Madeira Grand Explorer: Pico do Arieiro and Coast

Pico do Arieiro, Ribeiro Frio, Curral das Freiras, Cabo Girão and Câmara de Lobos in one broad day.

ExploraGo Team

Published on October 20, 2026

Duration: 7-14 hours
Budget: Premium
Best for: Friends
Style: naturaleza
Season: Year-round

Stops

1
transporte
Funchal Cruise Terminal
15 min · Free · According to ship arrival
The terminal sits west of the centre; the seafront promenade leads straight into town.
Tips
Taxis and buses wait by the terminal.
The centre is a short walk away.
Take care
The walk into the centre includes slopes.
minibus · 50 min
2
mirador
Pico do Arieiro
150 min · Free · Daytime hours
A road-accessible summit with panoramas of the central range and the sea of clouds.
Tips
Bring warm clothing; it is cool at the top.
Go early to beat the clouds.
Take care
Ice and wind can make the road tricky.
bus · 25 min
3
naturaleza
Ribeiro Frio and its levada
90 min · Free · Daytime hours
Laurisilva forest with a level waterside path and viewpoints over the valley.
Tips
Wear waterproof shoes.
The path suits most walkers.
Take care
Some sections are wet and slippery.
bus · 30 min
4
naturaleza
Curral das Freiras
90 min · Free · Daytime hours
A village in a deep mountain valley, known for its views and rural atmosphere.
Tips
Try the chestnuts or local sweets.
Stop at the viewpoint before descending.
Take care
The road has tight bends.
bus · 30 min
5
mirador
Cabo Girão
60 min · Free · Daytime hours
A cliff with a glass skywalk over the ocean and views along Madeira's south coast.
Tips
Not recommended if you fear heights.
The sky often clears in the afternoon.
Take care
Wind can be strong on the skywalk.
bus · 20 min
6
actividad
Câmara de Lobos
75 min · Free · Daytime hours
A fishing village of colourful houses, boats and viewpoints, with a photogenic bay.
Tips
Walk up to the bay viewpoint.
Try poncha in a local tavern.
Take care
The village streets are steep.