The 15 Private Car Days in Madeira Worth Booking

Funchal Tours, Guided, Hiking & Trekking, Madeira Sunrise Tours, Madeira Tours, Morning, Pico do Arieiro Tours, Private Drivers, Self-Guided Tours, Tour Reviews

Funchal: Pico do Arieiro Sunrise Transfer Self-guided Hike

1.Pico do Arieiro Sunrise Transfer Self-guided Hike

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 2,798 reviews · from $37Our pick

Set off from Funchal or Caniço before dawn for a self-guided mountain hike from Pico do Arieiro toward Pico Ruivo and Achada do Teixeira. Your driver explains the route and pickup plan, then collects you at the finish. Expect about five hours on foot, steep sections and stairs, and weather that can hide the sunrise.

“We were really lucky with the weather. We only hiked part of the PR1 (as the rest of it is shut). It was quite busy with lots of tourists. The PR3 trail we went on after was much quieter and the scenery was beautiful. Watching the sunrise at pick do ariero was amazing, good transport and all in all lovely trip that was worth the money.”

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Funchal Tours, Madeira Tours, Pico do Arieiro Tours, Private Drivers, Tour Reviews

From Funchal: Transfer to Pico do Arieiro & Pico Ruivo Trail

2.Transfer to Pico do Arieiro & Pico Ruivo Trail

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 1,591 reviews · from $36

Ride from Funchal or Caniço to Pico do Arieiro, then hike on your own for about five hours toward Pico Ruivo and finish at Achada do Teixeira. Your English-speaking driver gives trail instructions and handles the return transfer. Route changes can happen when trails close or weather turns, so pack for varied conditions and confirm your pickup details the day before.

“This was a great trip, definitely can recommend! Diego the driver was very friendly and took good care of us 😊 We got good instructions before hike, and it was so good experience. Views everybody should see 🤩 Thank you for this experience.”

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Guided, Hiking & Trekking, Madeira Levada Walks, Madeira Tours, Private Drivers, Rabaçal 25 Fontes Hikes, Self-Guided Tours, Tour Reviews

Rabaçal: 25 Fontes & Risco Levada Transfer Self-guided Hike

3.25 Fontes & Risco Levada Transfer Self-guided Hike

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 841 reviews · from $38

Ride from Funchal or nearby towns to Rabaçal in a shared van of up to eight, then follow the 25 Fontes and Risco routes on your own. Your driver-host explains the map, trail turns, and return time. Pedro, Adriana, Nuno, and Elvio have led departures, though your driver may differ. Allow about eight hours door to door.

“Beautiful hike, lots of steps. Do the early hike, it’s worth it to beat the crowds. As stated in the description, this tour only provides transportation to the hike and back to your hotel. Our driver, Pedro, explained the directions for the hike very clearly and there are signs everywhere so you don’t get lost. The only bathroom is at the cafe that doesn’t open until 10am. You need €0.50 to enter so bring change. This is a great value for your money as Bolt/Taxi could be expensive depending on your group size. If you plan ahead, you could also do PR 6.2 and/or 6.3 if you hustle. Happy hiking!Read…”

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Funchal Tours, Hiking & Trekking, Madeira Tours, Private Drivers, São Lourenço Hikes, Tour Reviews

Funchal: Caniçal Ponta São Lourenco Hiking Transfer

4.Caniçal Ponta São Lourenco Hiking Transfer

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 756 reviews · 6 hours · from $35

Ride from Funchal, Caniço, Santa Cruz or Machico to Madeira’s eastern tip for a self-guided 7.5-kilometer hike along the coast. You get route instructions, a digital map and up to 4.5 hours on the trail, with a shared van ride back. Drivers such as Miguel, Filipe and Nuno have also shared useful trail and island tips.

“The trip was great - amazing views, option to get lunch / snacks in a cafe and go swimming. Our guide Nuno who was very friendly and fun - thank you! Highly recommended.”

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Caldeirão Verde Hikes, Guided, Hiking & Trekking, Madeira Tours, Private Drivers, Self-Guided Tours, Tour Reviews

Caldeirão Verde: Queimadas PR9 Transfer and Self-Guided Hike

5.Queimadas PR9 Transfer and Self-Guided Hike

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 668 reviews · from $38

Take a shared transfer from Funchal, Caniço, Santa Cruz or Machico to Queimadas, then follow the 15 km Caldeirão Verde trail on your own. You get route instructions and a digital map, but no hiking guide. Expect ancient Laurissilva trees, waterfalls, four tunnels and a long, mostly level walk. Drivers including Nuno and Pedro are praised for clear briefings and friendly service.

“We thoroughly enjoyed our hike. Started in the dark which was a bit daunting but also fun! Luis our driver was so so lovely, hilariously funny and made our journey up and down such fun, he had us laughing non stop! The hike itself is a beautiful hike, very easy, minimal fitness level required in my opinion, once you’re able for a few hours walking you’ll be fine. Glad we went early as the crowds were coming in their droves when we were walking back down! Cafe at end is cash only if you’d like a coffee/sandwich when you are finished!Read more”

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Caldeirão Verde Hikes, Funchal Tours, Hiking & Trekking, Madeira Levada Walks, Madeira Tours, Private Drivers, Tour Reviews

Madeira: PR 9 – Levada do Caldeirão Verde Hike Transfer

6.PR 9 – Levada do Caldeirão Verde Hike Transfer

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 620 reviews · 7 hours · from $47

Ride from Funchal, Caniço, or Garajau to Pico das Pedras, then follow the self-guided PR9 trail through Laurissilva Forest, tunnels, and ravines to Caldeirão Verde. Your local driver-host, such as Vitor, Fábio, Roberto, or Cristiano, gives a safety briefing and route details, then collects you for the return transfer. Bring a head torch, waterproof shoes, food, and water.

“We took the transfer to the PR9 trail with Levadas In and Out, and everything was perfect. Our driver Fábio was very attentive, punctual, and careful. The car was clean, comfortable, and in great condition. Before the hike, Fábio gave us all the necessary information about the trail and answered all our questions. We had a wonderful experience and would definitely use this company again!”

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Funchal Tours, Madeira Tours, Private Drivers, São Lourenço Hikes, Tour Reviews

Madeira: PR8 -Ponta de São Lourenço Natural Reserve Transfer

7.PR8 -Ponta de São Lourenço Natural Reserve Transfer

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 392 reviews · 4 hours · from $35

Ride from Funchal, Caniço, Garajau, or Machico to the PR8 trailhead, then walk the 6-kilometer return route on your own. Your local driver gives a safety briefing and practical tips before you set off. Expect volcanic cliffs, seabird habitat, and wind-exposed paths. The transfer costs $35 per person; the €4.50 trail entry ticket is extra.

“I had a great walk through Ponta de Sáo Lourenço. Nice drive to destination en good preparation tips before the walk. Vitor is a good driver/guide and gives you time to enjoy your hike without any rush. It made my experience of the hike thanks Vitor!”

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Funchal Tours, Guided, Hiking & Trekking, Madeira Sunrise Tours, Madeira Tours, Morning, Pico do Arieiro Tours, Private Drivers, Self-Guided Tours, Tour Reviews

PR1 Sunrise Pico do Arieiro Self-Guided Hiking Transfer

8.PR1 Sunrise Pico do Arieiro Self-Guided Hiking Transfer

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 299 reviews · 8 hours (approx.) · from $39Top rated

Start with a 5:30 am pickup in Funchal or Caniço, ride to Pico do Arieiro for sunrise, then hike at your own pace. Your English- or Portuguese-speaking driver explains the route and conditions, with pickup later at Funchal Ecological Park. Trail access can change, so the route may use PR3 instead of the full PR1.

“I was concerned at 1st that I may not be able to follow the map/trail but it was very easy and our drivers (Pedro) guidance was great. The organisers communication was excellent as well. They even checked in during the hike with a text as there is phone signal most of the way. Highly recommend the trip and the organisers. Some advice for the sunrise, bring layers. It is cold up there so early in the morning. Thanks.”

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Hiking & Trekking, Madeira Tours, Morning, Pico do Arieiro Tours, Private Drivers, Tour Reviews

Morning Transfer To Pico Do Arieiro, Hike To Pico Ruivo & Return From Teixeira

9.Morning Transfer To Pico Do Arieiro, Hike To Pico Ruivo & Return From Teixeira

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 243 reviews · 7 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $37

Ride from Funchal or Caniço to Pico do Arieiro, then hike independently toward Pico Ruivo and down to Achada do Teixeira. The shared transfer carries up to eight people and includes pickup at the end. Drivers such as Radko, Carlos, Michael, and Ciro have been praised for clear trail briefings, but no guide walks with you.

“The entire process was smooth and very well organised. Fantastic communication, GREAT driver Carlos who was informative, kind and gave all the required information for the walk pre walking. Well worth the cost and well worth the convenience of being dropped off and picked up. Initially I had some apprehension about the route as we didn't have a proper mountain map- but was not required and Driver Carlos explained all that was needed prior to starting the walk solo. A family of five was late getting to the pickup point- however this issue was dealt with kindly for the family but also did not make the rest of the group…”

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Hiking & Trekking, Madeira Sunrise Tours, Madeira Tours, Morning, Pico do Arieiro Tours, Private Drivers, Tour Reviews

Sunrise Transfer To Pico Do Arieiro, Hike To Pico Ruivo & Return From Teixeira

10.Sunrise Transfer To Pico Do Arieiro, Hike To Pico Ruivo & Return From Teixeira

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 233 reviews · 7 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $42

Ride in a small van from Funchal or Caniço to Pico do Arieiro before sunrise, then hike at your own pace toward Pico Ruivo and down to Achada do Teixeira. The route is about 11 km and rated medium-hard. Your driver handles the transfers and gives route guidance; names such as Michael, Miguel, Cito, Ulisses, and Elisabeth have been praised, but drivers vary.

“The views from the top were outstanding - even though the full hike was unaccessible. Michael was a fantastic guide.”

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Lunch Experiences, Madeira Boat Trips, Madeira Tours, Private Drivers, Tour Reviews

Madeira: Boat Trip with Lunch, Drinks, and Hotel Transfer

11.Boat Trip with Lunch, Drinks, and Hotel Transfer

★★★★★★★★★★4.8 · 98 reviews · 5 hours · from $81

A five-hour Madeira boat outing pairs hotel pickup with a coastal cruise, a swim and snorkel stop, and a buffet of seasonal dishes and local specialities. Your English-, Portuguese-, or Spanish-speaking guide introduces the coastline while the crew serves cold drinks. Dolphins and other marine life may appear, but sightings are not guaranteed.

“Boat with plenty of space. Very well prepared food. Very well organized half day trip. Nothing negative to point out”

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Hiking & Trekking, Madeira Tours, Private Drivers, Rabaçal 25 Fontes Hikes, Tour Reviews

From Funchal/Caniço: Rabaçal Hike (25 Fontes) Bus Transfer

12.From Funchal/Caniço: Rabaçal Hike (25 Fontes) Bus Transfer

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 77 reviews · from $32

This self-guided Rabaçal hike transfer collects you in Funchal, Caniço, or Garajau, reaches the trail area around 9:15 a.m., and returns at 2:30 p.m. You choose your route and pace; there is no guide. Bring food, water, rain gear, and a flashlight, and leave enough time to reach the tunnel-area pickup.

“The transfer was on time there and back, and the driver was friendly and helpful, when we got to the destination he gave us good info for what to look out for when going to the pick up point. Not possible to get there by public transport and a taxi would have been a lot more so good value for money.”

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Funchal Tours, Madeira Airport Transfers, Madeira Tours, Private Drivers, Tour Reviews

Transfer Privado e Confiável: Aeroporto → Funchal (ou vice-versa)

13.Transfer Privado e Confiável: Aeroporto → Funchal (ou vice-versa)

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 56 reviews · 10 to 40 minutes (approx.) · from $21

Madeiralimo arranges an airport pickup or drop-off between Madeira Airport and addresses in Funchal, Caniço or Santa Cruz. At arrivals, look for a driver holding a name sign or company logo, then show your voucher. The ride takes about 10 to 40 minutes, depending on the destination. One suitcase per person is included.

“Driver was waiting in the arrival area and had a sign with my name in it. He was friendly, & confirmed my stay location as it was not at a hotel. Very safe driver & dropped me off at my stay. I would highly recommend this service- great price & clean vehicles. What’s not to like.”

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Madeira Tours, Pico do Arieiro Tours, Private Drivers, Tour Reviews

Transfer from Pico do Areeiro to Achada do Teixeira

14.Transfer from Pico do Areeiro to Achada do Teixeira

★★★★★★★★★★4.7 · 29 reviews · from $28

After hiking between Achada do Teixeira, Pico Ruivo and Pico do Areeiro, meet your Portuguese, English or German-speaking local driver at the Pico do Areeiro car park. This one-hour van transfer returns you to Achada do Teixeira, with space for up to seven people. It is transport, not a guided hike.

“was great tgere on time no problems had contact before arrivel all very well and grrat price”

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Caldeirão Verde Hikes, Funchal Tours, Guided, Hiking & Trekking, Madeira Levada Walks, Madeira Tours, Private Drivers, Self-Guided Tours, Tour Reviews

PR9 Caldeirão Verde Queimadas Levada Self-Guided Hiking Transfer

15.PR9 Caldeirão Verde Queimadas Levada Self-Guided Hiking Transfer

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 28 reviews · 8 hours 30 minutes (approx.) · from $39

Ride from Funchal, Caniço, Santa Cruz or Machico to Queimadas, then hike the Caldeirão Verde route at your own pace. You get a map briefing and about 5.5 hours for the 15 km walk, ending at Pico das Pedras. Drivers such as Diogo, Henrique and Luis have shared useful island tips, but no hiking guide accompanies you.