Spend a quiet, full day exploring Madeira’s eastern highlights—Pico do Arieiro’s high ridges, levada walks through Laurisilva, Santana’s triangle houses and the windswept Ponta de São Lourenço—traveling in a small-group electric vehicle.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You leave Funchal before dawn and the island wakes under a shifting light—mountain ridges push clouds aside like curtains and the sea stretches hard and blue below. The first climb finishes at Pico do Arieiro (1,818 m), where the wind speaks and the vistas demand attention: granite ribs, carved gullies and distant peaks that peer through mist.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6.5–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers with basic fitness who can handle short walks on uneven ground and several short stair sections.
Wildlife
History
Santana’s triangular thatched houses reflect traditional agricultural life; the island’s levada network dates to 16th–18th century irrigation needs.
Conservation
The Laurisilva is a protected World Heritage site—stick to paths, avoid disturbing flora and keep group sizes small to limit impact.
Reserve your spot on the Full Day East Tour at Pico do Arieiro and Santana with Pickup today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for mountain weather
Temperatures can drop quickly at Pico do Arieiro—pack a warm mid-layer and a lightweight waterproof shell.
Wear grippy shoes
Levada paths and cliff edges can be wet and uneven; closed-toe hiking shoes improve traction and ankle support.
Hydrate and snack
Bring at least 1–1.5 liters of water and compact snacks—the day lasts 6.5–8 hours with limited food stops between viewpoints.
Respect fragile habitats
Stay on marked levada paths and avoid picking plants; the Laurisilva is sensitive and protected.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provide traction and ankle support on wet levada paths and rocky viewpoints.
Lightweight waterproof jacket
Mountain weather can change rapidly—keeps you dry and windproof at high elevations.
spring
Sun hat & sunscreen
Exposed viewpoints and the Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula have little shade—protect skin and eyes.
summer
Insulating mid-layer (fleece)
High ridges are markedly colder; a warm layer is useful even on otherwise mild days.
winter