Return to Madeira Island in 2 days

Explore Madeira in Two Days for Just $86.76

This two-day Madeira tour offers an engaging way to see the island’s most iconic sights, all for $86.76 per person. Starting in Funchal, the tour is designed with a manageable pace, packing in visits to Cabo Girão, Santana, and the Porto Moniz natural pools. With pickup offered and a mobile ticket, the tour suits those who want a comprehensive yet flexible introduction to Madeira’s landscapes and culture.

Our research highlights its high rating of 5 stars from two reviews, emphasizing the quality of the guides and the balance of sightseeing. A key strength is the well-structured itinerary, which covers everything from dramatic coastal cliffs to lush forests, making it ideal for first-time visitors. While the tour includes many highlights, it’s worth noting that the group size is limited to 8, ensuring a more personal experience.

Key Points

• Two-day guided tour covering Madeira’s top attractions starting at 8:30 am in Funchal
• Price of $86.76 per person, with pickup included and mobile tickets
• Expert guides with strong language skills and friendly attitude
• Stops include Cabo Girão, Santana, Ribeiro Frio, and Porto Moniz natural pools
• Visit the highest peaks like Pico do Arieiro at 1810 meters and explore UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest
• Limited group size of 8 ensures personalized attention and a relaxed pace
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with weather considerations managed by flexible rescheduling

Starting Point in Funchal and Morning Pickup

This tour begins at 8:30 am in Funchal, with pickup service that makes it easy to join without the hassle of organizing transport. The small group size of up to 8 travelers fosters a more intimate experience, which is often appreciated for its relaxed and friendly atmosphere. The mobile ticket further simplifies the process, allowing guests to check in efficiently.

The day starts with a drive westward along Madeira’s coast, introducing the lush scenery and charming villages that set the tone for the adventure ahead. The pickup is near public transportation, making it convenient for most visitors staying in Funchal.

Discovering Câmara de Lobos, Cabo Girão, and Ribeira Brava

The first day’s journey takes a scenic route through Câmara de Lobos, a picturesque fishing village that gained fame through Winston Churchill’s 1950 painting. This spot offers a glimpse into Madeira’s maritime tradition and colorful harbor scenes.

Next, the group visits Cabo Girão, the highest sea cliff in Europe at 580 meters. The glass platform here gives spectacular views over the coast and the Atlantic, making it a standout photo stop. The tour then continues along the west coast to Ribeira Brava, where visitors can enjoy impressive views from the Encumeadas viewpoint at 1007 meters altitude.

The drive across Paúl da Serra, Madeira’s largest plateau, is a highlight itself, providing expansive views over the island’s diverse landscapes and a chance to appreciate the island’s varied terrain.

The Natural Wonders of Porto Moniz and the Atlantic Coast

Day one culminates with a visit to the Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools. These volcanic rock pools filled with crystal-clear seawater offer a true natural experience. Guests have time to relax, swim, or simply enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.

The drive along the Atlantic coast offers frequent vistas of rugged cliffs, quaint villages, and lush farming terraces. The tour passes through Véu da Noiva, a scenic viewpoint, before returning to Funchal. This day balances nature, culture, and breathtaking landscapes in a compact journey.

Climbing to the Heights of Pico do Arieiro

The second day begins with a trip to Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak at 1818 meters. The views here are spectacular, offering a panoramic look over the mountains and the island’s interior. This accessible mountain offers fantastic scenery and a sense of being on top of Madeira’s impressive elevation.

From there, the tour descends toward Ribeiro Frio, located within the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest. This lush, green area is a haven for nature lovers, offering a short walk along the Levada dos Balcões—a popular trail with stunning views of the cloud-covered mountains and deep valleys.

Santana’s Traditional Thatched Roof Houses and Atlantic Coast Views

Next, the group visits Santana, a village famous for its traditional thatched roof houses. These colorful and uniquely shaped dwellings provide insight into Madeira’s architectural heritage. Visitors enjoy a taste of local culture and history here, amid scenic surroundings.

After lunch in Santana, the tour continues to Ponta de São Lourenço, a rugged peninsula with dramatic rock formations and striking views over the Atlantic. This area is perfect for a short walk that highlights Madeira’s diverse coastal geology.

Exploring Machico and Returning to Funchal

The final stop on day two is Machico, a historic port town that marks the site of Madeira’s first landing in 1419. Its quiet beaches and charming streets offer a peaceful end to the tour. From Machico, the journey back to Funchal takes in the Véu da Noiva viewpoint, providing one last spectacular photo opportunity.

The tour concludes with a return to the starting point in Funchal, where the guided journey leaves travelers with a rundown of Madeira’s landscapes, villages, and natural wonders.

Practical Details and Booking Info

This two-day Madeira tour is priced at $86.76 per person and is most popular when booked about 47 days in advance. The duration is approximately two days, with the itinerary carefully balanced between scenic stops and cultural sites.

The tour includes admission tickets to key stops like Ribeiro Frio and Santana’s houses. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start, offering peace of mind in case of weather issues or schedule changes. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with good weather conditions recommended for the best experience.

Final Thoughts on the Madeira Two-Day Tour

This comprehensive Madeira experience offers a solid introduction to the island’s most iconic sights. The expert guides provide friendly and informative narration, making the journey engaging without feeling rushed. The inclusion of natural pools, mountain peaks, and charming villages ensures a well-rounded visit.

While the tour covers a lot in just two days, those seeking a more leisurely or in-depth exploration might prefer longer or more specialized excursions. However, for travelers wanting a cost-effective and well-organized overview of Madeira’s highlights, this tour fits the bill nicely.

Overall, it’s an excellent choice for first-time visitors eager to see Madeira’s diverse landscapes without the hassle of planning individual trips. The limited group size and careful itinerary provide a comfortable and memorable way to explore this beautiful island.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $86.76 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It spans approximately two days, starting at 8:30 am each day.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends in Funchal, Portugal, with pickup included.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with options for rescheduling if needed.

What stops are included on this tour?
Stops include Câmara de Lobos, Cabo Girão, Ribeira Brava, Porto Moniz natural pools, Pico do Arieiro, Santana, Ponta de São Lourenço, and Machico.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but physical activity at some stops, like walking the Levada or visiting viewpoints, should be considered.

Are meals included?
Lunch is provided on day 2 in Santana, but details about food are not specified beyond that.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, transportation is included as part of the guided service, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Absolutely, booking about 47 days in advance is common, ensuring availability.

Is this tour accessible for people with limited mobility?
While most stops are accessible, some mountain viewpoints and walking paths might present challenges for those with mobility restrictions.