Madeira · SELF-GUIDED TOURS
The 15 best self-guided tours you can book right now, with what each costs, how long it runs and how far it is from Funchal. Number one is top for a reason; start there.
Sunrise hike from Pico do Arieiro with hotel pickup in Funchal, small-group shared transfer, and self-guided PR1 route to PR3 if needed.
“The easiest way to hike PR1! Pick up and drop off provided with enough time to complete the hike at a leisurely pace.”
Self-guided PR6 and PR6.1 hikes from Rabaçal with pickup. Walk 25 Fontes and Risco Levada, map support, and early-crowd timing.
“Beautiful walk only lots of people and you walk the same part twice. If you start early you have less ladt of the crowds (before 10 am)Auto-translated”
Take a small-group, pickup-included van ride to Madeira’s Levada do Caldeirão Verde, then hike 5 hours through UNESCO forest tunnels and falls.
“Very good experience. Our driver was on time, provided clear directions about the hike, and was helpful sharing information about Madeira.”
Self-guided transfer to Ponta de São Lourenço via PR8 from Funchal. Air-con, WiFi, timed return, and practical hike timing tips.
“Driver was right on time and friendly. Recommended if you are on a cruise or need to stick to a tight schedule.”
Take a transfer from Funchal to Queimadas, then hike the Caldeirão Verde PR9 self-guided route with waterfall views and clear instructions.
“The tour operator contacted us the day before our trip explaining the planned Levado route was closed and suggested 2 alternatives. We took the high mountain PR6 (25 Fountains) route and had a great day out. It's an undulating 7 mile walk around 3,800-4,400 feet high . Most of the walk is flat. Henrique was a friendly driver and chatted about Madeira to expand our knowledge as this was our first visit to the island. Reasonable walking shoes are needed - we had great weather so didn't need a jacket but obviously it can be changeable at that height. Small minibus for transport with efficient pick up and drop off…”
Self-guided Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike with transfers, route tips, and a downhill finish at Funchal Ecological Park.
“Highly recommend this for doing the Pico do Ariero to Pico Ruvio hike! Our driver Luis was awesome. So friendly, funny and knowledgeable. After picking us up at the Achada do Texiera end stop, he even took us to a traditional Santana house on the way back to our lodging. This tour exceeded our expectations, mostly because of how great Luis made it!”
Drive a Spinach electric car through Funchal highlights with GPS tablet and voice narration, for an easy 2-hour self-guided loop.
“What a great way to travel’. A tablet with GPS is supplied so no worries on getting lost. Vehicle is easy to drive So helpful explaining everything and so friendly”
Self-guided GPS audio walk from Funchal cruise port past palaces, markets, and Madeira wine, ending above the harbor. Per smartphone.
“Just a recording on an app. Totally not worth it”
PR9 Caldeirão Verde in Madeira, self-guided with pickup from Funchal. Levada walk to a waterfall and lagoon, small group.
“Wow. The best organised trip operator we have ever had. Luis is so caring and thoughtful, very knowledgeable and professional. He will provide the reassurances that everything is well organised and will go to plan. His warm and funny personality will ensure you know you are in safe hands. He checks in with you before your trip and throughout making sure you get the best experience that you wanted. I cannot recommend Hiking Transfers enough. So good we booked a 2nd walk straight away. It’s worthwhile going early to avoid most of the crowds and have a magical experience enjoying the lush forest, trickling waters, and astounding views as you…”
Sunrise hike at Pico do Arieiro, self-guided PR1 and PR3 trails from Funchal, with hotel pickup and WhatsApp support.
“Everything was great! Beautiful scenery at Pico do Arieiro, peaceful trails and brilliant planing by Luis”
Self-guided e-bike ride from Funchal to Garajau with Garmin GPS, a new Radon bike, and a Cristo Rei stop. 3 hours.
“we liked the good organisation from Rosie our tour operator. We also liked the freedom and the great way to see Madeira.”
Explore Funchal Old Town with an offline English audio walk from the CR7 Museum to Palácio de São Lourenço, for $11.99.
“Excellent informative audio guide. I did have to check the navigation map a couple of times due to gps lag but the audio navigation prompts otherwise worked well. Recommended.”
Self-guided hike to Ponta de São Lourenço from Funchal, with air-conditioned pickup, map guidance, and UNESCO reserve views.
“It was very nice and very well organized. Cristiano - our driver was very friendly and always arrived on time and gave us a lot of great recommendations. Thank you!Auto-translated”
Self-guided Rabaçal hike to 25 Fontes and Risco waterfall in Madeira, with pickup from Funchal and a full day plan.
“An excellent scenic route where you will never get bored — it feels like a quest and brings lots of positive emotions. A wonderful guide, great mood, and pleasant surprises)”
VoiceMap audio walk through Funchal's historic center, from Quinta Vigia to Mercado dos Lavradores, plus Protestant sites and sea views.
“Insightful, fun, and enthusiastic, this tour is a great option for getting the real feel of Funchal. The app is also quite effective. Five stars!”
Every kind of day on the island, and the best of each.
