Private tour in Funchal Valdemar A

Sunrise at the Summit Full Day Private Tour

5.0

(5) reviews

-
Hours icon 8 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-5 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 8 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-5 people
Your party size

1

View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later

Valdemar A.

5.0

Guide rating

254

Reviews

Tours delivered

3 hrs

Avg. response time

Hi, my name is Valdemar, a 45 years old Madeira island native. I was born in the capital Funchal but my roots are in the west and east of the island, where my grandparents are from. For 16 years I have worked in a store. Getting in contact with people, knowing their stories, was the best part of it and enriched and gave me social skills. In my free time, this island was my breakout. 10 years ago my breakout became a full-time occupation and I swapped a store for an outdoor office and started delivering tours. First with sidecar motorcycles, then minibus and jeeps, as a freelancer guide and since then, my passion for this island got bigger. The satisfaction and smiling faces of my guests were the cherries on top. Right away I felt this was what I was meant to be doing with my life. I feel blessed and very lucky to be able to do what I love for a living. This year I have joined ToursByLocals private tours because they offer me the opportunity to deliver a tour more personal, tailor-made, and flexible where I can show you the places that made me feel this way! Taking a tour with me, I guarantee a memorable experience, where you will feel local. I will go the extra mile to overcome your expectations and you will go back looking forward to returning. Looking forward to meeting you. See you soon. Certified Tourism Guide/Driver, Licenced by the Autonomous Region of Madeira, in accordance with the ordinance nr. 61/2017. The car is registered according to the Portuguese tourism authority with license number RNAAT 375/2016 with the required by law liability insurance, accident insurance, and personal group insurance for activities outside the car. "Clean and Safe" stamp. Created by Turismo de Portugal authority to approve and distinguish tourist activities that are compliant with hygiene and cleaning requirements for the prevention and control of COVID-19 and other possible infections.

Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Valdemar A.

Overview of your Funchal tour

One of the most unforgettable experiences of my life was sitting atop Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s highest peak at 1862 meters (6120 ft), after a 3 km hike beneath a sky full of stars. As dawn approached, a thin golden line lit the horizon—then, in seconds, the sky exploded with colours I never imagined possible. Floating above a sea of clouds, completely speechless, I was immersed in nature’s masterpiece. This is my top recommendation for a truly unforgettable tour. As the sun rises, the dramatic landscape is revealed in all its glory. We’ll hike back along the same path, making stops for a traditional breakfast, scenic viewpoints, and a short off-road adventure through the ancient Laurel Forest. Depending on the weather and your preferences, two alternative sunrise spots—equally stunning—may be suggested. Each offers a unique and breathtaking way to welcome the new day.

Recent Reviews

Ian K.United Kingdom
June 2024

Unfortunately the weather was against us for the sunrise , but Valdemar tailored the day into a superb tour and walks. Enthusiastic, friendly, knowledgeable- top man! Best tours we’ve been on.

Joe B.United States
May 2024

Val was great. He was able to adjust the tour based on our needs. He is very knowledgeable about Madeira ands pleasure to be with.

Catherine B.United States
October 2023

The sunrise tour with Valdemar completely blew us away! He went above and beyond to make sure we had an incredible experience that we will never forget. He guided us on a sunrise tour, and then he catered the rest of the day to what our interests were. He took us to great local spots to eat, drink poncha, and see nature. The entire time he provided information about the fascinating culture & history of Madeira. He's also a talented photographer and now we have amazing photos that we will always treasure!

Luciana H.United States
June 2023

If I could give Valdemar more than 5 starts I definitely would. This was my favorite tour during my time in Madeira. The tour itself was amazing: the sunrise at Pico Ruivo was breathtaking and all the other places Valdemar took us to visit were beautiful and unique. Valdemar was fun, incredibly informative and prepared. He brought us coffee to watch the sunrise and took us to places that locals enjoy. If I ever come back I would book him again. Do not hesitate to book your tour with him!

Shirley M.Canada
April 2023

Val's excellent knowledge of the island resulted in a wonderful custom tour that included a sunrise hike and afternoon full of discovering special island treasures. We learned so much about the island's history; flora; local food; and much more. Val catered to our interests with enthusiasm and his open air truck took us to places many vehicles can't. He even stopped several times to pick local fruit for us to taste. Thank you Val! We highly recommend you for anyone doing any tour on Madeira.

Your Funchal tour itinerary

This tour starts in the early hours. The idea is to arrive in Santana, in the Northeast of Madeira one and a half hours to two hours before sunrise. -We start the hike where the road ends, in Achada do Teixeira, Santana (1562 meters), from here to Pico Ruivo (1862 meters) it is about 3 km, uphill, on a well-marked and safe footpath. -Along the way, there are 3 mountain shelters before we reach the mountain top. -After sunrise, we will start descending through the same footpath to where the car is parked and we will head to the center of the village for a quick breakfast then, if you agree, we can make some more stops in Santana, Faial and Porto da Cruz to visit some magical spots offering amazing views away from the touristy circuits just before we get back to your accommodation. This hike can be challenging due to the ascent, steps, temperatures, and slight reduction in oxygen levels, and can only be done under favorable weather conditions. If you prefer a less physical experience, ask me for options.

Want to customize this tour?

Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.

Transport details
Type: Private Transportation / Category: Off Roader

I have 2 all-terrain vehicles registered for tours, according to our legislation: -Nissan Patrol from 93, all-restored, 5 seats available, 1 facing forward, 4 in the back facing sideway with 60 cm (23 inches) wide each seat, w/ panoramic/convertible roof. -LandRover Discovery TDI from 96, all restored, with 4 seats available facing forward. I reserve the right to use the car according to the availability due to maintenance or weather conditions informing guests beforehand.

What's included
Other: It is included headlights/torch For groups of up to 2 people, there is a price reduction of 50 euros. Because safety is always first, this tour can be canceled or rescheduled if the weather conditions are not suitable. Please do not forget to bring proper shoes, rainproof and warm jackets, water and a light snack.
Private Guide
Private Transportation
What's not included
Other: Personal expenses. Pick-ups outside the councils of Funchal, Santa Cruz, and Camara de Lobos will be charged an extra fee, according to the distance to Funchal, where I am based.
Food Drinks Snacks
Meeting location

Madeira, Madeira, Portugal

Airport: ,Cruise: ,ByGuide:

  • You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
Layover
Nature Wildlife And Safaris
Day Trip
Tour reference number
820632
Languages
Portuguese
English
Activity level
Moderate
Accessibility
Kid Friendly

Traveller reviews

5.0

FAQs

Who is this private tour in Funchal best suited for?

This private tour in Funchal is perfect for those who love nature, hiking, and breathtaking sunrises. It's ideal for travellers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience, as well as those who want to connect with a local guide like Valdemar A. for deeper insights into the region. The tour is also kid-friendly, making it suitable for families.

What should I bring or wear?

Can this private tour in Funchal be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?

How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?

Where does the tour start and end?

Is transportation included?

How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?

What languages is this tour offered in?

What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?

Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?

AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide

-
Hours icon 8 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-5 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
Hours icon 8 hours
Private transportation
Private tour for 1-5 people
Your party size

1

Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Last-Minute Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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