Description

Madeira Go East Island Tour: Pico do Arieiro, Ribeiro Frio, Santana and Ponta de São Lourenço

The Madeira Go East Island Tour is a full-day sightseeing experience that explores the eastern side of Madeira, one of the island’s most varied and scenic regions. Travelling by mini-bus, the tour links high mountain viewpoints, UNESCO-listed laurel forest scenery, traditional village architecture, dramatic coastal viewpoints and one of Madeira’s most historic towns.

The route includes Terreiro da Luta, Pico do Arieiro, Ribeiro Frio, Santana, Portela Viewpoint, Ponta de São Lourenço and Machico. It is ideal for first-time visitors who want to see a strong mix of Madeira’s landscapes without hiring a car or trying to manage mountain roads independently.

Quick Tour Overview

Experience	Madeira: Go East Island Tour
Destination	Eastern Madeira, Portugal
Tour Type	Full-day guided island sightseeing tour by mini-bus
Duration	Approximately 8 hours
Languages	English and Portuguese listed by the matching supplier
Starting Point	Madeira Happy Tours, Estrada Monumental 284-A, Shopping Center Monumental Lido, Shop 4, Funchal
Main Stops	Terreiro da Luta, Pico do Arieiro, Ribeiro Frio, Santana, Portela Viewpoint, Ponta de São Lourenço and Machico
Included	Guided tour, mini-bus transport and visits to the listed viewpoints, villages and scenic stops
Lunch	Lunch stop in Santana; treat lunch as paid locally unless your final voucher clearly says it is included
Best For	First-time Madeira visitors, photographers, scenic drives, traditional village culture, mountain views and coastal landscapes
Not Suitable For	Wheelchair users, according to matching supplier details

Check availability and current prices on Trip.com

Why Choose the Madeira Go East Island Tour?

Madeira’s eastern side is one of the best areas for a full-day sightseeing route because the scenery changes quickly. In a single tour, you can experience high-altitude mountain views, cool forest air, traditional houses, north-coast valleys, dramatic Atlantic viewpoints and the historic bay of Machico.

This tour is especially useful if you do not want to drive. Madeira’s roads can be steep, narrow and winding, and parking at popular viewpoints can be limited. A guided mini-bus tour lets you enjoy the views while someone else handles the driving and route planning.

Main Highlights

• Visit Terreiro da Luta, once connected with Madeira’s historic cog railway route.
• See Pico do Arieiro, one of Madeira’s highest and most dramatic accessible viewpoints.
• Explore Ribeiro Frio in the heart of Madeira’s laurel forest region.
• Visit the famous trout farm at Ribeiro Frio.
• See Santana’s traditional triangular thatched houses.
• Stop at Portela Viewpoint for sweeping views between Porto da Cruz and Machico.
• Admire the rugged eastern peninsula around Ponta de São Lourenço and Ponta do Rosto.
• Visit Machico, one of the most historically important towns on the island.
• Travel by mini-bus with a live guide.

Stop 1: Terreiro da Luta

Terreiro da Luta is often the first stop on the route. It sits above Funchal and is associated with the old Monte railway line, once part of Madeira’s historic transport story. The area is known for views, religious monuments and a quieter mountain atmosphere above the capital.

This stop gives the day a useful beginning because it quickly moves you away from the city and into Madeira’s hillside scenery. From here, the route continues higher into the mountains towards Pico do Arieiro.

What to Look For at Terreiro da Luta

• Views over Funchal and the surrounding hills
• The Our Lady of Peace sanctuary statue
• Mountain air and hillside scenery
• Historical links with Madeira’s old transport routes
• A gentle introduction before the higher mountain viewpoints

Stop 2: Pico do Arieiro

Pico do Arieiro, also written Pico do Areeiro, is one of the most memorable viewpoints in Madeira. At 1,818 metres above sea level, it offers dramatic views over the island’s central mountain massif when weather conditions are clear.

This is one of the tour’s strongest photo stops. On some days, you may see sharp ridges, deep valleys and the Atlantic in the distance. On other days, clouds move through the peaks and create an atmospheric mountain scene. Either way, the landscape feels very different from Funchal’s coast.

Why Pico do Arieiro Is Special

• One of Madeira’s highest accessible viewpoints
• Mountain scenery at 1,818 metres
• Possible above-the-cloud views
• Rugged ridges, valleys and dramatic rock formations
• Excellent photography in clear or misty conditions
• Cooler temperatures than the coast

Weather Tip for Pico do Arieiro

Pico do Arieiro can be sunny, cloudy, windy or misty even when Funchal is warm and clear. Bring warm clothing and keep expectations flexible. Mountain weather is part of the Madeira experience.

If the view is clouded in, the stop can still be atmospheric, but clear weather gives the best panoramic photographs.

Stop 3: Ribeiro Frio

Ribeiro Frio is a green mountain area set within Madeira’s laurel forest environment. It is known for cool air, forest scenery, levada paths and its famous trout farm, where fish are raised in fresh mountain water.

This stop offers a softer contrast after Pico do Arieiro. Instead of bare ridges and high peaks, Ribeiro Frio brings you into lush forest, mossy greenery and a calmer inland atmosphere. It is a good place to appreciate why Madeira is famous for walking trails and subtropical mountain landscapes.

What to See at Ribeiro Frio

• Laurel forest scenery
• The trout farm
• Cool mountain air
• Short walking opportunities around the village area
• Birdlife and forest sounds
• Access to nearby levada routes, depending on timing and conditions

Is There Hiking on This Tour?

This is mainly a sightseeing tour rather than a dedicated hiking tour. You may have short walks at viewpoints and villages, but the route is not designed as a long levada or mountain trekking experience.

If you want a serious hiking day, book a dedicated Madeira levada walk or a Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike. If you want a scenic overview of eastern Madeira, this tour is a better match.

Stop 4: Santana

Santana is one of Madeira’s most recognisable villages. It is famous for its traditional triangular houses with steep thatched roofs, white walls and colourful red, blue and green trim.

The houses are the main reason most travellers know Santana. They are among Madeira’s most photographed cultural symbols and give visitors a quick look at the island’s rural architectural heritage. The tour usually gives you free time to explore the village at your own pace.

What to Do in Santana

• Photograph the traditional thatched houses.
• Browse local craft and souvenir shops if open.
• Walk around the village centre.
• Enjoy lunch during the scheduled stop.
• Look for views towards the surrounding hills and north coast.

Lunch Stop in Santana

The supplier information is mixed, but the practical booking note says lunch is not included and that there will be a stop in Santana where food can be purchased. Treat lunch as an extra cost unless your Trip.com voucher clearly states that lunch is included.

Santana is a good place to try a simple Madeiran meal. Depending on the restaurant used, you may find options such as espetada, bolo do caco, soups, grilled fish, local meat dishes, salads and regional desserts.

Stop 5: Portela Viewpoint

Portela Viewpoint is located between Porto da Cruz and Machico. It offers one of the best views over the east and north sides of Madeira. From here, the landscape opens into deep valleys, green slopes and the striking rock formation known as Penha d’Águia, or Eagle Rock.

This is a classic Madeira postcard viewpoint. It is especially useful because it connects the inland and coastal parts of the tour: you can see how the mountains seem to fall steeply towards the sea.

Why Portela Viewpoint Is Worth the Stop

• Wide views over Madeira’s east and north coast
• Excellent perspective towards Porto da Cruz and Machico
• Views of Penha d’Águia rock formation
• Strong landscape photography opportunities
• Useful contrast between mountain valleys and ocean scenery

Stop 6: Ponta de São Lourenço and Ponta do Rosto

Ponta de São Lourenço is Madeira’s dramatic eastern peninsula. Unlike the lush green interior, this area feels drier, more exposed and more volcanic. The cliffs, sea stacks and open Atlantic views make it one of the island’s most distinctive landscapes.

The tour usually includes the Ponta do Rosto viewpoint area, where you can see both northern and southern coastal perspectives. It is a powerful stop because it shows a completely different side of Madeira: rugged, wind-shaped and almost desert-like compared with Santana and Ribeiro Frio.

What Makes Ponta de São Lourenço Different?

• Volcanic peninsula scenery
• Cliffs and ocean views
• Drier landscape with low vegetation
• Views over both sides of Madeira’s eastern tip
• Excellent photo opportunities in clear weather
• Strong contrast with the island’s forested interior

Is the Full Ponta de São Lourenço Walk Included?

No. This tour is a sightseeing route, not the full PR8 Ponta de São Lourenço hike. You usually visit viewpoints rather than completing the 6 km return trail.

If you want to hike the full peninsula, book a dedicated walking tour or transfer to PR8. If you only want the views and photos, this day tour gives you a good introduction.

Stop 7: Machico

Machico is one of Madeira’s most historically important towns. It is associated with the early Portuguese discovery and settlement of Madeira in the 15th century. The bay, historic centre and beach area make it a pleasant final stop before returning towards Funchal.

Machico has a gentler feel than the mountain and cliff stops. It brings the tour back to sea level and adds historical context to the day, showing where Madeira’s European settlement story began.

What to See in Machico

• Machico Bay
• Historic town centre
• Churches and older streets
• Beach and waterfront areas
• Views back towards the surrounding hills

What Is Included?

• Guided full-day tour
• Transport by mini-bus
• Live guide service
• Visit to Terreiro da Luta
• Visit to Pico do Arieiro
• Visit to Ribeiro Frio
• Visit to Santana
• Visit to Portela Viewpoint
• Visit to Ponta de São Lourenço / Ponta do Rosto viewpoint area
• Visit to Machico

What May Not Be Included?

• Lunch, unless your voucher clearly states otherwise
• Personal expenses
• Extra drinks and snacks
• Hotel pickup if your selected package uses a fixed meeting point
• Tips or gratuities
• Travel insurance
• Any optional attraction or entry fee not listed on your final voucher

Important Lunch Note

Because the supplier information can appear inconsistent across platforms, check your final Trip.com voucher carefully. If lunch is important to you, confirm directly before the tour day.

The safest assumption is to bring cash or card for lunch in Santana and a small snack or water bottle for the road.

Meeting Point

The matching supplier listing gives the meeting point as:

Madeira Happy Tours
Estrada Monumental 284-A
Shopping Center Monumental Lido, Shop 4, ground floor
9004-541 Funchal, Portugal

Arrive early so you have time to find the shop, check in and meet your guide. If your Trip.com package includes pickup or a different meeting arrangement, follow the instructions on your final voucher.

How Long Is the Tour?

The tour lasts approximately 8 hours. It is a full-day experience with several scenic stops, village visits and mountain roads.

Because Madeira roads are winding and weather can affect timing, avoid booking a tight evening dinner, airport transfer or cruise departure immediately after the tour.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is best for travellers who want a varied introduction to eastern Madeira in one day. It suits first-time visitors, couples, solo travellers, families with older children, photographers and anyone who prefers a guided route over self-driving.

It is also a good choice if you want scenic variety without a physically demanding hike. You get mountains, forest, village culture, viewpoints and coastline without committing to a long trail.

Who May Not Enjoy It?

This tour may not suit travellers who dislike long sightseeing days, are sensitive to winding roads, or want a slow private itinerary with extended time at each stop. It may also be unsuitable for wheelchair users, according to supplier details.

If you prefer a more active tour, consider a dedicated levada hike or Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo walking experience. If you prefer a more relaxed premium experience, consider a private driver tour.

What to Wear

Madeira weather changes quickly between Funchal, the mountains and the coast. Dress in layers.

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Warm clothing for Pico do Arieiro
• Light jacket or windproof layer
• Hat and sunglasses
• Weather-appropriate clothing
• Rain jacket if showers are forecast
• Comfortable clothes for sitting in a mini-bus

What to Bring

• Mobile voucher or booking confirmation
• Water bottle
• Sunscreen
• Camera or phone
• Power bank
• Cash or card for lunch and extras
• Light snacks
• Motion sickness tablets if needed
• Small day bag

Not Allowed

Smoking is listed as not allowed by the matching supplier. Follow your guide’s instructions and avoid smoking in the vehicle, at group stops or near other passengers.

Weather Tips

Madeira’s microclimates are part of the experience. You may leave Funchal in sunshine, reach Pico do Arieiro in cold wind or cloud, find Ribeiro Frio misty, and then arrive at Ponta de São Lourenço under bright coastal light.

Do not judge the whole day by the weather at one stop. Even if the mountain view is cloudy, the coast or villages may still be beautiful.

Motion Sickness Tips

This tour uses mountain roads, and Madeira’s routes can be winding. If you are prone to motion sickness, prepare before departure.

• Take motion sickness medication before the tour if you normally need it.
• Eat lightly before boarding.
• Look forward or out to the horizon rather than down at your phone.
• Ask to sit closer to the front if possible.
• Bring water and ginger sweets if they help you.
• Tell your guide early if you feel unwell.

Photography Tips

• At Pico do Arieiro, use wide-angle mode for ridges and cloud layers.
• At Ribeiro Frio, photograph forest details, levada water and greenery.
• In Santana, take photos of the thatched houses before crowds gather.
• At Portela, capture Penha d’Águia and the valley dropping towards the sea.
• At Ponta do Rosto, use wide shots for cliffs, ocean and volcanic rock.
• In Machico, photograph the bay, beach and historic centre.
• Bring a lens cloth because mist, rain and sea spray can affect photos.
• Keep your camera ready because some of the best views appear between stops.

Safety Tips

• Stay behind barriers at viewpoints.
• Do not step near cliff edges for photos.
• Wear shoes with grip for wet stone paths and village streets.
• Follow your guide’s timing instructions at each stop.
• Use caution at windy viewpoints, especially Ponta de São Lourenço.
• Bring warm clothing for higher elevations.
• Stay hydrated throughout the day.

Best Time of Year for This Tour

The Madeira Go East Island Tour can be enjoyed year-round, but the experience changes by season.

• Spring: Fresh greenery, flowers and comfortable temperatures.
• Summer: Warmer coastal weather and stronger sunlight, but busier viewpoints.
• Autumn: Often pleasant for sightseeing, with softer light and moderate temperatures.
• Winter: More dramatic clouds and cooler mountain weather, with a higher chance of rain or route adjustments.

Nearby Places to Visit on Another Day

If this tour gives you a taste for Madeira, consider adding these experiences later in your trip:

• Funchal Old Town: Painted doors, restaurants, markets and seafront walks.
• Monte Palace Tropical Garden: One of Madeira’s most popular garden attractions.
• Cabo Girão Skywalk: A glass viewpoint on the south coast.
• Pico Ruivo: Madeira’s highest peak, best for hikers with suitable conditions.
• Levada do Caldeirão Verde: A famous forest walk often associated with the Santana region.
• Porto Moniz: Natural volcanic swimming pools on the north-west coast.
• Fanal Forest: A mystical laurel forest known for ancient trees and foggy atmosphere.
• Camacha: Known for wicker craft and traditional village atmosphere.

Suggested Tour Day Plan

• Morning: Meet at the confirmed Funchal meeting point or pickup location.
• First Stop: Visit Terreiro da Luta above Funchal.
• High Mountain Stop: Continue to Pico do Arieiro for dramatic mountain views.
• Forest Stop: Visit Ribeiro Frio and the trout farm.
• Lunch Area: Stop in Santana, see the thatched houses and buy lunch locally.
• Viewpoint Stop: Continue to Portela Viewpoint for east and north coast scenery.
• Coastal Stop: Visit Ponta de São Lourenço / Ponta do Rosto for volcanic cliffs and Atlantic views.
• Final Town Stop: Explore Machico and its bay before returning to Funchal.

Travel Tips Before Booking

• Check whether your Trip.com package uses a fixed meeting point or includes pickup.
• Confirm whether lunch is included or paid separately.
• Bring warm clothing because Pico do Arieiro can be cold.
• Wear comfortable shoes for short walks and viewpoints.
• Bring water, sunscreen and a camera.
• Prepare for winding roads if you get motion sickness.
• Expect weather changes across the island.
• Do not book a tight evening plan after the tour.
• Check the live cancellation terms before paying.

Is the Madeira Go East Island Tour Worth It?

Yes, the Madeira Go East Island Tour is worth considering if you want a broad and scenic overview of the island’s eastern side. It gives you a strong mix of mountain scenery, forest landscapes, traditional architecture, coastal viewpoints and local history in one day.

The tour is especially worthwhile for first-time visitors who do not want to self-drive. The key things to check are pickup arrangements, lunch inclusions and weather expectations. If you want a varied, affordable and comfortable sightseeing day, this eastern Madeira route is a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Madeira Go East Island Tour?

It is a full-day guided mini-bus tour exploring eastern Madeira, with stops at Terreiro da Luta, Pico do Arieiro, Ribeiro Frio, Santana, Portela Viewpoint, Ponta de São Lourenço and Machico.

How long does the tour take?

The matching supplier listing describes the tour as approximately 8 hours.

What languages are available?

The matching supplier lists English and Portuguese guide options.

Where does the tour start?

The matching supplier listing gives the meeting point as Madeira Happy Tours, Estrada Monumental 284-A, Shopping Center Monumental Lido, Shop 4, in Funchal.

Is hotel pickup included?

Check your Trip.com package carefully. Some platforms may use a fixed meeting point, while other Madeira tours include selected pickup options.

What are the main stops?

The main stops are Terreiro da Luta, Pico do Arieiro, Ribeiro Frio, Santana, Portela Viewpoint, Ponta de São Lourenço and Machico.

How high is Pico do Arieiro?

Pico do Arieiro is 1,818 metres above sea level and is one of Madeira’s highest accessible viewpoints.

What is Ribeiro Frio known for?

Ribeiro Frio is known for laurel forest scenery, cool mountain air, levada access and its trout farm.

What is Santana famous for?

Santana is famous for its traditional triangular houses with thatched roofs and colourful trim.

Is lunch included?

The supplier information appears mixed, but the practical “Know before you go” note says lunch is not included and that there will be a stop in Santana where food can be purchased. Confirm your final voucher.

What is Portela Viewpoint?

Portela Viewpoint is a scenic lookout between Porto da Cruz and Machico, offering broad views over the east and north sides of Madeira.

What is Ponta de São Lourenço?

Ponta de São Lourenço is Madeira’s eastern volcanic peninsula, known for cliffs, sea views, dry landscapes and protected natural scenery.

Will I hike the full Ponta de São Lourenço trail?

No. This tour usually visits the viewpoint area rather than hiking the full PR8 route.

What is Machico known for?

Machico is one of Madeira’s historic towns and is associated with the early Portuguese settlement of the island.

Is this a hiking tour?

No. It is mainly a sightseeing tour with short walks at stops and viewpoints.

Is the tour suitable for children?

It can suit families with children who are comfortable with a full-day mini-bus tour, sightseeing stops and winding roads.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?

No. The matching supplier listing says the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What should I wear?

Wear comfortable walking shoes, layered clothing, a warm layer for Pico do Arieiro and weather-appropriate outerwear.

What should I bring?

Bring your voucher, water, sunscreen, warm clothing, camera, power bank, cash or card for lunch, and motion sickness medication if needed.

Can weather affect the tour?

Yes. Mountain cloud, rain, wind and road conditions can affect visibility and route timing. Your guide may adjust the day if necessary.

Is smoking allowed?

No. Smoking is listed as not allowed by the matching supplier.

Ready to see Madeira’s mountains, forests, villages and eastern coast in one day? Check live availability, meeting details, lunch notes and current pricing before booking the Madeira Go East Island Tour.

More Information and Booking Details

Best deals for Madeira: Go East Island Tour.
Admire the views from the Portela viewpoint and the Ponta do Rosto viewpoint;Discover the history of the island in the city of Machico and see the bay;Explore the village at your own pace
Available from trip.com.