cool shore excursions®
Top activities
Top landmarks
Trip ideas
Nearby places
  • Tours by category
  • Tours by accessibility
  • Tours by feature
  • Tours by time
  • Tours by the numbers
  • Top attractions
  • Madeira travel guides
  • Madeira travel calendar
  • Tours in nearby places
  • Explore Portugal tours
Language $Currency
Login / Sign up
Bookings
Bookings
Wallet
$0.00
Wishlists
Wishlists
Cool Rewards Rewards
Gift cards
Profile
Help Center
Language
Log out
Start your search
Change your search
Place or activity
Select Dates
You booked this experience
You're departing on
Google Calendar
Apple Calendar
Microsoft Outlook
Make your trip unforgettable

EAST: Pico do Arieiro & Laurissilva Forest - Full Day tour

53 Reviews 4.70 out of 5 stars Based on 53 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and TripAdvisor |
Recommended by 92% of reviewers
92% of reviewers gave this experience a rating of 4 or higher.
|
Badge of Excellence |Badge of Excellence This experience is highly rated by travelers and has met our top quality standards. Madeira, Portugal
Book online or call us

from $38.69 per person

Lowest Price Guarantee
Balcões Walk, Pico do Airieiro and Santana A-Framed Houses
Guindaste Viewpoint
engenho do porto da cruz
views from Balcoes
EAST: Pico do Arieiro & Laurissilva Forest - Full Day tour Image 5
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 30 (0) days in advance.
8 hours (approx.)
Hotel pickup offered
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English
and 3 more
French, Spanish, Portuguese
Instant confirmation

Overview

Discover the natural wonders of east side, beginning at CRISTO REI VIEWPOINT with panoramic views of the coastline and Atlantic Ocean. Continue to PONTA DE SAO lOURENCO, a unique semi-arid peninsula where volcanic rock formations, low-growing vegetation create a landscape unlike anywhere else on the island. Along the north coast, visit PORTO DA CRUZ a charming traditional village, with a visit and tasting of local Madeira rum. Continue to GUINDASTE VIEWPOINT, where glass walkways offer spectacular views over the rugged northern coastline. Discover SANTANA, famous for its traditional triangular A-frame houses with colourful thatched roofs. Then reach RIBEIRO FRIO located in the UNESCO-listed LAURISSILVA FOREST, with an optional short walk to Balcões Viewpoint (tickets not included). The tour’s main highlight is PICO DO ARIEIRO– 1,818 m, Madeira’s third-highest peak offering dramatic mountain scenery and breathtaking views, it is sometimes possible to experience all 4 seasons.

What's Included

  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • Pickup & drop-off at hotel, home, apartment, WERE POSSIBLE Funchal + canico + camara de lobos -areas
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Lunch
  • Does not include pickup from the Cruise Ship Port (requires extra fee of €5 pp)
  • Gratuities
See 3 moreSee 5 more

Meeting and Pickup

Pickup point
Pickup details

We will meet you directly at the hotel reception, WHERE POSSILBLE.If your accommodation is not a hotel—such as a villa or apartment , please wait outside by the main entrance.If your hotel is not on the list, please specify so pickup can be organized.Please note: Please check your email / whatsapp the day before for more precise pickup times, and locations.Pickup from All accommodation in Funchal, Camara de Lobos Village, Cabo Girao & Canico areas are included in the price.Drivers will wait no longer than 5 minutes after the scheduled pickup time.Please Note we do NOT PICKUP from Machico or Santa Cruz or Cruise port or any other location outside the above ones.

OR
Meeting point
End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Detailed check-in instructions, including the exact address, are provided with your booking confirmation.

What To Expect

Book Online

Our secure website provides real-time availability, instant confirmation, and free, no-hassle cancellations up to 24 hours before your tour begins.
Read more

Safe & secure Easy breezy Hassle‑free

Pico do Arieiro

We then uphill heading for Pico Arieiro, 1818m (5965 fts). It is the third highest peak in Madeira. As you climb, the green woodland gives way to bare rock. There are tremendous views over an endless succession of knife-edge ridges and sheer cliffs. Cotton-wool clouds hang in the valleys.
Read more

45 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Balcoes de Ribeiro Frio

Leaving Pico Areiro continuing your journey up hill, through small terraces lining the road where you can find all types of fruits before you reaching Ribeiro Frio is a delightful spot set among the Laurissilva forest This Forest was classified in the World Heritage by UNESCO in 1999. Herew you will be able to the balcoes levada walk
Read more

1 hour Admission Ticket Free

Santana

Santana.-  Presenting a picture of domestic and agricultural prosperity. The predominant colour is the greens of the terraced fields and the hay meadows, interspersed by apple, pear and cherry orchards, dotted among the haystack are triangular thatched buildings, used by local farmers as cow sheds. Traditionally people lived in these ingenious structures. You will discover how spacious the Santana ´A` farmed buildings are when you visit one.
Read more

1 hour 30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Miradouro do guindaste

Perched on one of the slopes of Foz da Ribeira do Faial, in Santana municipality, the Guindaste viewpoint provides a spectacular perspective of Madeira's stunning north coast. This spot is perfect for admiring the majestic Atlantic Ocean that embraces the island.Renowned for the remarkable beauty of its surroundings, this viewpoint offers an idyllic scene where lush green mountains blend seamlessly with towering cliffs and the crystalline waters of the sea. Visitors can also glimpse the pebble beach of Foz da Ribeira do Faial and its unique geological feature—a columnar disjunction formed by ancient lava flows.The Guindaste viewpoint presents a sweeping panoramic view of Madeira's northern coastline, stretching from Faial to the eastern tip at Ponta de São Lourenço, including the dramatic Penha d'Águia rock formation. On exceptionally clear days, visitors can even spot the island of Porto Santo, located to the northeast.
Read more

20 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Porto da Cruz

Driving down to the North Coast, to a rural village of Porto da Cruz. Located at the foot of a Rock called Penha d´Aguia, and on the other side, steep terraced slopes. The only running sugar mill in the north coast is located in this village. Its brick chimney stands up high in the village. It has a beautiful sea promenade.
Read more

30 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Ponta de Sao Lourenco

Ponta de São Lorenço. The eastern most point of the island. The area around Caniçal and Sao Lorenço has a similar climate to that of the island of Porto Santo. It is noticeable that the nature vegetation is different here .The north and south coast can be seen simultaneously. On a clear day Porto Santo can also be seen. Beautiful rock formation can be found in this region and one of the coast plants, the ice plant
Read more

35 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Cristo Rei (Jesus Statue)

Inspired by the famous Christ the Redeemer statues in Rio de Janeiro and Lisbon, the Cristo Rei statue stands with its arms open towards the Atlantic Ocean. From this viewpoint, you can enjoy stunning panoramic views over Funchal, the coastline and the cruise ships arriving and departing from the harbour.
Read more

15 minutes Admission Ticket Free

Show 6 more stops

Additional Info

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the EAST: Pico do Arieiro & Laurissilva Forest – Full Day tour?

A: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund. For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (WET). Read more Apr 2025

Cancellation Policy

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.

Still have questions?

We're here to help.
Activity code: C-42204P3

Traveler Photos

Reviews

4.70
53 reviews

Average 4.70 out of 5 stars based on 53 traveler reviews collected by Cool Shore Excursions and partner sites such as Cool Destinations and TripAdvisor

5 stars
46
4 stars
3
3 stars
1
2 stars
1
1 star
2
Don't miss out!
On average, this is booked 30 (0) days in advance.
Madeira Tours
Attractions
Guides
Calendar
View more

Similar Tours & Activities

Ponta de São Lourenço (PR 8) - Hiking Tour in Madeira
4.9 (24)

Ponta de São Lourenço (PR 8) - Hiking Tour in Madeira

The Ponta de São Lourenço tour is unique for its spectacular rocky coast at the furthest eastern corner of the island, offering amazing views over...

6 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.9 (24)
from
$55
Full Day West Madeira Tour
4.6 (43)

Full Day West Madeira Tour

On this day you will discover several natural wonders, as well as surprising landscapes. Start in Câmara de Lobos, a picturesque fishing village featured in...

8 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.6 (43)
from
$45
Shore Excursion Porto Moniz - Enchanted Terraces 4x4 tour
4.7 (11)

Shore Excursion Porto Moniz - Enchanted Terraces 4x4 tour

This is a shore excursion with pick up / drop off at the cruise terminal (pick up at the harbour €5.00 extra or free pick...

8 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.7 (11)
from
$78
Bespoke Madeira Journey : Private Chauffeur-Driven Mercedes
5.0 (4)

Bespoke Madeira Journey : Private Chauffeur-Driven Mercedes

Experience Madeira in absolute comfort and style. Skip the crowds and discover the island's beauty from the leather seats of an executive Mercedes-Benz E-Class (up...

6 to 7 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (4)
from
$86
Ponta de São Lourenço (PR 8) - Hiking Tour in Madeira

The Ponta de São Lourenço tour is unique for its spectacular rocky coast at the furthest eastern corner of the island, offering amazing views over …More

4.9 (24)

Ponta de São Lourenço (PR 8) - Hiking Tour in Madeira

4.9 (24)

The Ponta de São Lourenço tour is unique for its spectacular rocky coast at the furthest eastern corner of the island, offering amazing views over...

6 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.9 (24)
from
$55
Full Day West Madeira Tour

On this day you will discover several natural wonders, as well as surprising landscapes. Start in Câmara de Lobos, a picturesque fishing village featured in …More

4.6 (43)

Full Day West Madeira Tour

4.6 (43)

On this day you will discover several natural wonders, as well as surprising landscapes. Start in Câmara de Lobos, a picturesque fishing village featured in...

8 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.6 (43)
from
$45
Shore Excursion Porto Moniz - Enchanted Terraces 4x4 tour

This is a shore excursion with pick up / drop off at the cruise terminal (pick up at the harbour €5.00 extra or free pick …More

4.7 (11)

Shore Excursion Porto Moniz - Enchanted Terraces 4x4 tour

4.7 (11)

This is a shore excursion with pick up / drop off at the cruise terminal (pick up at the harbour €5.00 extra or free pick...

8 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
4.7 (11)
from
$78
Bespoke Madeira Journey : Private Chauffeur-Driven Mercedes

Experience Madeira in absolute comfort and style. Skip the crowds and discover the island's beauty from the leather seats of an executive Mercedes-Benz E-Class (up …More

5.0 (4)

Bespoke Madeira Journey : Private Chauffeur-Driven Mercedes

5.0 (4)

Experience Madeira in absolute comfort and style. Skip the crowds and discover the island's beauty from the leather seats of an executive Mercedes-Benz E-Class (up...

6 to 7 hours Hotel pickup offered Free Cancellation
5.0 (4)
from
$86

Travelers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought

Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Madeira
5.0 (898)

Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Madeira

Whales and Dolphins Watching Tour: Come experience the marvellous nature of the south west sea of Madeira Island on board a refined and comfortable motor...

2 hours 30 minutes Free Cancellation
5.0 (898)
from
$84
Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour from Funchal
Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.7 (284)

Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour from Funchal

Our clients are always accompanied by our marine biologists team. Before each boat trip there is a short introduction, the the adventure starts! We have...

2 hours 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.7 (284)
from
$68
Dolphins & Whales by VMT
4.4 (451)

Dolphins & Whales by VMT

Embark on comfortable catamarans for a relaxing trip along Madeira's south coast. Get the chance to spot dolphins, whales and occasionally even turtles. There is...

3 hours Free Cancellation
4.4 (451)
from
$46
PR1 Sunrise Pico do Arieiro Self-Guided Hiking Transfer
4.9 (295)

PR1 Sunrise Pico do Arieiro Self-Guided Hiking Transfer

Permit arrangements - we are partnered with Simplifica and have a certified company status/protocol - must be requested by all guests* Self Guided Hiking -...

8 hours Free Cancellation
4.9 (295)
from
$54
Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Madeira

Whales and Dolphins Watching Tour: Come experience the marvellous nature of the south west sea of Madeira Island on board a refined and comfortable motor …More

5.0 (898)

Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour in Madeira

5.0 (898)

Whales and Dolphins Watching Tour: Come experience the marvellous nature of the south west sea of Madeira Island on board a refined and comfortable motor...

2 hours 30 minutes Free Cancellation
5.0 (898)
from
$84
Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour from Funchal

Our clients are always accompanied by our marine biologists team. Before each boat trip there is a short introduction, the the adventure starts! We have …More

Likely to Sell Out
Likely to Sell Out
4.7 (284)

Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour from Funchal

4.7 (284)

Our clients are always accompanied by our marine biologists team. Before each boat trip there is a short introduction, the the adventure starts! We have...

2 hours 30 minutes Free Cancellation
4.7 (284)
from
$68
Dolphins & Whales by VMT

Embark on comfortable catamarans for a relaxing trip along Madeira's south coast. Get the chance to spot dolphins, whales and occasionally even turtles. There is …More

4.4 (451)

Dolphins & Whales by VMT

4.4 (451)

Embark on comfortable catamarans for a relaxing trip along Madeira's south coast. Get the chance to spot dolphins, whales and occasionally even turtles. There is...

3 hours Free Cancellation
4.4 (451)
from
$46
PR1 Sunrise Pico do Arieiro Self-Guided Hiking Transfer

Permit arrangements - we are partnered with Simplifica and have a certified company status/protocol - must be requested by all guests* Self Guided Hiking - …More

4.9 (295)

PR1 Sunrise Pico do Arieiro Self-Guided Hiking Transfer

4.9 (295)

Permit arrangements - we are partnered with Simplifica and have a certified company status/protocol - must be requested by all guests* Self Guided Hiking -...

8 hours Free Cancellation
4.9 (295)
from
$54

Frequently Asked Questions (7)

Activity name

The answers provided below were previously given in response to questions from Cool Shore Excursions customers.

Filter by:

Q: What is the cancellation policy for the EAST: Pico do Arieiro & Laurissilva Forest – Full Day tour?
A:
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the tour for a full refund.
  • For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the tour start time.
  • If you cancel less than 24 hours before the tour start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
  • Any changes made less than 24 hours before the tour start time will not be accepted.
  • Cut-off times are based on the tour local time (WET).
Apr 2025
Q: What's included in the price?
A:
The following is included:
  • All taxes, fees and handling charges.
  • Pickup & drop-off at hotel, home, apartment, WERE POSSIBLE Funchal + canico + camara de lobos -areas.
  • Air-conditioned vehicle.
  • Professional guide.
The following is NOT included:
  • Lunch.
  • Does not include pickup from the Cruise Ship Port (requires extra fee of €5 pp).
  • Gratuities.
  • Entrance at Balcoes Walk has an extra 5 euros entrance fee.
  • Please note that front seats cannot be reserved.
Apr 2025
Q: What is the minimum age for this tour?
A:

There is no minimum age for this tour, so bring your wee one along for an adventure. This tour requires at least one adult to accompany children..

Apr 2025
Q: My date is not available in the calendar, I am just checking to see if it is available?
A:

If a date or time is not listed on the calendar, it’s sold out or unavailable for another reason. Support cannot assist further if a date or time is not on the calendar.

If you find a date and time that works for you, book it NOW because things always sell out at this time of year.

Apr 2025
Q: Is this an accessible tour?
A:

Accessibility information for the EAST: Pico do Arieiro & Laurissilva Forest - Full Day tour is as follows:

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Apr 2025
Q: Where is the meeting point for this activity?
A:

Detailed check-in instructions – including meeting point address, Google map, and parking information – for Treasures of Bangkok: Buddhism & Monks Private Tour will be included in your confirmation email from Cool Shore Excursions. Please be sure to double and triple check your email address is correct at checkout so this important email makes its way to you!

 

 

Mar 2024
Q: How long does a refund take to reach my card, and can I get it faster?
A:

Once your refund is processed, it usually shows on your card statement within 5–10 business days. The exact timing depends on your bank or card issuer.

Want it sooner? When you cancel, choose Receive a refund to my wallet instead. The credit is in your Wallet straight away and is applied automatically at checkout on your next booking when you’re signed in with the same email. You can see your balance any time in My Wallet.

If you paid part of your booking with Wallet credit, that part always goes back to your Wallet. Trip protection isn’t refundable.

Oct 2026

What's Included

Activity name

  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • Pickup & drop-off at hotel, home, apartment, WERE POSSIBLE Funchal + canico + camara de lobos -areas
  • Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Professional guide
  • Lunch
  • Does not include pickup from the Cruise Ship Port (requires extra fee of €5 pp)
  • Gratuities
  • Entrance at Balcoes Walk has an extra 5 euros entrance fee
  • Please note that front seats cannot be reserved.

Additional Info

Activity name

  • Confirmation is instant and will be received at time of booking
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 15 travelers

Report Product Issue

Activity name