Madeira Island Tours

Madeira's magnificent scenery takes centre stage on this full day tour. You'll visit a selection of highlights including picturesque Ribeira Brava Village, Porto Moniz, Paúl da Serra and Encumeada Pass. Mariana, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘You'll get to know the true drama of Madeira's landscapes. You might be lucky enough to see the ocean both to the north and the south from Encumeada Pass, but the highest points on the island do sometimes catch the clouds.'Your first destination will be the cute Ribeira Brava Village, with its appealing, seafront promenade behind the beach. The views along the valley towards the island's interior give a hint of the impressive landscapes you'll explore when you head inland. Mariana adds, ‘You'll see as you travel around that no patch of fertile land is wasted in Madeira – even the steep hillsides around Ribiera Brava are terraced to cultivate crops.' Then, it's time for a stroll through a banana plantation in Madalena do Mar.Next, we'll head up the 1,500m-high Paúl da Serra plateau before descending on Porto Moniz, famous for its natural lava rock swimming pools. A typical lunch freshly prepared with local produce awaits in the village. Then, crossing north to south, we'll venture over the Encumeada Pass for some knockout views across the island. Rounding off the day is a poncha drink demonstration and tasting in Câmara de Lobos – a favourite holiday spot of Winston Churchill. Mariana says, ‘Be careful – poncha is so fruity and refreshing, but it hides a serious brandy kick.'

One of the most popular walks in Madeira, the 11 km-long ‘25 fountains' levada walk will lead you through magical landscapes to waterfalls, a small lake and flowing springs. You'll journey from Paul da Serra into the Rabaçal Valley and along the levada to Risco waterfall and the 25 natural springs.

The knockout natural beauty of eastern Madeira is in the spotlight on this full day tour. You'll have your head in the clouds at Pico do Areeiro, walk next to cute thatched houses in Santana, have lunch at Quinta do Furão and step back in time at Ponta de São Lourenço.

The subtropical climate of Madeira makes it an ideal spot for a dazzling array of plant and flower life. Be charmed by the exotic gardens of Monte Palace on this half-day excursion, and take in fantastic views high above Funchal from a cable car.As you soar up above the capital in a cable car, you'll witness special views of the city below – and of the Atlantic beyond. You may ride the cable car either up or down, at the discretion of the guide. And as you enter the palace's world-renowned gardens, you'll be struck by the aroma of exotic species – planted in immaculately landscaped gardens. There are fountains, follies and grottoes aplenty and oriental-inspired sections.Wander among the beautiful blooms, and soak up the serenity of the swans wading in the many ponds. And for a fun extra why not take an optional toboggan ride down the mountain on a wicker sled. It's the traditional way to travel down, with two ‘carreiros' – or drivers – manning the brakes. Your guide will pick you up at the bottom for the return transfer to the hotel.

Seeing sunrise from the top of one of Madeira's highest peaks will have you reaching for your camera over and over again. And this exclusive morning trip to Pico do Arieiro promises just that – views over Madeira during the mystical first light of the day, followed by a warming breakfast.

Why stick to the usual roads when Madeira's wilder side is calling? On this off-road adventure, you'll start with ocean views at Cabo Girão – one of Europe's highest sea cliffs – before snaking through the scenic São Vicente Valley, where quiet trails wind between red-roofed farms and lush peaks. The grand finale is a visit to Quinta do Barbusano, where you'll tour the vines with an expert, enjoy a selection of local wines and nibbles – and take in views that make every sip even sweeter.

Book your ticket for this full-day tour to the west of Madeira Island and Porto Moniz, with pickup from selected areas.

In a city as full of sights as Funchal, you'll need to get around fast to fit it all in. That's where a tukxi tour comes in handy. Hop in one of these nippy three-wheeled vehicles, and you'll see the Madeiran capital's cobbled old town, smart marina and beautiful gardens, as well as São Pedro Church, Socorro viewpoint, the Farmers' Market and more.

The uplands behind Funchal provide gentle and panoramic walking trails. This morning walking tour will start at the appropriately named Paradise Valley, trekking along the beautiful Levada Serra do Faial trail, taking in the charming hillside villages of Camacha and Rochão.

The Referta levada walk is an easy stroll through lush countryside to hidden gems that are only accessible by foot. You'll spend the morning following this 5.5km-long levada trail from Referta to Castelejo, winding your way through agricultural terraces and charming villages.

Mornings are for exploring, and with this 4x4 half-day tour you'll venture to Madeira's unspoiled locations along country and coastal tracks, just as the fresh rays of sunshine beam down on the land. And there are also great views to enjoy at Boca dos Namorados and Jardim da Serra, plus a wine tasting in Camara de Lobos.

Departing from the heart of the Lido we pass through the first traditional fishing village of Câmara de Lobos. Our drive continues to Cabo Girão, the second highest sea cliff in the world and the highest sea cliff in Europe....

A half-day exploring the towering peaks of Madeira is on the cards with this tour. You'll head off-road by 4x4 up to viewpoints and mountain passes, and finish with a stop at Cristo Rei at Garajau for arguably the most iconic views of the day.The tour gets going at Largo do Miranda and continues with an exciting drive up to Pico do Arieiro at 1818 metres, from where the panorama really opens up. On a clear day, you can see Ponta de São Lourenço, Ribeiro Frio, and Paúl da Serra. Next, embark on an off-road adventure through Santo da Serra's unique and pristine forest, then journey back to Madeira's south coast, with scenic overlooks of local farmers' terraces and more awe-inspiring viewpoints. After the final stop, at the Cristo Rei viewpoint, it's time to head back to base.

You'll need to have your camera on hand for this easy half-day hike from Campanario in southern Madeira. As you follow the levada across the Serra de Agua, you'll be treated to view after view over the south coast, Encumeada pass and the small town of Ribeira Brava. The area is one of the most beautiful spots on Earth.

Winding through the picturesque terraces above Machico, you'll come even closer to Madeira's breathtaking beauty on this 6km guided hike. This two-and-a-half-hour walk kicks off in Maroços and follows a flower-lined irrigation channel, complete with views over Machico and the Atlantic Ocean.

Journey to jaw-dropping viewpoints at Pico dos Barcelos and Eira do Serrado, and zoom along cliff-clinging roads to explore Nuns Valley – a hidden village concealed by Madeira's towering mountain peaks. This tukxi tour is an access-all-areas pass to some of Europe's best scenery.

Join this full-day tour with pickup from selected areas and discover the east part of Madeira. Discover Laurisilva, Santana, Machico, and more.

Join one of the most renowned hikes in Madeira. Enjoy an easy walk into the heart of the lush Rabaçal valley along the Levada das 25 Fontes.

Considered one of the prettiest levada walks in Madeira, the Ribeiro Frio hike will not disappoint. Starting in the northern hills of the island, you'll wind your way through the natural park, past mountains and valleys and through prehistoric laurel forests, all the way to where you'll see Porto da Cruz.

Book a full day guided tour of Madeira's east side. See the viewpoint from Terreiro da Luta. Take a stroll through Ribeiro Frio and travel to Ponta de São Lourenço.