5 Hours Private Tour to Santana, Thatched houses

If you’re considering a trip to Madeira and want a deep dive into its scenic beauty, charming villages, and traditional culture, the 5 Hours Private Tour to Santana and Thatched Houses might just be a good fit. While I haven’t done this exact tour myself, reviews and descriptions suggest it offers a well-rounded look at one of the island’s most picturesque regions.

What really appeals about this experience is its focus on authentic sights — from the ancient, winding roads still in use today to the colorful, traditional houses of Santana. I also love that it combines scenic viewpoints with visits to forests and rural villages, giving you a real feel for local life. On the flip side, some might find the 5-hour duration a bit tight, especially if you’re hoping to linger longer at each stop.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Madeira’s east side without the hassle of planning multiple trips. If you’re into stunning views, local culture, and small-group intimacy, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Experience: Visits to traditional villages and scenic viewpoints offer an insider’s look at Madeira’s rural charm.
• Beautiful Landscapes: Expect lush forests, mountain vistas, and dramatic coastlines.
• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable guides make the journey more engaging with stories about the island’s history and traditions.
• Flexible Stops: Includes several key spots like Ribeiro Frio, Santana, and Ponta do Rosto, with opportunities to explore at your pace.
• Comfortable Private Transport: The tour’s private setting means a tailored experience, with pickup included (additional outside Funchal).
• Family-Friendly: Suitable for most travelers with moderate fitness, and reviews indicate it’s a hit even with children.

Getting a Feel for the Tour

This private 5-hour journey is designed to explore the east side of Madeira with a local guide who’s well-versed in the area’s stories and sights. It’s a flexible, intimate way to see the island, especially if you prefer avoiding large tour groups. The ability to customize some stops or drop-off points — like the review mentioning a requested return to Funchal — adds a nice personal touch.

The tour kicks off at Ribeiro Frio, a highlight for many visitors due to its impressive Laurissilva forest and trout farm. The forest isn’t just pretty; it’s a protected area that affords a sense of untouched nature. The included stop here is about 45 minutes, which is enough time to appreciate the greenery and snap a few photos without feeling rushed.

Next up is Miradouro do Guindaste, a viewpoint that offers spectacular vistas of the east coast. At about 30 minutes, it’s an ideal spot to take in that expansive sea view and get some memorable photos. The reviews mention these viewpoints as “fantastic,” with some travelers remarking on the “incredible view of the East coast,” indicating they’re a definite highlight.

The visit to Santana is the tour’s cornerstone. Known worldwide for its traditional thatched houses, Santana offers a glimpse into Madeira’s cultural fabric. You can browse local crafts, sample regional products, or just wander the colorful streets. The hour and a half there is enough to soak in the atmosphere and perhaps pick up a souvenir or two. The reviews emphasize Santana’s charm and the story it holds, making it clear this stop is not just about sightseeing but experiencing local life.

Finally, the trip includes a stop at Ponta do Rosto, a viewpoint where the landscape and sea converge in a way that’s often described as “memorable” and “beautiful.” At just 20 minutes, it’s a quick but impactful visit. Many reviews highlight the views as “one of the most beautiful and unique places on the island,” so it’s worth prioritizing.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Ribeiro Frio

Expect a peaceful setting filled with lush greenery, where the Laurissilva forest creates a calming backdrop. This spot is ideal for nature lovers and those interested in the island’s flora. The trout farm here is a light addition — you won’t pay extra — and offers a chance to see local aquaculture. This stop captures the sense of untouched nature that Madeira is known for.

Miradouro do Guindaste

This lookout point provides an unbeatable panoramic view of the coast and valleys. It’s the perfect location to pause, take photos, and revel in the island’s rugged beauty. The vista here is often described as “fantastic,” so keep your camera ready.

Santana

This town is the cultural heart of the tour. The iconic thatched houses are a vivid reminder of Madeira’s rural past. Many are now converted into souvenir shops, so you can buy handcrafted items or local snacks. The atmosphere is colorful and lively, making it a perfect stop for a glimpse into traditional Madeira architecture and crafts.

Ponta do Rosto

This viewpoint offers sweeping views of the Atlantic and the rugged coastline. The scenery is dramatic and often described as “memorable,” especially on clear days. It’s a quick stop but leaves an impression, perfect for a final photo or moment of reflection.

The Experience’s Strengths

Travelers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides, like Edgar and James, for their engaging storytelling and flexibility. Several reviews mention how much they enjoyed the personal attention and the variety of sights packed into the five hours. For example, one reviewer noted the guide “fitted a lot of interesting highlights,” which makes the tour feel value-packed.

The scenery is another big plus. Madeira’s east side offers a combination of lush forests, mountain vistas, and rugged coastlines, all accessible in one trip. Multiple reviews mention the “beautiful views” and “great photo opportunities,” highlighting that this tour is as much about visual experiences as it is about culture.

The local culture you encounter, especially in Santana, is another highlight. Seeing the traditional houses, browsing local products, and hearing stories about daily life enriches the trip beyond just sightseeing.

In terms of value, at $266.07 for a group of up to five, the price reflects the private nature of the tour and the personalized experience. Considering the stops and scenic locations, many might find it a worthwhile expense for a hassle-free, curated day out.

Potential Drawbacks & Considerations

While the tour offers a lot in five hours, it’s worth noting that some stops are brief — like the 20-minute Ponta do Rosto viewpoint — which might leave some travelers wishing for more time. Also, if you prefer a very slow-paced, in-depth exploration, this might feel a little rushed, especially during peak seasons when traffic or crowds could slow things down.

Another point is that pick-up outside Funchal involves an extra cost depending on your location. If you’re staying further out, it’s good to confirm this beforehand. The tour is designed for travelers with moderate physical fitness, as walking is involved, especially in natural areas, but it’s generally accessible.

Lastly, the weather can influence the experience — as with many outdoor tours — so checking the forecast before booking is recommended. If the weather turns sour, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, which is common practice.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private adventure is perfect for small groups or families who want to see Madeira’s east side comfortably and at a relaxed pace. If you’re interested in local culture, stunning viewpoints, and natural beauty, it checks a lot of boxes. It’s especially suited to those who appreciate guided insights and don’t mind a bit of walking or driving.

Travelers looking for an in-depth, personalized experience that covers key highlights without the hassle of planning will find this tour convenient and engaging. It’s also a good choice for those who want a balanced mix of nature, culture, and scenic views, delivered in a private setting.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, you’ll be transported in private vehicle throughout the tour, with pickup offered. Note that outside Funchal, there may be an extra cost depending on your location.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 5 hours, with scheduled stops at several key locations around the east side of Madeira.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, you may have some flexibility, like requested drop-offs or additional stops, especially if arranged beforehand.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there is an option to stop for a typical lunch in Santana if you wish.

Is there any admission fee?
Most stops, including Ribeiro Frio, Santana, and viewpoints, are free of charge.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While no specific mention is made about children, the moderate physical activity and scenic nature make it generally suitable for most ages, especially if traveling with family members who enjoy outdoor sightseeing.

This tour offers a nice blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and local charm, making it a solid choice for those who want a curated experience of Madeira’s east side. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to explore more in-depth, it’s a relaxed way to see some of the island’s most memorable sights.