Bravelanders’ Private East Tour: Pico do Areeiro & Santana
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Good fitness required for sustained uphill hiking and walking on uneven terrain.
Overview
Spend a full day with Bravelanders trekking Madeira’s eastern highlights—from the soaring Pico do Areeiro to Santana’s unique thatched houses and the historic rum factory of Porto da Cruz.
Private East Tour (Santana)
Ages 2+ • 8 Hours • Between the views and the countryside with your own group!
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About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable 8-hour adventure as you ascend Pico do Areeiro, explore charming rural paths, and visit the iconic houses of Santana. Discover the historic rum factory in Porto da Cruz and enjoy breathtaking views from the island's easternmost point, where the north and south coasts meet.
Duration: 8 hours
We climb to one of the highest points on the island, Pico do Areeiro, and descend between alternative paths and the most charming rural areas in the East. We visit the typical houses of Santana, as well as the parish of Porto da Cruz, popular for the old RUM factory. And we end our adventure at the easternmost point of the island where we can see the north and south coast from the same viewpoint (and on good visibility days, Porto Santo Island).
Highlights
- Funchal – Pico Do Areeiro – Ribeiro Frio – Santana – Porto Da Cruz – Ponta De São Lourenço – Funchal
Includes
- Hotel / Stay pick up and drop off in Funchal area
Excludes
- Lunch
Important to Know
- Extra charge on pick ups outside Funchal
- Free for hotels in Funchal area
- Please wear comfortable clothes, bathing suits, shoes and jacket if cold weather
Meeting Point
- If you have chosen to go to the meeting point on your own, please meet us at Leroy Merlin Funchal (R. do Engenho Velho 4, 9000-291 Funchal, Portugal)
Adventure Tips
Pack layers for varied weather
Weather on Pico do Areeiro changes quickly; bring breathable layers that also protect from wind and occasional rain.
Wear sturdy hiking shoes
Trails include rocky ascents and rural paths; solid footwear with good grip is necessary.
Bring enough water and snacks
The tour covers long distances with limited stops for supplies, so hydration and energy snacks are key.
Carry a camera with zoom
Panoramas over cliffs and unique architecture make for memorable photos—zoom helps capture details.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Madeiran large white butterfly
- Atlantic canary bird
History
Santana’s characteristic thatched houses reflect traditional island architecture dating back several centuries, built to withstand Madeira's damp climate.
Conservation
Madeira’s Laurisilva forest is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site, with careful management to preserve native species and prevent invasive plants.
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Adventure Hotspots in Funchal
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Layered clothing
Allows adaptation to rapidly changing mountain weather.
spring specific
Water-resistant hiking boots
Provide grip and support on rocky and rural paths.
Daypack with hydration
Carry water, snacks, and essentials comfortably throughout the day.
Camera or smartphone with zoom
Help capture sweeping landscapes and local architecture.