SANTANA Combo Expedition (Jeep & Levada Walk) – Shared Tour

Exploring Madeira’s Hidden Corners with the Santana Combo Expedition

Imagine a day where you get to experience Madeira’s most scenic spots without the hassle of arranging transport or guides—this is what the SANTANA Combo Expedition offers. Combining a lively 4WD tour with an invigorating levada walk, this full-day adventure takes you to remote, picture-perfect landscapes that many visitors miss. Whether you’re a nature lover or someone seeking a taste of local culture, this tour packs in a lot of value for a reasonable price.

One aspect we particularly appreciate is the hotel pickup service, which saves you the stress of navigation early in the day. Plus, the expert guide makes sure you’re well-informed about each stop, adding layers of context that enrich the experience. The chance to explore Pico do Arieiro, walk through the lush Balcões de Ribeiro Frio, and visit the charming village of Santana makes for a well-rounded day.

A potential consideration is that the tour covers quite a lot—so if you prefer a slow, relaxing pace, some might find the schedule a bit packed. But overall, it’s ideal for travelers who want a curated, immersive day in Madeira’s natural and cultural highlights. This tour is perfect for those who value guided experiences, want to access off-the-beaten-path locations, and enjoy a good mix of adventure and sightseeing.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience blending a jeep ride with a levada walk
• Round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience
• Access to remote sights like Pico do Arieiro and Ponta de São Lourenço
• Friendly, knowledgeable guides enhance the visit
• Great value for the price with multiple stops
• Suitable for most travelers, including families with kids

A Complete Look at the Santana Combo Expedition

This tour is a fantastic way to get a broad sense of Madeira’s diverse landscapes in just over seven hours. For a reasonable price of $68.50 per person, you get a well-organized itinerary that combines off-road excitement, breathtaking scenery, and cultural experiences—all curated to give you a comprehensive taste of the island.

Starting with Pico do Arieiro

Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel, typically around 9:00 am, setting the tone for an adventure-packed day. The first stop is Pico do Arieiro, at nearly 1,818 meters. Here, the views are spectacular—this mountain is the third-highest on the island, offering a sweeping panorama that makes the early wake-up well worth it. With only about 20 minutes allocated, it’s enough time to take in the scenery, snap some photos, and appreciate the vastness of Madeira’s rugged landscape.

Travelers often mention how accessible and comfortable the transportation is, thanks to the modern 4WD vehicle, which handles the narrow mountain roads with ease. The guide’s commentary helps you understand what you’re seeing—making the ascent more meaningful.

Exploring Balcões de Ribeiro Frio

Next, the group heads to Balcões de Ribeiro Frio, a popular spot for a short hike and breathtaking views. The levada walk here is a highlight for many, offering a close-up look at Madeira’s lush valleys and towering peaks. While the entrance fee isn’t included (about €2), most visitors find the cost minimal compared to the stunning vistas. The walk is relatively easy, making it accessible for most fitness levels, and provides some of the best photo opportunities of the trip.

According to reviews, this stop allows sufficient time for a good walk and photo session. One traveler noted, “Interesting spots, sufficient time, fun guide, good group.” The guide’s local knowledge shines especially here, filling you in on what makes Madeira’s flora and terrain so unique.

Discovering Santana’s Old-World Charm

A highlight for many is the visit to Santana, where traditional thatched-roof houses have been preserved for over 250 years. It’s a chance to step back in time—these houses are iconic symbols of Madeira’s rural heritage. Spending about an hour and a half here, you’ll have time to stroll through the village, admire the architecture, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

Note that lunch isn’t included, but the rest of the team usually recommends exploring local eateries or bringing snacks to enjoy during this authentic stop. Many visitors rave about the charm and authenticity, with one reviewer saying, “Santana felt like stepping into a postcard, with friendly locals and picture-perfect houses.”

Visiting Porto da Cruz

Next, the tour takes a turn toward the Porto da Cruz rum distillery. This stop offers a glimpse into Madeira’s traditional sugar cane rum production—a craft that’s been alive for generations. While the tour here is brief (around 20 minutes), it’s a chance to see the process firsthand and perhaps sample some of the local spirits. The guides often share interesting stories about Madeira’s sugar and rum history, adding depth to this tasting opportunity.

The Levada Walk at Referta

One of the most relaxing parts of the day is the Referta levada walk, which lasts about 30 minutes. It’s an easy, scenic trail that showcases the verdant beauty of Madeira’s irrigation channels, known as levadas. Reviewers mention that this walk offers a peaceful breather and beautiful views, perfect for catching your breath after the more energetic parts of the day.

The Dramatic Ponta de São Lourenço

The tour concludes with a visit to Ponta de São Lourenço, a dramatic peninsula that showcases Madeira’s rugged coastlines and striking cliffs. The 15-minute stop allows you to stretch your legs and marvel at nature’s raw power—ideal for photos and a last dose of breathtaking scenery. Guides often comment on how this spot displays Madeira’s more arid, windswept terrain, contrasting with the lush mountain areas.

Why This Tour Works

The combination of a Jeep adventure and a guided walk means you get to see a variety of landscapes without the exhaustion of self-driving or planning logistics. The small group size (maximum 99 travelers, though reviews suggest a friendly, intimate feel) fosters a more personalized experience, and the multi-lingual guides ensure clear communication.

Most travelers find the timing well-paced—there’s enough time at each stop to enjoy, take photos, and learn. The inclusion of hotel transfers is a real plus, especially for those unfamiliar with Madeira’s roads or without a rental car.

Authenticity and Value

What makes this tour stand out is the authentic taste of Madeira it provides—local villages, traditional food stops, and natural wonders. While the lunch isn’t included, the tour’s price offers great value considering the diversity of experiences packed in, with many reviews emphasizing how much they saw and learned during the day.

An Authentic, Well-Organized Madeira Experience

Reviewers consistently praise the guides for their professionalism, knowledge, and friendliness. One reviewer even called it their favorite tour of the entire trip, highlighting the breathtaking views at Pico de Areeiro and the engaging off-road adventure as highlights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a full-day, guided exploration of Madeira’s highlights, without the hassle of self-driving. It’s great for those who enjoy scenic drives, light hikes, and cultural stops. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike will find it manageable and engaging. Keep in mind that the tour involves some walking and outdoor exposure—so dress appropriately for weather, which can change quickly in mountain and coastal areas.

Final Thoughts

The SANTANA Combo Expedition offers a well-rounded, affordable way to experience Madeira’s diverse beauty. The blend of 4WD adventure, scenic levada walks, and cultural visits ensures you get a meaningful taste of the island’s highlights in one day. The positive reviews emphasize how knowledgeable the guides are, how stunning the scenery is, and how the experience genuinely feels authentic and thoughtfully curated.

For anyone wanting a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and nature—and who appreciates the convenience of hotel pickup—this tour is a top contender. It’s particularly ideal for travelers who want more than just sightseeing, craving a deeper, more interactive experience of Madeira’s natural landscapes and local charm.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup included in the tour?
Yes, the tour offers hotel or accommodation pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient, especially if you don’t want to worry about transportation.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, giving you a full day of exploration with enough time at each stop.

What is the group size?
While the maximum is 99 travelers, reviews suggest the experience is more intimate, with guided interactions that feel personalized.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes, children can participate, but they must be accompanied by an adult.

What should I wear?
Given the outdoor nature and varying weather conditions, dress appropriately—layers are recommended, especially for mountain and coastal stops.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is optional and paid separately (around 15€), but there are local eateries at Santana for a taste of Madeira’s cuisine.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund, making it flexible for changing itineraries or weather issues.

In summary, the Santana Combo Expedition delivers a genuine slice of Madeira, blending adventure, nature, and culture in a way that feels both fun and authentic. Whether you’re seeking panoramic mountain views, charming villages, or coastal vistas, this tour covers it all—making it a fantastic choice for a memorable day on the island.