Discover Madeira, Self-drive

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8 Days From

~~$904~~

$861

Discover Madeira, Self-drive

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

Visiting: Madeira, Boaventura, Funchal

Tour operator:

Destination Services Portugal

Tour code:

354707

Group Type:

Independent

Guide Type:

Self Guided

Physical rating:

EASY

Age range:

26-75

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat

From: $904 $861 (USD) Travel Club discount: -$43

NB: Prices correct on 20-Feb-2025 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on a captivating self-drive adventure through the enchanting island of Madeira, Portugal. This tour invites you to explore the island's unspoiled beauty at your own pace, with car hire options that include unlimited mileage and 24/7 road assistance. Begin your journey in the serene village of Boaventura, known for its lush landscapes, and spend your first four nights at the charming Hotel Solar Boaventura. Discover the breathtaking views from Balcões and the tranquil village of Ponta do Sol. As you continue, enjoy the vibrant city of Funchal, where you'll stay at the Hotel Ocean Gardens. Delight in the island's natural wonders, from the Laurissilva forest to the volcanic pools of Porto Moniz. With seven breakfasts included, this tour offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration, allowing you to uncover Madeira's hidden gems and stunning vistas.

Highlights

Boaventura: Known as nature’s sanctuary with its unspoiled and green landscape.
Ponto do Sol: A tranquil village on the southeast coastline, one of the sunniest parts of Madeira.
Balcões: A hidden gem in the Ribeiro Frio Mountains, showcasing Portugal's raw, untamed beauty.
Santo da Serra: Visit the "Quinta do Santo da Serra" for a glimpse of Madeira's vegetation and diverse flora.
Pico do Areeiro: Hike to the third highest peak for breathtaking views.
Veu da Noiva: Discover the waterfall and the local legend of unfulfilled love.
Cabo Girão: Hike to the second highest sea cliff in the world for stunning views.

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Arrival Madeira - Boaventura (60 Km - 1Hr)

Location: Madeira

Accommodation Name: Hotel Solar Boaventura or similar 3*

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: Boaventura

Accommodation Name: Hotel Solar Boaventura or similar 3*

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

Accommodation Name: Hotel Solar Boaventura or similar 3*

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

Accommodation Name: Hotel Solar Boaventura or similar 3*

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: Funchal

Accommodation Name: Hotel Ocean Gardens or similar 4*

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

Accommodation Name: Hotel Ocean Gardens or similar 4*

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

Accommodation Name: Hotel Ocean Gardens or similar 4*

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

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

Meals

The tour includes 7 breakfasts.
Car Hire

This self-drive tour includes car hire options with unlimited mileage, Super Collision Damage Waiver, theft protection, 24/7 road assistance, and a replacement vehicle in case of accident or breakdown.
Other

Meet & Greet service is included.

What's Not Included

Flights

Domestic nor International flights are not included.
Insurance

Personal accident insurance (PAI) is not included.
Meals and Drinks

Drinks during meals (unless specified otherwise) are not included.
Taxes

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

Porterage and gratuities are not included.
Tour Guide

A tour guide is not included.
Personal Expenditures

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

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

Travel Insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc. is not included.
Car Hire Exclusions

Fuel, fines, tolls, parking, damage to a third party or to the hire vehicle due to negligence or inappropriate driving, loss or damage to aerials, jack, safety triangles and vests, windscreen wipers, petrol cap, luggage covers, or any other fixed or mobile component of the vehicle, damage to the engine through negligence, theft of the vehicle with keys left in the ignition, damage caused to the vehicle or to persons through driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, fines due to breaking traffic laws and regulations during the hire period, if the car is left outside of rent a car designated area on drop off, customers will be responsible for any costs generated and for any damage to the vehicle due to it being parked outside of the Rent Car installations, each additional driver, and any extra equipment (GPS, baby seat, etc.) are not included.

Please Note

Driver’s 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 from 07:00 to 22:00 hrs. Additional surcharge will be paid if pick-up out of the office hours.
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
Instructions for the car collection
Day 1: Heading first to the rent a car shuttle stop. Exact indications to be advised upon confirmation
Day 8: Return procedure and the exact designated area will be advised by rent a 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.

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

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

Mode of Transport

This self-drive tour includes car hire options with unlimited mileage, Super Collision Damage Waiver, theft protection, 24/7 road assistance, and a replacement vehicle in case of accident or breakdown.

Accommodation

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

Check out our Q&As

What type of car can I expect to drive during the tour?

You can choose from Car Group A, which includes models like the Renault Twing or Fiat Panda, or Car Group B, which includes models like the Seat Ibiza or similar.
What happens if my rental car breaks down during the tour?

The tour includes 24/7 road assistance and a replacement vehicle in case of an accident or breakdown.
Are there any specific driving requirements for this tour?

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.
What should I do if I need to return the rental car earlier than planned?

If you return the vehicle earlier than the agreed drop-off date, the rental company will not refund you for any unused days.
What are some of the highlights of the tour in Boaventura?

In Boaventura, you can explore the Laurissilva forest, hike to Pico do Areeiro, and visit the trout hatchery at Ribeiro Frio. A short hike to Balcões offers breathtaking views of the mountainous landscape.

What activities are available in Ponta do Sol during the tour?

In Ponta do Sol, you can visit the 'Veu da Noiva' waterfall, enjoy natural volcanic swimming pools in Porto Moniz, and explore the local cobbled stone beach for swimming and snorkeling.
What is included in the car hire options for the tour?

The car hire includes unlimited mileage, Super Collision Damage Waiver, theft protection, 24/7 road assistance, a replacement vehicle in case of accident or breakdown, safety equipment, and a road map.
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

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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~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

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Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

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Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

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Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

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Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

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Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

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~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Friday - Friday

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~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Mar 15, 2025 - Mar 22, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Tuesday - Tuesday

Mar 18, 2025 - Mar 25, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Wednesday - Wednesday

Mar 19, 2025 - Mar 26, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Mar 20, 2025 - Mar 27, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Friday - Friday

Mar 21, 2025 - Mar 28, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Mar 22, 2025 - Mar 29, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 23, 2025 - Mar 30, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Monday - Monday

Mar 24, 2025 - Mar 31, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Tuesday - Tuesday

Mar 25, 2025 - Apr 01, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Wednesday - Wednesday

Mar 26, 2025 - Apr 02, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Mar 27, 2025 - Apr 03, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Friday - Friday

Mar 28, 2025 - Apr 04, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Mar 29, 2025 - Apr 05, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 30, 2025 - Apr 06, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Apr 03, 2025 - Apr 10, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Friday - Friday

Apr 04, 2025 - Apr 11, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Apr 05, 2025 - Apr 12, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Apr 06, 2025 - Apr 13, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Monday - Monday

Apr 07, 2025 - Apr 14, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Tuesday - Tuesday

Apr 08, 2025 - Apr 15, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Wednesday - Wednesday

Apr 09, 2025 - Apr 16, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Apr 10, 2025 - Apr 17, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Friday - Friday

Apr 11, 2025 - Apr 18, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Apr 12, 2025 - Apr 19, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Apr 13, 2025 - Apr 20, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Monday - Monday

Apr 14, 2025 - Apr 21, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Tuesday - Tuesday

Apr 15, 2025 - Apr 22, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Wednesday - Wednesday

Apr 16, 2025 - Apr 23, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

Apr 17, 2025 - Apr 24, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Saturday - Saturday

Apr 26, 2025 - May 03, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Apr 27, 2025 - May 04, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Monday - Monday

Apr 28, 2025 - May 05, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Tuesday - Tuesday

Apr 29, 2025 - May 06, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Wednesday - Wednesday

Apr 30, 2025 - May 07, 2025

~~$938~~ $893 (USD)

Travel Club discount: -$45 (USD)

Thursday - Thursday

May 01, 2025 - May 08, 2025

~~$1016~~ $968 (USD)