East private full day

Explore Madeira’s East Side in Comfort and Style

This private full-day tour offers an engaging way to see the highlights of Madeira’s eastern region without the hassle of navigation or driving. Priced at $462.86 per group (up to 6 people), it provides a 7 to 9-hour journey that covers scenic viewpoints, charming villages, and natural attractions. The tour is perfect for those seeking a personalized experience, with a private driver and local guide leading the way. It is well-suited for visitors who want to see key sites efficiently while enjoying the comfort of a luxury 4×4.

A standout feature of this tour is its inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off—making the day smooth from start to finish. Travelers usually book about 26 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. With full flexibility in the itinerary and no additional entrance fees for most stops, this experience offers both convenience and a chance to enjoy Madeira’s authentic charm.

Key Points

• Private guided experience with a luxury 4×4 vehicle
• Hotel pickup and drop-off included, with extra charges outside Funchal
• Visits Machico, Santana, Portela, Porto da Cruz, and Pico do Arieiro
• No driving worries—a local driver navigates scenic coastal and off-road tracks
• Includes local guide to help with translations and local insights
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance

Discovering Machico and Its Coastal Viewpoints

The tour begins with a visit to Loja do Mercado de Machico, a lively market where the viewpoint over the town offers a quick but memorable introduction to Madeira’s coastal charm. Although the viewpoint is free to access, it sets the tone for the day’s exploration of the island’s natural beauty.

Next, the off-road adventure takes you along unmarked tracks through native forests, showcasing Madeira’s rich flora. This part of the journey emphasizes Madeira’s unspoiled landscapes and provides a sense of adventure, all without the need to worry about navigating tricky terrain.

Panoramic Views at Miradouro da Portela

The Miradouro da Portela viewpint offers sweeping vistas of the coastline and countryside. It’s a quick stop, just 10 minutes, but one that delivers stunning photo opportunities. Travelers appreciate the free access and the chance to capture Madeira’s scenic beauty in a short amount of time.

Sampling Madeira’s Traditions at Engenhos do Norte

One of the more unique stops is at the rum factory, Engenhos do Norte. Here, visitors get a 15-minute look at how Madeira’s famous rum is produced. While admission tickets are not included, it remains an interesting cultural highlight and provides insight into Madeira’s local craftsmanship.

Exploring Santana’s Traditional Houses

The village of Santana is renowned for its colorful, triangular traditional houses. In a 15-minute visit, travelers see these iconic structures that give a glimpse of Madeira’s historical architecture and rural lifestyle. The stop is free and offers great photo opportunities, perfect for those interested in local culture.

Breath-taking Views at Pico do Arieiro

The tour’s finale includes a 15-minute stop at the Pico do Arieiro viewpoint, one of the most impressive panoramas on the island. From this high vantage point, visitors enjoy views of rugged mountains and cloud-covered peaks. It’s an ideal spot for photos and appreciating Madeira’s dramatic landscape.

Flexibility and Convenience with a Private Guide

Throughout the day, a local guide enhances the experience by translating and providing insights into the history and culture of each site. This personalized touch makes the tour feel intimate and informative. The driver/guide ensures comfortable transport across coastal roads and off-road paths, allowing visitors to relax and take in the scenery.

Considerations and Additional Costs

While most of the stops are free, some attractions like the rum factory may require an additional ticket if visitors wish to tour the inside. Lunch is not included, giving guests the freedom to choose a local restaurant or picnic along the way.

For guests staying outside Funchal, pickup from hotels and guest houses involves an additional fee, which should be arranged beforehand. The tour is designed to accommodate most travelers, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The combination of private transportation, customized itinerary, and local guidance sets this experience apart from larger group excursions. The 4×4 vehicle makes it easy to access off-road routes and scenic viewpoints that are less reachable by standard tours.

Rated 5.0 out of 5 based on 12 reviews, the tour receives high praise for its knowledgeable guide—notably, Nelson is highlighted for his engaging storytelling and relevance of information. The full-day format allows ample time to experience Madeira’s east side without feeling rushed.

Who Will Truly Appreciate This Madeira Tour?

This private full-day experience is ideal for small groups seeking a personalized, comfortable way to see Madeira’s highlights. It appeals to those who value expert local guidance and want to avoid the stress of self-driving. Visitors eager to explore off-the-beaten-path locations and enjoy scenic viewpoints will find this tour especially rewarding.

The Sum Up: A Tailored, Scenic Exploration of Madeira’s East Coast

This East private full-day tour offers a well-rounded way to discover Madeira’s eastern region, combining scenic vistas, cultural sites, and natural beauty. The private guide enhances the experience with insightful commentary, while the luxury 4×4 ensures comfort and access to hard-to-reach spots.

While the price may be higher than standard group tours, the personalized nature and flexibility make it a worthwhile choice for those wanting a tailored experience. Most families or small groups will appreciate the easy logistics, stunning viewpoints, and authentic local visits.

If you prefer an intimate journey with a focus on scenery and culture, this tour offers a rewarding way to spend a day exploring Madeira’s east side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour price?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, but additional charges apply for pickup outside of Funchal.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 to 9 hours, allowing ample time for sightseeing and breaks.

Are there any additional costs?
Most stops are free, though admission tickets may be required for certain attractions like the rum factory. Lunch is not included.

Can children participate?
Yes, children can join but must be accompanied by an adult.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour for up to 6 people, offering an intimate experience.

Who is the guide?
The tour features a local driver/guide who provides commentary and translation, notably praised for Nelson’s engaging storytelling.

Is this tour suitable for off-road enthusiasts?
Yes, the off-road tracks through native forests provide a sense of adventure in a luxury vehicle.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, camera, and perhaps a jacket for higher altitudes like Pico do Arieiro.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

How do I book or contact the provider?
You can contact Green Devil Safari at +351919748735 or via email at [email protected].