Discover Madeira In 2 Days (from 09h To 17h – Each Day)

Discover Madeira In 2 Days with Feeling Madeira

This two-day tour from Funchal offers a balanced mix of nature, history, and tradition, all at an accessible price of $74.96 per person. The tour is designed to run from 09h to 17h each day, with pickup services and a mobile ticket for convenience. With an average booking time of 30 days in advance and a rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 36 reviews, this guided experience is highly recommended by 92% of participants. It appeals most to travelers seeking a structured yet flexible way to see Madeira’s highlights, especially those interested in scenic viewpoints, coastal villages, and unique natural sites.

While the tour covers a lot of ground, weather conditions can sometimes impact mountain views, as highlighted in reviews. Still, the itinerary offers a strong overview of Madeira’s diverse landscapes with knowledgeable guides leading the way. The tour suits visitors who want a comprehensive, guided introduction to the island without the hassle of planning individual excursions.

Key Points

• Two full days of sightseeing from Funchal with a local guide.
• Price of $74.96 per person, including pickup and a mobile ticket.
• Visits to iconic locations like Cabo Girao, Porto Moniz Natural Pools, and Santana.
• The tour includes stunning viewpoints, natural pools, charming villages, and mountain passes.
• Weather can affect mountain views; some stops, especially in the mountains, depend on good weather.
• Maximum group size of 15 ensures a personalized experience.

Starting from Funchal: Pickup and Orientation

The tour begins promptly at 8:30 am in Funchal, with pickup services available, making it straightforward for travelers staying in or near the city. The group size is limited to 15 people, fostering a comfortable and engaging atmosphere. The full-day schedule extends until 17h, and the tour operates on a mobile ticket basis for easy entry.

Day 1: Coastal and Mountain Highlights

Visiting Baia de Câmara de Lobos

The first stop is the traditional fishing village of Baia de Câmara de Lobos, just five kilometers from Funchal. Known for inspiring Sir Winston Churchill’s paintings, this spot offers a glimpse into Madeira’s authentic maritime culture. The visit lasts about 30 minutes, and there’s no admission fee. Travelers enjoy strolling through the colorful streets and soaking in the lively atmosphere.

The Thrilling Glass Skywalk at Cabo Girao

Next, the tour ascends to Cabo Girao, often considered the highest sea cliff in Europe. The viewpoint features a glass skywalk that provides a breathtaking perspective of the rugged coastline below. The 20-minute visit is an essential stop for spectacular photo opportunities. Note that admission tickets to the skywalk are not included in the tour fee.

Relaxing at Ribeira Brava Beach

Following the mountain views, the tour stops at Ribeira Brava Beach, a quiet stretch on Madeira’s southwest coast. The 30-minute stop allows for a brief walk along the wild stream-lined shoreline, with free access to enjoy the scenery and possibly dip your toes in the Atlantic.

Traversing the Encumeada Pass

An impressive drive takes travelers through the Caminho Real da Encumeada PR12, where a new road winds up to the 1004-meter-high Encumeada pass. The 15-minute stop offers incredible views of the north and south coasts, making it a favorite among those who appreciate panoramic mountain scenery.

Porto Moniz Natural Pools

The highlight of the afternoon is Porto Moniz, famous for its natural volcanic swimming pools. Spanning about 2 hours, this stop offers a chance to swim and relax in the calm, crystal-clear waters. The scenic sea views and unique natural formation make this a top photo spot and a refreshing break.

Miradouro do Veu da Noiva and Seixal

Next, the tour visits the Miradouro do Veu da Noiva, where volcanic pools and mountain views await. The 20-minute stop includes a visit to the Santo Antão Church and the opportunity to swim in volcanic pools. Later, the village of Seixal offers scenic views of sea and mountain, with a brief stop lasting 20 minutes.

Exploring São Vicente

The day concludes in São Vicente, a coastal village with a rich history. At the edge of the village, a large boulder features the Saint Vincent chapel, offering a picturesque setting. The 20-minute stop provides a taste of local culture and coastal charm.

Day 2: Mountain Peaks, Forests, and Eastern Villages

Reaching Pico do Arieiro

The second day starts with a visit to Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third highest peak at 1818 meters. The 30-minute stop offers spectacular views, especially on clear days when neighboring Porto Santo can be seen. Accessible by car, this viewpoint is perfect for snapshots of the island’s rugged terrain.

Walking through Ribeira Frio and Balcoes de Ribeiro Frio

Next, the group explores the Ribeiro Frio area, a popular starting point for levada walks. The 30-minute stop allows participants to enjoy the original vegetation of a region once covered by Laurissilva forest, a prehistoric relic. The nearby Balcoes de Ribeiro Frio provides scenic hiking views and a chance to experience Madeira’s lush greenery.

Viewing the Fortress of Faial

The tour then heads to the Fortress of Faial, a coastal landmark with superb views of the north and south coasts. The 20-minute stop emphasizes the dramatic cliffs and shoreline of Madeira, offering excellent opportunities for photography.

Visiting Santana’s Traditional Houses

The village of Santana is famous for its small, straw-thatched houses, which serve as stables and dwellings. The 2-hour stop here provides ample time to explore the charming architecture and learn about local building traditions that have persisted for centuries.

Ponta de São Lourenço: Untouched Nature

Another highlight is Ponta de São Lourenço, an almost untouched peninsula on Madeira’s eastern tip. The 20-minute stop offers dramatic landscapes of rock formations and sea, showcasing Mother Nature’s artistry in a relatively pristine environment.

Machico and the Island’s First Landing

The tour concludes with a visit to Loja do Mercado de Machico, a vibrant market and historic site. The 20-minute stop allows visitors to absorb local culture and learn about Madeira’s exploration history, as Machico was the first landing site in 1419.

Practicalities and Group Size

This tour operates with a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. The start time is 8:30 am, allowing ample daylight for the extensive itinerary. The inclusion of pickup services simplifies logistics, making it suitable for visitors staying in Funchal or nearby accommodations.

Weather and Experience Considerations

Weather can significantly influence the quality of the experience, especially at high-altitude stops like Pico do Arieiro and Cabo Girao. If the weather turns bad, views from mountain sites may be limited or obscured. The tour is designed to adapt to such conditions, and refunds or rescheduling are available if the experience is canceled due to poor weather.

Why Choose This Tour?

The feeling of adventure and variety of sights make this tour appealing. It balances coastal beauty, mountain panoramas, and cultural stops. The guides’ knowledge and the small group size enhance the overall experience, providing insights and comfort. The price point offers good value for seeing many of Madeira’s most iconic sites.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Travelers who want a structured overview of Madeira’s diverse landscapes benefit most. It suits those interested in natural scenery, historic villages, and spectacular viewpoints. However, travelers should be prepared for some walking at stops like Santana and Ponta de São Lourenço, and be aware that mountain views depend on weather conditions.

The Sum Up: A Solid Guided Introduction to Madeira

This two-day guided tour from Funchal delivers a comprehensive snapshot of Madeira’s coastlines, mountain peaks, and villages. The expert guides, well-planned stops, and small group size ensure an engaging experience for most visitors. The natural pools and panoramic viewpoints stand out as some of the tour’s highlights.

While weather can occasionally limit mountain views, the itinerary’s variety compensates with cultural insights and scenic diversity. The value for money and recommendation rate of 92% reflect its popularity. This tour is ideal for those wanting an organized, all-encompassing look at Madeira without the need to organize individual transport or schedules.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for most travelers; however, some walking at stops like Santana and Ponta de São Lourenço may require moderate effort.

Are meals included?
No, the tour does not include meals. Participants can bring snacks or purchase food at stops like Machico or Santana.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor sightseeing, with layers for mountain stops, and sturdy shoes for walking.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Will I see dolphins or whales?
This tour does not include dolphin or whale watching; similar experiences are available through other providers.

Are there opportunities for swimming?
Yes, at Porto Moniz, travelers can enjoy the natural volcanic pools for about two hours.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Most stops are accessible by vehicle, but some walking is involved. It’s best to check with the provider if specific mobility concerns exist.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 15 travelers ensures a personalized experience.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation as part of the guided tour is included, with pickup available.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour may be canceled or rescheduled, and a full refund is offered if weather conditions prevent the experience.