Join us for an unforgettable journey exploring the east side of Madeira! Start your adventure at Pico do Arieiro, where you’ll be captivated by breathtaking panoramic views. Wander through the scenic Vereda dos Balcões trail in Ribeiro Frio, and immerse yourself in the charm of Santana’s traditional thatched houses. Delight in the stunning vistas at Miradouro do Guindaste, and soak up the coastal beauty of Porto da Cruz. Marvel at the dramatic landscapes of Ponta de São Lourenço and visit the iconic Statue of Jesus Christ. Book your tour today and experience the magic of Madeira’s east side!
THE EAST SIDE TOUR
itinerary
PICO DO ARIEIRO
Standing at 1,818 meters, Pico do Arieiro is Madeira's third-highest peak. Located in the central part of the island, it offers stunning panoramic views that can extend to the neighboring island of Porto Santo on clear days. The peak is accessible by car, with a paved road leading to a parking area near the summit. The peak's unique weather conditions can vary rapidly, so it's advisable to bring appropriate clothing. Pico do Arieiro promises an extraordinary experience filled with natural beauty and spectacular vistas.
RIBEIRO FRIO
A gateway to some of the island's most scenic levada walks, including the well-known Levada do Balcões. This relatively easy trail leads to a stunning viewpoint, Miradouro dos Balcões, offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The area is rich in endemic flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers and bird watchers. The cool, fresh air and the serene environment of Ribeiro Frio provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the island's nature.
SANTANA
Santana, located on the northeastern coast of Madeira, is renowned for its picturesque, traditional A-frame houses, known as "palheiros." These charming thatched-roof cottages, painted in vibrant colors, have become a symbol of the island and offer a glimpse into Madeira's rural heritage. With its blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and traditional charm, Santana is a captivating destination for visitors to Madeira.
MIRADOURO DO GUINDASTE
Miradouro do Guindaste is a stunning viewpoint near the town of Faial. Perched on a cliff, this lookout offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the rugged coastline, and the dramatic cliffs that define the island's landscape. On clear days, visitors can see the Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula and the Desertas Islands in the distance. It's a perfect spot for photography, with the interplay of light and shadows on the ocean and cliffs creating picturesque scenes.
PORTA DO CRUZ
Nestled between the ocean and the mountains, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty and traditional Madeiran life. One of the main attractions in Porto da Cruz is the North Mills Distillery (Engenhos do Norte), where visitors can learn about the traditional production of rum and sugarcane brandy, key industries in Madeira's history. The distillery still uses vintage machinery, providing a fascinating glimpse into the past. The village is also famous for its surf-friendly beaches, particularly Praia da Alagoa, which attracts surfers from around the world due to its consistent waves. The black sand and pebble beach is a great spot for relaxation and enjoying the coastal views.
PONTA DE SAO LOURENCO
Ponta de São Lourenço, located on the easternmost tip of Madeira, is a stunning nature reserve known for its dramatic landscapes and unique geological features. This peninsula, characterized by its rugged cliffs, volcanic rock formations, and striking contrast between the deep blue Atlantic Ocean and the arid terrain, offers a completely different scenery from the lush greenery typical of the island. Flora and fauna in Ponta de São Lourenço are distinctive, the reserve's semi-arid climate supports a different ecosystem compared to the rest of the island, making it a unique spot for nature lovers and photographers.
STATUE OF JESUS CHRIST
The Statue of Jesus Christ, known as Cristo Rei, is a significant landmark located in Garajau. This statue, resembling the famous Christ the Redeemer in Rio de Janeiro, stands on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and offers a serene and majestic presence. Erected in 1927, Cristo Rei of Garajau was one of the first statues of Christ in the world. It stands 14 meters tall and is a symbol of peace and protection. The statue's outstretched arms appear to embrace the ocean, providing a striking silhouette against the sky. The viewpoint surrounding the statue offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged Madeiran coastline. The combination of spiritual symbolism and stunning scenery makes the Statue of Jesus Christ in Madeira a must-visit destination.
Duration
Our tours last around 6 to 7 hours, allowing us to explore the island at your pace, with relaxing café breaks and a lunch break. Throughout the tour, fascinating and interesting information about island life, nature, and history will be shared.
A full day gives us enough time to venture beyond the typical tourist spots and experience the real local Madeira. Join us for a day filled with spectacular views and memorable experiences. Let us show you the best of Madeira!
*Tour duration exceeding 7 hours will incur an additional charge of 20€ per hour.
Additional information
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We pick-up from all accommodations in Funchal. For pick-ups outside the Funchal area, an additional fee applies. Please contact us to discuss the details privately.
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In the rare event that I'm fully booked, rest assured that my brother Ricardo and our team of professional drivers are ready to step in and ensure that your tour is nothing short of spectacular.
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We offer individual itineraries to suit your needs, including family-friendly tours and tours with minimal walking for those who prefer a more relaxed experience.
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Be sure to wear comfortable clothing and bring a light jacket, as the weather can vary, especially in the mountains.
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Childrens car seats can be provided if needed.
What's included
Pickup from Funchal's accomodations
Private transportation - Mercedes Viano / Vito
Air - conditioned vehicle
What's not included
For pick-ups outside the Funchal area, an additional fee applies
"We cannot recommend highly enough Madeira taxi tours by Diogo. What a great experience! We were a party of 6 friends and visited Madeira recently in June. Diogo showed us the beauty of the east and west sides of the island in 2 days and gave recommendations what to see in Funchal. If you want a friendly, reliable and attentive service, do not look further. Prompt response, easy communication and always on time. He picked us up in airport and dropped us there when we flue to Lisbon. Thank you Diogo. Best regards from California!"
Marina, June 2024
