Around the Island Tour – Two Days
A complete circuit of Madeira by minibus, covering the west coast, mountain highlands, and the east in two carefully paced days.
This Madeira two-day island tour is designed for travellers who want a thorough and unhurried exploration of the island's most distinctive landscapes, villages, and viewpoints. Spread across two days, the itinerary balances coastal roads with mountain terrain and cultural heritage stops.
On Day 1, the route heads west from Funchal along the southern coast, rising through highland plateaus before descending into the dramatic volcanic north. Day 2 shifts focus to the island's eastern character, where traditional architecture, mountain peaks, and rugged coastal peninsulas define the experience.
Both days are designed with an easy difficulty level, making the tour suitable for a broad range of travellers. Stops are long enough to explore comfortably, and the minibus format keeps group sizes manageable throughout the journey.
Tour Highlights
Stand on the Cabo Girão glass platform, suspended 580 metres above the Atlantic Ocean on Europe's highest sea cliff.
Swim or relax at Porto Moniz's natural volcanic rock pools, carved by lava flows along the northwestern coast.
Walk through the highland plateau of Paúl da Serra, a moorland landscape that sits above the clouds at over 1,400 metres.
Visit Santana's iconic A-frame thatched houses, a centuries-old form of rural architecture unique to Madeira.
Reach Pico do Arieiro at 1,818 metres, one of Madeira's highest accessible peaks, with panoramic views over the island.
Walk the Levada dos Balcões trail in Ribeiro Frio, a short and rewarding path that ends at a viewpoint over three mountain summits.
Taste poncha at Encumeada, the traditional Madeiran spirit made from sugarcane aguardente, honey, and lemon juice.
Itinerary Overview
The route begins in Funchal and moves west through Câmara de Lobos and the cliff-top viewpoint of Cabo Girão. Continuing along the southern coast, stops include Ribeira Brava, Ponta de Sol, and the banana plantations nearby.
A short walk on the highland plateau of Paúl da Serra is followed by a two-hour stop at Porto Moniz, where guests have time for lunch and a visit to the natural lava pools. The return passes through Seixal and São Vicente.
On the way back through the Encumeada pass, the group stops to sample poncha at a local producer. The scenic mountain road then leads back down to Funchal via São Vicente.
Day 2 begins with a visit to Cristo Rei in Garajau, then moves through Porto da Cruz, known for its wine production, before arriving at Santana for a two-hour stop to explore the thatched houses and wicker craft heritage.
After lunch at Faial, the group climbs through the mountains to Ribeiro Frio for the trout hatchery visit and a walk along the Levada dos Balcões. The journey continues to Pico do Arieiro for sweeping summit views.
The final stretch passes through Portela before reaching the dramatic volcanic peninsula of Ponta de São Lourenço and the historic town of Machico. The tour then returns to Funchal to conclude.
What Is Included
Included
- Minibus transport throughout both days
- Professional licensed guide
- All stops as listed in the itinerary
- Short guided walk at Levada dos Balcões
- Poncha tasting at Encumeada
Not Included
- Meals and beverages (except poncha tasting)
- Entrance fees to optional attractions
- Personal travel insurance
- Gratuities for guides and drivers
Important Information
Reserve Your Place
Spaces on this two-day circuit are limited due to the small-group minibus format. Secure your seat in advance to avoid missing out on one of Madeira's most complete island experiences.
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