Madeira: Go East Island Tour

Exploring Madeira through a guided tour like the Go East Island Tour offers a fantastic way to see this lush island’s highlights while relaxing in comfortable transportation. Based on traveler reviews and detailed itineraries, this tour combines scenic vistas, cultural sights, and authentic flavors, making it a well-rounded experience for those wanting to soak in Madeira’s natural beauty and local charm.

What we love about this tour is the stunning variety of viewpoints, the chance to see Santana’s colorful triangular houses, and the opportunity to enjoy delicious local food. Plus, the fact that it’s a full-day experience means you get plenty of time to explore without feeling rushed. A possible caveat is that the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and you’ll want to be prepared for some walking and variable weather.

This tour suits travelers who crave a comprehensive glimpse of Madeira’s east side, appreciate scenic drives, and enjoy a mix of nature, history, and culture. Whether you’re on your first visit or returning for more, it offers great value with a balanced schedule.

Good To Know

• Spectacular viewpoints provide panoramic views of both coasts and mountains.
• Cultural stops like Santana’s traditional houses enrich your understanding of local architecture.
• Nature lovers will appreciate the Laurissilva Forest visit and Pico do Arieiro.
• Authentic experiences include a visit to a trout farm and a historic town.
• Comfortable transport ensures smooth transitions between diverse sites.
• Informative guides add local insights and make the day more engaging.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Authentic Charm of Madeira’s East Side

Our review of the Madeira: Go East Island Tour highlights an experience designed to cover the island’s most scenic and culturally significant spots efficiently. It’s a full-day adventure that balances breathtaking views, historical insights, and authentic local encounters, making it ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded taste of Madeira without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll See and Do

The journey begins in Funchal, at Estrada Monumental 284, where your guide from Madeira Happy Tours greets you with a friendly smile. The tour kicks off with a 25-minute drive to your first stop, setting the tone for the day ahead — scenic, informative, and relaxed.

Terreiro da Luta and the Cog Railway

Your first real stop is Terreiro da Luta, a scenic viewpoint above Funchal. Here, you’ll get a chance to snap photos of the Our Lady of Peace sanctuary statue, supported by Roman columns, and enjoy sweeping views of the city below. This spot is also notable as the terminal of the only cog railway in Madeira, offering a glimpse into the island’s innovative transportation history.

Pico do Arieiro: The Peak of the Central Mountains

Next, the tour takes you to Pico do Arieiro, at 1,818 meters — one of the highest points on the island. The panoramic vistas from here are truly spectacular, offering views of the central mountain range and sometimes even swirling clouds that make you feel like you’re on top of the world. Many visitors comment that the photographs taken at Pico do Arieiro are some of the best memories from their trip due to the breathtaking scenery.

Into the Heart of the Laurissilva Forest

Driving down to Ribeiro Frio, you’ll enter the Laurissilva Forest, a lush UNESCO World Heritage site. This verdant area is a haven for nature lovers, and the famous trout farm here is a highlight. Visitors often appreciate how the fish are raised in freshwater fed by the island’s streams, offering a glimpse into local aquaculture. Astrid, who reviewed the tour, shared that she found the stops long enough and enjoyed the beautiful scenery and the guide’s humor.

Santana’s Traditional Houses

In Santana, you’ll get a good dose of local color. The town is renowned for its brightly painted, triangular straw-roofed houses, which are a delightful throwback to the island’s traditional architecture. You’ll have free time to explore, and many visitors note that wandering through Santana’s streets feels like stepping into a postcard scene.

Portela Viewpoint and Ponta do Rosto

From Portela viewpoint, perched at 670 meters, you can gaze across mountain valleys that seem to pour down toward the Atlantic. Then, at Ponta do Rosto, the Penha d’Aguia rock formation provides dramatic scenery. Here, you’ll stand at the edge of the island, witnessing both the North and South coasts, a rare vantage point that many travelers say is a highlight.

The Historic Town of Machico

The last stop is Machico, where the discovery of Madeira by Gonçalves Zarco and Tristão Vaz Texeira in 1419 took place. Today, Machico’s charming city center and bay offer a serene place to stroll, with some reviewers mentioning how special it is to walk along the historic streets and soak in the maritime atmosphere.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour lasts about 8 hours, with starting times varying based on the day. It includes transport by mini-bus, which is comfortable and allows for easy access to the often narrow or winding roads of Madeira. The guide, fluent in Portuguese and English, helps bring each site to life with interesting facts and local stories.

What to bring? Expect to walk and stand at various viewpoints, so comfortable shoes are a must. Temperatures can vary with altitude and weather, so packing warm clothing and a hat for sun protection makes sense. Don’t forget a camera to capture those postcard-perfect vistas, plenty of water to stay hydrated, and sunscreen for protection.

Value and Cost

The tour offers excellent value, especially considering the number of sites visited and the in-depth explanations provided by the guide. There’s no lunch included, but ample stops in Santana for food and drinks mean you can try local dishes or pick up snacks. The fact that you can reserve and pay later adds flexibility, and the small-group setting ensures a more personalized experience.

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Reviews Insights

One reviewer described the tour as “very enjoyable,” appreciating the beautiful sights and the guide’s friendly and humorous manner. They also noted that the stops were long enough to take in the scenery without feeling rushed. The variety of viewpoints and stops means that everyone can find something to love, whether it’s nature, history, or simply the gorgeous landscapes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is particularly perfect for first-time visitors eager to see Madeira’s highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple trips. It’s ideal for nature enthusiasts, given the time spent in Laurissilva Forest and Pico do Arieiro. History buffs will appreciate the stop in Machico, and those who love nice scenery and local culture will find plenty to enjoy.

However, travelers with mobility issues or those requiring wheelchair access might find it less suitable due to the terrain and walking involved. The tour’s pace is leisurely but sometimes involves walking at viewpoints, so plan accordingly.

The Sum Up

The Madeira: Go East Island Tour offers a well-rounded exploration of one of the island’s most scenic and culturally interesting regions. With stunning viewpoints, a taste of local architecture, lush forests, and historical insights, it covers a lot of ground in just one day. The comfort of guided transport and the engaging commentary make it a smart choice for travelers who want an overview without sacrificing depth.

For those seeking a blend of spectacular scenery, cultural richness, and authentic experiences, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors or anyone looking for a comprehensive, value-packed day on Madeira.

FAQ

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, making it a full-day activity. Exact starting times depend on the day’s schedule, so check availability before booking.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes transport by mini-bus, ensuring a comfortable ride between the various sites.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are stops in Santana where you can buy food or snacks.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While generally suitable for active travelers, it might be less ideal for those with mobility issues or very young children, as some walking and exposure to variable weather are involved.

Are there any hidden costs?
No hidden costs are mentioned. The tour price covers guiding and transport. Personal expenses, such as souvenirs or extra food, are not included.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility to accommodate your travel plans.

This guided tour of Madeira’s eastern side promises a day filled with outstanding views, cultural insights, and natural beauty — a fantastic way to deepen your understanding of this captivating island.

You can check if your dates are available here: