Top Activities on the Ground in Madeira - page 2

Funchal’s waters are home to whales and dolphins—and this luxurious catamaran tour offers the best way to spot them. Head to Funchal’s marina and hop aboard your vessel, where you’ll enjoy Champagne, cocktails, soft drinks, and snacks like local bread and cheese. Indulge as you look out for whales and dolphins. Then, if you wish, enjoy a swimming and snorkeling break at Cabo Girao before returning to shore.

Explore the mountains, forests, and levadas (historic water channels) of Maderia on this full-day mountain biking adventure. Follow your guide along dirt tracks and off-road trails, stop for lunch (own expense) in Camacha village, and enjoy stunning views of the levadas. There’s no previous experience necessary on this mountain bike tour: your guide will adapt the itinerary to suit your group’s ability level.

The south coast of Madeira is a popular spot to watch whales and dolphins in their natural environment. This small-group yacht cruise offers a more personalized experience, with a chance to customize the tour to your group’s preferences, stopping to swim or snorkel along the coast, and looking out for bottlenose dolphins, sperm whales, and Bryde's whales.

Explore the location of Pico do Arieiro, for a sunset experience and walk the Stairway to heaven famous trail (optional). The Stairway to heaven trail is a moderate level walk for about 1.2km that you can do. The return is through the same track. Pico do Arieiro location being a highly attracted and crowded sight, we offer a hassle free service of transfer with a local driver, so that guests dont have to rent a car and pay high parking fees, aswell as parking availablity. This activity is suitable for couples, family, friends and children and sometimes requested for small events, birthdays, engangment proposals or even just a romantic 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.

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

In Fanal, the centerpiece is undoubtedly the grove of centuries-old tis (Ocotea foetens)—these specimens date back even before the archipelago's discovery. They are part of the indigenous Laurissilva forest, which here expresses itself in a state of conservation that is impressive for its vibrancy. The tour allows you to walk at your own pace within the time we provide, without having to hassle with parking a car or paying parking fees and being subjected to availability.

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.

Madeira is known for its lush forests and several hiking trails. Join a small group and spend half a day hiking through the Rabaçal Valley to discover the 25 natural cascades, or fontes. See the Risco Waterfall and hike until you reach a small lake where the springs feed into.

Our Canyoning Level 1 - Ribeira das Cales activity offers a unique blend of adventure and natural beauty, perfect for beginners and enthusiasts alike. What sets this experience apart is the stunning setting in Ribeira das Cales or Ribeiro Frio, where participants navigate through six captivating waterfalls, each offering its own distinct landscape and challenge. The option to engage in three exhilarating jumps adds an element of thrill, while the 15-meter abseil provides a spectacular finale to the adventure. The entire experience is designed to be accessible, requiring only a brief journey from start to finish, making it an ideal introduction to the thrilling world of canyoning. This activity not only allows participants to immerse themselves in the breathtaking nature of Madeira but also offers a safe and memorable adventure under expert guidance.

Step into a world of misty mountains, moss-covered paths, and ancient greenery on the unforgettable Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk. Beginning in the lush Queimadas Forest Park in Santana, this 13-kilometer hike winds through one of Madeira’s most magical landscapes — the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva Forest. This is a journey deep into nature, where every turn reveals a new surprise: birdsong echoing through the trees, trickling streams beside the levada, and tunnels carved into the volcanic rock. The trail leads you to the stunning Caldeirão Verde lagoon, fed by a towering waterfall that cascades into a deep emerald basin — a moment of stillness and beauty you won’t soon forget. On clear days, you’ll also enjoy glimpses of the picturesque villages of Santana, Ilha, and São Jorge, scattered across the valleys below. Whether you’re an enthusiastic hiker or a curious explorer, this experience is a peaceful, awe-inspiring way to discover the wild heart of Madeira.

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.

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.

Enjoy this private tour, for up to 8 guests, of the Rabacal Valley and the gorgeous waterfalls you'll find there. You'll be transported in an air conditioned vehicle, and you'll be provided with walking sticks and a flashlight. Take food and water with you, as this is not provided in the tour. You'll visit three of the island's most impressive waterfalls today.

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).

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.

Dip into Madeira’s thriving culinary scene on this wine and food tour in Funchal. Taste your way through Funchal’s restaurants and markets while learning about Madeira’s rich gastronomic history and admiring its distinctive ambiance. To top it off, sample local wines and mingle with friendly locals.

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.

One of the most popular hikes in Madeira is the challenging trek between the Arieiro and Ruivo mountain peaks. Take the guesswork out of getting there by booking a transfer service to easily get to and from the hike. This is not a guided tour but an easy way for visitors who don't have cars to access the hike.

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.

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.

Being able to see the sunrise with your friends and family will make your day spectacular. A short walk to the observation site will bring to your memories countless colors, smells and even flavors until you reach the end of the day and get to know the mountains and trails like a real place. After sunrise we will pass through some of the most emblematic places on our island. RNAAT - 656/2020

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.

Hiking fans and nature lovers—this one’s for you. Instead of following a map, put your phone away, and enjoy the luxury of having a private guide to take you on a guided hike along the Levada do Alecrim trail. Access spectacular views over Rabaçal, look out for local wildlife, and visit picturesque lakes and waterfalls—such as Lagoa Dona Beja.