Madeira East Island Special & Levada Walking Tour

Experience the natural beauty and contrasts of eastern Madeira on a full-day guided tour through mountains, forests, and coastal landscapes. Start with a convenient hotel pickup in Funchal and enjoy scenic viewpoints overlooking the city. Travel high into the mountains to Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak, and take in breathtaking views. Continue to Ribeiro Frio to visit a traditional trout farm and enjoy an easy levada walk to the Balcões viewpoint within the Laurissilva forest. Discover Santana’s iconic thatched houses and stop for lunch in the north of the island. Afterward, follow the coast to Faial’s skywalk viewpoint and Porto da Cruz for a local rum tasting. End the day with impressive views of Ponta de São Lourenço, Machico, and nearby islands before returning to Funchal. ✔ Pico do Arieiro panoramic mountain views ✔ Levada walk in Ribeiro Frio Laurissilva forest ✔ Santana thatched houses and lunch stop ✔ Faial Skywalk, Porto da Cruz rum tasting

1. 1

   Funchal

   Pass by

   Begin your day with a comfortable pick-up from your hotel and travel by van toward the east of Madeira.

2. 2

   Pico do Arieiro

   2 hours

   Travel by van on a scenic drive from Funchal into Madeira’s mountainous interior, enjoying ever-changing landscapes from coastal views to lush forests. Arrive at Pico do Arieiro, the island’s third-highest peak (1,818 m), where you’ll stop for photos and take in breathtaking panoramic views of dramatic mountain ridges and valleys, often rising above the clouds—one of Madeira’s most iconic highlights.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   1 hour

   Visit Ribeiro Frio and enjoy a walk along PR11 – Levada dos Balcões, one of Madeira’s most beautiful and accessible levada trails. The walk takes you through lush laurel forest to a scenic viewpoint overlooking green valleys and rugged mountains, offering excellent photo opportunities. Note: This visit is optional and an extra fee applies.

4. 4

   Miradouro do guindaste

   30 min

   Stop at Miradouro do Guindaste, a spectacular coastal viewpoint offering panoramic views over the Atlantic Ocean and Madeira’s dramatic north coast—perfect for photos and a short break.

5. 5

   Santana

   1.5 hours

   Visit Santana, famous for its traditional A-frame thatched houses, one of Madeira’s most iconic symbols. Enjoy free time to explore the village, take photos, and soak in the local atmosphere. This stop also includes time for lunch or tasting regional food in the northern part of the island

6. 6

   Porto da Cruz

   35 min

   Stop in Porto da Cruz, a charming coastal village on Madeira’s north coast. Enjoy sightseeing and photo opportunities, along with an aperitif and free Madeira rum tasting, while taking in the ocean views Kindly note that the itinerary may change and is shared as an example.

7. 7

   Machico

   30 min

   Continue along Madeira’s scenic north coast, stopping at viewpoints that offer incredible views of Ponta de São Lourenço, the rugged coastline, and surrounding landscapes. On clear days, you may also see the Desertas Islands and Porto Santo. The tour then passes through Machico, one of the island’s oldest towns, with a brief optional photo stop to admire the bay and historic setting, depending on time and conditions.

8. 8

   Funchal

   1.5 hours

   Relax on the return journey to Funchal along a scenic route, enjoying views of the coastline and lush landscapes as you conclude your east Madeira tour.

9. 9

   Funchal

   Pass by

   You can choose to be dropped off at either Funchal city center or Caminho do Lombo Segundo 6, making it convenient to return to your hotel or next destination. The tour is expected to conclude around 17:00. Please be aware that the itinerary is only an example and may vary.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• This activity is not suitable for people with mobility impairments.
• Please bring comfortable shoes and a jacket for your comfort during the activity.
• Although Funchal can be quite warm in winter, please bring warm clothing as temperatures are cooler at higher altitudes.
• The tour duration is approximately 8 hours.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.