Top Santa Cruz Sightseeing Tours in 2026

Madeira's mountains are a must-see but navigating them without local know-how can be tricky. This small-group hike pairs you with a mountain guide, taking you along the PR3 trail to Pico do Areeiro, the island's third-highest peak. Cross the Stairway to Heaven ridge and pause at clifftop viewpoints over the valleys before reaching the summit on a longer, more rewarding route.

Discover the best of Madeira on a 2-day adventure with a local guide! Explore the island’s stunning east and west, enjoy breathtaking viewpoints, charming villages, and spectacular landscapes, while experiencing authentic Madeiran culture and local tastings. A relaxed and immersive experience designed to help you discover the island beyond the usual tourist spots.

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.

Enjoy an easy way to summit one of Madeira’s tallest peaks—and discover what many describe as the island’s best sunrise view—on this shared tour of Pico do Areeiro. Early in the morning, meet your driver directly at your hotel and drive to the top of the mountain, with stops at scenic villages en route. After admiring the view, you’ll enjoy a brief hike through Laurisilva forests and stop at a local bakery.

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.

Escape crowded bus tours and experience a more luxurious way of exploring Funchal—a private tour. You don’t have to worry about an itinerary of sightseeing stops that don’t interest you, as this tour gives you the freedom to customize your itinerary. Choose the stops you visit, how long you spend in each place, and your preferred pickup time too—making it the ultimate tailor-made tour experience.

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.

Experience the beauty of Madeira’s mountains as the day draws to a close on a sunset adventure to Pico do Arieiro, one of the island’s most iconic high-altitude destinations. Travel towards the mountains and take in Madeira’s spectacular landscapes along the way. As you arrive at Pico do Arieiro, discover a world of dramatic peaks, rugged mountain ridges and sweeping panoramic views. Enjoy time to explore the accessible viewpoints and capture unforgettable photographs in the soft light of golden hour. When conditions and trail access allow, experience the famous Stairway to Heaven viewpoint, a striking mountain setting known for its dramatic scenery and spectacular photo opportunities. As the sun begins to set, watch the colours of the sky transform over Madeira’s mountainous landscape. After enjoying the sunset and taking your final photographs, relax on the return journey.

"Ribeiro Bonito" (Beautiful River) is the name given to the torrential stream that feeds the Levada do Rei. This enchanting walk along the "King´s Levada" leads through a fairly pristine laurel forest (world heritahe by UNESCO since 1999) penetrating deep into the delightful valley of the Ribeiro Bonito. This amazing hike take place in the north of Madeira Island.

This experience is built around the journey rather than a strict timetable. We never rush guests from one stop to the next. Instead, you’ll have time to walk through Fanal Forest, swim, take photographs, enjoy lunch, and fully experience each location without constantly watching the clock. Travel in a small group and discover Fanal Forest, Ribeira da Janela, Achadas da Cruz, Porto Moniz, Seixal, and São Vicente. Along the way, we share stories about Madeira’s history, traditions, culture, and everyday life. We’ll also show you several lesser-known waterfalls that most visitors pass without noticing. The itinerary is adapted to the weather, sea conditions, and the group’s preferences, so some days may naturally extend beyond 10 hours. Personal attention, a light snack in Fanal, carefully selected local lunch recommendations, and photos taken with a professional camera make the experience feel more like exploring Madeira with friends than following a standard bus tour.

Discover Pico Ruivo with round trip transport and trail access ticket included. Avoid the worry of driving on mountain roads and organizing the trip. From Achadas do Teixeira, follow the PR1.2 at your own pace, with time to appreciate the landscape, take photographs, and enjoy the arrival at the summit. An ideal experience for those who prefer to walk independently, without a guide, with organized transportation.

This charming walk follows ancient paths once carved by locals, offering stunning views of North Coast villages and lush valleys within the Madeira Natural Park. As you explore, take note of the steep terrain and marvel at how local farmers work the land, a true testament to resilience. You will be surrounded by vibrant greenery, cascading waterfalls, tranquil fountains, and crystal-clear pools. With professional guides and quality service, this relaxing experience blends nature, culture, and unforgettable memories. Please note that this tour is not wheelchair accessible.

This is a walk unlike any other. Frequently described as the most unforgettable hike in Madeira, this experience stays with travelers long after it ends. Embark on a hike through the valley of the western plateau, and marvel at the rock pools and waterfalls that have been carved over millions of years by rushing waters on their way to the sea. As you ascend the valley, experience a diversity of hiking terrain. Walk along the forest, and from the flatness of the levadas to the slopes of the mountain trails that lead to the oldest levada in the west of the island. In the summertime, bring your swimsuit and enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal-clear and invigorating mountain waters. This is an unforgettable experience into the heart of Madeira’s wild beauty!

This is a Levada walk whose beauty amazes us all along the trail. We start at the Queimadas guest house, heading west through dense, emerald green vegetation that leads us to Caldeirão Verde. Along the Levada, the landscapes are spectacular, we are surprised by beautiful villages at the foot of the valleys, by a waterfall, and by tunnels that we must cross, until we finally reach the majestic waterfall of Caldeirão Verde. After a short rest and picnic break, we begin our return journey. More than just a walk, it’s a passage through Madeira’s most hidden landscapes.

Begin your holiday in Madeira with a leisurely stroll through a landscape that showcases the island’s rich culture and beauty. As you walk, find yourself surrounded by meticulously cultivated terraces, shaped by generations of farmers. Take a moment to appreciate the harmony between the people and the land, where nature and craftsmanship are woven together. The path will lead you to breathtaking panoramic views over the charming village of Camacha, known for its timeless craftsmanship and cultural significance. This gentle walk is more than a scenic route, it’s an immersive journey to slow down, soak in the island’s beauty, and connect with its heritage, setting the perfect tone for your Madeira adventure.

This experience along the southwest coast of the island, gives you some of the traditions and cultures of the island of Madeira. The banana plantation, and the fishing villages in which it was the bread of our ancestors and still it is for some families. This coast of the island is known for being nice and warmer relative to the north side.