East Tour with Pico Do Arieiro Sunset, São Lourenço and much more

Introduction

Our review of the East Tour with Pico do Arieiro Sunset offers a detailed look at what promises to be a memorable day exploring Madeira’s eastern highlights. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed itinerary, rave reviews, and thoughtful structure suggest it’s a fantastic way to see the island’s natural beauty and cultural charm in one day.

What we love about this experience? First, the variety—covering coastal viewpoints, traditional villages, mountain trails, and a spectacular sunset. Second, the flexibility built into the tour, allowing independent exploration at stops while benefiting from expert guidance. Lastly, the affordability at just $42 for over 7 hours of sightseeing makes it a compelling value.

One possible consideration is the weather dependency for the sunset at Pico do Arieiro; clouds and fog can block the view, though the tour organizers accommodate this with webcam checks and alternative viewpoints. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, flexible day out with plenty of opportunity to take in Madeira’s diverse scenery without feeling rushed.

Good To Know

• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable and share valuable insights, making each stop more meaningful.
• Stunning Views: From cliffs and viewpoints to mountain sunsets, the scenery is breathtaking.
• Flexible Itinerary: You’re free to explore each stop independently after receiving guidance.
• Great Value: For about $42, you get a full day of sightseeing, transportation, and expert commentary.
• Weather Dependence: The sunset at Pico do Arieiro may be obscured by clouds, but alternative viewpoints are available.
• Size of Group: Small group experience (max 8 travelers), ensuring personalized attention.

An In-Depth Look at the Madeira East Tour

Starting Point: Cristo Rei Viewpoint

The tour kicks off at the Cristo Rei statue, an iconic spot overlooking the Atlantic. From here, you get a sweeping view of Funchal marina and the Garajau beach, perfect for snapping photos and getting your first taste of Madeira’s dramatic coastlines. It’s a peaceful start, with just 30 minutes allocated, giving you enough time to soak in the scenery and chat with your guide, who will be sharing background about the area.

Machico: Panoramic Views from Above

Next, the trip takes you to the Pico do Facho viewpoint, which offers a panoramic vista of Machico, one of Madeira’s oldest towns. The view here is a highlight—seeing the golden sands of the beach, the mountains, and the Desertas islands all in one glance. Travelers report that this stop is “a special place for peace and quiet,” perfect for a moment of reflection or snapping those postcard-worthy shots.

Ponta de São Lourenço: Cliffs and Winds

One of the most dramatic stops is the Ponta de São Lourenço, where rugged cliffs meet the fierce Atlantic. The wild, windswept terrain provides some of the most striking vistas on the island. You’ll get to see both the north and south coasts from this point—a rare chance to see Madeira’s contrasting sides in one spot. Expect intense wind and gusts, which add to the thrill. It’s a place that offers “spectacular views and pictures,” according to recent reviews, and is perfect for those who love nature’s raw power.

Santana: Tradition and Charm

A visit to Santana takes you into Madeira’s colorful rural life. The traditional Santana houses, with their steeply pitched roofs and ornate woodwork, are instantly recognizable icons of Madeira. This stop lets you step back in time and appreciate the island’s early lifestyle. Travelers mention it’s “a work of art” and an excellent snapshot of local tradition. It’s also an opportunity to buy local souvenirs or simply enjoy the peaceful village atmosphere.

Vereda dos Balcões: Connecting with Nature

The Vereda dos Balcões walk is a highlight for many. It’s the easiest levada trail on the island—just 3 km—and rewards you with incredible mountain views and bird-watching opportunities. The trail is accessible and doesn’t require advanced hiking skills, making it suitable for most travelers. The experience of feeling “amazingly connected to nature” is frequent, and the views of mountains and valleys make it well worth the 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Pico do Arieiro: Sunset in the Clouds

The final stop is the Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak at 1,810 meters. Here, you’re above the clouds, with an atmosphere of quiet serenity. The sunset at Pico do Arieiro is often described as “spectacular,” with hues of orange and pink illuminating the sky, and the mountain’s silhouette creating a dramatic scene. However, weather can influence visibility—cloud cover and fog may obscure the sunset, but the guides are prepared with webcams to check conditions beforehand and will suggest alternative viewpoints if needed.

This part of the tour embodies the perfect climax: a peaceful, awe-inspiring moment that leaves visitors with lasting memories. It’s worth noting that because of the high altitude, this stop is weather-dependent, but the flexibility built into the tour helps ensure you still enjoy an equally impressive experience.

The Practical Details

Transportation and Group Size

Traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll be part of a small group with a maximum of 8 travelers. This intimate size enhances the experience, allowing for personalized attention from guides who double as drivers and storytellers. The pickup is from the CR7 Museum in Funchal, making it convenient for most travelers staying in the city.

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts roughly 7.5 hours, which includes all stops, driving time, and some flexibility for exploration. This makes it an excellent choice for a full-day adventure without feeling overly rushed. The timing accounts for scenic stops at sunrise, midday, and sunset—though the sunset at Pico do Arieiro is weather-dependent.

Costs and Inclusions

At $42, the tour offers significant value. The fee covers all fees and taxes, transportation, and an engaging guide. However, it does not include lunch, snacks, or bottled water, so packing a small meal or snacks is advisable. The tour is a self-guided experience at each stop, giving you the freedom to linger or explore on your own once briefed by your guide.

Flexibility and Cancellation

Cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours in advance, which is helpful in case of weather issues or schedule changes. The tour relies on good weather, particularly for the sunset at Pico do Arieiro—so checking live webcams beforehand is recommended, something the guide will facilitate.

Authentic Experiences and Reviews

A recent one-star review from Tripadvisor captures the essence of what makes this tour special: “Our guide was punctual, well-organized, and took excellent care of the group. He shared interesting and valuable insights, making sure we fully appreciated the beautiful places we visited.” This highlights the importance of knowledgeable guides in elevating the experience.

Travelers also praise the stunning views—from cliffs, mountain vistas, and panoramic towns—saying that the tour offers “spectacular scenery” that makes every moment memorable. The combination of guided insight and ample time to explore independently resonates with many who want a structured yet flexible day.

The Sum Up

The East Tour with Pico do Arieiro Sunset offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural highlights, and quiet moments of awe. Its small-group format and knowledgeable guides make it ideal for travelers who value personalized experiences, meaningful insights, and stunning vistas.

Priced affordably at $42, it provides incredible value for a full day of sightseeing. The flexibility at each stop allows you to tailor your experience, whether that’s taking photos, relaxing, or exploring. The highlight—an unforgettable sunset at Pico do Arieiro—makes it a perfect end to a day spent discovering Madeira’s diverse eastern landscapes.

This tour suits those who love nature, appreciate local culture, and want a hassle-free way to see key sights without feeling rushed. If you’re after a mix of guided storytelling and free exploration, and don’t mind weather dependence for the sunset, it’s an experience you won’t forget.

FAQ

Is pickup offered for this tour? Yes, the tour includes pickup from the CR7 Museum in Funchal, making it convenient for most travelers staying in the city.

How long does the tour last? The total duration is approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, covering all six stops plus driving time.

What is the group size? The tour operates with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is the sunset at Pico do Arieiro guaranteed? Not entirely. The sunset visibility depends on weather conditions, particularly clouds and fog. The guides check live webcams beforehand and may suggest alternative viewpoints if the sunset is obscured.

What’s included in the price? All fees and taxes, transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and an English-speaking guide.

Are meals and snacks included? No, lunch, bottled water, and snacks are not included, so plan to bring your own if desired.

Can I explore stops on my own? Yes, after receiving guidance and information from the guide, you’re free to explore each stop independently.

What should I wear or bring? Comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing for mountain conditions, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers? Most travelers can participate, as it’s designed to be accessible and not overly strenuous, though weather-dependent stops may vary.

In summary, the East Tour with Pico do Arieiro Sunset offers a fantastic mix of Madeira’s coastal and mountain scenery, guided insights, and personal exploration time—all at an attractive price point. It’s ideal for those eager to see the island’s highlights without feeling overwhelmed, and to catch a sunset that will stay with you long after your holiday ends.