Madeira island vacation package: Portugal's Pearl of the Atlantic

Highlights

• Stroll along Madeira’s famous Levadas, a centuries-old network of irrigation channels built to carry water from the lush north to the drier south.
• Have a safari-style 4X4 adventure through the UNESCO World Heritage-protected Laurissilva forest, a subtropical rainforest unique to Madeira.
• Enjoy a boat trip along the crystal-clear waters to the islands South, where the depths can reach up to 3000m. We’ll search for shearwaters and if we’re lucky see whales and dolphins.
• Take a refreshing dip in the Atlantic at the spectacular north coast rockpools next to striking black-sand beaches.
• Taste the authentic flavours of the island as you watch your host prepare a traditional three-course meal, sample seasonal produce, and sip Madeira’s renowned wine.

Overview

Tiny Madeira has it all – vineyards and volcanoes, black-sand beaches and ancient forests, remote trails and a cosmopolitan capital. Add to that its incredible wildlife, balmy climate and mouthwatering local delicacies and it’s easy to see why this rugged, mist-clad island is known as the Pearl of the Atlantic.

Our small-group, expert-led Madeira vacation package gently guides you to the heart of this spellbinding island. Led by Dr Vickie Heaney, an artist and ornithologist, you’ll explore the island’s best sights, enjoy leisurely walks, and savour authentic Madeiran flavours. Relax in a stylish boutique hotel set across five beautifully restored buildings that span 300 years of history, with views across the beautiful Bay of Funchal.

Start/finish

Your tour starts and finishes in Funchal, Madeira.

Activity Level

The activity level is rated as Leisurely to Moderate, requiring an average level of fitness (view our activity level definitions). The tour will involve walking in generally easy terrain, but will require good walking boots (please note, some paths may be uneven and loose underfoot). Walks are mostly 1 to 5km (0.8-3 miles) long, with longer hikes for those who choose them. This tour also involves boarding a passenger boat.

Transport

Weather

Accommodation

If walking is an issue, alternative arrangements can be made during the scheduled walks, so please let GeoCultura know in advance.

Testimonials

"[This was a] wonderful small group tour with local experts of beautiful and fascinating places off the main tourist path, from cathedrals and Norman churches to ancient fossil beds and sea-cliffs shaped by the movement of the continents."

Treasures of Southern England | Paula D, September 2023

"I thought the week was excellent; very interesting and with good variation in the days activities and not overdosing on any one activity.  I liked the flexibility shown by taking in Kingston Lacey which nicely completed the Corfe Castle and Lady Bankes story. The information and guiding was excellent – at a good level for everyone with supplemental detail where requested – by lunchtime of the first day it felt like an outing of friends and that’s pretty special!"

Fossil Treasures of England’s Jurassic Coast | David M, March 2023

"I thoroughly enjoyed this fun and educational tour; I got to take a great many photos of spectacular scenery and it was just the right length. I recommend it to anyone seeking a vacation that combines an educational experience with hiking in beautiful scenery."

The Geology and Dinosaurs of Alberta, Canada | Dan S, June 2024