Madeira Island: Full-Day Guided Tour of Eastern Madeira

Monte, Madeira



Embark on a Full-day guided tour of eastern Madeira in a Jeep with hotel pickup. Pass the 3rd highest peak of the island, traverse the Laurisilva Forest, and admire the famous houses of Santana.

Madeira Eastern Island Tour: Nature, Heritage, and Rum Tasting

This full-day tour explores Madeira's eastern region, ideal for nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts based in Funchal.

Description

Begin with hotel pickup in Funchal and drive to Pico do Areeiro, Madeira’s third highest peak at 1,818 meters, offering panoramic views of the island and sometimes Porto Santo.

Descend to Ribeiro Frio, located on the northern slopes within the Laurissilva forest, an area rich in endemic flora and fauna. Visit the Aquaculture Centre to see rainbow trout farms and walk part of a forest trail, such as Vereda dos Balcões, that leads to mountain and forest views.

Continue to Santana to see traditional thatched triangular houses and learn about local crafts. Optional lunch can be taken here amid the village atmosphere.

Next, visit Porto da Cruz on the coast, home to Engenhos do Norte rum distillery. Discover Madeira’s sugar and rum heritage, taste local rums, and enjoy coastal views.

End the day in Caniçal, the island’s easternmost village formerly known for whaling. Its landscape features steep coastal cliffs and deep historical significance.

Return to your accommodation after an immersive day of Madeira’s landscapes and traditions.

Highlights

  • Views of Madeira’s eastern landscapes from Pico do Areeiro
  • Explore Ribeiro Frio’s trout ponds and Laurissilva forest trails
  • Admire Santana’s iconic straw-roofed houses
  • Rum tasting at Porto da Cruz’s historic distillery
  • Visit Caniçal, Madeira’s easternmost coastal village

Includes

  • Pickup and drop-off, including cruise ship transfers
  • Certified guides
  • First aid kits available in vehicles
  • Photo opportunities
  • Insurance in accordance with Portuguese law

Excludes

  • Food and drinks

Important Information

  • Lunch is not included but can be taken optionally in Santana

Cancellation Policy

Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

For best experience, bring comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera. Morning light offers ideal conditions for photography.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes visits to Pico do Areeiro, Ribeiro Frio village, Santana's traditional houses, rum tasting in Porto da Cruz, and a stop at Caniçal.
The tour begins with pickup from Funchal or your hotel in Madeira.
Pico do Areeiro stands at 1,818 meters and offers panoramic views of eastern Madeira as a key scenic stop.
Yes, the tour includes rum tasting at a factory in Porto da Cruz.
You will see traditional straw-roofed houses in the village of Santana.
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for exploring Madeira's natural sites.
Yes, the tour combines Madeira's natural landscapes with visits to cultural villages and local heritage sites.
Check the official booking website for up-to-date hours and availability.
This is a full-day tour, typically lasting several hours to cover all key locations in eastern Madeira.
Pickup is generally offered in Funchal and nearby hotels; confirm specific locations when booking.

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