Jeep Safari in Pico Areeiro Santana Faial Full Day Tour

If you’re considering a day out on Madeira that combines rugged mountain views, charming villages, and dramatic coastlines, the Jeep Safari in Pico Areeiro Santana Faial might just be what you’re after. We haven’t done this particular tour ourselves, but after reading through the details and reviews, it looks like a well-rounded way to experience the island’s diverse scenery without spending your entire trip behind the wheel.

What we really like about this tour is its variety—it hits the high peaks, lush forests, and coastal cliffs all in one day, giving you a comprehensive snapshot of Madeira’s natural beauty. The expert guide and the off-road bits are also a big plus for those craving a bit more adventure and local insight.

One thing to keep in mind is the length of the day—7.5 hours can be quite full, especially if you’re not used to such an active schedule or if you have children along. Still, this tour is best suited for travelers who want a deep dive into Madeira’s landscape and don’t mind a little bouncing around in a jeep. It’s a good pick for those who love scenic drives, nature, and learning about the island’s unique architecture and local industries.

Key Points

• Comprehensive route covering high peaks, scenic villages, and coastal views
• Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights
• Variety of stops offering photo opportunities, cultural sights, and nature walks
• Off-road experiences add an adventurous twist to the day
• Cost-effective at approximately $71 per person, including transportation
• Longer duration (around 7.5 hours), ideal for explorers but potentially tiring

An In-Depth Look at the Jeep Safari Experience

If you’re into scenic adventures that hit all the highlights of Madeira, this tour packs quite a punch. Starting in Funchal, the tour begins with a pickup—convenient if you’re staying in central spots like Monte. From there, your guide takes you through a carefully curated route that showcases both Madeira’s rugged terrain and its lush, cultivated landscapes.

The Start: Monte and the Beautiful Gardens

The journey kicks off high above Funchal in the charming parish of Monte, famous for its gardens and sweeping views. It’s a quick stop, around 15 minutes, to soak in the scenery and get a feel for the lush surroundings. While free to visit, this is a good spot to get a taste of what’s to come.

Reaching the Heights: Pico do Areeiro

Next, you’ll head to Pico do Areeiro, the island’s third-highest peak at 1,818 meters. This is undoubtedly a highlight—imagine standing amidst the clouds, with panoramic views of Madeira’s mountain ranges stretching in every direction. This stop is about an hour long, giving you plenty of time to snap photos and breathe in the crisp mountain air. The rugged terrain and exposed viewpoints make it a must-see for fans of dramatic landscapes. Reviews highlight this as a “spectacular” spot, with one traveler calling it “a perfect backdrop for unforgettable photos.”

Lush Forests at Ribeiro Frio

From the heights, the tour moves into the verdant forests of Ribeiro Frio. Here, a short walk leads to the Balcões viewpoint, offering sweeping vistas of deep valleys and ridges. It’s a favorite among nature lovers, and many travelers mention the vibrant ecosystem and stunning scenery. You’ll have about an hour here—enough to appreciate the tranquility and maybe spot some local birdlife.

Off-Road Adventure at Queimadas

One of the more adventurous parts of the tour is the off-road drive to Parque Florestal das Queimadas. This rugged route gives you a taste of Madeira’s untouched wilderness and adds a little adrenaline to the day. The short stop (around 15 minutes) lets you enjoy the scenery and get out for a quick look at the forest landscape. Be prepared for bumpy roads—this isn’t a smooth ride, but that’s part of the fun, especially if you enjoy a bit of excitement.

Lunch in São Jorge

Next, the tour stops in São Jorge for a relaxed lunch break. For about an hour and a half, you can enjoy local cuisine (lunch is optional and costs around €20). The village offers a peaceful setting, with views of vineyards and green hills. Travelers have appreciated the opportunity to relax, refuel, and take in the local atmosphere. If you’re into food, this is a good chance to taste Madeira’s traditional flavors.

Santana’s Iconic Thatched Houses

After lunch, you’ll visit Santana, known worldwide for its colorful, thatched-roof houses. This stop offers a chance to wander, take photos, and get a sense of Madeira’s architectural heritage. It’s a brief visit—about 45 minutes—but enough to appreciate the charm of these brightly painted, traditional houses set against lush greenery.

Coastal Views at Miradouro do Guindaste

The next stop takes you to the Guindaste viewpoint in Faial, offering breathtaking views over the northern coast. Cliffs drop sharply into the Atlantic, and the scenery is spectacular. It’s an excellent spot for photos and quiet contemplation, especially if the weather’s clear.

Porto da Cruz and the Rum Factory

A highlight for many is the visit to Porto da Cruz, home to Madeira’s famous sugar cane rum. The tour of the local rum factory lasts about an hour. You’ll learn about traditional production methods and have the chance to sample some of the island’s best spirits. For those interested in local culture and flavors, this is a memorable stop.

The Final Stop: Ponta do Rosto

The last destination is the Ponta do Rosto viewpoint in Caniçal, where rugged cliffs meet the Atlantic. Spending about an hour here, you’ll enjoy panoramic views, perfect for sunset or sunrise if timing aligns. It’s a fitting ending to a busy day, offering sweeping coastline vistas and a tranquil moment before heading back.

The Practical Side: What to Expect

Transportation is in an air-conditioned jeep, making the long day comfortable despite the bumpy off-road sections. The tour is designed for a maximum of 40 travelers, so it’s a fairly intimate group, with the benefit of easy interaction with your guide.

Price-wise, at around $71.21 per person, the tour offers a good balance between cost and value. It includes most of the stops and scenic viewpoints, plus the convenience of pickup from designated locations. Lunch is extra and optional, but the stops for food are well-placed and allow you to experience local cuisine.

Reviews and Feedback

This tour has a stellar reputation, with a perfect 5.0/5 rating based on 14 reviews. Travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, specifically mentioning Sergio as a “fabulous guide” who made the day fun and informative. The views tend to impress, with many reviewers describing the scenery as “spectacular” and “unforgettable.”

However, some note minor issues like the language of the tour. One reviewer mentioned that their Italian-language booking was conducted in English, which was less than ideal if you’re not comfortable with the language. It’s worth clarifying your language preference when booking.

Considerations and Tips

• The day is quite long, so wear comfortable shoes and bring layers, especially for the mountain stops where it can be cooler.
• Don’t forget your camera—many of the viewpoints are perfect for memorable photos.
• The off-road sections can be bumpy, so hold onto your seat or take motion sickness precautions if needed.
• If you’re interested in local food, budget for the optional lunch or bring some snacks.
• Check the weather forecast; the tour might be canceled or rescheduled if conditions are poor.

Is This Tour Right for You?

This Jeep Safari suits travelers who love scenic drives, nature, and cultural sights without the hassle of self-driving or detailed planning. It’s especially good for those who want to see Madeira’s highlights in a single day, with the added thrill of off-road driving.

If you’re a bit adventurous, enjoy panoramic views, and like the idea of exploring both mountains and coastlines, you’ll likely find this tour very rewarding. However, if you’re sensitive to bumpy rides or prefer a more relaxed, less structured experience, this might be a little intense.

The Sum Up

The Jeep Safari in Pico Areeiro, Santana, and Faial offers a well-rounded, scenic journey through some of Madeira’s most iconic landscapes and villages. The combination of mountain peaks, lush forests, colorful architecture, and dramatic coastlines makes it a compelling choice for those eager to see the island’s natural beauty firsthand.

With knowledgeable guides and a variety of stops, you’ll gain both stunning views and cultural insights—all while feeling the thrill of an off-road adventure. The tour is especially suitable for travelers who want a full-day experience that balances nature, culture, and adventure in one package.

While the day can be a bit long and bumpy, the highlights and expert guidance make it worth considering for anyone looking to maximize their Madeira experience. It’s a great way to create lasting memories and get a real taste of the island’s diverse scenery in just one day.

FAQ

How long is the Jeep Safari tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours and 30 minutes, making it a full-day activity.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, access to all scenic stops, and the guidance of a knowledgeable guide. Lunch is optional and costs around €20.

Is pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered from certain locations, but there may be an additional charge of +€10 per person for pickup in Ponta do Sol, Calheta, Santana, São Vicente, and Porto Moniz.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Full refunds are available if canceled within this window.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, layers for cool mountain stops, camera, and perhaps some snacks if you want to avoid buying food during the stops.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly family-focused, the tour is suitable for most travelers who enjoy scenic drives and outdoor adventures. Keep in mind the long duration and bumpy ride.

How many people are on the tour?
A maximum of 40 travelers, which keeps the group manageable and allows for a more personalized experience.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

What are some standout moments?
Pico do Areeiro’s panoramic mountain views, Santana’s traditional houses, and the coastal vistas from Ponta do Rosto are some of the most praised parts of the trip.

If you’re after an active, scenic, and cultural day out in Madeira, this Jeep Safari covers a lot of ground and leaves you with plenty of memories. It’s a solid choice for those wanting to explore beyond the typical tourist spots, with guides who really know their stuff.