East 4×4 Santana & Peaks

Exploring Madeira with the East 4×4 Santana & Peaks Tour

This full-day adventure promises an off-road journey through Madeira’s northeast coast, combining scenic vistas, charming villages, and authentic local experiences. Hosted by Green Devil Safari, this tour offers a chance to see parts of the island that are often missed on standard sightseeing trips. It’s perfect for those who want a more adventurous, immersive way to explore Madeira’s natural beauty.

One of the standout features we love is the guide’s deep local knowledge, which adds layers of stories to the stunning views and stops. The route’s highlight—Pico do Areeiro—is an incredible vantage point, and the off-road aspect ensures you’ll encounter wild landscapes away from touristy crowds. However, keep in mind that this tour is quite active, and some walking or vehicle transfers might be necessary.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy scenic drives, authentic village visits, and a touch of adventure. If you’re after a relaxed, bus-style tour, this might not be the best fit. But if your idea of fun includes rugged landscapes, local culture, and panoramic mountain views, this tour could be a highlight of your Madeira trip.

Key Points

• Authentic Off-Road Experience: Explore Madeira’s less-trodden paths in a rugged 4×4 vehicle for a hands-on adventure.
• Breathtaking Views: Expect stunning panoramas from Pico do Areeiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak.
• Cultural Stops: Visit traditional villages like Santana and Ribeiro Frio to see local houses and experience village life.
• Local Flavors: Sample Madeira rum at the Porta da Cruz rum factory, gaining insight into local spirit-making.
• Convenient Logistics: Includes hotel pickup and round-trip transport—just bring your curiosity and appetite for adventure.
• Add-On Options: Lunch at a local restaurant costs extra but is worth considering for a taste of Madeiran cuisine.

A Deep Dive into the Madeira 4×4 Tour Experience

Booking and Availability

We found that this tour is booked, on average, about nine days in advance, which signals a good level of interest. The price of $75.35 per person reflects a comprehensive day of sightseeing, minus the cost of lunch and optional extras. With a maximum of 8 travelers per group, the experience feels intimate and flexible—ideal for those who prefer a small-group vibe over large, crowded tours.

Inclusive Features

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Funchal, which is a major plus for travelers staying centrally. The pick-up outside of Funchal might incur a small extra fuel tax, so it’s important to clarify your location when booking. Plus, bottled water is provided, keeping you refreshed during the day’s excursions.

Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Machico:
The tour kicks off here with a quick stop—just 10 minutes—allowing you to get a glimpse of this historic town. It’s not heavily detailed in reviews, but Machico’s calm seaside vibe makes it a peaceful starting point.

Miradouro da Portela:
Next, you’ll visit this viewpoint, offering sweeping views. Although the ticket isn’t included, the vista alone is worth the quick stop. Reviewers mention that the route provides spectacular sights, particularly from elevated spots like this.

Porto da Cruz & Madeira Rum House:
Here, you can sample Madeira’s famous spirits at the local rum factory. Just 15 minutes are allocated, but visitors rave about the opportunity to learn about local rum production—an authentic experience that’s both tasty and educational. One reviewer notes, “we loved tasting the Madeira rum and hearing about its history.”

Santana & Traditional Houses:
Santana is famous for its iconic A-framed houses, and you’ll spend around 15 minutes here to admire this distinctive architecture. Many visitors comment that the village offers a genuine glimpse into traditional Madeiran life. Some mention the optional extra for entry, but even from the outside, the charm is palpable.

Ribeiro Frio & Poiso:
Expect a visit to this trout-farming village, which offers a look at local rural customs. The scenic drive through the lush forests is a highlight, with reviews noting the “beautiful passages through forest” that are memorable.

Pico do Areeiro:
The tour’s crowning moment, this mountain peak is often called Madeira’s third highest. We loved the way the guide explained the landscape’s significance, and the views are simply breathtaking. Most reviews emphasize this stop as a major photo opportunity, with some mentioning the cool mountain air and panoramic vistas that stretch for miles.

What Makes It Special?

What truly sets this tour apart is the combination of spectacular scenery and culture. The off-road aspect allows you to traverse terrain that most travelers never see, taking you through forests and remote villages. The guide’s anecdotes and insights, as one reviewer noted, make the experience all the more memorable.

The inclusion of a local guide and driver means you get not just transportation but also a wealth of knowledge. Many guests appreciated guides like Nuno, who was praised for being “a great guide and very good driver,” adding personality and context to each stop.

The Food and Drink Element

While lunch isn’t included, the tour offers an optional meal at a local restaurant for about €12. Reviewers mention that the opportunity to taste authentic Madeiran cuisine, combined with rum tasting, makes for a well-rounded day. It’s worth planning for this additional expense if you want to indulge in regional flavors.

Practicalities and Tips

The timing of the tour starts early, at 8:30 am, with pickups across different areas in Madeira. The group size is small, which enhances the experience—no crowded bus here. Expect a full 8-hour day, with plenty of opportunities for photos and breaks.

The vehicle is a sturdy 4×4, suitable for off-road terrain, and the guide is knowledgeable about the island’s geology, history, and culture. As some reviews suggest, the off-road passages can be fun but may also be bumpy—dress comfortably and wear sturdy shoes.

Reviewing the Experience

We’ve seen consistent praise for the knowledgeable guides who go beyond just driving; they share engaging stories and insights. The views from Pico do Areeiro and other mountain stops are frequently highlighted as the tour’s most memorable moments. Reviewers also appreciated the chance to see less touristy areas like Ribeiro Frio, offering a more authentic look at Madeira’s countryside.

Some travelers mentioned that the tour felt “less touristy” and more genuine, especially when visiting local villages and rural spots, rather than heavily commercialized attractions. The small group size adds to this intimacy, allowing for personalized attention and spontaneous questions.

Considerations and Downsides

While the experience provides a fantastic snapshot of Madeira’s northeast, it is a full-day adventure that involves some rough terrain and outdoor walking. If you’re not comfortable in a vehicle or prefer a more relaxed sightseeing day, this might not be ideal.

Plus, lunch is an extra expense, so budget accordingly. The tour’s focus on off-road driving and scenic stops means there isn’t a lot of free time for shopping or extended exploration—think of it as a curated, efficient taste of Madeira’s highlights.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for adventurous travelers who enjoy scenic drives, mountain vistas, and culture. It’s also suitable for small groups, making it a good choice if you prefer a more personalized experience. Those interested in local food and spirits will appreciate the rum tasting and optional regional lunch.

It’s less suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, sit-back day or those with mobility concerns due to the nature of off-road driving and walking stops. But for anyone wanting an active, authentic look at Madeira’s wild side, this tour hits the mark.

Final Thoughts

The East 4×4 Santana & Peaks tour offers a genuine, scenic, and culturally rich way to discover Madeira’s less accessible corners. With a knowledgeable guide like Nuno, the views from Pico do Areeiro, and the chance to sample local rum, you’ll come away with more than just photos—you’ll have stories. While it’s a full-day commitment, the balance of adventure, beauty, and local flavor makes it a worthwhile splurge for curious explorers.

If you’re after a small-group experience that combines off-road fun with authentic Madeira charm, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s about creating memories that go beyond the typical tourist trail—making it a memorable highlight of your visit.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off within the Funchal area. Pickup outside of Funchal may have a small extra fuel tax.

What is the duration of the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:30 am and ending in the late afternoon.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a local guide, driver/guide, bottled water, and hotel pickup/drop-off within Funchal.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included but can be purchased at a local restaurant for around €12. Rum tasting at Porta da Cruz is part of the stop.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but consider the off-road terrain and the full-day format when planning for young children or those with mobility concerns.

What should I wear?
Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes suitable for walking and uneven terrain. Dress in layers, as mountain stops can be cooler.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring a camera, sun protection, and some cash if you want to purchase additional souvenirs or souvenirs at stops.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. No penalties for early cancellation.

In summary, the East 4×4 Santana & Peaks tour offers an engaging, scenic, and authentic peek into Madeira’s rugged, beautiful landscape. With expert guides, spectacular mountain views, and cultural stops, it’s a memorable adventure suited for explorers eager to see a different side of the island.