to accommodate a wide range of travelers, those with special needs may find certain aspects of the experience challenging.

Individuals with concerns are encouraged to discuss their requirements with the tour operator prior to booking.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Customer Feedback

Overwhelmingly, customers have responded positively to the Madeira: East Tour – Santana North Side, with a robust 4.3 out of 5 rating based on 4 reviews.

The tour has proven popular with a variety of travelers, including couples, groups of friends, solo adventurers, and families. Reviewers from Poland, Austria, and Italy have praised the tour, highlighting its scenic viewpoints, immersive cultural experiences, and knowledgeable guides.

The tour’s diverse language offerings, free cancellation policy, and punctual pickup service have also been well-received.

Discovering Camacha

On the Madeira: East Tour – Santana North Side, visitors begin their journey in Camacha, a tranquil parish where the game of football was first played in Portugal.

This quaint village offers a glimpse into Madeira’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Highlights of Camacha include:

• Witnessing the production of traditional wicker baskets and furniture, a longstanding local craft.
• Exploring the parish church, known for its beautiful architecture and religious artwork.
• Visiting the Camacha Folklore Museum, which showcases the region’s traditional costumes, tools, and way of life.
• Strolling through the charming streets, lined with colorful houses and lush greenery.

Breathtaking Pico Do Areeiro

Leaving the charming village of Camacha behind, the tour now ascends to the breathtaking Pico do Areeiro, the third-highest peak on the island at 1,818 meters.

Offering panoramic views over the central mountains, this vantage point is a highlight of the tour. Visitors can explore the rugged terrain and marvel at the dramatic landscapes that stretch out before them.

On a clear day, the views extend to the northern coast and the surrounding peaks, providing a truly awe-inspiring experience.

The tour provides ample time to soak in the scenery and capture the stunning vistas with photographs, ensuring lasting memories of this magnificent natural wonder.

Exploring Ribeiro Frio

After absorbing the panoramic vistas at Pico do Areeiro, the tour ventures towards the serene Ribeiro Frio Forest Park.

This lush, mountainous area is home to several natural treasures:

• Trout nurseries where visitors can observe the local fish up-close
• Verdant Laurissilva forests, a unique ecosystem found only in Madeira
• Opportunities to spot endemic flora and fauna within the protected park
• A tranquil atmosphere perfect for strolling and appreciating the island’s natural beauty

Exploring Ribeiro Frio offers a chance to take in Madeira’s stunning ecology and witness the island’s diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.

This stop on the East Tour provides a refreshing respite from the panoramic vistas, complementing the day’s diverse array of experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Travelers With Disabilities?

The tour is not suitable for travelers with mobility impairments. The itinerary involves hiking and navigating uneven terrain, which may be challenging for those with limited mobility. Pregnant women are also advised against participating in this tour.

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

According to the tour overview, guests are not permitted to bring their own food and drinks. The tour package includes transportation and guided visits, but does not provide meal or beverage options during the excursion.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. Children of all ages can participate, though the tour may not be suitable for very young children or infants due to the length and nature of the activities.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There doesn’t appear to be an option to extend the tour duration. The tour is fixed at 8 hours according to the provided details. No information is given about the possibility of extending the tour time for additional fees.

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, travelers can request a private tour instead of joining a group tour. Private tours offer more personalized experiences and flexible itineraries, though they typically cost more than group tours. Travelers should inquire about private tour options and pricing when booking the Madeira experience.

Recap

The Madeira East Tour offers an immersive exploration of the island’s stunning northern regions. From the picturesque village of Santana to the breathtaking Pico do Areeiro and the tranquil Ribeiro Frio Forest Park, this 8-hour adventure showcases Madeira’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. With diverse language options and a focus on cultural and natural experiences, this tour promises to create unforgettable memories for visitors.

You can check if your dates are available here: