Funchal (Madeira, Portugal) | Ponta Do Sol (Portugal)
The following are Madeira: Pico Do Arieiro, Fanal Forest & Porto Moniz tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
Touch down in Funchal for a week of active discovery and cultural immersion. Transfer to your hotel in Funchal where you will meet your fellow travellers. Prepare for a trip of a lifetime including the cinematic Pico do Arieiro, trek along an emerald levada path, visits to hidden valleys and sun-drenched seaside villages. Every wild Atlantic vista is paired with curated comfort and deep local flavor.
Arrive and transfer direct to your hotel. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group and CEO later this afternoon. Afterwards, enjoy an orientation walk and dinner with your CEO.
You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
Your opportunity to meet your CEO and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Opt to join the group for a local meal afterwards. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group.
A winding morning journey sweeps you up to the majestic peaks of Pico do Arieiro to wander soaring walks above the clouds. Next, immerse yourself in nature on a gentle, levada trek through emerald forests to a panoramic lookout. Savor a leisurely, multi-course lunch pairing fresh regional flavors with dramatic Atlantic views at Quinta do Furao. Conclude your day exploring the sun-drenched coastal hamlet of Porto da Cruz and witnessing the raw, sculpted volcanic beauty of Ponta de Sao Lourenco (the Dragon's Tail) at golden hour, before returning to Funchal for an evening at your own pace.
Enjoy a private transfer to Pico do Arieiro for viewpoint exploration. Next, come back down the mountain and stop for a guided 3km Balcoes levada hike through the forest along the open-air irrigation channel, followed by a multi-course lunch at Quinta do Furao, a cliffside winery and retreat. End the day with a CEO-led visit to the seaside town of Porto da Cruz and Ponta de Sao Lourenco overlook. Return by private transfer to your hotel in Funchal for a free evening.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Stand atop Pico do Arieiro to witness jagged volcanic peaks, where crisp mountain air meets dramatic, high-altitude stone skywalks snaking along a backdrop of magnificent island and ocean views.
Enjoy an easy 3.1km trail following historic levada water channels, hand-carved by 15th-century settlers to irrigate the island. Walk through the endemic, UNESCO-protected Laurissilva forest-filled with ancient laurel trees and friendly native birds-before reaching the dramatic Balcoes viewpoint for sweeping views of the valley and ocean.
Nestled on Madeira's rugged northeastern coast, Porto da Cruz is a dramatic, timeless village where the island's raw volcanic geology meets a laid-back surfing culture and centuries-old agricultural traditions.
Ponta de Sao Lourenco-affectionately nicknamed The Dragon's Tail-is a dramatic, wave-battered peninsula on the easternmost tip of Madeira. Experiencing it feels like stepping off a subtropical island and directly onto a wild, prehistoric Martian landscape.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Uncover the heart of Funchal on a CEO guided walk. Meander into the vibrant local market, where you're free to sample fruits or relax at a cafe for lunch. Afterward, ascend to Monte via a panoramic cable car for breathtaking Atlantic views, with the option to descend via a thrilling, wicker toboggan ride. Delve into Madeira's living heritage during a private embroidery workshop and artisan demonstration, before concluding your day with a convivial, locally sourced dinner brought to life by spirited folklore dancing.
Spend the day exploring Funchal. Start with a two-hour CEO-led walking tour and market visit with free time for lunch. Experience local culture at the Instituto do Vinho, do Bordado e do Artesanato da Madeira craft center. In the evening, enjoy a traditional group dinner with live folklore dancing.
Join your CEO for a walk in the historic Zona Velha (Old Town), a maze of narrow streets dating back to the 15th century. Once a sleepy fisherman's quarter, it has been transformed into an open-air art gallery through the "Art of Open Doors" project. The highlight of the walk is stepping into the bustling Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers' Market). Housed in a grand 1930s Art Deco building, the entrance is lined with beautiful hand-painted tile panels (azulejos) depicting traditional island life.
A visit to the Heritage Museum in Funchal offers an intimate look into one of the island's most revered, century-old cultural traditions: the art of authentic Madeira embroidery (Bordado da Madeira). The heartbeat of the visit is the live demonstration, where you get to sit alongside a master embroiderer (bordadeira) and learn this artform up close.
Gliding upward by scenic cable car for panoramic Atlantic views, afterwards you may opt for a thrilling, high-speed descent down mountain streets in a traditional, driver-steered wicker toboggan.
Savor traditional dishes during a lively evening of vibrant Madeiran folklore music, dynamic dancing, and interactive audience participation.
Today is all about you. Choose your own unforgettable morning adventure: explore more of Madeira's iconic, emerald levada paths on a curated trek, or coast past dramatic Atlantic cliffs on an exhilarating e-bike tour of the sun-drenched south coast. After a leisurely lunch, journey to the historic fishing village of Camara de Lobos with your CEO, stepping into a rustic waterfront tavern to sample authentic, citrus-infused poncha. Conclude your day in picturesque Ponta do Sol, unwinding at your hotel in the heart of this vibrant seaside hamlet.
Morning transfer by private vehicle for your choice between a guided levada hike or a south coast e-bike tour, followed by an included lunch. An afternoon transfer includes a CEO-led visit to the local village of Camara de Lobos where you have a traditional poncha tasting. Continue to your new hotel for check-in and time to relax in Ponta do Sol.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Option 1: Levada Hike where giant ferns and moss-covered laurel trees block out the modern world. The paths gracefully hug the contours of deep valleys, guiding you past sheer rock faces dripping with mountain moisture Option 2: South Coast E-Bike Tour along scenic coastal roads perched high above the Atlantic, threading through sleepy seaside hamlets, historic fishing harbors, and vibrant, bright green banana plantations.
Travel to the historic fishing village of Camara de Lobos where you enter a rustic, wood-paneled tavern for a taste of the soul of Madeira. The magic happens right at the counter, a proper poncha is never pre-made; it is mixed to order right in front of you. The bartender grabs a thick wooden mixing stick-the uniquely named caralhinho-and gets to work making your tasty drink.
Ascend to the breathtaking heights of Cabo Girao, standing on one of Europe's highest cliff viewpoints to marvel at the sheer drop into the crashing Atlantic below. Your journey continues to a family-run estate in Sao Vicente, where you'll walk the sun-kissed vines, meet the winemakers, and savor a guided tasting of crisp Madeiran wines. Afterward, indulge in a traditional espetada lunch-succulent, garlic-marinated beef skewers grilled over open flames-paired with sweeping vineyard views. Return to Ponta do Sol for a relaxed, independent evening in this sun-drenched coastal haven.
Your day begins with a private transfer to the Cabo Girao skywalk for sweeping ocean views. Continue to a Sao Vicente estate for a family-guided vineyard tour and wine tasting, followed by a traditional espetada lunch. Return to Ponta do Sol for a free afternoon and evening in town.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Take in Cabo Girao's beautiful panoramic views of the sea. Visit the skywalk, jutting out of the cliffs at over 580m above sea level.
Relish artisan vintages amid dramatic northern peaks, paired with a flame-cooked feast of savory meats and buttery local bread.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Immerse yourself in the ethereal beauty of the mystical Fanal Forest, wandering beneath the twisted boughs of ancient, moss-draped laurel trees. Next, trace the dramatic coastline to Porto Moniz to gaze at cascading waterfalls and take an invigorating dip in the iconic, black-volcanic natural swimming pools carved into the Atlantic. After time for lunch on your own, return to your hotel for a relaxed afternoon. Celebrate your final evening with your CEO and fellow travelers, at a handpicked ocean-front restaurant for a farewell dinner celebrating authentic Madeiran gastronomy against a backdrop of crashing waves.
Embark on an excursion to the famous Fanal Forest for a guided walk. Next continue by private vehicle for a coastal drive to Porto Moniz, passing waterfalls along the way. Upon arrival, enjoy an included opportunity for swimming in the natural seawater pools in the town. After time for lunch on your own, return to your hotel in Ponta do Sol for a free afternoon. Conclude your memorable journey with an included farewell dinner overlooking the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Walking the high-altitude plateau of Fanal is like stepping into a prehistoric fairy tale. This fog-shrouded woodland is home to centuries-old Til trees whose gnarled, sculptural trunks rise dramatically from rolling green pastures.
Explore a rugged northern outpost of Porto Moniz for the chance to plunge into crystalline basalt basins, replenished daily by surging tides against cooled magmatic shelves. Enjoy free time for lunch in this seaside town.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Today your adventure comes to an end, but the memories made during your time in Madeira will live on.
Your journey ends today with an included transfer to the airport in Funchal for your onward flights.
You will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport at the end of your adventure.
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their Madeira: Pico Do Arieiro, Fanal Forest & Porto Moniz tour:
Funchal, Portugal
Caminho do Passo 6
Ponta do Sol, Portugal-9360-529
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Madeira: Pico Do Arieiro, Fanal Forest & Porto Moniz tour:
Max 16, Avg 12.
Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and GroupYour OMG Day: Levada Hike or E-bike tour of the South Coast, FunchalYour Foodie Moment: Espetada Lunch and Wine Tasting, Sao Vicente. Complimentary arrival and departure transfers. Pico do Arieiro visit. Dragon's Tail viewpoint. Walk in Fanal Forest. Porto Moniz and swim inside natural pools. Choice of levada walk or E-Bike ride. Meet a local family at a wine tasting and vineyard lunch. Dinner with folklore dancing. Hands-on artisan workshop experience. Poncha tasting in traditional local tavern. Levada hike. Visit to local villages. Tips for all included meals and activities, except for CEO and Porterage. Departure transfer. All transport between destinations and to/from included activities.
Stand above the clouds on Pico do Arieiro's volcanic ridges, Take in coastal cliffs from the wind-swept Dragon's Tail peninsula, Wander the ancient groves of the mystical Fanal Forest, Swim in Porto Moniz's crystal-clear basalt ocean pools, Choose between a levada walk or an e-bike ride, Meet a local family for a wine tasting and vineyard lunch, Dance the night away at a folklore dinner, Get hands-on with a local artisan workshop, Taste poncha in a local tavern
Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.
Hotels (6 nts)
6 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners
Eating is a big part of traveling. G Adventures understands the importance of breakfast to start your day, we strive to include a basic breakfast wherever possible. A typical breakfast may include toast, coffee and tea, however this may vary depending on the city. Should breakfast not be included, your CEO can suggest some local options. Travelling with G Adventures you experience the vast array of wonderful food that is available out in the world. Generally meals are not included in the trip price when there is a choice of eating options, to give you the maximum flexibility in deciding where, what and with whom to eat. It also gives you more budgeting flexibility, though generally food is cheap. Our groups tend to eat together to enable you to taste a larger variety of dishes and enjoy each other's company. There is no obligation to do this though. Your CEO will be able to suggest favourite restaurants during your trip. For all trips please refer to the meals included and budget information for included meals and meal budgets.
CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.
This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our group leaders. The aim of the group leader is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects. We also use local guides where we think more specific knowledge will add to the enjoyment of the places we are visiting - we think it's the best of both worlds.
Private vehicle, walking, gondola
Minimum age of 18 years for this trip.
Documents:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Light Hiking:o Hiking bootso Hiking pants (Convertible/Zip-off and quick dry recommended)o Walking poles Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao Swimwear
Upgraded: Quality accommodations and more inclusions than on other G Adventures tours, like meals, private transport, and activities.