Top Activities on the Ground in Funchal - page 2

We start with the pick-up at your accommodation, following towards Pico do Areeiro, where we will have the opportunity to watch the sun rise over the mountains of Madeira, if the weather allows. Then we begin the walk along one of the island’s most iconic trails, crossing deep valleys, sharp peaks and the imposing central mountainous massive, always accompanied by stunning views. Along the way, the island’s fauna, endemic flora and history will always be present, making this experience even richer and more authentic. The great goal will be to reach the peak of Pico Ruivo, the highest point of Madeira, a conquest rewarded by absolutely unique panoramas. Down to the Achada do Teixeira and a short stop in the Villa de Santana, known for its traditional houses, followed by the return to the hotel. The walk will be Guide by me, Paulo Jesus, born and resident on the island of Madeira, mountain guide certified by Tourism of Portugal.

Spend a day immersed in nature and take a hike through Madeira’s subtropical forest during this excursion to Rabaçal. Join a small group and set off towards Rabaçal House before heading to the 25 Fontes walk, which takes you deep into the heart of the Laurel Forest. As you hike, learn about the endemic flora and local fauna from your guide.

Discover the breathtaking Larano Trail on a guided hike from Machico to Porto da Cruz, where stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and lush Laurisilva mountains await. This moderate trek winds along cliffs and through valleys, showcasing Madeira’s dramatic landscapes. Starting at Machico, follow a scenic levada into the Boca do Risco, revealing panoramic vistas of both the ocean and rugged mountains. Conclude your journey in the charming village of Porto da Cruz, nestled among vineyards and the majestic Penha d’Águia rock formation. - Guided hike along Madeira's spectacular Larano Trail - Experience stunning coastal and mountain views - Moderate difficulty with narrow, exposed sections - Ends in the picturesque village of Porto da Cruz

Madeira Island’s western shores are home to natural sea pools, traditional fishing villages, and more, but reaching the top sites requires local knowledge. On this group tour, travel from your hotel (select areas) via air-conditioned minibus and reach the sites with ease. Hit sites of interest, including Camara de Lobos, Porto Moniz natural pools, and the Ribeira Brava.

Spend the day hiking the remarkable Levada das 25 Fontes without any of the hassles of organizing transport, meals and more. On this small group hiking excursion, all of those things are pre-arranged for you. Catch your transport from Funchal and focus on the stunning landscapes of the Laurissilva Forest. Hike through to the center of the forest to get a close-up look at some of its natural highlights, including the dramatic 25 Fontes and Risco waterfalls.

Enjoy Madeira’s natural beauty and renowned wine on a half-day off-road adventure. After a convenient hotel pickup in Funchal or Caniço, travel by 4x4 to picturesque sites like the soaring cliffs of Cabo Girão and the vineyards of Sao Vicente. Learn about local wine customs and production from a local winemaker, and sample white, red, and rosé varieties.

We conquer the famous Stairway To Heaven first and afterwards we head to one of the most beautiful hikes on the island: Vereda do Larano. A lush green environment awaits us and the sea always behind us. On we go, always along the cliffs and with spectacular views. A little hunger? We got you. We have prepared a small picnic with local snacks and will find the perfect spot to enjoy it.

Madeira’s Ponta São Lourenço is one of the most beautiful coastal walks on the island. Enjoy a walk along the peninsula with a private guide to learn more about the natural landscapes and biodiversity of the area. See examples of fauna and flora like birds and learn about the geological history of the volcanic island.

Ascend to Madeira’s highest peak on an 8-hour walk to Pico Ruivo, from the top of which travelers are rewarded with spectacular panoramas of Madeira. Ideal for visitors with a moderate fitness level, this tour takes you through an ancient heather forest and reveals a plethora of flora and fauna native to the island. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

Slow down and explore the lush heart of Madeira island on this half-day walking tour from Rabaçal to 25 Fountains. Led by a local guide, you’ll learn about Madeira’s levadas (canals), catch stunning views of Rabaçal Valley, wander through a laurel forest, watch for the elusive trocaz pigeon—a bird found only on Madeira—and marvel at the clear, green water of 25 Fountains.

Hike through the Madeira highlands on a half-day walk that follows the historic Levada da Serra do Faial, a century-old irrigation canal, through lush forest. You’ll cover 3.4 miles (5.5 km) of trail, earn views of Madeiran villages, and see a wide range of plants in a scenic, natural environment. This 4-hour, guided walking tour includes pickup and drop-off at Funchal hotels.

This tour takes you to one of Madeira’s most loved hiking spots—the 25 Fontes Levada. Instead of having to plan your route and follow a map, let a private guide take you a walk to show you where to find the area’s 25 small fountain-like waterfalls. During the hike, the guide points out endemic plant species, and it's also a great place to look out for local birdlife.

This full-day private island tour stops at several unique locations for a mix of cultural and natural attractions. Highlights include the UNESCO-listed laurel forest of Laurisilva, an optional swimming excursion in the lava pools of Porto Moniz, and panoramic views from the Cabo Girão lookout point. Tours also include door-to-door transfers—with hotel pickup—in a comfortable, Wi-Fi-equipped vehicle.

This section of the Levada Nova starts in Tabua, Ribeira Brava. Hike among valleys and mountains taking in views of small towns and plantations in the Ribeira Brava. This unique landscape has been carefully crafted by generations of local farmers and will give insight into the traditions and cultures of the island.   The day starts with pickup from your accommodation in Madeira. Follow your guide down trails surrounded by lush vegetation and splendid views and see neighboring farms with their fruit and vegetable plantations.  Admire waterfalls, endemic fauna, and some flora as you follow the Levada (irrigation canal) through Madeira's countryside. While you walk, your local guide will give you insight into the history of the Levadas and daily life on this wonderful island.

Explore the wonders along Madeira’s famed Levada do Caldeirão Verde on this leisurely guided walking tour. Your day begins with a convenient pickup from your central Funchal hotel, then set off on a short 45-minute ride to the starting point. As you stroll the path, your local guide will illuminate the surroundings with informative anecdotes. Admire a tranquil laurel forest, historical local paths, traditional irrigation channels, and sweeping vistas of the island’s north coast.

Skip the tourist restaurant meals for this walking food tour of Funchal, the capital city of the Madeira archipelago. Start at La Vie Funchal Shopping Center, where you’ll taste some of the best *pastel de nata* egg custard pastry on the island. After that, your itinerary is tailored to your wants but usually ends in the Zona Velha, a historic area with old merchant houses among cobbled lanes.

Sunrise is always a magical moment! We have chosen one of the most beautiful places to watch the birth of the star king! Then there's nothing better than taking a walk along one of the most beautiful trails on the island.

The activity starts with an early pick up and a transfer to Achada do Teixeira. From there we start a 45 minutes walk to Pico Ruivo. In plain dark, using a headlight, we absorbe the dazzling sounds of the night at the mountains. Once at Pico Ruivo we attend the amazing sunrise ever... After the sunrise we do the same way back but this time we will have the sun as a guide and the views will be amazing. After the Hike we will show you some view points. Distance: 6km Hiking time: 2h NOTE : the pick up time change along the year, according to the sunrise hours.

This is the right choice if you want a challenging experience with the best Madeira has to offer: Sea, Mountains & Nature. The highlight of this tour is saved for the end with the scenic trail of Larano. It's worth it!

This canyoning adventure in Ribeira do Cidrão is a unique opportunity to explore Madeira’s central mountain range in an exhilarating way. Combining breathtaking scenery, crystal-clear pools, and thrilling rappels, it offers an unforgettable experience for beginners and seasoned adventurers alike. Guided by experienced professionals, you'll safely immerse yourself in the island’s wild beauty, discovering hidden waterfalls and rugged landscapes that are rarely seen by others. This activity is not just about adventure; it’s a chance to connect with Madeira’s untouched nature in a truly memorable way.

Madeira is famous for its “levadas,” a system of channels that transports water throughout the island. Join a small group for an easy walk along the North Quinta Grande levada that winds through small villages and lush vegetation. Take in the views of wildflower-covered landscapes and the Atlantic Ocean while you walk.

Discover the best of Madeira in your very own tuk-tuk during this full-day excursion. Alongside your private guide, create an itinerary that suits your group's interests. Sightsee around Funchal, stop at the fishing village of Camara de Lobos, take in the sights from Cape Girao, stroll through the botanical garden, and more. While you explore, your guide regales you with information about the island and its landmarks.

Hike through the spectral landscapes of the UNESCO-listed Queimadas Forest Park, Madeira, on an enriching 5-hour excursion from Funchal. Accompanied by an expert guide, stroll at a leisurely pace through landscapes reminiscent of fairytales; see thatched-roof cottages, ancient trees and exotic bird species as you explore. Gaze at the emerald green lagoon beneath the famous Caldeirão Waterfall before taking the same route back to the start point.

You can see the wonderful landscapes composed by imposing mountains and peaks of the island, such as Pico das Torres and Pico do Areeiro. Moreover, in this landscape full of mountains, sea and populations, it is still possible to distinguish the rock of Penha dÁguia and the tip of São Lourenço. Arriving at Pico Ruivo, hikers can marvel themselves with the magnificent scenery that surrounds them. Look at the magnitude of the peaks, the villages and their agricultural land, sea and clouds. Enjoy the feeling of greatness that this place delivers! • Distance: 5.4 Km  • Duration 1 to 3 hours • It includes: Path, Birds, Viewpoint, Fauna