Make An Enquiry
Price from £1,175pp
VISITING: Madeira BROCHURE CODE: 5524
All prices include: transfers, accommodation, guided activities and meals; all as listed.
Madeira is a haven for marine life with its surrounding waters home to whales and dolphins. The island itself is brimming with natural wonder and amazement. This seven-night tour takes you from land to sea, searching for wildlife and discovering the luscious forests and towering peaks of Madeira.

What's included?

  • Transfers: all transfers included
  • Accommodation: 7 nights’ hotel accommodation in double/twin rooms
  • Meals: 7 breakfasts, 4 lunches
  • The following activities are included in the holiday: East island tour with wine tasting, Desertas Islands boat trip, west island jeep tour, whale and dolphin watching, snorkelling with dolphins, Levada do Rei (the order of activities is subject to change)
  • Fully qualified guides and instructors during activities

The landscape of Madeira is simply stunning and for such a small island, it has a huge variety of scenery. Towering mountain peaks covered in thick, green forests are home to a wealth of flora and fauna and the terraced hillsides are packed with colourful flowers and blooming fruit trees.

The Atlantic Ocean wraps around the Madeiran archipelago and the Gulf Stream makes the sea warm and pleasant and also a perfect year-round home for all sorts of marine life. Bottlenose and Atlantic-spotted dolphins, as well as humpback and short-finned pilot whales, are often found here in abundance, making it a wildlife lover’s paradise.

This itinerary has been designed for you to explore as much of Madeira as possible and to maximise your chances of seeing wildlife on land and sea. You’ll enjoy a tour of both the east and west parts of the island, travelling along the winding coastline, through the deep ravines and across the high, jagged mountain peaks. The sub-tropical climate has created beautiful forests of emerald green, filled with flowing rivers and streams and enchanting Levada, which are just asking to be explored and enjoyed. From the towering mountain peaks, you’ll enjoy splendid views of the landscape beyond and the beautiful blue ocean below.

Thanks to its position in the Atlantic, Madeira enjoys warm, comfortable summers and mild winters. In fact, during most months of the year, you can enjoy the sub-tropical climate of Madeira in comfort, with average highs of 16-18°C from December to February and 18-23°C in the spring, summer and autumn, it is a fantastic place to explore across the seasons.

After exploring the island by road, you’ll take part in a boat trip to the dramatic Desertas Islands, which are a haven for wildlife, including a variety of birds and a monk seal colony. You’ll also get to enjoy a whale and dolphin watching cruise aboard a small boat and, if you are in luck, you’ll even have the chance to snorkel with the wild dolphins as they swim in the waters below; a truly magical experience like no other.

Back on land, a guided walk along the Levada do Rei will take you through the forests and terraces that surround the beautiful valley of Sao Jorge. Walking through ancient laurel forest, keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife as you head towards a gorgeous waterfall and savour the beautiful scenery of this stunning island.


Image credits: Madeira Promotion Bureau, Francisco Correia, Visit Madeira, Miguel Moniz, Carlos Viveiros, Miguel Perestrelo, Madeira Promotion Bureau
View Gallery Download Holiday Overview Download Trip Notes

Key facts

Duration: 7 nights
Pace: Balanced
Suitable for: Minimum age is 12 (wine tasting 18 & over only). See our terms for further information.
Make An Enquiry

We include more, no hidden costs

On each of our holidays you will see a clear outline of exactly what's included in the price of your holiday. We never use 'headline' or 'lead-in' prices like so many tour operators, as we prefer to include as much as we can, rather than see our clients incur considerable additional costs in our destinations.
Price guarantee

Single travellers: please speak to our Travel Experts for a quotation

From 2024, visitors to Madeira are required to pay a €2 per person per night tax directly to their hotel. This tax applies only to those aged 13 and over and is payable up to a maximum of seven nights only.

Dates
Fri 26 Apr 2024
to Fri 03 May 2024
Adults £ 1,265 To £ 1,695
Fri 10 May 2024
to Fri 24 May 2024
Adults £ 1,205 To £ 1,395
Fri 31 May 2024
to Fri 21 Jun 2024
Adults £ 1,175 To £ 1,335
Fri 28 Jun 2024
to Fri 26 Jul 2024
Adults £ 1,185 To £ 1,355
Fri 02 Aug 2024
to Fri 26 Jul 2024
Adults £ 1,255 To £ 1,405
Fri 30 Aug 2024
to Fri 27 Sep 2024
Adults £ 1,195 To £ 1,365
Fri 04 Oct 2024
to Fri 18 Oct 2024
Adults £ 1,175 To £ 1,315

Departure day: this trip departs on a Friday during the date range displayed above.

For our full booking terms and conditions please click here

The Specifics

Holiday group size (approximate)

Approximately 2 - 30 people (up to 80 people may be present during the Desertas Islands boat trip)

Group Size

We always try to provide an approximation of the group size you can expect to be with for the duration of each of our holidays. It may be that you are joined by others for parts of your holiday (such as transfers and particular activities) but the above number reflects those you can normally expect to be with from beginning to end. If group size is something which is particularly important to you, please speak to our Travel Experts and they can suggest the best holidays for you.

Tailor-made holiday group sizes will vary for all activities as will the group size for any additional activities you book.

Minimum and maximum age

If a specific minimum age applies to this holiday, it can be found in the Key Facts box on the holiday Overview page.

Unless otherwise stated in the in the Key Facts box on the holiday Overview page, the minimum age for participation in an Artisan holiday is typically 8 years old (there may be younger children in some destinations who have booked with other companies). If an adult-only environment is important to you, then please contact our Travel Experts and they will advise on the best dates and destinations for you. If you are looking for a holiday designed specifically for families then please see our sister company www.activitiesabroad.com

Itinerary amendments

The order of activities listed in this agenda is provided for guidance only, your final and detailed itinerary will be provided either with your final travel documents (which are uploaded into your online account around a week prior to departure) or upon arrival.

Medical History and Advice

We want our holidays to be accessible as they can be and will do our best to accommodate any special requests and requirements where possible. We have a wide range of holidays and destinations and so our travel experts will help find the best holiday for you.

In order to give us the best possible chance to do this we ask that if you or any member of your party has any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday or has any special requirements, that you tell us at the time of enquiry or booking. You must also promptly advise us if any medical condition or disability which may affect your holiday develops after your booking has been confirmed. You may need to provide a doctor’s note and proof of insurance in some cases as the health and safety of our clients is absolutely paramount.

In providing this information you are allowing us to work with our expert local partners to ensure that your whole party can enjoy the holiday. By letting us know in advance we can discreetly work with you to adapt any part of the holiday which may potentially be challenging. Being able to prepare for this in advance makes an incredible difference to what we can offer and minimises any impact on your party and the rest of the group.

Unfortunately, if you choose not to share this information with us in advance then it may limit some or all of the itinerary you have booked, and we cannot be held accountable for any additional costs or missed activities resulting from this.

Insurance

Insurance is not included in your holiday, but it is a pre-requisite to travelling with us. You will need to ensure that you have cover for all the activities that you will be participating in during your holiday.

It is extremely important that you take out a suitable travel insurance policy at the time of booking. Plans do sometimes change, and you will need this policy should you need to cancel your holiday.

If you are struggling to find a suitable policy then details of our preferred provider, who will cover you for all the activities we offer, can be found on our website by clicking here. Please note that this policy is available to EU residents under the age of 75 only.

The UK Foreign Office Advice

Our clients’ safety is at the centre of everything we do, and our operations team continually assesses and monitors the destinations we feature. We carry out thorough risk assessments and work closely with all of our suppliers to continually follow best practice. For up to date travel advice the UK government offers its Travel Aware website as well as the advice detailed below.

The Foreign and Commonwealth Office Advice

We receive all updates from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) with regards to travel advice and we always ensure that we follow this advice in our operations. The FCO issues travel advisories for countries based on a very wide range of factors. They may provide notification about things as simple as a football match and crowds, or they may go so far as to advise against all travel to a region. We ask all our clients to refer to the relevant Travel Advice by Country for the destinations they are visiting in order to make an informed decision on the safety of the destination based on the details provided. It also provides vital information regarding entry requirements, embassy information, local laws and customs as well as specific safety and health. Guests should take responsibility for keeping themselves up to date with this advice. Please also ensure that, if you are transiting through another country, you have read the advice and meet the entry requirements for that destination too.

The FCO travel advice is applicable to British Passport Holders. Most governments will issue their own travel advice for a region and, if you are not a UK resident then you can find some helpful links below:

Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.smartraveller.gov.au/                                                   

New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade http://www.safetravel.govt.nz/                                                 

Canadian Consular Affairs Bureau http://voyage.gc.ca/                                                                                                     

The U.S. Bureau of Consular Affairs http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/english.html

If the FCO deems that there is an unacceptable level of risk for UK citizens then, together with the government, they may issue an advisory against all travel to a region or country. If such an advisory is published, then we will act accordingly, and this may require the cancellation, curtailment or amendment of a holiday itinerary. These decisions are made on the basis of ensuring our clients’ safety and will affect all clients on the holiday, regardless of their nationality.

If one of our local experts suggests an amendment due to a situation which develops locally then we may also take the decision to amend an itinerary appropriately.

If we have to cancel your holiday prior to departure you will be offered the option of an alternative trip (where any price difference will either be refunded to or covered by you) or a full refund of the monies paid.

If we have to curtail a holiday, then you will be refunded for any costs for the elements we have been unable to deliver, where we have been able to secure a refund from our suppliers. If we must reroute a holiday, then any basis for refund is determined on a case by case basis and dependent on whether the central holiday experience was provided or not.

Booking activities locally

Additional activities can be booked locally in almost all our destinations. However, as per our booking conditions, we cannot be held responsible for any injury or loss incurred through participation in activities which are booked at your destination outside of our holiday itinerary (see our ‘Terms and Conditions’ for further details).

When arranging any such activity please always ensure that safety is your primary concern.

In some of our destinations, you can borrow or hire equipment for use in your free time. You do so entirely at your own risk. You must ensure that you are properly prepared, have the necessary equipment and knowledge (maps, etc) and ensure that where applicable, you follow marked routes. We recommend discussing your plans with the local teams who will be able to advise on the most suitable options for you.

Always let the reception/guide know where you are planning to go and take a torch and mobile phone (with the hotel/guide’s phone number stored). It is also a good idea to leave your contact number and the time you expect to return to the hotel should the hotel need to contact you.

Brexit information for British Passport holders

For the most up to date information on how the UK’s departure from the EU may affect your holiday please click here to view our Brexit information for British Passport holders.

Flight schedule changes and connecting transportation

On your documentation, we will confirm your flight schedule. Sometimes the flight number, routing and timings might change prior to your departure. If the change is classed as a significant change then we will contact you to discuss this. Please see our booking conditions for details.

Flight schedule changes can impact on your pre and post-holiday travel arrangements if these have been booked separately to your holiday. We strongly recommend that you do not book transport (such as trains or transfers), car parking or non-connecting flights to the departure point for your holiday until you have received your final confirmed travel times when your final travel documents are issued. We are not responsible for the effect of any schedule change on your pre or post travel arrangements. We strongly recommend that you do not purchase non-flexible or non-refundable tickets to avoid cancellation and penalty charges.

Booking your own flights - cancellation disclaimer

If you have chosen to book your own flights, then you will need to wait until we confirm to you that the holiday departure has met the minimum numbers required to run (if applicable to your chosen holiday). Once the holiday is guaranteed to run, you will be informed and you can then make your arrangements.

If transfers are included in your holiday, please ensure that any potential flights will be met by our standard transfers (speak to one of our Travel Experts for advice) otherwise private transfer supplements may be applicable. Once your flights are booked, please send us a copy of your detailed flight itinerary.

Please be aware that most tickets are non-refundable in the case of cancellation. For this reason, we strongly advise you check the rules of the ticket and check the limitations of your cancellation insurance before booking. We cannot be held liable, in the unlikely eventuality that we should be forced to cancel or amend your trip, for losses incurred relating to any flight booking you have made.

Terms and Conditions

Our full booking terms and conditions can be found on our website: https://www.artisantravel.co.uk/booking-conditions

Minimum travellers 10, Maximum travellers 20

Additional Cancellation & Payment Terms and Conditions

Please note that the following cancellation terms supersede those mentioned in section 7 of our general booking terms and conditions.

- Up to balance due date (This is normally 12 weeks prior to departure however some holidays differ. If this applies to your holiday you will be advised at the time of booking) - Loss of deposit (including the full cost of flights or other services where paid at the time of booking)                                                        

- between balance due date and 43 days prior to departure - 50%                                                

- 42 to 22 days prior to departure - 75%                                                   

- 21 or less days - 100%                                                    

  • You will be met at Funchal Airport and transferred to your hotel, the Castanheiro Boutique Hotel, which is located in Funchal’s charming historic Old Town and surrounded by wonderful restaurants and shops.

    For dinner, why not head to one of the many fantastic restaurants that are within easy reach of your hotel.


    Changes to the itinerary: very occasionally, the itinerary and/or duration of activities may change according to local conditions, events or guest preferences. Decisions will be based first and foremost on your safety and comfort.

    Included Meals:  None
  • The activities included in your itinerary are all group-based, with a focus on island exploration and discovery, so it is with that in mind that you will set out for a day of exciting adventure with your expert guide leading the way. Our guides know Madeira from top to bottom, so you’re sure to come away with an array of facts from your day of adventure.

    From Funchal, you will follow the winding road up towards Pico do Arieiro, into the heart of the Madeiran mountains. If the weather is clear, hopefully, you will be treated to clear views of the island below and the glittering expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. Driving on to Ribeiro Frio, this charming village is nestled in amongst luscious forest and there is a charming trout hatchery, the products of which you will no doubt see swimming along the island’s levadas!

    From Ribeiro Frio, you can enjoy a short walk to the magnificent Balcoes viewpoint, where you can savour the landscape of rugged peaks and jagged mountain ridges, coated in dense forest. Heading down from the mountains, you’ll pass through Santana, where you can see the traditional thatched roof houses of Madeira and then it is on the enjoy a three-course lunch in one of the most spectacular restaurant locations imaginable. Situated atop gigantic sea cliffs, the restaurant looks out towards the sea and the along the dramatic coastline. Sample some local Madeiran wine from the hotel’s vineyards before heading back to Funchal via Porto da Cruz.

    Included Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch
  • Today you will be transferred a short distance to Funchal’s harbour where you will embark on a boat trip to the mysterious Desertas Islands. Setting sail at approximately 10 am, you will cruise along the seas in a traditional wooden gullet with covered seating and standing space on deck.

    As the name suggests, the islands are deserted, however, they are a haven for birds, seals and other wildlife. Approaching by sea, the islands gradually loom into focus and the towering cliffs create an imposing vision, which makes you feel as if you are entering the Lost World.

    A colony of monk seals call these islands home and hopefully, you will get to see whales and dolphins as you make the crossing from Madeira. Birds such as shearwaters, petrels, terns, buzzards and canaries flock to these islands and nest on the tall cliffs and barren ground and the skies are filled with their calls as they fly through the air.

    After sailing past the colourful rock formations and enchanting coves, you will anchor in a secluded bay where you will have the chance to relax on the deck or swim in the sea. Following this, lunch will be served on board. You will then go ashore and enjoy a guided tour of the area before you head back to Funchal, arriving at approximately 6 pm.

    Included Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch
  • After a day of maritime exploration, today you will stay on land as you explore the western part of Madeira by jeep.

    This full day tour will take you from Funchal and along the coast to Lugar de Baixo before heading into the mountains. Climbing up to the incredible Paul de Serra plateau, you will drive along this breathtaking landscape, which is so high that clouds often breeze over the roads. Descending towards Porto Moniz, you will drive through the magical laurel forest, brimming with colour and life. Plants and flowers line the roads and fruit orchards and vineyards line the terraces and hillsides.

    The northern coastline is home to domineering sea cliffs and charming towns and villages. Stopping at Porto Moniz, you will enjoy a picnic lunch and have a chance to see the lava formations which have formed natural swimming pools, which are popular with the locals – bring your swimming kit, just in case there is time to bathe in the warm sea waters!

    Heading back via Seixal and Sao Vicente, you will return to the hotel this evening.

    Included Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch
  • Today is hopefully going to be a wildlife experience like no other, as you set off this morning in search of whales and dolphins.

    Following breakfast, you will head out into the Atlantic in search for marine life on a tour lasting approximately two hours. The waters that surround Madeira are teeming with species, including whales and dolphins, so hopefully, luck will be on your side today.

    You will sail aboard a RIB (Rigid-hulled Inflatable Boat), or small catamaran and your expert captain will navigate the seas as your onboard marine biologist tells you about life in the Atlantic. Bottlenose and Atlantic-spotted dolphins are two of the most common species here and often they enjoy swimming alongside boats as you cut through the waves. Humpback, short-finned, pilot and sperm whales are known to live in these waters and perhaps you’ll spot one of these as you cruise through the seas.

    If the conditions are right, you will also be given the chance to join the dolphins in the sea as you snorkel alongside the boat. Although the dolphins may not swim as close to you as you would expect in a marine park, seeing them in the wild is an amazing experience and sure to create lifelong memories.

    You will return to your hotel to enjoy an afternoon of relaxation or city exploration.

    Included Meals:  Breakfast
  • The Levadas of Madeira criss-cross the island travelling from the mountain tops down to the terraces, fields and villages below.

    In the 15th Century, settlers on Madeira began cultivating the land, creating terraces and designing irrigation channels to bring the water down to their crops and by the early 1900s, there were about 200 levadas across the island.

    During the mid-90s, the State implemented a large construction project to distribute the water more widely and there are now over 1350 miles of levadas on the island. Many of these can be enjoyed on foot as you walk alongside, marvelling at the spectacular views, wildflowers and luscious forests.

    After breakfast this morning, you will be transferred to the northern part of the island to enjoy the Levada do Rei. This levada starts in Sao Jorge, journeying through thick laurel forest (designated as a World Heritage Site) and then opening up to panoramic views of the farmlands below. Rich in biodiversity, you will see a variety of trees, wildflowers and shrubs, as you venture along this fascinating path. Along the way, there are a few tunnels to travel through, so please bring along a small pocket torch and do mind your head as you go.

    Arriving at the source of the levada, Ribeiro Bonito, you will enjoy a picnic lunch and savour the beautiful tranquillity of this wonderful location.

    The walk will last for approximately three and a half hours, encompassing a round trip of roughly 6.3 miles (shorter, less strenuous levada walks are available on request). Due to the nature of the levada, in some places, there are steep drops which should be navigated with care. Please bring along suitable footwear (walking shoes or boots).

    Returning to the hotel in the early evening, you will be able to relax and unwind.

    Included Meals:  Breakfast, Lunch
  • Today has been left free to you enjoy as you wish. You can choose to simply relax and unwind in the hotel’s rooftop pool, or perhaps amble into Funchal to explore the markets and fascinating galleries and museums. There are a huge variety of cafes and restaurants, so you’re sure to find something to tickle your taste buds.

    Alternatively, if you would like to have a guided tour of Funchal’s Old Town, or enjoy a walk to the stunning Ponta de Sao Lourenco peninsula, this can be arranged. Please see the ‘Personalise’ tab for full details.

    Included Meals:  Breakfast
  • After breakfast at the hotel, you will be transferred back to the airport for your flight home.

    Included Meals:  Breakfast

Whilst we have preferred hotel options for our Madeira itineraries, the pressure on hotel rooms on this charming and popular islands means that on rare occasions we may make alternative hotel suggestions. These suggestions are themselves carefully chosen to ensure there will be minimal impact on the operation of your itinerary.

Included in price

Castanheiro Boutique Hotel

Nights: 1-7

The Castanheiro Boutique Hotel is situated in Funchal’s fascinating Old Town, next to the Palace of Jesuits and only steps away from a host of wonderful local restaurants, cafés and shops. The cobbled streets, terracotta-roofed buildings and beautifully painted houses make for charming surroundings.

The hotel is composed of five historical buildings, each with a unique heritage and character. Spanning from the 18th – 20th centuries, the buildings have been lovingly restored and transformed into this spectacular hotel.

Hotel facilities

  • The hotel has a small rooftop swimming pool with wonderful views of the Old Town and the surrounding mountains
  • Relax by the hotel’s bar and enjoy a meal in the fabulous on-site restaurant
  • Enjoy the spa area, complete with hydrotherapy pool, Jacuzzi and sauna
  • Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel
  • For those wanting to exercise while away, there is also a small fitness room

Room options

Standard double/twin room
Our package includes accommodation in a double or twin-bedded standard room. Each room has an en-suite bathroom, as well as air conditioning, TV, telephone, hairdryer, in-room safe, minibar, robes & slippers.

Upgrade options are also available; please speak to our Travel Experts for further information.


Other options

Castanheiro Boutique Hotel - upgrade

Supplements from: £12pp

De Luxe double/twin room

These rooms have all of the same inclusions that the standard rooms do, however, they each have a balcony with table and chairs, enjoying courtyard views, as well as a small kitchenette.

Porto Mare Hotel

During your stay in Madeira, if you wanted to stay in a larger resort style hotel or just to be further out from the city of Funchal itself, you could choose to upgrade to the Porto Mare Hotel. Located around a 40-minute walk from Funchal (or take the free hotel bus), the resort has beautiful ocean and tropical garden surroundings away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre.

Hotel facilities

  • Take a refreshing dip in any one of the five pools on site (outdoor and indoor) which are shared between its 2 sister hotels
  • Stroll through the luscious surrounding gardens before stopping at the ice cream parlour to cool down
  • Keep busy with squash, tennis, table tennis, snooker and minigolf all available on site
  • Make use of the fitness room before unwinding in spa area complete with treatments, jacuzzis, sauna and steam bath
  • The hotel also offers free WiFi in all areas

Personalise this tour


Our pick

Old town tour of Funchal

Funchal’s Old Town is a fascinating place to explore. This guided tour will take you to the local market ‘Mercado dos Lavradores’ where you’ll find a huge array of fruits, flowers, spices and local delicacies.

After the market, you’ll venture further into Funchal’s Old Town, past the amazing ‘Art of Open Doors’ where artists have painted fascinating scenes on the historic doors that line the cobbled streets. The local shops and cafes are buzzing with excitement and atmosphere; it is a wonderful place to discover.

Read more

The tour ends with a chance to enjoy some wine tasting at The Wine Lodge, where you can sample some of Madeira’s famous vintages.

Minimum numbers: 4

Please speak to our Travel Experts for a quotation.

Image credit: Visit Madeira & Francisco Correia

Other options

Activities

Ponta de Sao Lourenco guided walk

Ponta de Sao Lourenco is the easternmost point of Madeira. The peninsula’s terrain is completely different to the rest of the island, with towering sea cliffs of red, brown and orange. With little vegetation, the walk has unobstructed views out to sea and back towards the inner mountains of Madeira.

The sea cliffs are home to numerous species of bird, such as terns, canaries and the Madeiran Storm-Petrel and on a clear day, the Desertas Islands and Porto Santo can be seen.

Read more about this activity

This guided walk takes you along the sea cliffs and to the end of the peninsula. You will be picked up from your hotel and the walk will cover approximately 8 kilometres, lasting for around 4 hours, not including transfer time.

Minimum numbers: 2

Please speak to our Travel Experts for a quotation

Traveller Reviews

Loved the Levada hike, then the dolphin watching 12 July 2019 by Jennifer & Paul Roberts

Hotel Castenheiro was excellent the rooms were spacious - lovely welcome at reception great roof top pool. The restaurant breakfast as excellent, dinner service could be slow and they run very confusing promotions. Excellent better value restaurants near by. They have lots of live music which is great. Loved the Levada hike, then the dolphin watching.



Others who viewed this holiday also viewed

Portugal’s Garden Island

The Azores

A Volcanic Wonderland

  • Inspiring 

    All-encompassing itineraries

    Bucket list experiences in extraordinary destinations

    Highlights on and off the beaten track

    Authentic travel experiences with a discrete safety net

  • Expert Knowledge

    Your shortcut to the very best holiday

    Advice and guidance every step of the way

    Expertly designed itineraries

    The very best guides with exceptional local knowledge

  • Independent

    Personal, hands-on service

    Proudly independent; family-owned and run

    Fair and sustainable work ethos

    Long-established local partnerships

  • Trusted 

    ATOL and ABTA Financial protection available

    Over 20 years experience

    Our customers rate us 4.9/5 stars

    Responsible relationships