Levada Walk East Santana Full-Day Jeep Tour, Pico do Arieiro

If you’re thinking about exploring Madeira beyond the usual city sights, a full-day jeep tour in the east of the island might be just the adventure you’re craving. We’ve come across this particular experience that promises a combination of breathtaking views, authentic local culture, and off-road fun. While we haven’t personally taken it, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary give us a good sense that it’s a solid choice for those who appreciate natural beauty and a bit of history on their travels.

Two things immediately stand out when we look at this tour: the expert guidance from a knowledgeable and engaging driver—someone who clearly loves sharing Madeira’s secrets—and the variety of sights you get to see in one day. From towering peaks to traditional houses, the experience packs a lot into 8 hours.

Of course, it’s worth noting that this tour isn’t for everyone—particularly if heights or bumpy off-road drives aren’t your cup of tea. But if you’re up for a day full of scenic views, interesting stops, and a taste of Madeira’s rural life, this tour could be a great option. It’s especially suited for travelers who want to see the island’s highlights without the hassle of organizing multiple trips or renting a car.

Key Points

• Expert local guides make the experience engaging and informative
• Off-road driving offers a sense of adventure and access to hard-to-reach spots
• The tour visits Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third highest peak, with spectacular views
• Santana houses showcase authentic Madeira architecture and history
• The itinerary blends natural landscapes with cultural highlights
• The tour is designed as a small-group experience, ensuring personal attention

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Madeira’s East on a Jeep

When we picture Madeira, it’s often the lush, green, cliff-lined coastlines that come to mind. This jeep tour promises to take you beyond the streets of Funchal into the more rugged, scenic parts of the island. What makes this experience particularly inviting is the chance to see Pico do Arieiro, the third highest peak, standing at 1818 meters. From here, you get sweeping views that are often described as unforgettable.

The journey starts in Funchal, with convenient pick-up options at your hotel. The 8-hour experience is designed for small groups—limited to six participants—which really enhances the intimacy and allows your guide to share more stories and local insights without feeling rushed. The guide’s reputation, as described by previous travelers, is top-notch: respectful, funny, and passionate—the kind of person who makes the trip feel more like a friendly adventure than just a bus ride.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour’s itinerary is rich with diverse highlights that appeal to travelers craving a well-rounded Madeira experience.

Pico do Arieiro and the Center of Freira da Madeira

Your day begins with a visit to Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third highest point at 1818 meters. The ascent to this viewpoint offers spectacular panoramas of the island’s rugged terrain and cloud-draped peaks. You’ll also have a chance to visit the Centre of Freira da Madeira, which gives a glimpse into local history and geography. The views from here are often cited as a highlight—imagine standing on a mountain summit looking out over layers of mist and coastline.

Scenic Off-Roading and Historical Stops

From Pico do Arieiro, the route takes you down through Poço da Neve, an old ice storage facility, adding a historical touch to your journey. The off-road part of this tour is especially appealing for those who want a little thrill—passing through forests and old roads that are inaccessible by regular vehicles. The terrain and scenery along this route are described as beautiful and unspoiled, offering a genuine sense of Madeira’s rural landscape.

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Ribeiro Frio and the Levada Walk

The tour continues toward Ribeiro Frio, where you can visit a trout fish farm—a small but interesting stop that showcases local food production. Then, a walk along the Balcões Levada offers a peaceful experience among lush greenery and narrow water channels. This part of the tour is praised for its natural beauty and the opportunity to enjoy Madeira’s signature levada scenery, which is both relaxing and photogenic.

Santana Traditional Houses and Lunch

A visit to Santana is a must for experiencing Madeira’s architectural roots. The tour includes stops at both touristic and authentic Santana houses—some over 300 years old—where you can see the traditional triangular roofs and furnishings that have survived for generations. Several reviews highlight how special it is to see real, still-lived-in houses that feel like stepping back in time, especially when the furniture and decor are still the same as in the past.

Lunch is a good break here—your guide will recommend local restaurants, ensuring you enjoy a relaxed meal featuring regional dishes. This pause is often appreciated, giving you a chance to recharge.

Viewpoints and Final Scenic Stops

After lunch, the tour heads to the Viewpoint do Guindaste, where a glass platform extends over the cliff edge—perfect for snapping photos and feeling a bit of adrenaline. As one reviewer put it, it’s “a moment to contemplate the ocean, Faial, and Caniçal.” The last stop is Pico do Facho, offering a panoramic view over Machico and the airport of Cristiano Ronaldo, highlighting Madeira’s impressive engineering under dramatic natural surroundings.

The Experience on the Ground

The tour’s vehicle, a jeep, is ideal for the off-road sections. This isn’t a luxury bus tour—expect a bumpy but exciting ride through forests, mountain tracks, and scenic viewpoints. The small group size makes it more personal, and the driver’s knowledge enhances the experience, offering insights and anecdotes along the way.

Travelers have described the guide as passionate and friendly, making the journey feel more like a local’s outing rather than a commercial tour. Expect occasional stops for photos, quick walks, and explanations about Madeira’s geography and history.

Pricing and Value

At $80 per person, this tour offers a lot of value considering the length and diversity of sights. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Funchal, which is convenient for most travelers staying in the city. Food and drinks are not included, but given the stops for lunch, you’ll have ample opportunity to enjoy regional cuisine at your own pace.

Compared to other tours that might focus solely on one aspect—like just the levadas or just the mountain peaks—this full-day experience combines multiple highlights, making it a good pick for those wanting a comprehensive taste of Madeira’s natural beauty and cultural history.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy scenic drives, nature, and cultural insights. It’s especially good for those who appreciate a small, intimate group with a knowledgeable guide. If heights or rough terrain are a concern, keep in mind that parts of the trip involve off-road driving and viewing platforms at lofty elevations.

It’s not ideal for pregnant women, people with back problems or mobility issues, or anyone afraid of heights—these restrictions are based on the nature of the stops and terrain. However, if you’re physically able and have a sense of adventure, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira jeep tour offers a well-balanced mix of mountain vistas, cultural sites, and off-road adventure. The personal touch of a passionate guide makes it stand out, and the stops are carefully chosen to showcase the island’s most photogenic and meaningful spots. For travelers looking to see Madeira’s varied landscape in one day without the stress of planning, this is a solid, engaging option.

While it’s not a luxury experience, the value for the price, combined with the diverse stops and friendly guide, makes it worth considering—especially if you’re keen on exploring beyond Funchal’s urban charm. Just remember to bring comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and your camera ready for those breathtaking views.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Funchal, making it easy to join without extra logistics.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a jacket, rain gear, and casual clothes are recommended to stay comfortable throughout the day.

Is this tour suitable for families?
The tour isn’t specifically marketed as family-friendly, and some parts involve heights and uneven terrain. It might suit older children or teens who are comfortable with those conditions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, but stops at restaurants for lunch are suggested and can be enjoyed at your own pace.

Is this tour good for photography?
Absolutely. With viewpoints like Pico do Arieiro and Guindaste, you’ll have plenty of opportunities for stunning photos of Madeira’s dramatic scenery.

If you’re after an adventure-packed day that combines high peaks, traditional Madeira culture, and scenic off-road driving, this tour might just be the ticket. It’s a chance to see Madeira in a way that’s both fun and authentic, with plenty of moments to enjoy and remember.

You can check availability for your dates here: