Madeira Things ToDo, Tours & Activities

Madeira Activities I Tried and Would Book Again

My honest recap of the experiences that made my trip. What I liked, what surprised me, and who each activity is worth it for.

I spent most days outside, on the ocean, in the mountains, or on dirt roads. These are the activities that stood out for me. Some I booked myself, some I would repeat without thinking twice. I added practical details so you know what you’re booking before you click pay. These are my personal highlights, many of them bookable via platforms like GetYourGuide, including honest tips and practical details. + at the end of my guide you will find more details about my Guide & Itineary of Madeira:)

Book through GetYourGuide and get 5% off with the code "TRAVELWITHMARRY5".

Magic Dolphin, Dolphins & Whales Up Close

I didn’t expect this to be such a highlight. Being out on the Atlantic already felt good, but when the dolphins started swimming next to the boat, it turned into one of those moments you don’t forget. They stayed close for a while, not just a quick jump and gone. The catamaran felt calm and not overcrowded. The crew explained things clearly without talking nonstop. It felt natural. If you enjoy animals and being on the water, this is an easy choice.

There is also a sunset option, the "Funchal Sunset Sailing Tour"

• Price: from approx. €35

• Duration: 2–3 hours

• Tip: Don’t forget your camera, these moments are truly magical

Pico do Arieiro Sunrise Hike, Early Start but Worth It

This was an early alarm, but I didn’t regret it for a second. The transfer picked me up in Funchal while it was still dark, which made the whole thing easy. No rental car, no parking stress, no guessing where to go. Arriving at Pico do Arieiro before sunrise felt unreal. Cold air, silence, and then the light slowly coming up over the mountains. When the clouds sit below the peaks, it feels like you’re standing above everything.

The hike itself is self-guided, which I liked. You walk at your own pace and turn around whenever you want. The PR1 trail is demanding in parts, with stairs and narrow sections, but it’s well marked. I didn’t feel rushed at any point. What made this tour worth booking was the logistics. Getting dropped off early and picked up again at the end takes away all the planning. You focus on the hike, not on how to get back.

Quinta do Barbusano, Wine Tasting With a View

Madeira and wine simply belong together. At Quinta do Barbusano, I not only tasted excellent wines but also learned how they’re made. The views over the green valleys are spectacular, and the atmosphere is relaxed, perfect for a slow afternoon. Regional snacks complete the experience beautifully.

• Price: from approx. €75

• Duration: 1.5–2 hours

• Tip: Book in the afternoon for golden, hour light and stunning photos

Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz, The Most Spectacular Cable Car

This ride is not for the faint-hearted and that’s exactly why I love it. The cable car drops almost vertically down to the coast, where a lonely path along the Atlantic awaits. It feels like entering another world: wild, raw, and incredibly beautiful.

• Price: approx. €5

• Duration: flexible

• Tip: The cable car may pause during strong winds, check before you go

Curral das Freiras, Monte & Toboggan Ride

One experience I really didn’t expect to love that much was the trip to Nuns Valley and Monte. Standing in Curral das Freiras, surrounded by these steep mountains, everything felt calm and intense at the same time.

And then Monte was the complete opposite. Sitting in a wicker sled and going downhill through the streets, with the Carreiros steering and braking, I was laughing the entire time. No snow, no winter, just speed, tradition, and chaos in the best way. It felt a bit crazy, very Madeira, and is 100% one of those things I’d do again without thinking.

• Price: approx. €35–60

• Duration: 4–5 hours

• Tip: Visit early or late for the toboggan ride to avoid long queues

Jeep Tour With Zipline, Swing & Volcanic Pools

One tour that really caught my attention was the Jeep tour with zipline, swing, and volcanic pools. It’s a great option if you want to see parts of Madeira that are hard to reach on your own, especially along rough tracks and more remote viewpoints. The mix of off-road driving, short adventure stops like the zipline or swing, and time to relax at natural volcanic pools makes it feel well balanced, not rushed.

It’s the kind of experience I’d recommend if you want one day that combines nature, a bit of adventure, and seeing the island from a different perspective, without having to plan every detail yourself.

• Price: approx. €65–110

• Duration: 6–8 hours

• Tip: Bring swimwear, sports shoes, and a GoPro if you have one

The Ultimate Action Highlight: Canyoning

Following a mountain stream downhill, rappelling down waterfalls, sliding through natural rock chutes, and jumping into crystal-clear pools. There are levels for beginners and pros alike.

• Price: approx. €55–95

• Duration: 3–5 hours

• Tip: Bring spare clothes and wear contact lenses instead of glasses

Off-Road Buggy Driving Experience

You’re behind the wheel, tackling gravel roads, forest tracks, and mountain ridges. Pure off-road fun with a guaranteed dusty grin. Perfect for adrenaline lovers who want to see Madeira from a completely different perspective.

• Price: approx. €140–160 per buggy

• Duration: 2–3 hours

• Tip: Bring your driver’s license, sturdy shoes, and a change of clothes

West Coast Jeep Tour With Natural Pools

The wild west of Madeira: dramatic cliffs, high plateaus, small villages and the highlight, a swim in natural lava pools. This tour shows you the island’s authentic side, far away from the crowds.

• Price: approx. €55–85

• Duration: 7–8 hours

• Tip: Pool conditions depend on the weather, always check with your guide

If you want my full Madeira itinerary or my personal maps with all locations saved, you can find everything in my digital guide.

It includes all the spots from this article plus practical tips, routes, and planning details. Here you get access

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