Return to Madeira Island: East & West Discovery in 2 Days
From volcanic peaks to Atlantic coastlines, explore Madeira's most iconic landscapes across two unforgettable days.
This 2-day Madeira island tour takes you through the full breadth of the island, from the craft villages and wine regions of the east to the dramatic sea cliffs and natural pools of the west. Designed for curious travelers, the itinerary balances scenic drives, cultural stops, and light outdoor walks at an easy pace.
On the first day, the route heads east through Camacha, Porto da Cruz, and Santana, offering a look at rural Madeiran life, traditional thatched houses, and the trout ponds at Ribeiro Frio. A walk along the Levada dos Balcões provides a taste of the island's celebrated levada trail network before the ascent to Pico do Arieiro at 1,810 meters.
The second day turns westward along one of the Atlantic's most dramatic coastlines, passing through Câmara de Lobos, Cabo Girão's glass-floored cliff platform, and the banana groves near Ponta de Sol. The afternoon brings a pause at Porto Moniz's volcanic natural pools before the return through São Vicente and a stop at Encumeada for a tasting of poncha, Madeira's traditional cane spirit drink.
Tour Highlights
Ascend to Pico do Arieiro, one of Madeira's highest peaks at 1,810 meters, for panoramic views above the clouds.
Swim or relax at Porto Moniz's famous natural volcanic pools carved into the northwestern coastline.
Stand on the suspended glass platform at Cabo Girão, one of the tallest sea cliffs in Europe at 580 meters.
Walk a section of the Levada dos Balcões, a scenic irrigation canal trail through laurel forest near Ribeiro Frio.
Visit Santana and see the distinctive A-frame thatched houses that are a symbol of traditional Madeiran architecture.
Explore Camacha's wicker factory, where artisans continue the island's long tradition of handcrafted wicker basketry.
Taste poncha at Encumeada, a traditional Madeiran drink made from cane spirit, lemon juice, and honey.
Itinerary Overview
The tour begins with a visit to Camacha's wicker factory before continuing to the Portela viewpoint and the rural landscapes around Santo da Serra. The route descends to Porto da Cruz, a village with an active local wine tradition.
Lunch is taken in Santana, home to the island's iconic thatched houses. The afternoon includes a visit to the trout ponds at Ribeiro Frio and a walk along the Levada dos Balcões trail through native forest.
The route climbs to Pico do Arieiro at 1,810 meters for sweeping views across the central mountains. An optional stop at Monte allows guests to take the traditional basket car descent back toward Funchal.
The second day departs westward through Câmara de Lobos, a historic fishing village, and on to Cabo Girão where a glass-floored platform offers a vertical view down 580 meters to the Atlantic below.
The coastal towns of Ribeira Brava and Ponta de Sol are visited en route, with a pause near banana plantations. Lunch at Porto Moniz is followed by free time at the natural volcanic pools.
A short walk on the Paul da Serra plateau precedes a poncha tasting at Encumeada. The tour returns to Funchal via the Véu da Noiva viewpoint and the valley town of São Vicente.
What Is Included
Included
- Minibus transport throughout both days
- Professional guide for the full duration
- East Madeira tour with levada walk at Ribeiro Frio
- West Madeira tour with stop at Porto Moniz natural pools
- Poncha tasting at Encumeada
- All entrance fees to viewpoints included in route
Not Included
- Meals and beverages unless specified
- Optional basket car ride at Monte
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities for the guide
- Any items of a personal nature
Important Information
Ready to Explore Madeira?
Secure your place on this two-day journey through Madeira's most celebrated landscapes, villages, and viewpoints. Availability is limited for small group departures.
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