THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Spend a full day exploring eastern Madeira: panoramic high points, the ancient Laurissilva laurel forest, trout-fed streams and Santana’s distinctive thatched houses. This practical day tour combines cultural stops and short walks with accessible transport from Funchal.
Spend a full day exploring eastern Madeira: panoramic high points, the ancient Laurissilva laurel forest, trout-fed streams and Santana’s distinctive thatched houses. This practical day tour combines cultural stops and short walks with accessible transport from Funchal.
Book with Madeira MTG Travel Agency
Book directly with Madeira MTG Travel Agency for the best rates and real-time scheduling.
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Operated by Madeira MTG Travel Agency · Santana, Madeira
You step out of the air-conditioned minivan in a northern clearing and the mountain air pushes at you—salt from the sea below, and the green weight of the Laurissilva pulling your gaze into the forest. The road up from Funchal winds through volcanic ridges; terraces and eucalyptus appear, then the wooded canopy opens to reveal Santana’s iconic triangular thatched houses standing like hand-built keeps along the slopes.
easy.
7–8 hours.
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short, low-elevation walks and standing at viewpoints.
The tour runs about 7–8 hours with multiple short stops and a lunch break (lunch not included).
Transport and many stop areas are wheelchair accessible, but some village paths and short viewpoints may be uneven—contact the operator for specific accessibility needs.
No—there is a lunch stop in Santana where you can buy local dishes; bring cash or card.
Only light walking—most stops are short (10–30 minutes) and on easy terrain, suitable for most ability levels.
Santana’s triangular thatched houses reflect traditional agricultural life on steep volcanic slopes; the Laurissilva has supported island communities for centuries and is a remnant of subtropical European forests.
The Laurissilva is a protected UNESCO site—stay on marked paths, avoid removing plant material, and support local businesses that follow sustainable practices.
Madeira MTG Travel Agency operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
Book with Madeira MTG Travel Agency
Book directly with Madeira MTG Travel Agency for the best rates and real-time scheduling.
Reserve Now