Stories of Discovery & Wonder

Madeira in 48 Hours: West & East Island Highlights Tour

A compact, two-day tour that stitches Madeira’s west and east highlights into one loop: Cabo Girão’s dizzying cliff, Pico do Arieiro’s high ridgelines, laurel forests and Porto Moniz’s natural pools. Ideal for travelers who want a fast, grounded introduction to the island’s geology, culture and accessible levada walks.

Funchal, Madeira•

2 days (approx. 48 hours total; active touring each day)

•By Adventure Collective•October 2025

The Experience

You step off the van outside Funchal and the island opens like a set of living postcards — cliffs dropping into the sea, terraces of vines clinging to steep slopes, and a coastline that alternates between basalt shelves and sheltered coves. Over two days the landscape alternates fast: the west’s jagged cliffs and natural lava pools give way to the high, wind-swept plateau and the laurel forests of the north.

Before You Go

Layer for altitude

Temperatures vary from coast to summit — pack a light insulated layer and a windproof shell for Pico do Arieiro.

Sturdy footwear

Wear grippy walking shoes for short levada sections and uneven village streets; flip-flops are not suitable.

Cash for lunches

Stops include local restaurants in Santana and Porto Moniz — bring euros as some small venues prefer cash.

Hydration and sunscreen

Even on cloudy days UV is strong near the coast and on plateaus; carry at least 1–2L of water per person.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

•Encumeadas viewpoint on the central ridge for broad island contrasts
•Early-morning trout pools at Ribeiro Frio when bird activity is highest

Wildlife

•Trocaz pigeon (Madeira laurel pigeon)
•Madeira firecrest (Regulus madeirensis)

Conservation Note

The Laurissilva forest is UNESCO-protected — stay on marked levadas and avoid disturbing native undergrowth; limit single-use plastics to reduce impact.

Machico marks the 1419 landing of Portuguese discoverers; Santana preserves the island’s vernacular thatched houses linked to historical agriculture.

What to Bring

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Sturdy walking shoesEssential

Provide traction and support for levada paths and village streets.

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Light insulated jacket / windbreakerEssential

Protects against rapid temperature drops at higher elevations like Pico do Arieiro.

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Daypack with 1–2L waterEssential

Keeps essentials and hydration handy during short walks and viewpoint stops.

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Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF)

Useful for long coastal sections and exposed plateaus, especially in summer.

Common Questions

Is hotel pickup included?

Pickup and return to Funchal hotels is typically included — confirm your pickup point and time when booking.

Are meals included on the tour?

Transport is provided but lunches are usually not included; the itinerary schedules lunch stops where you can buy local dishes.

How long are the levada walks?

Walks like Levada dos Balcões are short (often under 2 km round trip) and mostly flat, suitable for casual walkers.

Can weather cancel or change the route?

Yes — high winds or poor visibility at Pico do Arieiro or heavy rain can prompt itinerary adjustments for safety; cancellations offer refunds if within policy.