If you’re thinking of taking a tour of the island, there are several different types of tours you can choose from. Here are a few examples: Funchal, Pico Ruivo, Ponta de Sao Louranco, and Cascata dos Anjos waterfall.
Funchal
The best way to explore a city is by foot, and walking through Funchal’s streets is a wonderful way to do that. But if you’re looking to learn more about the island’s history, guided tours are a great way to do that, too. These tours will take you through the main areas of lower Funchal and teach you about the city’s past.
A common excursion in Funchal takes passengers to the Mercado dos Lavradores, a farmers market in the town center filled with colorful flowers and herbs. The Mercado also has a variety of seafood and leather goods for sale.
Pico Ruivo
Madeira Island is home to the Pico Ruivo, the highest peak in the island. The peak can only be reached by foot. There are two trails that lead up to Pico Ruivo: a shorter, easier path leads from the Pico do Arieiro, while another trail leads west towards Encumeada.
The Pico Ruivo trail begins at sea level and ascends to the summit, which is the island’s highest point. During the hike, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Madeira Island. You’ll be able to catch a glimpse of the Atlantic Ocean as well as the Faja da Nogueira Valley, Nun’s Valley, and the Paul da Serra plateau.
Ponta de Sao Louranco
Ponta de So Lourenço is the easternmost point of Madeira. It is a part of the municipality of Machico, and the terrain consists mainly of rocks and herbaceous vegetation. The town is a popular destination for hiking and cycling tours, but visitors can also take a boat tour to the island’s most remote spots.
If you’re staying in Madeira and don’t have a car, you can easily get there by public transport. There are buses that leave from Funchal’s Edificio 2000, and they stop at Baia D’Abra and Ponta de Sao Lourenco. These buses cost EUR3, and the trip takes approximately one hour and fifteen minutes. You can check bus schedules and prices online.
Cascata dos Anjos waterfall
Cascata dos Anjos, also known as Angels Waterfall, is a popular tourist destination in Madeira, Portugal. It is located in Ponta de Sol, about 30 minutes’ drive from Funchal. The waterfall is easily accessible by car, but be sure to pack a swimsuit!
This waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery. You will be rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding valley, as well as a spectacular clifftop vantage point. Those who love hiking can make the trip, but most people prefer to ride in a VW or 4×4.
Cascata dos Anjos tour
The Cascata dos Anjos waterfall is located in the south of Madeira. You can visit the waterfall on a 30 minute drive from the island’s capital Funchal. It’s so beautiful that you’ll probably want to bring your camera. It’s an instagrammable spot, and it’s a great way to experience the island’s natural beauty.
The road around the waterfall is narrow and winding, but there are plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the view. Levadas, or small tunnels, lead to waterfalls and sweeping views of the village of Sao Jorge.
Toboggan ride
There are several ways to enjoy the toboggan run on Madeira, and one of the most popular is with a private taxi or minivan tour. The tour can start and end at any point you like, including from the port or your hotel. A guide who speaks English, Spanish, or French can accompany you on this Madeira adventure.
The traditional Madeira toboggan is made of wicker or wood, and you’ll be seated in one as you speed down the mountain. The ride takes around 10 minutes and can reach speeds of up to thirty miles per hour. The sleds are powered by two carriers and are driven by sled drivers wearing straw hats and white uniforms. The Madeira toboggan ride is completely safe and is a popular source of income for locals.