Madeira Funchal:East Tour Pico Arieiro & Santana&Laurissilva

The Madeira Funchal: East Tour is a captivating 7-hour adventure that showcases the natural wonders and cultural heritage of this enchanting island. Participants can expect to be swept away by the breathtaking vistas of Pico Arieiro, the serene Laurissilva forest, and the charming village of Santana. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, travelers will have the opportunity to enjoy Madeira’s unique blend of stunning landscapes and rich traditions. This small group tour offers a flexible and engaging experience, leaving visitors with an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of this remarkable destination.

Key Points

• This 7-hour tour showcases the highlights of eastern Madeira, including the third-highest peak Pico do Arieiro, the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest, and the picturesque village of Santana.
• The tour offers breathtaking panoramic views, opportunities for hiking and exploration, and a glimpse into Madeira’s rich architectural and cultural heritage.
• Pico do Arieiro is known for its dramatic mountain scenery, particularly at sunrise, while the Laurissilva forest is a unique natural treasure with optional hiking trails.
• Santana features the iconic thatched-roof triangular houses, providing a charming insight into Madeira’s rural past and traditional architecture.
• The tour includes various scenic viewpoints and historical sites across the island, enhancing the exploration of Madeira’s natural wonders and captivating history.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Madeira Funchal East Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the eastern region of the island, showcasing its diverse natural wonders and cultural attractions.

Priced at £26.38 per person, the 7-hour tour includes pickup from Funchal and Canico hotels and residences.

Highlights of the itinerary include the dramatic mountain vistas of Pico do Arieiro, the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest, and the charming village of Santana, known for its traditional thatched-roof houses.

Guests can also enjoy scenic viewpoints, historical sites, and free time for exploration and shopping.

With a focus on small group experiences and knowledgeable guides, the tour provides an immersive way to discover the highlights of eastern Madeira.

Highlights of the Tour

Situated at an impressive elevation of 1818 meters, Pico do Arieiro is the third-highest peak in Madeira, renowned for its dramatic mountain vistas.

Visitors can enjoy the breathtaking panoramas, particularly during sunrise. The tour also explores the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest at Ribeiro Frio, where an optional 20-minute walk leads to the scenic Balcões viewpoint.

In the charming village of Santana, guests marvel at the traditional thatched triangular houses that characterize the local architecture.

The tour makes additional stops at Guindaste’s glass walkways over the ocean and the historical sugar production site of Porto da Cruz, providing a well-rounded experience of Madeira’s natural and cultural highlights.

Pico Do Arieiro

At an impressive elevation of 1818 meters, Pico do Arieiro is Madeira’s third-highest peak, renowned for its dramatic mountain vistas.

This popular destination offers visitors a chance to witness Madeira’s rugged natural beauty up close. The dramatic rock formations and panoramic views from the summit attract hikers and photographers alike.

Many visitors time their visit to coincide with the breathtaking sunrise, which paints the landscape in ever-changing hues.

The journey to the top, with its winding roads and steep inclines, is an adventure in itself, providing a thrilling prelude to the stunning views that await at the peak.

Ribeiro Frio and Laurissilva

Descending from the dramatic heights of Pico do Arieiro, the tour delves into the UNESCO-protected Laurissilva forest at Ribeiro Frio.

This ancient laurel forest is a unique natural treasure, home to diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can embark on an optional 20-minute easy walk to the Balcões viewpoint, offering stunning vistas of the lush, green landscape.

The Laurissilva is a testament to Madeira’s ecological richness, with its gnarled trees, babbling streams, and serene atmosphere providing a peaceful contrast to the rugged peaks just visited.

This stop allows travelers to enjoy the island’s remarkable natural heritage and appreciate the conservation efforts that preserve this ecological gem.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Santana and Its Charm

The charming village of Santana captivates visitors with its distinctive thatched-roof houses, a trademark of Madeira’s architectural heritage. These quaint triangular structures, locally known as "palheiros," showcase the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Madeiran people, who utilized readily available materials to construct their homes.

Santana Highlights
Traditional Houses	Charming Atmosphere	Scenic Surroundings
The village offers a glimpse into Madeira’s rural past, with its well-preserved homes and tranquil ambiance. Visitors can explore the narrow streets, browse local handicrafts, and soak in the picturesque mountain scenery that frames this delightful community.

Scenic Viewpoints

Atop Madeira’s rugged terrain, a series of scenic viewpoints dot the island, offering visitors panoramic vistas of the region’s breathtaking landscapes.

The Guindaste viewpoint, with its glass walkways suspended over the ocean, provides a thrilling perspective of the crashing waves below.

Pico do Facho in Machico boasts historical significance as the landing site in 1419, while also affording sweeping views of the sea and mountains.

Ponta de São Lourenço, with its unique climate and striking rock formations, is a must-visit for its dramatic coastal scenery.

These viewpoints allow travelers to fully enjoy Madeira’s natural wonders and capture the beauty of this enchanting destination.

Historical Sites

Madeira’s rich history is woven into its very fabric, with numerous sites across the island offering glimpses into the region’s captivating past.

The Pico do Facho in Machico, for instance, holds historical significance as the landing site of the first Portuguese settlers in 1419.

Similarly, Porto da Cruz was once a thriving hub for sugar production, evoking Madeira’s colonial legacy.

Plus, the unique rock formations of Ponta de São Lourenço showcase the island’s geological history, while the traditional thatched houses of Santana reflect the enduring cultural traditions of the Madeiran people.

• The landing site of the first Portuguese settlers in 1419
• A former hub for sugar production, echoing Madeira’s colonial past
• Stunning rock formations that reveal the island’s geological history
• Traditional thatched houses that embody Madeiran cultural heritage

Tour Experience and Feedback

Travelers on the Madeira Funchal East Tour can expect a small group experience with flexible pickup and drop-off options.

The tour emphasizes providing extra time at stops for exploration, allowing visitors to enjoy the destinations.

Based on customer reviews, the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, ensuring a punctual and satisfactory tour experience.

With an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 46 reviews, the tour has received overwhelmingly positive feedback, highlighting the high-quality service and memorable experiences it provides.

The tour includes guided commentary in English, Spanish, and Portuguese, as well as breaks for photos, coffee, and optional lunch, making it an accessible and well-rounded offering.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour does not provide lunch, so bringing your own snacks and beverages is allowed and encouraged to enjoy during the breaks.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Change My Booking?

The tour company offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing customers to change their booking without penalty. This flexible cancellation policy provides peace of mind and convenience for travelers.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

The tour offers discounts for children under 12 and seniors aged 65 and above. Specific pricing information can be found on the tour website or by contacting the customer support team.

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

Yes, you can request a private tour instead of a small group. The tour operator offers private tours upon request, which allows for a more personalized experience and flexible itinerary. Additional fees may apply for private tours.

Is Photography Permitted Throughout the Tour?

Yes, photography is permitted throughout the tour. Guests are encouraged to capture the stunning landscapes, historic sites, and cultural attractions encountered during the excursion to create lasting memories of their Madeira experience.

Recap

The Madeira Funchal East Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to take in the stunning natural beauty and cultural heritage of the island. From the breathtaking vistas of Pico Arieiro to the enchanting Laurissilva forest and the charming village of Santana, this tour showcases the best of Madeira. With knowledgeable guides and a flexible itinerary, participants can discover the UNESCO-protected landscapes and traditional thatched houses, creating an unforgettable and engaging experience.

You can check if your dates are available here: