East of Madeira | Full Day 4×4 Tour

If you’re eyeing a way to see Madeira’s east coast without the hassle of self-driving or crowded tours, the East of Madeira | Full Day 4×4 Tour might just be your best bet. From what we’ve seen and read from travelers who’ve taken this tour, it offers a genuine taste of the island’s natural beauty, charming villages, and local flavors — all in a comfortably small group.

What really caught our attention are the breathtaking views along the coast and the off-road adventures that take you away from tourist traps. Plus, the fact that this tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off makes it pretty convenient. One thing to consider, though: at 8 hours, it’s a long day, and some parts of the itinerary involve driving on potentially bumpy roads, so it’s not ideal if you’re looking for a super relaxed or kid-friendly experience. Still, if you love exploring by vehicle and appreciate authentic local stops, this tour could be perfect.

This experience is especially suited for travelers who want to see Madeira’s natural scenery with expert guidance, enjoy off-the-beaten-path spots, and don’t mind a full day of activity. It’s also great for those who prefer small groups for a more personalized feel. If you’re after a comprehensive look at the east side of the island, with plenty of photo stops and local flavor, this tour checks those boxes well.

Key Points

• Small group size (max 6-12 people) means more personalized attention and less crowding.
• Comfortable transport in a closed-top Land Rover Discovery handles all weather conditions.
• Multiple scenic stops offer stunning views and authentic village experiences.
• Off-road driving gives a sense of adventure and access to less visited spots.
• Cultural highlights include traditional Madeira foods, wine, and a visit to a historic rum factory.
• Flexible itinerary with no strict time schedule, allowing for relaxed exploration.

A Day in Madeira’s East Coast: What to Expect

This tour is packed with highlights, and the itinerary reads like a well-curated list of the island’s most picturesque and culturally rich spots. We’ll walk through each stop with honest insights about what’s worth your attention and what you might want to skip or customize.

Valley of the Nuns (Miradouro do Paradao)

This first stop is a real hidden gem. It’s not as crowded as other viewpoints, which makes it perfect for snapping some photos without the throngs of travelers. From here, you’ll get a sweeping view of Funchal below and Nun’s Valley—a deep, lush canyon that’s often less busy than other photo spots.

Travelers mention it’s usually very quiet here, which is a bonus if you’re after some peace and quiet to soak in the scenery. Expect about 20 minutes, enough time to take in the view and maybe snap a few shots.

Pico do Arieiro

Next, the famous Pico do Arieiro — Madeira’s third highest peak. We loved that the tour tries to arrive early to beat the crowds, giving you a better chance to enjoy the spectacular vistas above the clouds.

You can expect around 30 to 45 minutes here, which is enough to take in the views, breathe in the cool mountain air, and appreciate the raw beauty of Madeira’s rugged terrain. The atmosphere up top is often quite mystical, especially if the weather cooperates and you get to see the clouds parting around you.

Ribeiro Frio

A quick drive past Ribeiro Frio takes you by the trout farm that’s well-known on the island. While it’s a bit of a touristy spot, the real value here is the drive itself — you’re passing through lush greenery and scenic roads. The tour skips the crowds, so it’s a good chance to see an authentic slice of Madeira’s countryside.

Santana: Traditional Houses & Local Flavors

Santana is a highlight that most travelers rave about. Known for its A-frame houses, this village feels like stepping into a postcard. The tour includes a visit to a traditional house, offering a glimpse into how locals used to live.

What makes this stop stand out is the off-road drive that takes you away from the usual tourist paths. You’ll get to see authentic Madeira life, far from the hustle. Then, it’s time for lunch at the Quinta do Furao restaurant. Reviews mention that the lunch is a highlight — great value, delicious local dishes, and an unbeatable view.

While you’ll need to pay for your own meal, many say the quality and setting make it worth it. Plus, it’s a good chance to sample Madeira’s famed Espetada (grilled meat skewers) and enjoy a glass of local wine or Porto Da Cruz rum.

Miradouro do Guindaste & Porto da Cruz

Post-lunch, you’ll visit another stunning viewpoint, Miradouro do Guindaste, offering sweeping views of the north-east coast. It’s a quick stop, but the scenery makes it worthwhile.

Next, you’ll explore Porto da Cruz, a village steeped in sugar and rum history. Here, many visitors love visiting the rum factory and sampling some of Madeira’s best rums. The reviews mention that this stop is particularly enjoyable for those who appreciate a good tipple or want to learn about local production.

Ponta de Sao Lourenço & Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto

The final leg of the tour takes you to Ponta de Sao Lourenço, a volcanic peninsula famous for its impressive rock formations and colorful landscape. The walk here is relatively short but offers some of the most dramatic scenery on the island.

You’ll visit the Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto, where you’ll get a last panoramic look, wrapping up your day with a sense of the island’s raw beauty.

The Experience: What Sets it Apart

Travelers consistently mention how knowing guides make a difference. One reviewer praised Nuno for being charismatic, energetic, and insightful, which definitely enhances the experience. Others have noted the expert driving—the tour uses a comfortable Land Rover Discovery, perfect for tackling Madeira’s mountain roads and off-road tracks.

The small group size (up to 6 people) means you’re not just another face in the crowd; instead, you get a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and customize the stops a bit.

Value for Money

At $86.50 per person, this tour offers a lot. You get hotel pickup and drop-off, a knowledgeable guide, comfortable transportation, multiple scenic stops, and a chance to explore authentic villages and viewpoints.

While food and drinks are extra, the included stops and the quality of sights make it a worthwhile investment. Several reviews praise the great lunch spot and the tastings at the rum factory, which add to the overall value.

Considerations

One thing to keep in mind: the tour lasts about 8 hours, which is a full day. If you’re not used to long excursions or traveling on bumpy roads, it could feel tiring. Also, some parts of the drive involve off-road sections—if you’re prone to motion sickness or have mobility concerns, it’s worth considering.

Weather can be unpredictable in the mountains, and some travelers have noted that cloud cover limited the mountain views on certain days. However, the guides do their best to adapt and ensure you get a memorable experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect if you’re seeking an immersive, small-group experience that combines beautiful scenery, local culture, and a touch of adventure. It’s ideal for curious travelers who want to see beyond the main tourist spots and enjoy authentic local stops, especially if you appreciate good guides and great views.

It’s especially suited for those who enjoy off-road driving, scenic viewpoints, and sampling Madeira’s flavors. If you’re traveling with a family that’s comfortable with long outings and some bumpy roads, it can work well, but keep in mind the length and terrain.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the East of Madeira 4×4 Tour looks like a well-rounded way to explore Madeira’s eastern side. It offers a personalized touch with a small group, expert guiding, and access to stunning vistas and traditional villages.

The price point is reasonable considering the inclusions, and reviews consistently highlight the quality of the experience and the friendliness of the guides. If you’re after a day of scenic driving, local flavor, and authentic stops, this tour ticks many boxes.

It’s not perfect—long day, some off-road sections, and extra costs for food—but those are minor compared to the overall value and experience. For travelers who want to see Madeira’s east side in depth with a knowledgeable guide, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your Funchal hotel, making it convenient and hassle-free.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 6 travelers, which helps keep it intimate and personalized.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore and enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What should I wear?
Dress appropriately for the weather. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so layers and comfortable shoes are recommended.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included—it’s paid separately at a local restaurant, but many reviews highlight it as a worthwhile part of the day.

Can children join?
The minimum age is 5 years, so it’s suitable for families with young children who are comfortable with a full day out.

Is this suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves some off-road driving and walking at viewpoints, so moderate physical fitness is recommended.

What about the weather?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, but cloudy or rainy days might limit some mountain views.

Is alcohol tasting included?
Yes, there are optional tastings of Madeira wine or Porto Da Cruz rum at specific stops.

How does the off-road driving feel?
Most reviews mention it as enjoyable and safe, with the Land Rover Discovery providing a comfortable ride even on rougher roads.

If you’re ready to see Madeira’s east coast in a truly memorable way, this 4×4 tour seems to offer a good balance of scenery, culture, and adventure—perfect for travelers wanting a guided taste of the island’s best.