Northeast Santana Traditional Houses 4×4 Safari Full-Day Tour

If you’re seeking a way to truly experience Madeira beyond the usual tourist spots, this full-day Jeep safari might just be your perfect choice. Offered by Green Devil Safari, the tour takes you through the island’s scenic northeast, revealing the beauty of local villages, lush forests, and stunning coastlines. With a focus on authentic sights and local culture, this tour is designed for travelers who want a genuine, engaging adventure that combines natural beauty with Madeiran traditions.

What we love most about this experience is the expert guidance and the opportunity to explore areas that are often overlooked by typical excursions. The small group size (a maximum of 8 travelers) means you’ll get personalized attention and plenty of time for questions and photos. One aspect to consider is the eight-hour duration, which means you’ll need to be prepared for a full day on the go, but most find the balance of sightseeing, education, and relaxation just right. This tour suits those who appreciate authentic local culture, stunning landscapes, and a touch of adventure in a comfortable setting.

Key Points

• Authentic Exploration: Focus on lesser-known villages and scenic viewpoints with a knowledgeable guide.
• Comfortable Transport: 4×4 vehicles ensure access to rougher terrain and offer an authentic safari experience.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about Madeira’s local traditions, flora, and spirits from your guide.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Multiple stops at fascinating sites, including Santana’s iconic thatched houses and local factories.
• Value for Money: At around $72, you get a full day of guided sightseeing, local food, and cultural highlights.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

First Impressions and Booking

This tour has earned a perfect 5.0 rating from 34 reviews, which already hints at a consistently positive experience. It’s typically booked 29 days in advance, reflecting strong demand among travelers seeking a genuine Madeira adventure. The price of $72.22 per person is reasonable considering the full-day itinerary, hotel pickup, and expert guidance.

Starting promptly at 8:30 am with hotel pickup, the tour kicks off early, giving you a full 8 hours of exploration. The mobile ticket makes check-in smooth, and the offer of hotel pickup and drop-off makes the entire experience convenient, especially if you’re staying in Funchal.

The Itinerary: A Taste of Madeira’s Northeast

Your journey begins in Sao Vicente, a charming town known for its volcanic caves and lush surroundings. The 10-minute stop allows you to get a quick feel for this village’s natural beauty. Next, you’ll head to Ponta Delgada, another scenic village with equally short stops, emphasizing the focus on quick yet meaningful visits rather than long waits.

The tour then takes you through Boaventura and Arco de Sao Jorge, two picturesque spots where your guide will likely point out local flora and hidden viewpoints. These stops are the perfect opportunities for photography and to learn about Madeira’s farming and forestry traditions.

Arriving at Santana is a highlight. Known worldwide for its distinctive thatched houses, Santana is a must-see. The visit here isn’t just about the houses—they also offer a chance to taste local culture and perhaps enjoy some traditional crafts. While admission tickets are not included, the opportunity to walk among the colorful, traditional homes is well worth it.

The stop at Casas Tipicas de Santana extends the cultural experience, with a 20-minute visit to see authentic architecture and perhaps buy handcrafted souvenirs. The Fortress of Faial offers sweeping views of the coast and a chance to soak in Madeira’s rugged coastline.

Throughout the day, you’ll also visit Porto da Cruz, a quaint fishing village, Engenhos do Norte, a local rum factory, and Caniçal, a small village with a maritime history. Each stop offers a unique slice of local life, whether it’s tasting spirits at the rum factory or enjoying fresh sea views.

What Makes the Experience Stand Out

According to reviews, guides like Nuno and Hugo are praised for their knowledge and friendly manner. They constantly stop to show and explain local flora, crops, and traditions, making the trip educational as well as scenic. One reviewer mentioned that their guide “was incredible, constantly stopping to show us all the flowers and crops grown on the island,” highlighting how personalized this tour feels.

The small group size means less hustle and more room for questions, photos, and spontaneous stops. Travelers often comment on how this makes the experience more intimate and less rushed than larger bus tours.

What You Can Expect at Each Stop

Sao Vicente and Ponta Delgada

These first stops are brief but crucial for setting the scene. You’ll likely hear about the volcanic origins of Madeira and see lush, cultivated landscapes. The short 10-minute stops are enough to snap a few photos and get a quick sense of local life.

Boaventura and Arco de Sao Jorge

Expect more panoramic views and the chance to learn about Madeira’s agricultural practices. Your guide might point out the different crops and explain their significance to local life. These stops are ideal for bird’s-eye views and capturing the natural beauty that surrounds the island.

Santana and Casas Tipicas de Santana

Here, the iconic thatched houses are a favorite among travelers. The vibrant colors and traditional architecture make for memorable photos. The 20-minute visit allows you to walk around and appreciate the craftsmanship, and perhaps chat with local artisans.

Fortress of Faial

This historical site offers a glimpse into Madeira’s defensive past. You’ll enjoy sweeping views of the coastline, making it a perfect spot for photos. The guide’s insights here can add context, making this more than just a scenic stop.

Porto da Cruz, Engenhos do Norte, and Caniçal

These stops highlight Madeira’s maritime and rum-making traditions. The rum factory tour (optional) is a popular addition, allowing you to sample local spirits, while the fishing village of Porto da Cruz offers a laid-back, authentic vibe. Caniçal’s maritime history rounds out the day with a connection to Madeira’s sea-faring roots.

The Value of This Tour

At just over $70, this tour packs a lot of value. You’re paying for a full day guided experience, with multiple stops, local insights, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. The small group size enhances the experience, ensuring you can ask questions and get personalized attention—something larger tours often lack.

Considering the reviews, the expert guides and beautiful scenery are the tour’s main attractions. Travelers frequently mention how the guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor elevated their day, making it a memorable exploration of Madeira’s northeast.

The optional lunch at €12 is a nice addition if you want a sit-down meal. Otherwise, you might prefer to bring snacks or enjoy the local food at your own pace.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari-style adventure appeals most to travelers who crave authentic encounters and scenic beauty. If you’re interested in local culture, traditional architecture, and stunning natural views, this is an excellent choice. It’s particularly suited for those who prefer small group tours over large bus excursions, as well as anyone wanting a rundown of Madeira’s northeast without the hassle of planning multiple separate excursions.

While the tour is suitable for most travelers, children should be accompanied by an adult, and the eight-hour duration requires a certain level of physical stamina. If you’re looking for a quick overview, this might be a bit lengthy, but for those wanting depth, it’s ideal.

The Sum Up

The Northeast Santana Traditional Houses 4×4 Safari offers a well-rounded, authentic way to explore Madeira’s scenic northeast. With knowledgeable guides, beautiful viewpoints, and cultural stops, you’ll come away with a real sense of what makes this island so special. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, making it feel like a day spent exploring with friends rather than a generic tour.

This experience is best for those who enjoy scenic drives, local culture, and a touch of adventure. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to comb through the less touristy parts of Madeira and get a true taste of local life. The value for money is clear, given the full day of sights, stories, and local tastes, all wrapped in a comfortable, guided setting.

If you’re after a memorable, authentic Madeira adventure that balances scenery, culture, and fun, this tour deserves a spot on your list.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour offers complimentary hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient to start and end your day without the hassle of transportation.

How long is the tour?
The full-day tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:30 am.

What is the maximum group size?
The experience is limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized trip.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is optional and costs around €12 for a three-course meal. You can also bring your own snacks or explore local eateries independently.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

What stops are included in the itinerary?
Stops include Sao Vicente, Ponta Delgada, Boaventura, Arco de Sao Jorge, Santana (famous for its houses), Fortress of Faial, Porto da Cruz, Engenhos do Norte (rum factory), and Caniçal.

Do I need to bring my own admission tickets?
No, admission to most sites is free, but some attractions like Santana’s houses or the rum factory may require admission fees if you choose to visit them separately.

What makes this tour special?
The combination of scenic viewpoints, cultural insights, and the small-group, personalized approach makes this tour stand out. Guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, adding value and authenticity to your Madeira experience.

In summary, if you’re after an engaging, authentic, and scenic exploration of Madeira’s northeast with a touch of local flavor, this safari tour offers excellent value and memorable sights. Prepare for a day filled with beautiful views, cultural stories, and the chance to see parts of the island most visitors miss.