Discover Madeira, Self-drive

Discover Madeira, Self-drive

tourhub | Destination Services Portugal | Discover Madeira, Self-drive | 354707
tourhub | Destination Services Portugal | Discover Madeira, Self-drive | 354707 tourhub | Destination Services Portugal | Discover Madeira, Self-drive | 354707

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8 Days From

$1091

Discover Madeira, Self-drive

8 Days Starting in Boaventura, Portugal and ending in Madeira, Portugal

Visiting: Madeira, Santo da Serra, Machico, Boaventura, Poiso, Ribeiro Frio, Pico do Areeiro, Laurissilva Forest, Balcões, Faial, Santana, São Vicente, Encumeada Pass, Porto Santo, Veu da Noiva, Porto Moniz, Paul da Serra Plateau, Calheta, Ponta do Sol, Funchal, Jardim do Mar, Paul do Mar, Prazeres, Ribeira Brava, Cabo Girão, Câmara de Lobos

Tour operator:

Destination Services Portugal

Tour code:

354707

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

Low

Age range:

26-75

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat

Trip Styles:

Small Group

Interests:

Eco Conscious, Gardens & Nature Tours

Activities:

Hiking, Sightseeing, Walking

From: $1091 (USD)

NB: Prices correct on 26-Apr-2025 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating self-drive adventure through the enchanting island of Madeira, Portugal. This 7-night journey offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and relaxation. Begin your exploration in Boaventura, a serene haven known for its lush landscapes. Discover the tranquil village of Ponta do Sol, renowned for its sunny climate, and the hidden gem of Balcões in the Ribeiro Frio Mountains. Enjoy comfortable accommodations in Boaventura and Funchal, with daily breakfasts included. Your journey is enhanced with a rental car, offering unlimited mileage and 24/7 road assistance, allowing you to explore at your own pace. Delight in the island's natural beauty, from the emerald coastline of Faial to the volcanic pools of Porto Moniz. This tour promises an unforgettable experience, immersing you in the vibrant culture and breathtaking scenery of Madeira.

Highlights

  • Boaventura: Known as nature’s sanctuary with its unspoiled and green landscape, ideal for relaxation.

  • Ponta do Sol: A tranquil village on the southeast coastline, known for being one of the sunniest parts of Madeira.

  • Balcões: A hidden gem in the Ribeiro Frio Mountains, showcasing Portugal's raw, untamed mountain beauty.

  • Santo da Serra: Offers a glimpse of Madeira's vegetation and a variety of flowers and plants.

  • Machico: The landing point of Madeira's discoverers, with a bay perfect for seaside walks and swimming.

  • Pico do Areeiro: A hike to the third highest peak offers breathtaking views and natural beauty.

  • Veu da Noiva: A waterfall with a romantic legend, believed to bring happiness to couples who kiss there.

Itinerary

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Day 1 : ARRIVAL MADEIRA - BOAVENTURA (60 km - 1hr)

Location: Madeira, Santo da Serra, Machico, Boaventura

Accommodation Name: Hotel Solar Boaventura or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast

Arrive at Madeira International Airport, pick up your car and before driving to the hotel we recommend visiting Santo Da Sierra and Machico. Santo da Serra is about 9 km from the airport. In Santo da Serra is worthwhile visiting the “Quinta do Santo da Serra” where you will be able to have a glimpse of the Madeira vegetation and a wide variety of flowers and plants. Also have a visit to the stables. This “farm” is open daily. Machico was the landing point of the discoverers of Madera in the 15th Century. The bay of Machico invites for a walk along the seafront while enjoying the amazing view over the sea and the island. Weather permitting you can have a swimming in the sea, in the small sand beach “planted” in the bay. Then drive to the village of Boaventura for your first night.


Overnight in Boaventura.

Day 2 : BOAVENTURA

Location: Santo da Serra, Poiso, Ribeiro Frio, Pico do Areeiro, Laurissilva Forest, Balcões, Boaventura

Accommodation Name: Hotel Solar Boaventura or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast

Wake up to your tasty breakfast and get ready for your new experience. Drive Santo da Serra, passing by Poiso, Ribeiro Frio, Faial. On your way to Ribeiro Frio you can make a small stop and hike up to the third highest peak “Pico do Areeiro”. Continue driving through our enchanting and magical “Laurissilva” forest, until you get to Ribeiro Frio a well-known place by its trout hatchery. Climbing up to Balcões (short one hour hike) is a must, you will get breathtaking views over this mountainous part of the island and you will fill your senses with these pure natural gems.  

Overnight in Boaventura.

Day 3 : BOAVENTURA

Location: Madeira, Faial, Santana, Boaventura

Accommodation Name: Hotel Solar Boaventura or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy your morning breakfast at the hotel and carry on exploring beautiful Madeira. Depart to Faial and enjoy the natural emerald views over the coastline that this small picturesque village of Santana reveals, maybe stop for a meal at the local restaurants and have a delightful fresh fish or other sea delicate.

Overnight in Boaventura.

Day 4 : BOAVENTURA

Location: Boaventura, São Vicente, Encumeada Pass, Porto Santo

Accommodation Name: Hotel Solar Boaventura or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast

Start your day with the breakfast at the hotel and get ready for your new adventure. Drive through this beautiful countryside and get a deeper inside into the local country by enjoying the local gastronomy and warm welcoming of the local people. Drive along the coastline and stop to see the wonderful waterfalls, São Vicente and Encumeada Pass display their magnificent views over the north and south of the island, if the weather permit you can even see the island of Porto Santo. 


Overnight in Boaventura.



Day 5 : BOAVENTURA – PONTA DO SOL – FUNCHAL (55 km – 1hr)

Location: Boaventura, Veu da Noiva, Porto Moniz, Paul da Serra Plateau, Calheta, Ponta do Sol, Funchal

Accommodation Name: Hotel Ocean Gardens or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast

After the energizing breakfast at the hotel, check out from the hotel and depart towards Ponta do Sol, a charming harbour settled on the south-western coast of the island. On the way do not miss to visit a waterfall called “Veu da Noiva” (The bride’s veil) and discover the Portuguese story about unfulfilled love. Local people believe that all couples passing by this spot, have to kiss here so they can happily live together forever. In Porto Moniz, take pleasure at the natural volcanic swimming pools and enjoy a local fish speciality “arroz de Lapas” at one of the restaurants that were signed in the Guinness Book by being the restaurant cooking the biggest “arroz de Lapas” (Limpet’s rice) in the world. After lunch head towards the Paul da Serra Plateau (the only one in Madeira) and then drive down passing the village of Calheta. Once in Ponta do Sol, in this “sunny corner of Madeira”,  enjoy the local cobbled stone beach and take a refreshing swim in the sea, maybe snorkel and discover the thrilling underwater world. At the end of the day arrive in Funchal and check in at your hotel.

Overnight in Funchal.

Day 6 : FUNCHAL

Location: Funchal, Jardim do Mar, Paul do Mar, Prazeres

Accommodation Name: Hotel Ocean Gardens or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast

Wake up to your luscious breakfast at the hotel and enjoy the whole day at leisure. You can drive to the charming villages of Jardim do Mar and Paul do Mar and explore this beautiful region more profoundly. Those small fishing villages are very unique with their wonderful and romantic landscapes. From Paul do Mar you can drive up and head to Prazeres. Take pleasure in these tranquil vivid landscapes and savour the fresh flavours of local gastronomy. 

Overnight in Funchal.

Day 7 : FUNCHAL

Location: Funchal, Ribeira Brava, Cabo Girão, Câmara de Lobos

Accommodation Name: Hotel Ocean Gardens or similar

Meals Included: Breakfast

After morning breakfast at the hotel, visit blooming vineyards and banana trees. Stop in Ribeira Brava, a charming village, perhaps take a walk through picturesque streets and busy squares, and get deeper inside of the tranquil local vibe. Take a short hike up to the second highest sea cliff in the world “Cabo Girão” situated close to the villages Campanário and Quinta Grande, and continue to Câmara de Lobos, a small fish village on the east part of the island.

Overnight in Funchal.

Day 8 : FUNCHAL – DEPARTURE MADEIRA (20 km – 0.5 hrs)

Location: Funchal, Madeira Airport

Meals Included: Breakfast

Spend your last morning in Funchal, savouring your breakfast. Then, hop in to your car and drive back to Madeira, return the rental car at the Madeira Airport and prepare for your return flight.





What's Included

  • Car Hire

    The tour includes car hire with unlimited mileage, Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW), theft protection (TP), 24/7 road assistance, replacement vehicle in case of an accident or breakdown, safety equipment, road map, and tax.

  • Meet & Greet

    A meet and greet service is included in the tour package.

What's Not Included

  • Flights

    Domestic and international flights are not included in the tour package.

  • Personal Accident Insurance

    Personal accident insurance (PAI) is not included in the tour package.

  • Drinks During Meals

    Drinks during meals are not included unless specified otherwise.

  • City Tax

    City tax is not included and is payable on the spot.

  • Porterage and Gratuities

    Porterage and gratuities are not included in the tour package.

  • Tour Guide

    A tour guide is not included in the tour package.

  • Personal Expenditures

    Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks, meals, or items not explicitly stated in the program are not included.

  • Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Drinks

    Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, and camera/video camera fees (if any) are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays or accidents is not included.

  • Car Hire Exclusions

    Fuel, fines, tolls, parking, damage to a third party or the hire vehicle due to negligence, loss or damage to vehicle components, damage to the engine through negligence, theft of the vehicle with keys left in the ignition, damage caused by driving under the influence, fines due to traffic law violations, costs for leaving the car outside designated areas, each additional driver, and extra equipment (GPS, baby seat, etc.) are not included in the car hire.

Please Note

  • Drivers age from 26 to 75 years old (must have had their driver´s license for a minimum of one year)
  • Pick-up hours are Monday through Sunday, 07:00 to 22:00 hrs. Pick-up outside of these times is subject to a surcharge.
  • Drivers who are not citizens of the European Union must present an international driver’s license together with the original from their country of origin.
  • If the customer returns the vehicle earlier than the agreed upon drop-off date stated in the rental contract, the rental company will not refund the customer for any unused days
  • Deposit credit card Visa or MasterCard only
  • Accident/theft reporting must be notified within 48 hours of the incident
  • In cases where, following the return of the vehicle, additional cleaning is required due to the car being dirty beyond the level expected from normal vehicle use, an additional charge shall apply, against evidence of the cost of the service provided
  • Return procedure and the exact designated area will be advised by the rental car company when you pick up the car on arrival day
  • We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems or security reasons.
  • Late check-out, early check-in, connecting or adjoining rooms at the hotel are all subject to availability and not guaranteed.
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Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1-4 Boaventura
  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Solar Boaventura or similar 3* 
Day 5-7 Funchal
  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Ocean Gardens or similar 4* 
CAR HIRE OPTIONS
  • Car Group A = Renault Twing / Fiat Panda or similar
  • Car Group B = Seat Ibiza or similar
show more

Accommodation options

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1-4 Boaventura
  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Solar Boaventura or similar 3* 
Day 5-7 Funchal
  • Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Ocean Gardens or similar 4* 
CAR HIRE OPTIONS
  • Car Group A = Renault Twingo/Fiat Panda or similar
  • Car Group B = Seat Ibiza or similar
show more

Mode of Transport

This self-drive tour includes car hire options with unlimited mileage, featuring vehicles like Renault Twingo, Fiat Panda, or Seat Ibiza. Enjoy the freedom to explore Madeira at your own pace with 24/7 road assistance and essential safety equipment.

Accommodation

Enjoy 7 nights of comfortable hotel accommodation, with the first four nights at Hotel Solar Boaventura or a similar 3-star hotel, and the last three nights at Hotel Ocean Gardens or a similar 4-star hotel in Funchal.

Requirements

Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Portugal. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of car can I hire for the self-drive tour in Madeira?

    You can hire a car from Car Group A, which includes models like the Renault Twingo or Fiat Panda, or from Car Group B, which includes models like the Seat Ibiza or similar.

  • What is included in the car hire for the Madeira self-drive tour?

    The car hire includes unlimited mileage, Super Collision Damage Waiver (SCDW), theft protection (TP), 24/7 road assistance, a replacement vehicle in case of an accident or breakdown, safety equipment such as a triangle, high visibility vest, and fire extinguisher, a road map, and tax.

  • Are meals included in the Discover Madeira self-drive tour?

    The tour includes 7 breakfasts as part of the accommodation package.

  • What are the accommodation options during the tour?

    For the first four nights, you will stay in Boaventura at a standard hotel like Hotel Solar Boaventura or a similar 3-star hotel. For the last three nights, you will stay in Funchal at a standard hotel like Hotel Ocean Gardens or a similar 4-star hotel.

  • What activities are recommended on the first day of the tour?

    On the first day, after arriving at Madeira International Airport and picking up your car, it is recommended to visit Santo Da Sierra and Machico before driving to your hotel in Boaventura.

  • What can I expect to see on the second day of the tour?

    On the second day, you can drive through Santo da Serra, passing by Poiso, Ribeiro Frio, and Faial. You can hike up to Pico do Areeiro and visit the trout hatchery in Ribeiro Frio. A short hike to Balcões is also recommended for breathtaking views.

  • What is the highlight of the fifth day of the tour?

    On the fifth day, you will travel from Boaventura to Ponta do Sol and Funchal. Highlights include visiting the waterfall 'Veu da Noiva', enjoying natural volcanic swimming pools in Porto Moniz, and exploring the Paul da Serra Plateau.

  • What should I know about the car hire requirements?

    Drivers must be between 26 to 75 years old and have had their driver's license for at least one year. Non-EU citizens need to present an international driver's license along with their original license. A deposit is required via Visa or MasterCard.

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.

  • Do you offer any travel insurance?

    We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure. 

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers

  • When are there specific hotel names confirmed?

    Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client's arrival

  • Are Visa fees included in the price?

    No, visa fees are not included

  • Are flights included in the tour?

    No, they are not included

  • What does the price include?

    What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.

  • Is there any option for solo traveller?

    Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.

Reviews of this operator

TG  

Portugal Discovery, Self-drive

04-Nov-2022

Great itinerary. Hotels were quite nice with breakfast included. Highways in Portugal may be the best in the world.

Mary Ann  

South of Portugal

17-Sep-2022

This tour was so much more than I expected. The hotels were great especially the Villa Gale in Lagos. We had busy days and saw so much. There were only a few of us on my tour so Fernando, our driver, and Miguel, our guide, were flexible about doing independent things plus the regular tour. They were always willing to help and very sociable. I found Portugal to be a hidden gem and would love to return to spend more time in some areas.

Diego  

The Best of Portugal

14-Apr-2022

This tour has a lot of walking it’s well educated on the history of Portugal I had a wonderful driver his name was Fabio Gomes and I tour guide Cristina Evo she was wonderful she was very well educated and She knew a lot of information I really like to thank them both it was a great trip

Tony  

Wondrs of Portugal

06-Jun-2022

A wonderful Tour Will definitely book again

Robert  

Lisbon Cultural Experience, City Break, 6 Days

18-Aug-2022

Great communication from the Tourradar team. Everything worked out as planned / promised. Would use them again.

Leo B.  

South of Portugal

17-Feb-2022

What an amazing experience! Surprises around every corner. We really learned about the culture, ate great meals and visited several hidden gems! Highly recommend!! Thank you to our awesome guide, Joao!

Jay C.  

Portugal North and South, Self-drive

30-Oct-2022

It was a wonderful experience. The hotels are way above my expectations. Just one little thing not too important is that there is drop off fee at Faro airport. I totally recommend this tour to my friends.

Pauline  

The Best of Portugal

15-Mar-2022

Our tour guide Kristina was fabulous. Our driver Fabio was excellent. Our initial trying to find our tour at Marquis de Pombal Square in Lisbon was very nerve wracking with anxiety as the name Tour Radar was nowhere to be seen. It was under the name Cityrama. Luckily Kristina found us wandering in the parking lot with rolling suitcases. Other than that everything went well and the breakfasts were great and hotels were very good.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    Destination Services Portugal requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 30 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of destination services portugal charges.

    At 45 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Not what you're looking for?

People that have booked this tour have also searched for the following:

Gardens & Nature tours in Portugal Gardens & Nature tours Tours in Portugal Walking tours Hiking tours Sightseeing tours Eco Conscious tours Small Group tours

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