From Funchal: Santana and Pico do Areeiro East Island Tour

Discover Madeira’s East Side: From Pico do Areeiro to Santana

This 8-hour guided tour from Funchal offers a well-rounded experience of Madeira’s eastern landscapes and cultural sites for just $45 per person. Led by a professional guide, the trip features stops at Madeira’s third-highest peak, Pico do Areeiro, the charming village of Santana, and the lush Laurissilva forest in Ribeiro Frio. The tour provides a mix of natural beauty, local tradition, and scenic views, making it a great choice for travelers who want an overview of Madeira’s eastern highlights in one day.

One of the tour’s strengths is its carefully curated stops, which include a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site and the iconic colorful houses of Santana. The full-day schedule balances sightseeing with enough time at each location to enjoy the scenery and take photos. A potential consideration is that lunch is not included, so planning ahead for a meal in Santana is recommended. The tour is best suited for those eager to see Madeira’s natural landscapes and cultural spots without the need for strenuous activity.

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Key Points

• Price: Only $45 per person for a full-day tour.
• Duration: The experience lasts approximately 8 hours.
• Stops: Includes Pico do Areeiro, Ribeiro Frio, Santana, Faial, Portela, Ponta São Lourenço, and Machico.
• Transport: Conducted with minibus transportation that includes pickup and drop-off in Funchal.
• Guiding: Led by a live tour guide speaking English, German, French, Portuguese, and Spanish.
• Highlights: Spectacular views from Pico do Areeiro, the Laurissilva forest in Ribeiro Frio, and the colorful houses of Santana.
• Booking flexibility: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and reserve now, pay later to keep plans open.

Exploring Madeira’s Natural Beauty at Pico do Areeiro

The tour’s highlight is a visit to Pico do Areeiro, the third highest peak on the island at 1818 meters altitude. From this vantage point, travelers enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of Madeira, with rocky formations piercing through the clouds creating dramatic visuals. The guide provides insight into the landscape, making this stop both scenic and informative. The often-cloudy weather adds to the sense of adventure and provides unique photo opportunities, especially when rocky formations appear to reach into the sky.

Pico do Areeiro is accessible via a guided walk, and the elevated setting offers a sense of altitude that makes it a must-visit for panoramic lovers. The overall experience at the peak captures Madeira’s rugged terrain and is often praised for its unbeatable vistas.

Walking Through the UNESCO Laurissilva Forest in Ribeiro Frio

After the mountain stop, the tour continues into Ribeiro Frio, a small village in the heart of the Laurissilva forest. Recognized as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, this woodland is believed to be 90% primary forest, showcasing Madeira’s lush, ancient greenery. The area features a trout farm with stone enclosures and flowing levada water, providing a natural setting that feels untouched.

In Ribeiro Frio, visitors can observe a wide variety of plants and wildlife thriving in their natural habitat. The quiet trails and scenic surroundings make for a peaceful stop, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike. The lush greenery, combined with the cool mountain air, creates a refreshing contrast to the coastal areas of Madeira.

Santana’s Colorful Houses and Cultural Charm

The village of Santana is famous for its triangular, thatched-roof houses painted in vibrant primary colors. The tour dedicates a lengthy stop here, giving ample time to explore the traditional architecture and local way of life. Visitors often find the cheerful houses photogenic and emblematic of Madeira’s rural charm.

In Santana, there is an opportunity to enjoy an optional lunch — a good chance to try local delicacies or simply relax amid the scenic surroundings. The village provides a glimpse into Madeira’s cultural traditions, making it a highlight for those interested in local history and customs.

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Scenic Views from Faial and Penha de Águia

Next, the tour heads to Faial, where the imposing rock of Penha de Águia separates Faial from Porto da Cruz. The viewpoint offers dramatic coastal scenery and striking land formations. The guide shares insights about local geology and geography while visitors take in the sweeping ocean views.

The rock formations and rugged coastline are particularly photogenic, perfect for capturing the island’s natural forces at work. The stop at Faial complements other scenic points with its impressive sea cliffs and rocky landscape.

Ponta São Lourenço: The Easternmost Tip of Madeira

The tour’s final scenic stop is at Ponta São Lourenço, situated in the most eastern part of the island. The landscape here is characterized by rocky terrain, sea views, and a stark, natural environment. This area is famous for its unique geological formations and the chance to observe Madeira’s coastline at its most rugged.

The land here is a contrast to the lush forests, offering a more barren and windswept environment. Visitors can enjoy walking along the trails and taking in the dramatic scenery before heading back towards Funchal.

Machico and the Return Journey

The last stop is the larger city of Machico, the first landing point for Portuguese navigators on Madeira. This historic town offers a relaxed atmosphere and a glimpse into the island’s early exploration days. Afterward, the tour returns round-trip to Funchal, completing the 8-hour experience.

The return journey is an opportunity to reflect on the day’s highlights and enjoy the views from the minibus as the landscape transitions from mountains to coastlines.

Practical Details and Logistics

The tour includes pickup and drop-off in Funchal, making it convenient for travelers staying in the city. The transportation is by minibus, with a guide providing commentary in multiple languages—English, German, French, Portuguese, and Spanish. The tour operates on a flexible schedule, with starting times subject to slight variations, so early booking and checking the specific time is advised.

Luggage restrictions apply, and oversize luggage is not permitted, so pack accordingly for a day trip. The lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or dine during the stop in Santana.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Other Madeira Excursions

Compared to other options, this tour offers a comprehensive look at Madeira’s east side within a single day, combining mountain peaks, forests, traditional villages, and coastal scenery. Its affordable price point of $45 makes it accessible, and the large number of stops ensures travelers get a varied experience.

The expert guidance enhances the experience, with positive reviews highlighting knowledgeable guides who keep the group entertained and informed despite unpredictable weather conditions. The flexible cancellation policy adds peace of mind for uncertain schedules.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This tour appeals most to nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those interested in Madeira’s cultural traditions. It’s ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of scenic views, cultural insight, and outdoor exploration without strenuous activity. The family-friendly pace makes it suitable for a wide range of visitors, though those with mobility issues should be mindful of the altitude at Pico do Areeiro.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Day in Madeira’s East

The From Funchal: Santana and Pico do Areeiro East Island Tour offers a cost-effective, scenic, and culturally enriching experience of Madeira’s eastern landscapes. The combination of mountain peaks, lush forests, traditional villages, and coastal vistas provides a diverse snapshot of the island’s beauty.

While the lack of included lunch might be a minor inconvenience, the ample stops and expert guides make this tour a strong choice for those wanting an informative and visually stunning day. Its affordable price, convenient logistics, and positive reviews for guide knowledge and pacing make it a reliable pick for your Madeira adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included. There is a stop in Santana where you can choose to have lunch independently.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with multiple stops along the eastern side of Madeira.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Pico do Areeiro, Ribeiro Frio, Santana, Faial, Portela, Ponta São Lourenço, and Machico.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes minibus transportation with pickup and drop-off in Funchal.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides operate in English, German, French, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Are there any restrictions on luggage?
Yes, oversize luggage is not permitted on the tour.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Would this tour suit families or solo travelers?
Yes, the paced stops and diverse sights make it suitable for both families and solo travelers interested in Madeira’s east side.

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