Funchal: Pico do Areeiro to Santana 4×4 East Tour

If you’re eyeing a way to see Madeira’s rugged, breathtaking scenery without the hassle of renting a car and navigating narrow, steep roads, then this 4×4 Jeep tour from Funchal offers a fantastic balance of adventure and comfort. Designed for small groups, it promises authentic access to lesser-known spots, panoramic vistas, and charming villages, all guided by local experts who seem genuinely passionate about their island.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines off-road excitement with stunning viewpoints, giving you a taste of Madeira’s wild side that’s usually reserved for those with a sense of adventure and a good pair of shoes. A key highlight is the trip to Pico do Areeiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak, offering incredible vistas you won’t easily forget. That said, considering it’s a full-day tour, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a packed schedule and some bumpy rides.

One possible drawback? The weather can be unpredictable, especially at higher altitudes, so bringing rain gear and warm clothes is wise. Plus, if you’re not into off-road driving or small-group adventures, this might not be your ideal fit. But for explorers eager to see Madeira’s unspoiled corners, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This experience suits travelers who want a blend of scenic sightseeing, cultural insight, and off-the-beaten-path adventure. It’s perfect for those who enjoy small group tours, are keen to learn from local guides, and don’t mind a day full of varied terrains and vistas.

Key Points

• Authentic access to Madeira’s lesser-visited areas through off-road driving
• Small group size ensures personalized attention from guides
• Variety of stops including Pico do Areeiro, Santana houses, and viewpoints
• In-depth guides like Silvio, Rodrigo, and John bring local knowledge and humor
• Full-day experience offers comprehensive insight into Madeira’s landscapes and culture
• Value for money considering the diverse sights and knowledgeable guides

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

This tour kicks off with a hotel pickup in Funchal, making it convenient and stress-free to start your day. Once on board your sturdy 4×4, you’ll head out with a small group—usually no more than eight—ensuring a more intimate experience than large bus excursions. The ride itself is comfortable, with your driver acting as both chauffeur and guide, sharing insights and local stories along the way.

The Journey to Pico do Areeiro

The first major stop is Pico do Areeiro, perched at 1,818 meters above sea level. Here, you’ll get a short break to take photos and breathe in the sweeping views of the clouds and mountains. Reviewers like Avril praise the fabulous scenery despite unpredictable weather, noting that the changing conditions actually add to the adventure. It’s a spot that captures Madeira’s high-altitude charm, with panoramic views that stretch for miles, often shrouded in mist or sunlight, depending on the day.

Ribeiro Frio and Levada Walks

Next, the tour proceeds off-road into Ribeiro Frio, a lush area known for its natural beauty. Here, you can enjoy a short walk along the Levada dos Balcões, a popular trail that offers spectacular views of the surrounding valleys. Many reviewers, like Shum, appreciated the ample time to explore and enjoyed the small coffee break during this stop. The natural surroundings are vibrant and peaceful, making it a perfect spot to connect with Madeira’s greenery.

Scenic Drive to Santana

Heading downhill, the journey takes you to the charming village of Santana, famous for its traditional A-frame houses painted in bright colours. Here, you get time for lunch and some souvenir shopping. Reviewers frequently mention the distinctive “triangle-shaped” houses as a highlight, with Mary calling the visit to Santana “brilliant” and Rodrigo’s guiding being “fabulous.” The houses are a photographer’s dream, and wandering their streets provides a glimpse into Madeira’s rural life.

Guindaste and Ponta do Rosto Viewpoints

Post-lunch, the tour includes visits to Guindaste, which offers sweeping views of the east coast, and Ponta do Rosto, where you can soak in the spectacular Red Cliffs. These stops are all about savoring the scenery—perfect opportunities for photography and quiet reflection. Many guests have raved about the outstanding views, with some mentioning how these viewpoints highlight Madeira’s dramatic coastlines.

Porto da Cruz Rum Factory & Scenic Route Back

A visit to the North Mills Distillery in Porto da Cruz allows for a guided rum tasting, an authentic experience that many consider a highlight, especially if you enjoy local spirits. As Beverley notes, the Poncha (a traditional Madeira drink) tasting was “mind-blowing,” adding a tasty local flavor to the day.

Finally, the trip winds down with a scenic drive through Machico and Santa Cruz, two historic towns that offer a relaxed end to a busy day. The drive back to Funchal is leisurely, giving you a chance to reflect on the day’s adventures.

The Practicalities: What You Should Know

Transportation & Duration: The tour lasts about 8 hours, with pick-up in Funchal and return at the same spot. The use of a comfortable 4×4 vehicle ensures a smooth ride over rugged terrain, even in less-than-ideal weather.

Group Size & Guide: Limited to 8 participants, this small group setting fosters personalized attention and lively conversations. Guides like Silvio, Rodrigo, and John are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging demeanors, making the experience more enriching.

Cost & Value: At $66 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the diversity of sights, the off-road adventure, and the insight provided by guides. Reviewers like Anushka mention that even those renting cars wouldn’t access the off-road spots visited, emphasizing the uniqueness of this experience.

What to Bring: Expect to walk and sit for extended periods, so pack comfortable shoes and clothes, especially rain gear and warm layers, as weather can change quickly at high altitudes.

Not Included: Food and drinks aren’t included, but stops at scenic viewpoints often allow for snacks or a quick picnic if you prefer.

Accessibility & Restrictions: This tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users. Also, large luggage isn’t allowed, so pack light.

What Real Travelers Say

Guests have consistently rated this experience 4.8 out of 5, with many praising the knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and value for money. Avril appreciated the “great day despite some unpredictable weather,” and Anushka admired Silvio’s “friendly and knowledgeable” guidance. Mary highlighted Rodrigo’s “fabulous” guiding style, making the day even more special.

Numerous reviewers mention that the off-road driving was a highlight, with some noting that even if they rented a car, they wouldn’t have been able to access the same spots. The rum tasting and visits to Santana and viewpoints like Guindaste frequently come up as memorable parts of the trip.

Final Thoughts

This Funchal: Pico do Areeiro to Santana 4×4 East Tour offers a well-rounded day exploring Madeira’s best-loved and some hidden gems. The combination of scenic drives, off-road adventures, cultural stops, and panoramic viewpoints makes it ideal for anyone wanting a comprehensive, authentic experience—not just a typical sightseeing tour.

If you’re someone who enjoys small-group tours, local guides, and outdoor adventures, this trip will suit you perfectly. It’s especially good for travelers eager to see Madeira’s mountain peaks, traditional villages, and coastal cliffs in one day, without the stress of driving or organizing logistics.

Overall, it’s a value-packed choice that balances adventure, comfort, and insight, making it an excellent way to deepen your Madeira experience.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from your accommodation in Funchal is included, making the start of your day easy and stress-free.

How long is the tour?
The full tour lasts about 8 hours, giving plenty of time for each stop and scenic drive.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes and clothes, rain gear, and warm clothing, especially since weather can be unpredictable at higher elevations.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
This tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those with back problems, and pregnant women are advised not to join.

Are food and drinks included?
No, but there are stops for lunch and sightseeing, and you might want to bring snacks or buy souvenirs at Santana.

What makes this tour unique compared to other Madeira excursions?
Its off-road adventures inside Jurassic Forest, visits to remote viewpoints, and guided rum tasting stand out, offering access to areas you unlikely to explore on your own.

This tour is a rewarding way to discover Madeira’s diverse landscapes, authentic villages, and dramatic coastlines, all with the comfort of a small group and expert guides. Whether you’re up for an adventure or simply want to see the island’s highlights without the hassle, it’s a day well spent.