Eastern Madeira Tour with Santana walk and Levada Lunch
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
From rugged coastline to fairytale houses, this full day excursion of eastern Madeira is a showcase of everything that makes the island so special. You'll discover the historic towns of Machico and Santana as well as the natural gems of Ponta da Rosto and Pico do Areiro. There's also a levada walk and traditional lunch to look forward to.
From here, we'll make our way to the lookout points of Ponta do Rosto and Portela. It's then time for an authentic, freshly prepared lunch in a local family-run restaurant in Santana – a town famed for its triangular homes, which look like gingerbread houses. Gonçalo says, ‘These homes are unique to Santana. They're made of stone with thatched roofs – which are replaced every three years – that reach almost to the ground. Mostly built in the 16th century, attics were used to store seeds.'
The great outdoors take centre stage in the afternoon, with a trip to Ribeiro Frio Natural Park. You'll get to walk along a stretch of the Levada dos Balcões
Available options
German
German<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Lunch & drink
Transport
Guide
Poncha tasting
Detailed itinerary
1
Visit historic Machico and the fairtyale houses of Santana
2
Admire the views from Ponta do Rosto and Portela lookouts
3
Discover Ribeiro Frio Natural Park and Levada dos Balcões
4
Stop 4
Look down on the clouds from lofty Pico do Arieiro at 1,800m
5
Stop 5
Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch in a local family-run restaurant in Santana
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
DE
EN
Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Guests with walking difficulties will not be able to do the short levada walk
Maximum number of guests per guide is 18
Bring suitable footwear
Recommended for guest to take warm coat, rain coat or umbrella in Winter season
Depending on the weather conditions, excursion may be done in reverse order - guide will decide on the day of the tour
Itinerary may be subject to change due to operation reasons
Important notes
Only phone calls are allowed during office hours. Support is available in the local language and English only
Monday to Friday 8:00 – 19:00
We do not reply WhatsApp messages nor calls.
About Funchal
Funchal, the vibrant capital of Madeira, is a city where lush landscapes meet charming architecture. Known for its subtropical climate, beautiful gardens, and dramatic coastal scenery, Funchal offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it a captivating destination for travelers.
Top Attractions
Botanical Garden
A stunning garden with a wide variety of exotic plants, offering panoramic views of Funchal and the Atlantic Ocean.
Nature
1-2 hours
€7.50
Sé Cathedral
A beautiful 15th-century Gothic cathedral located in the heart of Funchal, featuring intricate architecture and historical significance.
Historical/Religious
30-45 minutes
Free (donations welcome)
Mercado dos Lavradores
A bustling market offering a variety of fresh produce, flowers, and local crafts, providing a glimpse into Madeira's culture and daily life.
Market
1 hour
Free to enter, prices vary for purchases
Cabo Girão Skywalk
A breathtaking glass platform extending over the cliffs of Cabo Girão, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the coastline.
Nature/Adventure
1-2 hours
€5
Santana
A charming traditional village known for its iconic triangular thatched-roof houses, showcasing the unique architectural heritage of Madeira.
Cultural
Half day
Free to explore
Must-Try Local Dishes
Bolo do Caco
A traditional Madeiran bread made with sweet potato, often served with garlic butter and grilled meats.
Bread
Contains gluten
Espetada
A skewer of beef marinated in wine, garlic, and spices, grilled to perfection.
Main Course
Contains beef, gluten
Poncha
A traditional Madeiran cocktail made with aguardente (a type of brandy), honey, and lemon or orange juice.
Drink
Contains alcohol
Bacalhau à Madeirense
Salted cod cooked with onions, peppers, and sometimes raisins and olives, a popular dish in Madeira.
Main Course
Contains fish, may contain gluten
Popular Activities
Hiking
Paragliding
Cable car rides
Beach relaxation
Spa treatments
Gardens and parks
Museum visits
Historical sites
Best Time to Visit
April to June, September to October
This is the best time to visit Funchal, with pleasant temperatures, lower rainfall, and fewer tourists. The weather is ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.
18°C to 25°C
64°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+0 (WET) / GMT+1 (WEST during daylight saving time)
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Funchal is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers approaching you with petitions or distractions
Getting there
By air
- Madeira Airport (Funchal Airport) • 20 km from Funchal
By bus
Funchal Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and efficient, with frequent services connecting major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Bolt, FreeNow
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Old Town (Zona Velha)
Funchal Marina
Monte
Day trips
Porto Santo
100 km from Funchal • Full day
A beautiful island known for its golden sandy beaches and relaxed atmosphere, offering a perfect escape from the bustle of Funchal.
Santana
30 km from Funchal • Half day
A charming traditional village known for its iconic triangular thatched-roof houses, showcasing the unique architectural heritage of Madeira.
Pico do Arieiro
20 km from Funchal • Half day
A stunning mountain peak offering breathtaking views of the island and the Atlantic Ocean, with various hiking trails and scenic drives.
Festivals
Madeira Flower Festival • March/April
Atlantic Festival • August
Christmas and New Year's Celebrations • December/January
Pro tips
- Visit the local markets for fresh produce, flowers, and unique souvenirs
- Take a cable car ride for a scenic and memorable experience
- Try local dishes like Bolo do Caco and Espetada for an authentic culinary experience
- Explore the Old Town for historic charm, vibrant nightlife, and local shops
- Participate in a wine tasting tour to learn about the island's winemaking traditions
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
