Madeira East Coast Paradise With Santana Cable Car

Madeira East Coast Paradise With Santana Cable Car

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with breathtaking vistas, charming villages, and unique Madeira experiences, this tour promises just that. Covering the island’s rugged east coast, it offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural insights, and exciting activities. While it’s a busy day, the variety of highlights makes it well worth the effort.

What we love most about this experience is the spectacular cable car ride into Rocha do Navio, the panoramic viewpoints like Guindaste and São Lourenço, and the chance to explore Santana’s iconic traditional houses. Plus, the small group size enhances the overall vibe, allowing for better interaction and personalized attention. A potential consideration is the weather, as Madeira’s climate can be unpredictable — so packing the right gear is key.

This tour works best for those who enjoy scenic drives, outdoor activities, and cultural visits without the hassle of planning. If you’re after an authentic, well-rounded day exploring Madeira’s east coast, this adventure could be your perfect match.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Stunning views from multiple viewpoints provide perfect photo opportunities.
• Small group size enhances personalized experience and flexibility.
• Cable car ride into Rocha do Navio is a highlight, offering unique access to a UNESCO site.
• Cultural visits like Santana’s traditional houses deepen your understanding of Madeira’s heritage.
• Lush scenery through Faial Valley and the rugged coast of Ponta de São Lourenço showcase the island’s natural diversity.
• Flexible itinerary allows for scenic stops, photo opportunities, and local culture.

An In-Depth Look at Madeira’s East Coast Tour

Starting Points and Transportation

The tour begins from three convenient locations in Funchal: Funchal Cable Car, Hotel Porto Mare, and Supermercado Mendonça. The use of an electric vehicle for the majority of travel provides a quiet, eco-friendly ride that keeps the focus on the scenery and sights. The journey from the meeting points to your first stop typically takes around 30 minutes, allowing travelers to settle in and get excited about the day ahead.

Guindaste Viewpoint – A Perfect First Impression

We kick off with the Miradouro do Guindaste, a top spot for photos that offers an unusual perspective of Madeira’s rugged landscape. The mini skywalk at the viewpoint is a clever touch, providing a safe but thrilling spot to soak in sweeping views of cliffs, valleys, and the sprawling Atlantic. Many reviewers mention how this stop sets a high standard for the rest of the tour — the scenery here is picture-perfect, especially with good weather.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Rocha do Navio Cable Car – A Hidden Treasure

One of the tour’s standout features is the cable car descent into Rocha do Navio, a UNESCO-protected area famed for its dramatic cliffs and lush flora. Descending into the valley, you’re transported into a different world where waterfalls cascade down steep rocks and native plants flourish. The cable car ride itself is a thrilling experience, and many appreciate how this part of the trip avoids the crowds common at other coastal attractions.

Guests have noted the small size of the cable car, which makes the experience intimate and less claustrophobic. Guides often share insights about the local ecology, making it both scenic and educational. The less touristy nature of Rocha do Navio makes it a quiet haven to enjoy nature’s calmness and take photos without the crowds.

São Jorge: Views and Historical Touches

On the way to Santana, the group stops at the Miradouro das Cabanas, where the view over Arco de São Jorge is mesmerizing. This is also a spot to learn about the Ruinas de São Jorge, or “door to the sea,” which adds a slice of local history and legend to the day. Reviewers mention that this place is perfect for a quick photo and to appreciate the island’s volcanic origins. It’s a quiet, contemplative stop that offers a break from the busier parts of the tour.

Santana & Traditional Houses – A Cultural Highlight

No trip to Madeira is complete without a visit to Santana, famous for its typical triangular houses with thatched roofs. This stop offers a window into Madeira’s past and rural traditions. Visitors often remark on how well-preserved the houses are and how they provide a glimpse into local life.

You’ll also have time to visit Sr. Manuel’s house, which many reviewers say is a lovely way to understand Madeira’s history and hospitality. During the stop, you can enjoy local lunch options or take a leisurely stroll through the town center, soaking in the relaxed vibe.

Faial Valley – Offbeat and Scenic

The drive through Faial Valley is a favorite for its lush, green landscape, which is less crowded and more relaxed. The scenery here feels authentic, with sweeping views of fields, waterfalls, and mountains. Many travelers comment on the peaceful, unspoiled nature of this part of Madeira, offering a perfect backdrop for photography and reflection.

Ponta de São Lourenço – The Wild East Coast

The Ponta de São Lourenço is perhaps the most dramatic point of the trip, with steep cliffs and wild Atlantic views. It’s a short walk that rewards you with panoramic vistas of the ocean and rugged coastline, often described as “untamed” and “fierce beauty.” As the easternmost tip of Madeira, the landscape here feels extra special, and the views are truly unforgettable. Many guests mention how the winds can be strong, so packing a windbreaker is advisable.

Machico & Poncha – A Relaxed Finish

The final stop is in Machico, known as the “birthplace” of Madeira where João Gonçalves Zarco first landed in 1419. Here, you can unwind over a refreshing Poncha — a traditional local spirit mixed with citrus and sugar, often enjoyed with a smile. Several reviews mention that this is a great spot to relax after a busy day and toast the wonderful landscapes experienced.

Returning to Funchal

The trip wraps up with a comfortable 30-minute ride back to Funchal, allowing time to reflect on the day’s highlights. Many travelers mention that the small group size made the experience feel more personal and enjoyable, with the guide sharing interesting tidbits throughout.

What Makes This Tour Worth It?

At $89 per person, the tour offers impressive value when you consider the breadth of sights covered — from viewpoints and natural parks to cultural villages and scenic drives. The inclusion of the cable car ride into Rocha do Navio, a UNESCO site, is a significant highlight that would cost extra if booked separately. Plus, the small group size, guided commentary, and variety of stops make it a well-rounded day.

The tour is particularly suited for those who want a mix of natural beauty, culture, and scenic adventure without the hassle of organizing multiple activities. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy walking, photography, and learning about Madeira’s unique landscapes and traditions.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Weather in Madeira can change unexpectedly, so it’s wise to bring warm clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and rain gear just in case. The tour operates rain or shine, with some stops potentially affected by weather conditions, especially the cable car and coastal trails.

Comfortable shoes are a must, as some walks involve uneven terrain, especially at Ponta de São Lourenço. The group size is limited to 8 participants, which enhances the experience but also means booking in advance is recommended.

While the tour includes a local drink — Poncha, beer, or soft drink, lunch is not included so you might want to bring some snacks or plan to explore local eateries during the Santana stop.

This experience is not suitable for children under 12, people with mobility issues, or those afraid of heights. Vaping, smoking, or bringing pets is not permitted, and there’s a strict policy on unaccompanied minors.

The Sum Up

This Madeira east coast tour offers a fantastic balance of scenery, culture, and adventure, all within a manageable day. The stunning viewpoints, the unique Rocha do Navio cable car, and the charming Santana houses provide authentic highlights that appeal to nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. The small-group format, combined with knowledgeable guides, makes for an intimate and personalized experience that’s hard to beat.

If you’re seeking a comprehensive day trip to see Madeira’s diverse east coast with minimal hassle, this tour delivers. It’s especially well-suited for those who appreciate scenic drives, photo opportunities, and learning about local traditions in a relaxed environment.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation from key meeting points in Funchal and back is included, using an electric vehicle for comfort and eco-friendliness.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sun protection (hat, sunscreen), rain gear, and outdoor clothing are recommended due to unpredictable weather.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, covering multiple scenic stops and cultural visits.

Are meals included?
Lunch is not included, but there is a stop in Santana where you can enjoy local restaurants or walk around.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.

What’s the highlight of the trip?
Many say the cable car descent into Rocha do Navio and the viewpoints like Ponta de São Lourenço are unforgettable highlights.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The minimum age is 12, so it’s best suited for teens and adults. The activities involve walking and heights, which may not be suitable for younger children.

This tour provides a well-rounded, scenic, and culturally enriching day in Madeira’s east. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see the island’s natural beauty up close, enjoy authentic experiences, and learn from friendly guides in a small-group setting.

You can check if your dates are available here: