Madeira: Santana 6-Hour Full-Day Tour

Madeira: Santana 6-Hour Full-Day Tour – A Practical Guide for Curious Travelers

If you’re looking to see some of Madeira’s most iconic sights in a single day, the Santana tour offered by MBtours is a solid option. While I haven’t done this tour personally, the reviews and itinerary paint a picture of a well-organized experience that combines breathtaking views, charming villages, and interesting stops.

What really catches our eye about this tour is the chance to stand atop Pico do Arieiro, the island’s second-highest peak, and then wander through the quaint, thatched cottages of Santana. The price point—around $46 per person—also makes it an accessible way to explore Madeira’s varied landscapes without breaking the bank.

That said, there are a few things to keep in mind. The tour lasts about 6 hours, so it’s quite full and may not leave much room for spontaneous wandering. Also, if you’re sensitive to altitude or not used to mountain roads, the ascent to Pico do Arieiro might be a bit challenging. Still, if you enjoy scenic drives, panoramic views, and learning from an engaging guide, this could be a great fit.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a rundown of Madeira’s eastern highlights without the hassle of planning each stop themselves. Families with older children or those interested in nature and local culture will likely find it rewarding.

Key Points

• Incredible Views: The tour offers sweeping vistas from Pico do Arieiro and Eagles Cliff that are worth the early morning start.
• Authentic Charm: Santana’s cottages make for charming photo stops and a glimpse into traditional Madeira life.
• Value for Money: At $46, it packs in a variety of sites, guided by knowledgeable guides who make the experience engaging.
• Comfort & Convenience: Transportation and hotel pickup are included, making the day smoother.
• Limited Flexibility: The schedule is set, so if you prefer spontaneous exploration, this might feel a bit rushed.
• Weather Dependent: Excursions can be canceled if weather conditions aren’t favorable, so keep that in mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Santana Tour

Starting with Pico do Arieiro

The highlight for many is the visit to Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s second-highest summit at 1810 meters. From here, you get some of the best panoramic views on the island. The high altitude means you’ll see expansive mountains and valleys stretching below, often shrouded in mist or bright sunshine—depending on the day.

One of the reviews mentions, “Well organised from start to finish with very knowledgeable guide,” which hints at a smooth experience getting up there. The ascent might involve some winding mountain roads, but the views are often worth it. The altitude might be a consideration if you’re sensitive to changes in elevation, but generally, it’s a highlight appreciated by most travelers.

Discovering Ribeiro Frio and Trout Hatchery

After taking in Pico do Arieiro, the tour continues into Ribeiro Frio, a natural park known for its trout hatchery. Here, you can stretch your legs and soak in the natural beauty. It’s a chance to see local wildlife and learn a bit about Madeira’s flora and fauna.

While not everyone might find this stop extraordinary, some reviews mention the tour guide’s expertise, which helps bring the area to life. It’s a good breather before heading to Santana, especially if you’re traveling with kids or prefer a mix of scenic views and gentle walks.

The Enchanting Village of Santana

Next up is Santana, famous for its traditional thatched cottages with pointed roofs. It’s a picture-perfect spot for photos and a taste of authentic Madeira architecture. Walking through Santana, you’ll notice how the cottages reflect the island’s rural past.

This stop’s charm is often highlighted in reviews—one mentions it being “super nice,” and many travelers enjoy wandering around, exploring local shops, or just soaking in the colorful scene. If you’re into photography or want to experience local culture, this part of the tour is a real treat.

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Eagles Cliff and Portela

From Santana, the tour visits Portela, perched at 670 meters, where impressive rock formations called Eagle’s Cliff can be admired. The dramatic cliffs and rugged coastline make this a highlight for landscape lovers. The view from here is often described as “impressive,” and it’s a chance to see Madeira’s wild side—cliffs dropping into the Atlantic with no barrier in sight.

Pico do Facho and Machico

Moving along, the trip takes you to Pico do Facho, on Madeira’s north coast, offering different but equally stunning views. Later, you’ll visit Machico, a historic seaside town where the island’s first discoverers disembarked in 1420. It’s a quiet but meaningful stop that adds a historical touch to your journey.

Wickerwork in Camacha

Finally, the tour visits Camacha, a village renowned for wickerwork. Watching artisans at work and browsing local shops gives a taste of Madeira’s craft traditions. Many reviews note that this part of the tour adds a charming, cultural layer to the day.

How the Tour Comes Together

The entire itinerary is designed to give a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and scenic drives. The inclusion of a tour guide is a big plus—reviews praise guides for being “knowledgeable and funny,” making the day both informative and enjoyable.

The transportation is included, and the tour is offered in multiple languages, so you can expect clear explanations regardless of your language preference. The pickup from Funchal, Caniço, or Calheta simplifies logistics, especially if you’re staying in those areas.

What’s the Real Value?

At just $46 per person, this tour offers a lot. You’re paying for a full day of sightseeing with transportation, a guide, and some scenic stops that would be tough to organize independently, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the island. The reviews highlight good value—one states, “Super nice guide and wonderful lunch—it’s worth every penny!” The “lunch” isn’t detailed in the description, but the overall sentiment is that the experience feels worthwhile.

While the schedule is tight, it’s perfect for travelers who want a rundown without the hassle of renting a car or planning each stop. It’s less suited for those who prefer more flexibility or spontaneous exploration, but for many, the guided approach ensures you won’t miss the highlights.

Practical Tips for the Tour

• Wear comfortable footwear: Some stops involve walking around villages or natural parks.
• Bring layers: The weather can change quickly, especially at higher altitudes.
• Camera or smartphone: You’ll want to capture the panoramic views and picturesque cottages.
• Arrive early: To maximize your day, be ready for pickup on time, especially if you’re staying in private accommodations.

The Sum Up

If your goal is to get a solid taste of Madeira’s eastern side in one day, this Santana tour is a convenient, reasonably priced choice. It combines incredible mountain vistas, charming village scenes, and dramatic cliffs, all guided by knowledgeable locals. The reviews confirm that many travelers find it well-organized and informative, making it a reliable option for first-time visitors or those keen on seeing Madeira without much fuss.

While it’s a full schedule, it also offers a good balance of nature, culture, and scenic sights. If you enjoy guided trips that handle the logistics and come with expert commentary, this tour will likely meet your expectations. Keep in mind the weather dependency and the schedule’s rigidity, but overall, this experience offers strong value and memorable views.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While children aged 5 to 9 are welcome, they pay half the price. The tour involves some walking and mountain roads, so ensure your kids are comfortable with that.

What languages are available for the guide?
The tour is offered in Spanish, English, French, German, and Portuguese, so you can choose the one that suits you best.

Does the tour include lunch?
The description mentions a “wonderful lunch” in reviews, but it’s not explicitly included in the package details. It might be part of the overall experience or optional, so check with the provider.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and layered clothing are recommended, especially since temperatures can vary with altitude and weather conditions.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which is helpful if weather conditions threaten the experience.

How long is each stop?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, expect a mix of short photo stops and longer explorations at key sites like Santana and Pico do Arieiro.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since it’s not recommended for wheelchair users and involves some walking, it might not be ideal if you have mobility concerns.

This Madeira Santana tour offers a practical, scenic, and culturally enriching day out. Whether you’re a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking for a manageable way to see Madeira’s highlights, it’s worth considering for your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: