Day Trips from Madeira to Pico do Arieiro

Why explore the East of Madeira in a noisy, polluting car when you can experience it in silence, comfort, and style? We don't just show you places– we help you feel the heart of Madeira’s wild side. Our electric, quiet vehicles– better for the planet & for your senses. You'll hear birdsongs, the crash of waves & the breeze. With only 7 guests per tour, you will enjoy: - caring guide - comfort - cozy atmosphere and attention - relaxed journey tailored to your pace & interests We’ll journey from sky-high mountain peak to lush green valleys, enjoy a peaceful levada walk, stop in a charming village for a local lunch & a glimpse of Madeira’s iconic triangle houses. You’ll stand above the ocean on a glass viewpoint & explore a dramatic, windswept peninsula. Plus, we’ll surprise you with a few hidden gems off the beaten path. The tour lasts between 6,5 to 8 hours. We don't watch the clock, we follow the magic, we go at your pace.

Prepare for an unforgettable journey with our East Tour! We started at Pico do Areeiro, one of the highest points in Madeira, with amazing views. Then we visit Ribeiro Frio, where you can walk along the Levada dos Balcões and appreciate nature. Then we head to Santana, famous for its colmo houses, where you can also enjoy a typical lunch. In Faial, we will have stunning panoramic views. In Porto da Cruz, discover the tradition of Madeirese rum and enjoy to taste this unique drink. We end in Ponta de São Lourenço, with impressive landscapes and dramatic cliffs, ending the tour with an unforgettable view of the Atlantic.

Explore the stunning coastline of Madeira aboard an open-top jeep, guided by a knowledgeable local expert. This private tour allows for a fully customizable itinerary, offering stops at breathtaking viewpoints like Pico do Areeiro, opportunities to swim in the natural pools of Porto Moniz, and fascinating visits to the Sao Vicente Caves. Relax at Calheta Beach and soak in the beauty of Madeira's unique landscapes at your own pace. Ideal for those seeking adventure and natural beauty, this tour promises a day filled with unforgettable sights and experiences. - Private jeep tour with a dedicated guide for personalized exploration - Visit stunning locations: Pico do Areeiro, Porto Moniz, and Sao Vicente Caves - Enjoy flexibility to stop and swim or relax at Calheta Beach - Perfect for travelers looking for a unique and adventurous day out in nature

This private tour offers a more comfortable and personalized way to discover East Madeira, away from large shared groups and standard sightseeing tours. Travel through some of the island’s most impressive landscapes, from the mountain and valley views of Pico do Arieiro to the traditional charm of Santana and the dramatic coastal scenery of Madeira’s north and east coast. The experience combines mountains, valleys, traditional villages, lush nature, coastal viewpoints and Atlantic scenery in one full-day route. With private transportation, an English-speaking driver and pick-up and drop-off in Funchal included, this tour is ideal for travelers looking for comfort, scenery and a premium island experience.

Explore the spectacular natural wonders and cultural heritage of Madeira’s East Coast on an exciting 4x4 tour, moving far away from the crowded tour buses. Driven by an expert local guide, the route follows this exact sequence: Pico do Arieiro: Stand above the clouds at the island's third-highest peak (1818m). Ribeiro Frio: Walk along a gentle levada in the UNESCO-listed Laurisilva Forest. Miradouro do Guindaste: Walk on famous glass platforms suspended over the sea. Miradouro do Cortado: Enjoy stunning coastal views overlooking Eagle's Rock. Rocha do Navio: Admire dramatic green cliffs and waterfalls over a nature reserve. Santana: See iconic thatched triangular houses and enjoy free time for lunch. Porto da Cruz: Visit the historic steam-powered sugar cane rum factory. Ponta de São Lourenço: Marvel at the unique volcanic rock peninsula scenery. NOTE: Shared tours use Land Rover Discovery 4x4 vehicles. The classic Portuguese UMM jeep is strictly for Private Tour bookings.

Embark on the discovery of a different Madeira, on a Jeep trip towards Santana where the route is part of the experience itself. Leave the busiest roads behind and follow secondary roads and less traveled paths, crossing small towns and mountain areas where you can still feel a calmer and more authentic side of the island. Along the way, enjoy different perspectives of the Madeiran landscape, with selected stops to appreciate the surroundings and take some photographs. The adventure takes on another character when the Jeep leaves the asphalt and enters off-road routes, providing a different way to explore the interior of Madeira, among vegetation, mountains, and landscapes that change along the route.

This is more than just a sightseeing tour — it’s a fully immersive journey through Madeira’s wild heart. While other companies follow the same routes, we go further, exploring the island's untamed beauty and authentic heritage. From the dramatic cliffs of Ponta de São Lourenço to the glass platforms of Faial, each stop offers a unique perspective. Our expert guides share local legends and stories that bring each place to life. You'll explore ancient sugar mills, a 300-year-old working water mill, and taste tradition at a trout farm in Ribeiro Frio. Go off the beaten path in a powerful 4x4, venturing deep into the UNESCO Laurissilva forest. End the experience on a high at Pico do Arieiro — Madeira’s third highest peak, above the clouds. This is not a generic island tour. This is raw, real Madeira — authentic, adventurous, and unforgettable. Let others take the road. You’ll take the journey.

Discover nature’s beauty while walking a scenic 1.5 km trail that offers stunning panoramic views. Traverse the thrilling glass skywalk, allowing a unique perspective of the landscape below, while keeping an eye out for bird species that call this area home. After your hike, indulge in a delightful rum tasting at a local factory. This experience blends adventure and tranquility, making it perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a unique outing.

A journey with Prestige Tours 4x4 Madeira is exceptional because it offers a 100% private, bespoke overland expedition tailored to your pace. We eliminate rigid schedules and commercial crowds. From your 5-star hotel lobby pick-up, the day belongs entirely to your group of up to 6 guests. You will explore Madeira’s dramatic Eastern landscapes aboard our iconic, classic green Land Rover Discovery 4x4. This distinctive vehicle blends rugged adventure with sophisticated comfort, accessing secret trails and hidden viewpoints that massive tour buses cannot reach. Ascend to the breathtaking heights of Pico do Arieiro, walk through the pristine Laurissilva forest, discover the traditional thatched houses of Santana, and enjoy an exclusive sugar cane heritage experience with a local rum tasting in Porto da Cruz. With Prestige Tours 4x4 Madeira, you enjoy the authentic East in ultimate comfort and style.

Discover the stunning landscapes and rich culture of Madeira’s east side on this guided tour. Begin with a scenic drive to Pico do Areeiro, the island's third highest peak, where you can enjoy panoramic views. Immerse yourself in ancient forests and learn about the island's unique ecosystems. Visit iconic landmarks and charming fishing villages, while your guide shares captivating stories about Madeira's traditions. Savor authentic Madeiran dishes at a local restaurant and try the island’s renowned drinks. This tour combines nature, history, and local flavor for an unforgettable experience. - Scenic drive with stops at picturesque viewpoints - Explore ancient forests and learn about unique flora and fauna - Discover charming fishing villages and local traditions - Enjoy a meal featuring authentic Madeiran cuisine and drinks

Discover the very best of Madeira in one unforgettable day with our 4x4 and Whale Watching Combo Experience, combining adventure on land with the magic of the Atlantic Ocean. Start your journey in a comfortable 4x4 vehicle as you explore Madeira’s scenic viewpoints, hidden roads, and natural landscapes. Travel through mountains, coastal cliffs, and traditional villages while enjoying panoramic views and stopping at selected locations for photos and sightseeing. After your off-road adventure, continue at sea with a guided whale and dolphin watching tour. Set sail in the Atlantic Ocean and search for Madeira’s rich marine life, including dolphins and whales frequently spotted in these waters. With an experienced crew, you’ll learn about local wildlife while enjoying coastal views from a different perspective. This combo is perfect for travelers who want to experience Madeira’s nature, landscapes, and marine life in a single day.

Discover the very best of Madeira in one unforgettable day with the 4x4 and Whale Watching Combo Experience, combining adventure on land with the magic of the Atlantic Ocean. Start your journey in a comfortable 4x4 vehicle as you explore Madeira’s scenic viewpoints, hidden roads, and natural landscapes. Travel through mountains, coastal cliffs, and traditional villages while enjoying panoramic views and stopping at selected locations for photos and sightseeing. After your off-road adventure, continue at sea with a guided whale and dolphin watching tour. Set sail in the Atlantic Ocean and search for Madeira’s rich marine life, including dolphins and whales frequently spotted in these waters. With an experienced crew, you’ll learn about local wildlife while enjoying coastal views from a different perspective. This combo is perfect for travelers who want to experience Madeira’s nature, landscapes, and marine life in a single day.

Let yourself be seduced by the magic of the East Coast of Madeira on this exclusive 8-hour private tour. Climb above the clouds at the majestic Pico do Areeiro and breathe the millennial peace of the Laurissilva forest in Ribeiro Frio. Admire the blue abyss at the Miradouro do Cindaste and travel in time as you discover the iconic hollow houses in Santana. To close with a golden key, witness the raw force of nature in the stunning volcanic cliffs of Ponta de San Lorenzo.

Start with sunrise at Pico do Arieiro, then follow your guide along a scenic section of PR1 to the famous Stairway to Heaven. Continue through the forest to Balcões, explore Santana’s traditional houses, and discover a waterfall and sweeping north-coast views. What makes our day special is the pace. We leave time to enjoy the scenery, take photographs, ask questions, and pause over coffee. With a small group and a flexible itinerary, the day can unfold naturally, with adjustments for weather and local conditions. Optional experiences include the Rocha do Navio cable car, lunch with the group, and traditional Madeiran drinks at São Cristóvão, all at an additional cost. PR1 and PR11 trail entry fees, water, snacks, and raincoats are included. Allow approximately 10–11 hours, including pickup and drop-off.

Join us for a full-day 4x4 adventure and discover Madeira’s East Coast beyond the usual roads. Start at the iconic Cristo Rei statue, with beautiful views over Funchal and the Atlantic, before heading towards Pico do Areeiro, one of Madeira’s highest peaks, with spectacular views across the island’s rugged mountain landscape. Continue through the lush forests of Ribeiro Frio and stop for a short walk along the Balcões trail. Then, head towards Santana, discovering hidden waterfalls and scenic mountain roads before stopping at the Miradouro do Guindaste. Finish at Ponta do Rosto with incredible views over the Atlantic.

Though small, the island of Maderia is blessed with forests, beaches, and high mountains. With this tour, see much of what the island offers in one day while leaving the planning and driving to someone else. From coastal Caniço, make your way to one of the island’s highest peaks before returning to sea level to visit farms, forests, and beachside villages. The tour also stops at a wicker weaving center and the King Christ (Cristo Rei) statue in Caniço.

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.

Madeira is home to mighty peaks and deep valleys, with winding hiking routes leading to soaring mountain summits—but knowing the best trails takes local knowledge. On this trekking adventure, leave the map behind and follow your guide along rugged routes to high peaks including Pico Ruivo and the Ninho da Manta. Enjoy panoramic views over the Fajã da Nogueira valley and spot native bird life in the skies—with round-trip travel from your Funchal hotel included.

Catching the sunrise at Pico do Arieiro usually means a mountain drive in the dark, hours before the local buses start to run. This group trip collects you from your hotel and gets you to the summit in time for first light. Head to the glass platform at Guindaste for a unique view straight down to the ocean, then walk the coastal Larano Trail between Machico and Porto da Cruz.