Top Madeira Day Trips - page 3

This is an excellent choice for independent travelers who want the freedom to be able to hike on their own, without having to follow a group around. Instead of booking taxis, enjoy a transfer service that drops you off at Pico Do Arieiro to start your hike to Pico Ruivo. At the end of the hike, get picked up from Achada Do Teixeira for a stress-free return transfer.

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.

This is a great choice for travelers who enjoy walking and exploring the great outdoors. Enjoy a peaceful day in Ponta De São Lourenço with a certified mountain guide to accompany you so you don’t get lost. This small-group tour is limited to 8 people, so you’ll have better access to your guide for questions. See stunning viewpoints, learn about local vegetation, and enjoy spending time in nature.

Venture off-road and explore the natural wonders of Madeira’s west coast from the comfort of an open-top jeep. With a private guide and vehicle for the entire day, enjoy a custom-made itinerary, stopping as often as you like along the coast. Perhaps admire the views from Pico do Areeiro, take a swim at the Porto Moniz natural pools, explore the Sao Vicente Caves, or stop at Calheta Beach.

Take in the fresh sea air on this full-day catamaran cruise to the Desertas Islands, from Funchal. Meet your crew at the Funchal Marina and board your catamaran. Then set sail toward the Madeira’s natural reserves, where sea life is frequently spotted. You’ll stop at the Desertas Islands, known for its stunning natural beauty and crystal clear waters. Enjoy three hours of hiking, swimming or sun bathing and indulge in a fresh fish buffet lunch with select beverages before sailing back to the marina.

The island of Madeira is renowned for rugged mountains whose summits shoot into the sky. Ascend to the island’s best viewpoints on a 8-hour 4x4 tour from Funchal, ideal for lovers of nature and the outdoors. In an open-top 4x4, you’ll conquer rugged, off-road routes and absorb views of natural landmarks such as Eagle’s Rock and Ribeiro Frio , the island’s third-highest peak. Plus, you’ll visit a sugar cane factory in Porto da Cruz. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

Discover the western part of Madeira island on this full-day excursion that begins in Funchal. Join a small group and visit the top sights of the west including the fishing village of Camara de Lobos, Girão Cape, the natural swimming pools of Porto Moniz, and the village of São Vicente. While you explore, your guide provides insights into the history and culture of the island.

Go off the main tourist routes on this half-day guided tour of Madeira in an open-top jeep. In a small group, travel off road and into the island's natural beauty. See mountains, the traditional fishing village of Câmara de Lobos ("the sea wolves' lair"), and ascend 3,280 feet (1,000 meters) for a view across Nun's Valley that not many visitors see. Toast the day with a freshly made poncha (traditional alcoholic beverage).

Check out the center of Madeira Island, where you'll find the Valley of the Nuns. This is a half day small group tour, that runs twice weekly at 9:30am. You’ll stop at Miradouro Pico Dos Barcelos for a wonderful view of Funchal, and later at Eira do Serrado viewpoint for some gorgeous surrounding nature. You'll then spend time in the Valley of the Nuns with layers of white clouds among the mountain peaks.

The island of Madeira is full of activities, ranging from adventurous to relaxing. Discover the western part of Madeira during this small-group tour starting in Funchal. Check out many points of interest including the fishing village of Camara de Lobos, Cabo Girão and the villages of Seixal and São Vicente. You will also stop at the famous natural pools of Porto Moniz, where you can enjoy a dip.

Spend a day exploring the dramatic sea cliffs, islands and traditional villages of Madeira’s east coast on this full-day small-group tour, with a maximum of 8 people. Enjoy magnificent views of Ribeiro Frio, Pico do Arieiro and Laurissilva forest; discover the crafts-making heritage of Camacha village; and snap photos of the thatched triangular houses in Santana village. After a scenic walk along the levadas (canal ways) and a visit to a trout farm, tuck into a delicious 3-course lunch (included) on the island of Grutas do Faial.

It can be difficult to navigate the unmarked roads, and coastal paths in rugged Madeira—so avoid getting lost by going on a guided walk. You’ll visit Ponta de São Lourenço, and your experience will be enriched by having a guide to point out native vegetation and wildlife, that you might miss if you were alone. See protected seabirds, and access incredible views of the coast too.

Start your journey towards Pico do Arieiro (1.818 m), the third highest point in Madeira and one of the few peaks accessible by road. Enjoy panoramic views of mountains, deep valleys and the island’s lush nature. Follow to Ribeiro Frio, in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Laurissilva Forest, where you can enjoy one of the oldest forests in Europe, rich in biodiversity and tranquility. Continue along the north coast, passing through Faial to Santana, famous for the traditional triangular houses of colmo, a symbol of Madeirese culture. After lunch break, visit Ponta de São Lourenço, a volcanic peninsula with arid landscapes and impressive cliffs over the Atlantic. End in Machico, the historic Villa where Portuguese sailors landed in 1419, before returning to the hotel, bringing with you unforgettable memories of Madeira’s natural and cultural diversity.

Although Madeira is most famous for its natural landscapes, the Portuguese island also harbors a rich history. Receive an introduction to the history of Funchal during a walking tour that offers a more intimate glimpse into the Old Town than you’d get traveling by coach or car. This tour, which proves ideal for first-time visitors, allows you to benefit from the insider knowledge and personalized attention of your guide.

The eastern side of Madeira is known for its traditional villages, beautiful landscapes, and stunning beaches. Discover the best parts of the east on this full-day, small-group tour that stops in Santana, São Lourenço Point, Machico, and Arieiro Peak. Save the hassle of renting a car and let someone else do the driving while you relax and enjoy the island’s scenery.

Though Madeira may seem small, this Atlantic island packs a punch. Discover the western part of the island on a full-day, small-group excursion and make the most of your time. Stop at key landmarks like Girao Cape, the Camara de Lobos village, the Porto Moniz natural pools, and the St. Vincent town. This tour is a great way to get a comprehensive overview of Madeira and explore its top landmarks.

Begin your day watching the sunrise over the clouds and mountains on this early morning adventure from Funchal. Join a small group and head to the summit of Arieiro, Madeira’s third highest peak, to watch the sky change from night to day. After, enjoy a “levada” walk through the lush forests before the crowds set in.

Venture off-road to explore the rugged mountains and rural villages of Madeira, without having to worry about driving, on this small-group safari from Funchal. Travel around in an open-top safari vehicle, take in the views from Boca dos Namorados, and pass through traditional villages such as Camara de Lobos, and visit the famous glass walkway at Girao Cape that towers 1,970 feet (600 meters) above the sea.

A hop-on hop-off bus tour is the ideal way to combine the flexibility of independent sightseeing with the convenience of a guided tour. With a choice of a 48-hour or 5-day ticket, this great-value deal offers full access to three routes—the highlights of Funchal, the village of Câmara de Lobos, and the Skywalk of Cabo Girão.

Madeira’s strategic placement in the North Atlantic Ocean makes it a great location for dolphin and whale watching. On this exciting tour, observe the cetaceans in their natural habitat without disturbing them. You can also observe other wildlife such as fish, sharks, and birds during your adventure.

While Madeira's western half features more natural landmarks, the eastern part is more cultural. Take a small-group tour from Funchal and discover several landmarks including the wicker factory in Camacha, the colorful village of Santana, several viewpoints, and the Arieiro summit. While you explore, learn about the village traditions and history of Madeira from your tour guide.

Discover the abundant marine life near Madeira on this fast-paced dolphin and whale-watching tour. You won’t have to worry about wasting time traveling, as you’ll whizz through the water on a speedboat, and cover large distances. Look out for dolphins and whales, while enjoying guide commentary. If you don’t spot any sea life, you’ll get another free trip.

Follow a Madeiran levada, or canal, though the São Jorge Valley on a full-day hiking tour from Funchal, exploring a landscape of lush plants and thriving forests. You’ll cover 8 miles (13 km) of trail and stop at a peaceful waterfall, while taking in Madeira at its most untouched. This full-day, guided levada walking tour includes round-trip transport from select hotels in Funchal, and it’s the perfect introduction to Madeira hiking.

On this day you will discover several natural wonders, as well as surprising landscapes. Start in Câmara de Lobos, a picturesque fishing village featured in Sir Winston Churchill's 1950 painting. Continue the journey towards Cabo Girão and admire the wine fields, used for the production of the famous Madeira Wine. Reach the highest maritime cliff in Europe, and the second highest in the world, Cabo Girão at 580 meters high. Follow the west coast until you reach Ribeira Brava, and the Encumeadas viewpoint, at 1007 meters. Admire the wonderful landscapes both on the coast and on the island. Proceeding, you will cross the plateau of Paúl da Serra, the largest plateau on the island of Madeira. Stop for a snack in Porto Moniz, a famous spot in the north of the island, known for its natural pools. Driving towards São Vicente, you will enjoy the small waterfalls, passing through Seixal, along the way. End of the day with a visit to São Vicente. Return to the Hotel.