From Funchal: Private Buggy Tour, Skywalk, Trails & Peaks

If you’re planning a trip to Madeira and seeking an adventure that combines scenic beauty with a touch of thrill, this private buggy tour might just be a great choice. It promises a mix of off-road exploration, breathtaking vistas, and the chance to see some of Madeira’s most iconic spots — all in a comfy, personalized setting.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the private guide that keeps things flexible and tailored to your interests, and the inclusion of tickets for the Skywalk, which is a real highlight. On the flip side, keep in mind that at 3.5 hours, it’s a relatively short trip, so if you’re after a full day of exploring, you might want to consider other options. Overall, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with outdoor activities and looking for a mix of adventure and scenic sightseeing.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private guide and flexible stops make this tour feel tailored to your interests.
• Stunning Views: From coastlines to mountain peaks, the scenery is truly breathtaking.
• Adventure on Trails: Off-road forest trails provide a fun way to see Madeira’s natural landscape.
• Skywalk Highlight: The glass platform offers one of Europe’s highest cliff views.
• Comfort & Convenience: Pickup and drop-off in Funchal simplifies logistics.
• Cost-Benefit: For $211, you get a mix of sightseeing, adventure, and unique viewpoints, which is fairly priced given the personalized nature.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

This tour kicks off from Funchal, with the option to be picked up from your accommodation, which is a huge plus for saving time and hassle. You’ll hop into a premium Polaris RZR XP4, a four-seater buggy designed for both comfort and fun. The real beauty of a private tour is that you can opt to drive or relax as a passenger, depending on your comfort level and interest.

Exploring Câmara de Lobos

The first stop is the charming fishing village of Câmara de Lobos. This spot is a favorite for many travelers because of its colorful boats, traditional houses, and local vibe. We loved how the guide pointed out all the small details that make this village special — from its history to the vibrant life along the bay. Several reviews mention the picturesque scenery and how it’s a great spot to take photos or just enjoy a quiet moment away from busier tourist spots.

The Skywalk and Clifftop Views

Next, you’ll head to one of Madeira’s most famous attractions — the Skywalk platform. Suspended over one of Europe’s highest cliffs, the glass floor provides an almost surreal view of the coastline far below. The ticket is included, which means no extra fuss, and you get a chance to walk along this impressive structure. Many feedbacks mention that the views are absolutely stunning, making it a memorable highlight.

Off-Road Trails through Forests and Mountains

After the Skywalk, the adventure moves into the forest trails. These are not your typical paths — they wind through eucalyptus forests and rugged terrain, giving you a real taste of Madeira’s natural landscape. The trails lead up to Trompica Mountain’s summit, where panoramic views of Serra D’Água, Encumeada, and surrounding peaks await. This part of the tour is especially appreciated by those who love a bit of dirt and excitement — the trails are described as thrilling but manageable for most adventurous souls.

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Reaching the Mountain Peaks

From Trompica, the vistas are sweeping and impressive, offering a sense of scale and grandeur that’s hard to match. Several reviews highlight how these mountain views are utterly unforgettable, especially if you’re into photography or just love seeing the landscape stretch out in all directions.

The Return and Media

The tour wraps up with a leisurely drive back to Funchal, often accompanied by some scenic photo stops. The added bonus here is the GoPro photos and videos included, allowing you to relive the adventure long after it ends. Many travelers mention how these media captures help preserve the magic of the day.

What’s Included and What to Expect

For $211 per person, this private tour includes a lot of thoughtful touches: a personal guide, scenic tickets to the Skywalk, fuel and taxes, and the use of the exclusive Polaris buggy. The focus on personal attention means you’ll get a tailored experience, with plenty of time for stops and photos.

You also get pick-up and drop-off in Funchal, which simplifies logistics, especially if you’re staying centrally. The tour lasts about 3.5 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity — perfect if you want to combine it with other sightseeing or relax afterward.

Practical considerations:

• You should bring comfortable shoes and warm clothing — Madeira’s weather can change quickly.
• Rain gear is recommended, given the unpredictable climate.
• Drivers need to bring their driving license, and children under 6 aren’t allowed.
• Don’t forget clothes that can get dirty — off-road trails can be muddy or dusty.

The Real Value: Is It Worth It?

Thinking about the price, it’s fair considering the personalized nature of the experience and the inclusions. For just over two hundred dollars, you get a customized adventure with stunning views, a comfortable vehicle, and a local guide. If you’re into scenic drives, outdoor exploration, and want to avoid crowded tours, this private buggy trip offers a nice balance of adventure and comfort.

Some reviews have noted that the views are the standout feature — and honestly, Madeira’s landscapes are hard to beat. The Skywalk, in particular, is often described as a “must-see” when visiting the island, and having it included in a private tour means you can enjoy it at your own pace.

Downsides to keep in mind

Since the tour is short and focused on the highlights, it might not feel like enough if you’re craving a full day of exploring. Also, the off-road parts can be bumpy and dusty, so if you have back problems or prefer smoother rides, consider that. The tour isn’t geared towards those with very young children or pregnant women, given the physical nature and safety guidelines.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is especially suited to adventurous couples, outdoor enthusiasts, or small groups who want a personalized way to explore Madeira’s scenery. If you’re after a relaxed sightseeing day with a bit of adrenaline and incredible views, this ticks the boxes. It’s also great for those who appreciate private guides and want to avoid large tour buses.

If you’re traveling with friends or a partner who enjoys off-road driving and stunning landscapes, you’ll probably find this tour to be a highlight of your Madeira trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Only children over 6 years old are allowed, and they’ll need to sit safely in the buggy. It’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with back or heart problems.

Do I need a driver’s license?
Yes, all drivers must bring their driving license to operate the buggy.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and warm, waterproof clothing are advised due to Madeira’s unpredictable weather.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan to eat before or after the tour.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts about 3.5 hours, including stops and travel time.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pick-up and drop-off are included in the Funchal area, which makes logistics simple.

Can I drive or do I have to ride as a passenger?
You have the option to drive if you have your license, or simply relax as a passenger.

What makes this tour stand out?
The private nature, stunning viewpoints, and the inclusion of the Skywalk tickets make it more special than standard group excursions.

What’s the main highlight?
The breathtaking views from mountain peaks and the Skywalk are consistently called out as the most memorable parts.

Is it worth the cost?
For a personalized, scenic, and adventurous half-day, many find the price reasonable, especially considering the included media and private guide.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-rounded Madeira adventure that combines off-road fun, spectacular scenery, and the chance to see some of Europe’s highest cliffs, this private buggy tour is a strong pick. It’s particularly good if you value personalized attention and want to explore at your own pace without the hassle of large groups.

The tour’s biggest strength is the stunning views, especially from the mountain peaks and the Skywalk platform. You’ll leave with great photos, memorable experiences, and a sense of having explored some of Madeira’s most dramatic landscapes.

That said, it’s not a full-day, all-encompassing tour — it’s a focused adventure best suited for those who want to experience Madeira’s natural beauty without the crowds and in a comfortable, private setting.

If this sounds like your kind of day, go ahead and book — Madeira’s landscapes really do look better from the seat of a buggy.

You can check availability for your dates here: