A full-day guided loop of Madeira’s eastern spine—mountain lookouts, laurelwoods, traditional Santana houses and the windswept Ponta de São Lourenço. Perfect for travelers who want concentrated scenery, short walks, and local culture without technical hiking.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the coastal road and the east side of Madeira opens like a page of geology—spiky cliffs dropping to the Atlantic, terraces of sugarcane and vineyards, and a scrubby coastline pushed by relentless ocean wind. The Go East full-day tour threads these contrasts together: high mountain lookouts, laurel forest glimpses, traditional villages with triangular Santana houses, and the basalt headlands of Ponta de São Lourenço.
Difficulty
easy
Duration
7–8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires short, low-elevation walks and stepping on uneven terrain
Wildlife
History
The east coast helped shape Madeira’s early economy through terrace agriculture and sugarcane; Santana preserves the region’s characteristic triangular thatched houses.
Conservation
The Laurisilva laurel forest nearby is a UNESCO World Heritage site—stay on paths and avoid disturbing fragile endemic plants; coastal cliffs are vulnerable to erosion from off-trail access.
Reserve your spot on the Go East Tour - Madeira Island Excursion today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Layer for microclimates
Temperatures change quickly between coast and high viewpoints—bring a light windproof layer you can stash in a daypack.
Bring refillable water
Stops are limited and island sun is strong; carry at least 1–1.5 L per person for the day.
Comfortable shoes
Views require navigating uneven steps and short trails—closed-toe trekking shoes or sturdy trainers are best.
Sun protection
Even on cool days UV is high near the coast—hat, sunglasses and SPF protect during viewpoint stops.
Sturdy walking shoes
Provide traction on rocky viewpoints and comfort for short walks.
Light waterproof wind jacket
Protects against sudden showers and ocean wind, especially at higher lookouts.
spring
Sun hat and sunscreen
High UV near the coast and on exposed trails makes sun protection necessary.
summer
Refillable water bottle (1–1.5 L)
Keeps you hydrated during stops; fewer refill points on the road.