North-East Madeira: Santana, Porto da Cruz, Faial, Caniçal - Scenic Overlook at Penha de Águia

North-East Madeira: Santana, Porto da Cruz, Faial, Caniçal

Explore Madeira's northeast with a 6.5-hour guided tour visiting Santana, Porto da Cruz, Faial, and Caniçal for $68 per person, includes vehicle and photos.

Discover Madeira’s Stunning North-East Coast with a Small Group Tour

At $68 per person for a 6.5-hour journey, this North-East Madeira tour offers a balanced mix of cultural sights, natural beauty, and local flavors. Led by a knowledgeable guide in a small group of only 4 participants, the experience promises personalized attention and flexibility, with a live guide speaking English and Portuguese. The tour starts with a pickup from Madeira in a premium electric vehicle, making the ride comfortable and eco-friendly.

This tour is perfect for those eager to explore the island at a relaxed pace, visiting several iconic locations without feeling rushed. It’s especially suitable for travelers interested in traditional architecture, volcanic landscapes, and authentic Madeira experiences. The inclusion of high-quality photos and insurance adds to the value, though it’s worth noting that lunch, meals, drinks, and entrance fees are not included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

North-East Madeira: Santana, Porto da Cruz, Faial, Caniçal - Key Points

  • Price and Duration: Only $68 for 6.5 hours of exploration, making it a cost-effective way to see Madeira’s northeast.
  • Small Group Experience: Limited to 4 participants for a more personalized tour with flexible timing.
  • Inclusive Transport: Uses an electric premium vehicle for eco-friendly, comfortable travel.
  • Highlights: Visits to Santana’s thatched houses, Porto da Cruz rum distillery, Caniçal fishing village, and scenic viewpoints like Penha de Águia.
  • Cultural and Natural Sights: Combines traditional villages, volcanic cliffs, rugged coastlines, and ocean views.
  • Booking and Flexibility: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance, book now, pay later for added convenience.

Starting Point and Tour Logistics

The tour begins with a pickup from Madeira, where you’ll be collected in a white Smart #3 with red accents. It includes hotel pickup, ensuring a smooth start to your day. The small group size ensures a comfortable, flexible experience, allowing for longer stops at each location if desired. The live guide not only shares informative commentary but also makes the experience more engaging.

The tour’s 6.5-hour duration offers a rundown of the northeast coast, with enough time at each stop to soak in the sights or take plenty of photos. The availability and starting times vary, so check in advance for the best options.

Exploring Santana’s Traditional Straw-Roofed Houses

North-East Madeira: Santana, Porto da Cruz, Faial, Caniçal - Exploring Santana’s Traditional Straw-Roofed Houses

One of the key highlights of this tour is the visit to Santana, famous for its iconic thatched-roof houses. The lush green surroundings and traditional architecture make this a photographer’s paradise and a chance to see Madeira’s architectural heritage firsthand. You can stroll through the village, observe the colorful houses, and learn about local history from the guide.

Santana’s charm lies in its authenticity and distinctive style, making it a popular stop. Visitors appreciate the relaxed pace that allows plenty of time to explore without feeling hurried.

Caniçal and Its Maritime Heritage

Next, the fishing village of Caniçal presents a glimpse into Madeira’s whaling past. Once the island’s whaling hub, Caniçal now offers scenic coastal views and a chance to walk along the coastline. While there is no mention of specific activities like visiting museums, the maritime atmosphere and ocean vistas are highlights.

The small stop here allows for a brief walk or photo session, giving a sense of the local fishing culture and rugged coastal scenery.

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Porto da Cruz and the Rum Connection

The tour offers a taste of Madeira’s local spirit in Porto da Cruz, famed for its rum distillery. Travelers can sample authentic sugarcane rum, which is a way to experience the islands’ culinary traditions. Besides tasting, the scenic coastline and cliffs provide excellent photo opportunities.

The scenic setting of Porto da Cruz enhances the experience, making it a favorite for those who enjoy local drinks and coastal views.

Admiring the Rugged Cliffs of Faial

The village of Faial is set amidst towering mountains and surrounded by rugged terrain, offering spectacular views of Madeira’s untamed landscape. The valley setting and mountain backdrop create a dramatic scene perfect for photographs.

Here, visitors get to appreciate Madeira’s volcanic origins and the natural beauty that defines the island’s character. The stop in Faial is ideal for those wanting to see the rugged inland terrain and mountain vistas.

Scenic Overlook at Penha de Águia

North-East Madeira: Santana, Porto da Cruz, Faial, Caniçal - Scenic Overlook at Penha de Águia

An essential part of this tour is the chance to view Penha de Águia, a majestic viewpoint offering sweeping ocean and mountain vistas. This spectacular lookout provides a perfect photo opportunity and a moment to appreciate the vastness of Madeira.

The views from Penha de Águia are praised for their breathtaking beauty, making it a highlight of the trip.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

This North-East Madeira tour excels in offering a comprehensive snapshot of the region’s cultural, historical, and natural highlights. The small group size and live guide deliver a personalized experience, with flexibility at each stop. The use of an electric vehicle enhances the eco-friendly appeal, while the inclusive photos help preserve memories.

The tour’s balance between villages, scenic viewpoints, and coastal landscapes provides diverse experiences, all within a manageable half-day.

Accessibility and Booking Details

The tour is wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity for different mobility needs. It includes insurance, and the cancellation policy allows for a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance. Booking is flexible with a pay later option, and availability varies based on demand.

Participants should be prepared for standing or walking at stops, but the overall pace is relaxed thanks to the small group and flexible timing.

Final Thoughts on the North-East Madeira Tour

This tour offers a well-rounded, value-packed way to explore Madeira’s northeast coast. It combines cultural charm with stunning scenery, perfect for first-time visitors or those wanting a shorter, focused experience. The $68 price, small group size, and personalized approach set it apart from larger, less flexible excursions.

Travelers who appreciate authentic villages, spectacular views, and local flavors will find this tour especially rewarding. The flexibility, knowledgeable guides, and beautiful locations make it a strong choice for exploring Madeira’s northeastern treasures.

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North-East Madeira: Santana, Porto da Cruz, Faial, Caniçal



5.0

“A great choice to get to know the island. We highly recommend "Madeira Electric Tours". Our guide Guilherme was very nice, accommodating and above …”

— GetYourGuide traveler, November 28, 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts 6.5 hours, including stops at various locations along the northeast coast.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transport in an electric premium vehicle, a tour guide, water bottles, high-quality photos, and insurance.

Are meals or entrance fees included?
No, lunch, meals, drinks, and entrance fees are not included in the package.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.

What language does the guide speak?
The live guide speaks English and Portuguese.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to 4 participants, ensuring a small, personalized experience.

Is there a pickup service?
Yes, pickup is included from Madeira, with a white Smart #3 with red accents as the vehicle.

You can check availability for your dates here:
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