Top Madeira Outdoor Activities - page 4

Admire the views of Madeira's coastline and look out for local wildlife at the same time with this catamaran adventure. Eliminate the guesswork of wildlife spotting and benefit from having a crew to take you to areas where dolphins, turtles, and whales have been spotted before. In the summer months, it’s also possible to hop off the boat and go snorkeling.

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.

Watch the sunset from one of Madeira’s most beautiful locations, Pico do Areiro, on this half-day excursion from Funchal. Join a small group and climb aboard your 4x4 vehicle to the summit of Areiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak. Then, watch as the sky turns from blue to different hues of orange and pink as the sun begins to set; don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the moment.

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.

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.

This Private Buggy Tour is On and Off-road starting in Funchal, stopping at Pico Alto viewpoint, Poiso, Pico do Suna, Lamaceiros lagoon and Portela viewpoint, where you can admire the beauty of the districts of Porto da Cruz and Faial, near the imposing rock of Penha d’Águia. The tour continues along the forest road of the Serra das Funduras, where we can observe the magnificent Laurissilva Forest. Along the trail through this forest you can admire the extraordinary beauty of the endemic flora and fauna of the island, the verdigris of the trees, the melodious singing of the birds and the whole environment is magical! Santo da Serra will be the end of this unique experience…time to return to Funchal.

Embark on a journey through the eastern and northeastern parts of Madeira, capturing the essence of its dramatic coastlines, iconic landmarks, and lush landscapes. The tour offers a blend of breathtaking viewpoints, unique geological formations, and traditional Madeiran culture, culminating in the charming town of Santana. Known for its characteristic thatched-roof houses, Santana provides a picturesque backdrop for a delightful lunch before continuing through more scenic locales. This tour is perfect for those who appreciate natural beauty and want to explore the less-traveled paths along with some of the most photographed spots on the island.

Come and meet some of the oldest inhabitants of Madeira Island! Centennial trees and breathtaking views!

The West Coast of Madeira is full of spectacular lookouts, traditional fishing villages, and natural wonders, but it can be hard to get around without your own transport. Maximize your time on this full-day tour from Funchal and take in highlights including Cabo Girão, Ribeira da Janela, Laurissilva forest, and the Porto Moniz natural pools. Hotel pickup and drop-off is included.

Discover the eastern landscapes of Madeira with ease on an 8-hour tour from Funchal, ideal for lovers of natural landscapes. Ascend to Pico de Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak, and admire the famous Laurissilva Forest, which dates back to prehistoric times. Plus, you’ll enjoy lunch in the colorful town of Santana, visit Machico, and admire panoramic views from Ponta de São Lourenço. Hotel pickup and drop-off in Funchal are included.

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.

East Madeira is known for its stunning A-Framed houses in Camacha. This day tour is perfect for travelers with limited time in Madeira as you’ll see many highlights in one tour. Get access to incredible Pico Arieiro views, see the UNESCO World Heritage site Laurissilva Forest, and Ponta de São Lourenço. Traveling with a guide means you won’t get lost, and you’ll learn about Madeira as you explore its attractions.

Spend a day discovering the historic landmarks and natural sights of East Madeira. Avoid crowded bus tours and enjoy an intimate way to explore the island on this small-group tour. Go from mountain peaks like Pico do Arieiro to island attractions like a rum factory, visiting villages and viewpoints along the way, with convenient hotel pickup included.

During your visit to Madeira, it is almost mandatory to take a sea tour to observe cetaceans. Its excellent location allows you to see these species throughout the year. Take a close look at some of the 28 species of cetaceans that inhabit or visit the waters of the Madeira Archipelago. On our boat trips, it is very common to find: The Common Dolphin (Delphinus delphis) The Painted Dolphin (Stenella frontalis) The Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truincatu) The Sperm Whale (Physeter macrocephalus) The Pilot Whale (Globicephala macrorhynchus) Bryde's Whale (Balaenoptera edeni). In the turtle family, the Boba Turtle (Caretta caretta) is the most sighted. Come and observe these friendly cetaceans and make your trip a truly unforgettable experience!

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.

Discover two of Madeira’s most spectacular gardens on this private, half-day tour. Pick a start time that works best for you, meet your guide at your hotel, and hop aboard your private vehicle. Begin at the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, where you’ll spot exotic plants and learn about Portuguese history. Then, transfer to the Madeira Botanical Garden to discover a range of plant displays, as well as exotic bird species.

See the highlights of Madeira without the crowds on this guided half-day tour. In a small group of no more than eight people, visit such sites as Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado. At Monte, you can embark upon a toboganning adventure, and in Curral das Freiras you have the a chance to try a traditional chestnut cake and ginja liqueur.

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.

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.

Madeira has an abundance of fantastic wineries but trying wines then having to book taxi transfers between sites can be a hassle. Eliminate the stress on this half-day private wine-tasting tour instead. After a pickup, visit a family-run winery that dates back nearly 200 years to learn about the wine-making process and try several wines. Also, visit beautiful local scenery such as Rancho viewpoint for great photo opportunities.

Venture far off the beaten track and discover pristine, untrodden vistas on this private half-day trek to Caldeirão Verde. Hike safely with your own personal guide, and get hands-on assistance covering moderately difficult trails. Highlights along the way include a panoramic view over the village of São Jorge, underground caverns, and crystal-clear lagoons and waterfalls. You’ll also enjoy front-door pickup from your hotel or port.

It can be tough knowing where to find good snorkeling spots while traveling. This tour takes away the risk of wasting time, by traveling with a guide to a spot known for its rich marine life. All equipment is provided which means you can pack light. The day starts with a Kayak tour along the Underwater Nature Reserve of Garajau and then plenty of time to snorkel and swim.

Experience the best of the Madeira region on this wine-tasting and off-road tour from Funchal. Admire 360-degree views difficult to access by car, then head to a vineyard to learn about the wine production process from long-time owners. Indulge in a wine tasting paired with local snacks before heading to Girão Cape for stunning Atlantic views. End in the fishing village of Câmara de Lobos for another tasting of Madeira wines.

This private guided adventure is a hassle-free way to go kayaking in Madeira. Don’t worry about sourcing equipment—as a kayak, paddle, life vest, and lycra are provided. To help ensure you don’t get lost, a guide leads the way and shows you some of the most spectacular scenery along the coastline of Camara de Lobos—including views of a small waterfall and the Cabo Girão skyline.