Madeira: East Island Tour with Rum Tasting

Explore Madeira’s Stunning East Coast for $53

The Madeira: East Island Tour with Rum Tasting offers a comprehensive look at Madeira’s beautiful eastern landscapes. Priced at $53 per person and lasting 8 hours, this guided trip is perfect for those wanting to see iconic sights at a relaxed pace. It departs from Funchal and includes visits to Pico do Arieiro, Santana, Porto da Cruz, and Cristo Rei, with a special highlight being the rum tasting at Engenhos do Norte.

The tour is led by a professional guide who speaks Portuguese, English, and Spanish, ensuring clear explanations about each stop. The small group size, limited to 8 participants, creates an intimate atmosphere, making it easier to enjoy the views and ask questions. While the tour does not include lunch, the stops at Santana and Porto da Cruz provide ample opportunities for sightseeing and photos.

This experience suits travelers who seek a well-paced day with stunning viewpoints, cultural insights, and a chance to taste authentic Madeira rum. The 8-hour duration keeps the day busy but manageable, making it ideal for those who want a full yet relaxed exploration of Madeira’s east coast.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Price of $53 per person for an 8-hour guided tour
• Visits Pico do Arieiro, Santana, Porto da Cruz, and Cristo Rei
• Rum tasting at Engenhos do Norte included
• Small group experience limited to 8 participants
• Includes multiple scenic viewpoints like Miradouro do Guindaste and Miradouro do Cristo Rei
• Tour departs from and returns to Funchal with pickup from Curral das Freiras available

Visiting Pico do Arieiro: A Mountain Peak with Views

At Pico do Arieiro, the tour stops at the third highest point on the island. Here, visitors find breathtaking views of the mountains and landscape that make Madeira famous. The 30-minute visit allows enough time for photos and to appreciate this spectacular landscape. The elevated location offers a sense of the island’s rugged beauty and is a highlight for those who love panoramic vistas.

Exploring Ribeiro Frio Natural Park

Next, the guide leads visitors to Ribeiro Frio, a lush natural park where the greenery and tranquility stand out. The 20-minute visit provides a quick look at Madeira’s verdant environment. This stop offers a contrast to the mountain views, showcasing the island’s flora and natural beauty.

The Guindaste Viewpoint and North Coast Views

The Guindaste viewpoint offers stunning views of Madeira’s north coast and the Atlantic Ocean. The 20-minute stop is ideal for snapping photos of the coastline and appreciating the dramatic cliffs. It’s a favorite among visitors for the scenic landscape and the opportunity to see Madeira from a different perspective.

More Great Tours Nearby

Santana’s Traditional Houses and Lunch Break

The tour includes 1.5 hours in Santana, renowned for its traditional thatched houses. This stop provides a chance to walk through the charming village and see the iconic architecture. While lunch is not included, there are options available in Santana to enjoy local cuisine or quick snacks before continuing the tour.

Porto da Cruz and Engenhos do Norte Rum Tasting

At Porto da Cruz, visitors stop at the Engenhos do Norte, where the highlight is the rum tasting. This visit combines cultural insight with the chance to sample authentic Madeira rum. The 30-minute stop offers an opportunity to learn about the island’s distillation process and sample local flavors.

Ponta do Rosto Viewpoint: A Coastal Panorama

The Miradouro Ponta do Rosto provides breathtaking views of both the north and south coasts of Madeira. The 30-minute stop is perfect for soaking in the diverse coastal scenery and taking photos of the contrasting landscapes. It’s a favorite for its spectacular vistas and the sense of vastness it offers.

Cristo Rei Viewpoint and the Iconic Statue

The Cristo Rei viewpoint features an impressive statue of Jesus Christ overlooking the ocean. The 25-minute stop allows visitors to admire the iconic figure and enjoy views of the surrounding coastline. It’s an ideal spot for reflection and capturing memorable photos.

Practical Details: How the Tour Runs

The itinerary involves a van transfer from Funchal, taking approximately 50 minutes to reach the first stop. The guide leads you through each location, with short visits at each site, designed to maximize sightseeing without feeling rushed. Pickup options include Funchal or Curral das Freiras, making it convenient for different accommodations.

The tour’s pacing balances sightseeing and free time, especially in Santana, where a lunch break is scheduled. Remember to bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a camera, and water for the day. The tour is suitable for guests comfortable walking and standing at viewpoints.

The Guide and Group Size

The tour is operated by PF Private Tours with a small group size, limited to 8 participants. This ensures a personalized experience and the chance to ask questions about Madeira’s landscape and culture. According to reviews, guides like Paulo are praised for being knowledgeable, charming, and flexible.

Reviews Highlighting the Experience

Reviews consistently rate this tour 5 out of 5, emphasizing the expertise of guides and the stunning views. Many mention guides like Paulo as charming and informative, with a strong focus on explaining the sights and local history. Visitors appreciate the timing flexibility and the opportunity to see places outside typical tourist routes.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded East Coast Adventure

This Madeira East Island Tour offers an affordable and comprehensive day exploring some of the island’s most beautiful sights. The scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and rum tasting create a diverse experience suited for those who want a relaxed yet fulfilling day.

The small group setting and knowledgeable guides ensure an intimate and informative journey. While lunch is not included, plenty of options are available at Santana, and the tour’s pacing keeps visitors engaged without feeling rushed.

Ideal for nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and rum aficionados, this tour provides a rich snapshot of Madeira’s eastern highlights in just 8 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the Madeira: East Island Tour with Rum Tasting?
The tour costs $53 per person.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours.

Which locations are included in the tour?
Stops include Pico do Arieiro, Ribeiro Frio, Guindaste viewpoint, Santana, Porto da Cruz, Engenhos do Norte (rum tasting), Ponta do Rosto, and Cristo Rei.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are stops where guests can find local food options.

What languages does the guide speak?
Guides speak Portuguese, English, and Spanish.

What should I bring for the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a camera, and water. The tour involves walking and viewing at various viewpoints.

Is the tour suitable for all physical abilities?
The tour involves walking and standing at viewpoints, so comfortable shoes are recommended; it is best suited for those able to stand and walk at moderate lengths.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Where does the tour pick up from?
Pickup is available from Funchal or Curral das Freiras. Drop-off is back at the starting point.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by PF Private Tours.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby