Madeira : East Tour – Santana North Side

Discover Madeira’s Highest Peaks and Traditions on the East Tour

This Madeira East Tour offers a full-day adventure for those eager to experience the island’s most iconic natural and cultural sights. Priced at $36 per person, it lasts approximately 8 hours and features hotel pickup and drop-off. With a small group limit of 15 participants, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere, led by knowledgeable guides speaking English, French, German, Spanish, or Portuguese.

The tour begins with a visit to Camacha, a parish famous for its history in Portuguese football, setting the tone for a day filled with local insights. The real highlights unfold with a visit to the Pico do Areeiro, the third highest mountain on the island at 1818 meters, offering spectacular views over Madeira’s rugged central mountains. From there, the journey takes you through diverse landscapes, traditional villages, and viewpoints, providing a well-rounded picture of the eastern side of Madeira.

While this tour offers many natural and cultural highlights, it is designed for active participants comfortable with some walking and outdoor exploration. It is suitable for most travelers but not recommended for those with mobility impairments or pregnant women.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Visit the third-highest peak, Pico do Areeiro, at 1818 meters for breathtaking vistas.
• Explore Santana’s iconic thatched houses, a symbol of Madeira’s traditional architecture.
• Enjoy panoramic views from Ponta do Rosto, overlooking the north coast cliffs.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with a flexible booking policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed experience.
• Tour operates rain or shine, so come prepared for the weather.

Starting the Day at Camacha, the Football Birthplace

The adventure kicks off in Camacha, a village known for its craft traditions and interesting historical note as the place where football was played for the first time in Portugal. The guide provides engaging explanations about local customs and history, setting a friendly tone for the day.

This stop also offers a glimpse of Madeira’s rural charm, with opportunities to appreciate traditional crafts and local life before heading into the mountains. The tour’s pacing allows enough time for photos and questions, making it a good introduction to the island’s cultural fabric.

Climbing to Pico do Areeiro for Elevated Views

The ascent to Pico do Areeiro is the tour’s centerpiece. As the third highest peak on Madeira, it stands at 1818 meters and provides spectacular panoramic views over the island’s central mountainous massif. The experience of standing at such altitude provides a sense of Madeira’s rugged terrain and natural beauty.

The guide explains the significance of this peak in the island’s geography, offering insights into the landscape and climate. Visitors can expect a refreshing mountain breeze and photo opportunities from this elevated vantage point. The descent from Pico do Areeiro leads to other scenic stops, maintaining a steady rhythm throughout the day.

Ribeira Frio Forest Park: Laurissilva and Trout Nurseries

Descending from the mountains, the tour visits Ribeiro Frio Forest Park, a lush area where endemic species such as the laurel tree (Laurus novocanariensis) thrive within Madeira’s famous Laurissilva forest. Here, visitors can observe endemic plants and learn about the region’s unique biodiversity.

A highlight is the visit to trout nurseries, which showcases the local aquaculture practices. The peaceful forest setting offers a contrast to the mountain peaks, enriching the experience with close-up encounters with Madeira’s flora and fauna.

More Great Tours Nearby

Santana’s Traditional Thatched Houses

Next, the tour reaches Santana, in the north of the island, famed for its colorful “thatched houses”. These picturesque dwellings are distinctive symbols of Madeira’s rural architecture and draw many visitors for their charming appearance.

In Santana, the guide shares stories about local life, traditions, and the history behind these unique homes. The town itself is quiet but full of character, making it a perfect spot for photos and soaking in authentic Madeira culture.

Porto da Cruz and the Rum Factory Experience

On the return journey, the tour passes through Porto da Cruz, a small seaside parish where visitors can visit a sugar cane rum factory. Although details about the visit are not specific, this stop provides insight into Madeira’s local spirits and traditional production methods.

The coastal scenery here is striking, with views of the sea and cliffs. The visit to the rum factory is an optional highlight, especially appealing to those interested in tasting and learning about Madeira’s famous rum.

Ponta do Rosto Viewpoint at Ponta de São Lourenço

The easternmost point of Madeira, Ponta do Rosto, offers spectacular views over the cliffs of the north coast. The viewpoint is part of the Ponta de São Lourenço nature reserve, characterized by dramatic rock formations and wild landscapes.

From this vantage point, visitors can take in sweeping vistas of the Atlantic and the rugged coastline. It’s an ideal spot for photos and appreciating Madeira’s coastal beauty. The guide explains the geological features and natural significance of the area.

Pico do Facho and the Return to Funchal

On the way back to Funchal, the tour pauses at the Pico do Facho viewpoint, which overlooks the Machico valley. This final stop provides a last scenic perspective of Madeira’s diverse terrain before concluding the day.

The tour typically ends after returning to the hotel, giving participants time to reflect on a day filled with mountains, traditional villages, viewpoints, and local culture.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient for visitors staying in Funchal or nearby. The small group size of up to 15 participants ensures a more personalized experience, with the opportunity for questions and relaxed pacing.

Booking is flexible, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Payment is deferred until booking, allowing travelers to reserve with confidence. The activity runs rain or shine, so packing appropriate clothing is advised.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

At $36, the tour provides a rundown of Madeira’s mountains, traditional architecture, and viewpoints within an 8-hour window. The inclusion of hotel pickup adds convenience, and the small group size enhances comfort and interaction.

While the tour does not include meals or drinks—any extras are at personal expense—the stops at Santana, Porto da Cruz, and Ponta do Rosto make for a varied and engaging day. The friendly guides and well-paced itinerary ensure a satisfying experience for those looking to see Madeira’s highlights without strenuous activity.

Final Thoughts on the Madeira East Tour

This 8-hour Madeira East Tour offers a balanced mix of natural beauty and cultural insights. The journey to Pico do Areeiro, the charm of Santana’s traditional houses, and the stunning Ponta do Rosto viewpoint make it an appealing choice for visitors who want an immersive day on the island’s eastern side.

The small group setting and live guides in multiple languages add a personal touch, making the experience both informative and comfortable. While not suitable for travelers with mobility issues, most active you will find the stops manageable and rewarding.

For those seeking a cost-effective, full-day exploration of Madeira’s scenic east side, this tour delivers a well-organized and memorable adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it easy to join the tour without worrying about logistics.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, with specific starting times depending on availability.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It is not suitable for those with mobility impairments and is best for active participants comfortable with some walking.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. Extras of personal nature, such as snacks or purchases, are at your own expense.

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

What are the highlights of this tour?
The Pico do Areeiro, Santana’s thatched houses, Ponta do Rosto viewpoint, and the visit to Porto da Cruz are top features.

Is there a dress code or specific clothing needed?
Comfortable outdoor clothing and sturdy shoes are recommended, especially for mountain and viewpoint stops.

Would this tour be good during bad weather?
Yes, the tour operates rain or shine, so be prepared for weather changes.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more personal experience.

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