Shore Excursion – East Madeira Peaks & Santana

Madeira’s East Peaks & Santana Tour: What You Need to Know

If you’re considering a day trip around Madeira’s eastern side, this Shore Excursion – East Madeira Peaks & Santana could be a solid option. It’s offered by Green Devil Safari and seems to hit a good balance between scenic views, cultural highlights, and a sense of adventure. While it’s not without its quirks, many travelers find it offers good value and memorable sights.

We’re especially drawn to how the tour combines stunning vistas with the chance to see authentic local houses in Santana. Plus, the open-top 4×4 ride sounds like a fun way to soak in Madeira’s varied landscapes. On the flip side, some reviews mention uncomfortable rides and limited seating options, so it’s worth considering how that might impact your experience. This tour is likely best suited for active travelers who want a mix of natural beauty and cultural stops, all within a manageable full-day format.

Key Points

• Beautiful Views & Natural Scenery: Expect plenty of scenic viewpoints like Pico do Arieiro and Balcoes de Ribeiro Frio.
• Cultural Highlights: Visit Santana’s traditional thatched houses, showcasing Madeira’s unique architecture.
• Comfort & Seating: Be aware some reviews mention uncomfortable rides and limited seating arrangements, especially in the back of the jeep.
• Guided Experience: Your driver/guide provides insights, making the trip more informative and engaging.
• Value for Money: At around $75 per person, it covers a full day of sights, with lunch included, making it a reasonable option.
• Group Size & Flexibility: Small groups up to 8 ensure a more intimate experience, but expect some variability in comfort.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting early at 8:30 am, this tour whisks you away from the Funchal cruise port or selected meeting points to explore some of Madeira’s best natural and cultural spots. The tour lasts about 8 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy multiple stops without feeling rushed.

Transportation & Group Size

Most travelers will be picked up and dropped off at their cruise terminal or designated locations for convenience. The transportation is in a small group—up to 8 people—which can make the experience feel more personal than larger bus tours. However, some reviews highlight a less-than-ideal ride experience, with complaints about the jeep’s seating arrangements and comfort levels. The jeeps are open-top, which is perfect for sightseeing but can be a bit chilly or noisy depending on the weather.

Itinerary Breakdown

• Stop 1: Machico (10 mins) — Your tour begins with a quick stop in this charming town. It’s a good spot to stretch your legs and admire the local atmosphere.
• Stop 2: Miradouro da Portela (5 mins) — One of the many viewpoints you’ll visit, offering sweeping vistas of the coast. It’s perfect for snapping photos and marveling at Madeira’s rugged coastline.
• Stop 3: Porto da Cruz — While details are sparse, this stop is likely a scenic or cultural point of interest.
• Stop 4: Fortress of Faial (5 mins) — A short stop at a viewpoint, possibly offering historical context or simply a chance to enjoy the sea views.
• Stop 5: Santana (15 mins) — Here, you’ll see the iconic traditional thatched houses, a symbol of Madeira’s rural architecture. It’s a must-see for those wanting to get a sense of local life.
• Stop 6: Casas Tipicas de Santana (15 mins, admission not included) — Visiting these historic houses allows you to appreciate Madeira’s cultural heritage firsthand.
• Stop 7: Balcoes de Ribeiro Frio — A small village and natural park, perfect for nature lovers. You might spot local flora and fauna here.
• Stop 8: Pico do Arieiro (15 mins) — One of the most famous viewpoints with breathtaking views, especially if the weather cooperates.

Lunch & Additional Details

Lunch is included in the tour price, which is a real plus—no need to organize your own meal during the busy day. There are vegetarian and vegan options, making it flexible for different diets. While the exact venue isn’t specified, it’s likely a local restaurant or picnic setting.

What the Reviews Say

Most reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the scenic views. One reviewer shared, “The humor, friendship and the knowledge of the island that Lino provided was first class,” highlighting the importance of an engaging guide. Travelers also appreciated the value for money, with many feeling they saw a lot within the day.

However, some reviews point out discomfort in the jeep rides. Comments like “most uncomfortable ride” and “everyone should have a real seat” reveal that the seating arrangements can be less than ideal. Some jeeps have limited seats, and back seats facing each other might not suit everyone, especially if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer a more comfortable ride.

Timing & Logistics

The tour starts early, giving you a full day of sightseeing, and ends around 4:30 pm. Pickup and drop-off are included if you’re docked at the cruise terminal, which simplifies logistics. For those staying elsewhere, additional fees may apply.

Is This Tour Worth It?

At $75.24, this experience offers a comprehensive look at Madeira’s eastern beauty, combining viewpoints, cultural sites, and off-road adventure. The inclusion of lunch, small group size, and pickup service add to its appeal. That said, if you’re sensitive to uncomfortable seating or prefer a more cushioned ride, you might find some aspects less enjoyable.

The tour is particularly well-suited for those who want an active, engaging day filled with stunning vistas and cultural insights. If you enjoy being in small groups and don’t mind a few bumpy rides for the sake of adventure, it’s a good choice.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This trip appeals most to curious travelers eager to see Madeira’s highlights in a single day. Nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and those keen on off-road experiences will find it particularly rewarding. It’s also suitable for those who want a guided experience, as your driver provides commentary and local tips.

While not explicitly designed for families with very young children, older kids who enjoy scenic views and some mild adventure could also find it suitable, provided they’re prepared for the vehicle’s seating setup.

FAQs

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at the cruise terminal or designated areas are included, making it convenient if you’re arriving by cruise.

What is the group size?
The small group comprises up to 8 people, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible.

Are vegetarian or vegan options available for lunch?
Yes, lunch includes vegetarian and vegan options, accommodating different dietary preferences.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:30 am and finishing in the late afternoon.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is offered if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance. No penalties for early cancellation.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring weather-appropriate clothing, especially since you’ll be in an open-top vehicle. Sunscreen, water, and a camera are also recommended.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult. Keep in mind that some reviews mention uncomfortable vehicle seats, so consider your child’s comfort level.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the price covers most of the experience. Lunch is included, and admission to most stops is free, except for Casas Tipicas de Santana.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira tour offers a good mix of natural beauty, cultural sites, and a bit of off-road fun. It’s a practical choice for travelers wanting to maximize their day without complicated logistics, especially with the pickup service. While the vehicle comfort might not be top-tier, the views and guides tend to make up for it. If you’re looking for a scenic, culturally rich day with friendly guides and a reasonable price, this could be a solid pick for your Madeira adventure.

If you’re after a scenic exploration that balances views, culture, and a bit of adventure, this tour delivers. Just be prepared for the vehicle’s seating quirks and come with a sense of curiosity—and maybe a cushion for comfort in the back seats!