Full Day Ponta de São Lourenço – Natural Reserve

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $52 per person and lasts around 6 hours, including transportation and stops.
• Scenic Highlights: Offers breathtaking views of the Deserted Islands and Porto Santo on a 5.5 km trail with 100 meters of elevation gain.
• Nature and Wildlife: Home to protected seabirds like Cory’s shearwater and the Madeiran storm-petrel, plus unique vegetation such as the Ice Flower.
• Guided Experience: Led by a professional mountain guide who provides insights into Madeira’s endemic species and natural features.
• Accessibility and Difficulty: Categorized as easy-moderate, suitable for those with a moderate fitness level willing to walk approximately 3.5 hours.
• Practical Tips: Be prepared with comfortable shoes, sunscreen, rain gear, and bring your own food/drinks for the hike.

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Entering Madeira’s Eastern Natural Wonder: Ponta de São Lourenço

The Full Day Ponta de São Lourenço – Natural Reserve tour offered by Adventure Kingdom provides a captivating experience of Madeira’s easternmost tip. Priced at $52 per person, this 6-hour guided walk takes you along a long, thin volcanic peninsula with striking views and diverse flora. The tour is perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those eager to explore Madeira’s rugged coastline and unique ecosystems.

Starting from your hotel pickup, the journey begins with a scenic drive in a comfortable van. There may be a quick stop at a local café before reaching the trailhead, setting the tone for a day immersed in natural beauty. The small-group setting ensures a personalized experience, and the guides are known for their knowledgeable insights into Madeira’s endemic species and geology.

From the Pickup to the Natural Reserve: Practical Details

The tour offers multiple pickup locations across Madeira, including hotels in Funchal, Santa Cruz, and other key spots. Guides wait for about 5 minutes after the scheduled pickup time to ensure everyone is ready. Due to external factors, there might be slight adjustments to pickup times, so arriving 10 minutes early is wise.

Once on the road, a scenic drive takes about 30 minutes from Funchal to Caniçal, where the trail begins. The entire experience is designed to combine easy access with spectacular views, making it attractive for a broad audience, though it’s not suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Discovering the Unique Landscape of Ponta de São Lourenço

The trail is a 5.5 km route with an elevation gain of about 100 meters, classified as easy to moderate in difficulty. The walk is well-suited for those with moderate fitness, offering about 3.5 hours of walking, split into two main segments with a rest stop at Casa do Sardinha.

What makes this landscape special is its volcanic origin, creating a rugged coastline with dramatic cliffs and unusual vegetation. You will see plants such as Everlasting (Helichrysum devium Johns) and the Ice Flower (Mezembryanthemum crystallinum), which thrive here due to the specific climate and soil conditions.

Viewing Madeira’s Coastal Beauty and Seabird Habitat

One of the tour’s biggest highlights is the chance to see breathtaking views of the Deserted Islands and Porto Santo — weather permitting, of course. The coastal vistas are truly impressive, with the opportunity to capture photos of cliffs dropping into the ocean and endemic birdlife.

The area lies within a partial natural reserve and is part of the Natura 2000 network. It’s a vital habitat for protected seabirds like Cory’s shearwater, Madeiran storm-petrel, Bulwers petrel, and the common tern. Birdwatching enthusiasts will find plenty to observe, and guides share insights into these species’ habits and conservation.

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Casa do Sardinha: The Rest Stop and Scenic Viewpoint

At the end of the trail, hikers reach Casa do Sardinha, a charming rest stop and photo spot. Here, after a short break, travelers can enjoy scenic views and reflect on the stunning landscape before heading back along the same trail. The 30-minute stop offers a perfect chance to take photos, relax, and absorb the natural surroundings.

The Return Journey and Additional Scenic Drives

After the hike, the tour includes more scenic drives along Madeira’s coast, lasting approximately 15-30 minutes at a time. These drives provide further opportunities for photo stops and to enjoy the lush scenery of the island’s southeastern and eastern regions.

There are also breaks at local cafés during the return, each lasting 15 minutes, giving travelers a chance to refresh with refreshments or simply enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of Madeira’s villages.

The Guides: Knowledgeable and Friendly

Guides from Adventure Kingdom are praised in reviews for their expertise and friendly approach. They share insights about Madeira’s endemic plants, geology, and birdlife, making the walk both educational and engaging. They also ensure safety and comfort, especially when facing windy conditions or uneven terrain.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

This tour is designed for those with a moderate fitness level. It involves a 3.5-hour walk with some brisk sections and winding paths. It is not suitable for children under 8 years, pregnant women, or individuals with mobility problems or health issues. Proper footwear, such as hiking shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing are essential.

Pricing, Inclusions, and Practical Tips

At $52 per person, the tour provides a guided nature walk, transportation, and insurance coverage. The nature maintenance contribution fee of €3 is payable directly to the guide on the day and supports trail preservation.

Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, rain gear, and your own food and drinks—these are not included and may not be available for purchase along the trail. The tour does not include meals but offers a full, well-paced experience of Madeira’s natural landscape.

Who Should Book This Tour

This adventure suits nature lovers, bird enthusiasts, and active travelers who enjoy moderate hikes with spectacular coastal views. It is ideal for those looking to explore Madeira’s volcanic landscape, learn about endemic species, and enjoy stunning scenery without the intensity of more challenging hikes.

Final Thoughts on the Ponta de São Lourenço Tour

The Full Day Ponta de São Lourenço tour offers a well-rounded, scenic, and educational experience of Madeira’s eastern coast. Its affordable price, professional guides, and beautiful landscapes make it a compelling choice for nature enthusiasts.

While the walk is not very strenuous, travelers should be comfortable walking around 3.5 hours and prepared for windy conditions. The stunning coastal vistas and endemic wildlife make this tour worthwhile for those eager to see Madeira’s less-trodden natural side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not suitable for children under 8 years due to the walk’s length and difficulty.

What should I bring for the hike?
Bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen, rain gear, and food and drinks, as these are not included and may not be available for purchase.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, guides are professional, offering insights into Madeira’s endemic species and natural features, making the experience both informative and enjoyable.

How difficult is the walk?
The walk is classified as easy-moderate, suitable for those with moderate fitness. It involves about 3.5 hours of walking with a 100-meter elevation gain.

What views can I expect?
Expect breathtaking vistas of the Deserted Islands to the south and Porto Santo to the north, weather permitting.

Can I see seabirds during the tour?
Yes, the area is home to protected seabirds, including Cory’s shearwater and Madeiran storm-petrel.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby