Madeira : Santana & Peaks full day tour by Open 4×4

Madeira: Santana & Peaks Full Day Tour by Open 4×4 – A Practical, Honest Look

Planning a trip to Madeira and looking for a way to see the island’s most iconic sights? This full-day Santana & Peaks tour with Green Devil Safari offers a chance to explore Madeira’s famous highlands, traditional houses, and lush forests all from the comfort of an open 4×4. It’s a popular choice among travelers who want an adventurous, informative, and scenic day out.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert guides really know their stuff — they share stories, insights, and local tips that make each stop more meaningful. Second, the stunning views are hard to beat, especially from the peaks and along the forest trails. That said, it’s a long day—about 8 hours—and involves some off-road driving and bumpy roads, which might not suit everyone. This tour is best suited for those who love adventure, panoramic vistas, and authentic local experiences.

You can check availability for your dates here:

We Love:

• The opportunity to see Madeira’s highest peaks up close and personal
• The chance to taste traditional foods, including a delicious local meal (if you opt for the lunch)
• The personalized experience with small groups or private options, making it more intimate and flexible
• The variety of stops—from historic houses to lush forests and mountain viewpoints—that keep the day interesting

A Small Consideration:

• The off-road driving can be quite bumpy and lengthy, which might be tiring for some travelers. Also, the tour is quite full, so it’s not the best option if you prefer a more relaxed pace or have mobility issues.

This tour caters well to travelers seeking a full immersion into Madeira’s natural beauty and culture. It’s especially good if you enjoy off-road adventures, sightseeing, and learning about local traditions.

Key Points

• Scenic diversity: From mountain peaks to lush forests, the tour covers Madeira’s most iconic landscapes.
• Expert guides: They share engaging stories and local knowledge, rated highly by past travelers.
• Value for money: At $67, it offers a comprehensive experience with many highlights and included insights.
• Authentic stops: Visit Santana’s famous straw-thatched houses and a local rum factory for real cultural flavor.
• Bumpy but rewarding: The off-road sections add adventure but require a good tolerance for rough roads.
• Flexible options: Private and small-group tours are available, tailoring the experience to your preferences.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See and Do

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Pick-up & Starting Point

You’ll be collected from your hotel in Funchal, which is convenient and sets the tone for an easy, hassle-free day. Depending on your location, additional charges might apply if you’re staying outside central Funchal. Once on the road, the adventure begins as your guide takes you deep into Madeira’s southeast, away from the busy city streets and into the rugged terrain.

Machico & the North-South Divide

Your route starts in Machico, one of Madeira’s historic towns. From here, you’ll cross the line that divides the north and south of the island — a geographical feature that’s a must-see for understanding Madeira’s varied landscape. The views from Portela of Eagles Rock are breathtaking, giving you a sense of the island’s dramatic topography.

Porto da Cruz & Sugar Cane

Stopping in Porto da Cruz, you get a glimpse of local life by the coast. Here, many travelers appreciate visiting a sugar cane factory — a nod to Madeira’s historic sugar industry. The guide often shares stories about local traditions and production methods, adding depth to this stop.

Santana’s Straw-thatched Houses

One of the tour highlights is the visit to Santana, famous for its tiny, triangular straw-thatched houses. These structures are both photogenic and culturally significant, showcasing traditional Madeira architecture. The reviews consistently praise this stop for its authenticity and photo opportunities, with many noting how intricate and well-preserved these homes are.

Forest & Riveiro Frio

Descending into the Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, you’ll see the lush, green canopy that makes Madeira a botanical treasure. The drive into this verdant area is part of what makes the tour memorable. You’ll also visit Riveiro Frio at 1,818 meters elevation — the third-highest point on the island — where panoramic views and cool mountain air await.

Peak Views & Forest Trails

Driving through forest trails and up to the high peaks, you’ll get sweeping vistas of the mountains, often praised in reviews as “breathtaking.” The guides make sure to point out interesting flora and fauna, making it not just sightseeing but also an educational experience.

Optional Lunch & Additional Stops

Guests can opt for a local meal for about $18, which is highly recommended based on reviews that praise the quality and value of the food. The included or suggested stops often include local eateries serving authentic dishes, and past travelers say it’s well worth the extra cost.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Transportation & Comfort

The tour uses open-top 4×4 vehicles, which are perfect for off-road driving and providing unobstructed views. Past reviews mention the vehicles are well-driven, with guides skillfully handling the rough terrain. Some passengers note the back seats can be less comfortable if you’re tall or if you prefer a smooth ride, but most emphasize the fun and scenic advantage of the open-air experience.

Group Size & Guides

Small groups and private options make the experience more personal. Guides are consistently praised for their knowledgeability and friendly manner. Their stories about Madeira’s history, plants, and local customs add richness to the day.

Duration & Pacing

The tour lasts about 8 hours, which is quite full. Expect to leave early and return in the evening. The length allows for plenty of stops but can be tiring if you’re not used to a lot of sitting and bouncing on rough roads.

Activities & Stops

You’ll spend time exploring historic houses, forest paths, mountain viewpoints, and coastal spots. The guide often makes interesting stops, sharing stories about the local environment, culture, and history, which many reviews appreciate. For example, one traveler mentioned how their guide, José, shared interesting info about the island, making the trip more engaging.

Food & Drinks

While lunch isn’t included in the base price, the option for a local meal is highly recommended and well-regarded. You might find the food to be authentic, hearty, and a nice break from the busy sightseeing.

The People & Reviews: What Travelers Say

Reviewers consistently give this tour a high rating — 4.8 out of 5, based on over 280 reviews. Many mention friendly, knowledgeable guides who go out of their way to make the experience enjoyable. For example, one reviewer said: “Duarte was an excellent tour guide. Always made sure everyone was happy with his witty and humorous vibes.”

The views and landscapes are another highlight. Travelers describe the scenery as “breathtaking” and “incredible,” with many saying this was their favorite part of their trip. One reviewer noted: “The trip was incredible and the guide was one of the nicest people in the whole world.”

Food stops also receive praise, with reviews mentioning delicious and authentic dishes, often part of the optional lunch. And, the off-road sections are appreciated for their adventure value, even if some find the roads rough or bumpy.

What Could Be Better?

Some reviews point out that the roads can be quite rugged, and the travel can be tiring, which is typical for a tour combining off-road and mountain driving. Those sensitive to bouncing or longer drives may want to prepare accordingly.

Practical Details & Tips

• Price: at $67 per person, this tour offers solid value for a comprehensive and scenic day out, especially considering the included insights and stops.
• Duration: 8 hours, so plan for a full day out. Check starting times, as they vary.
• Included: Pick-up and drop-off at your Funchal hotel make it easy, but outside hotels incur extra costs.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, sun protection, camera, and cash for optional expenses.
• Language: Guides speak multiple languages including English, Spanish, French, Portuguese, and German.
• Suitability: Not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems due to the off-road nature.
• Cancellation & Booking: Very flexible—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve without paying upfront.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal if you love adventure, scenic drives, and cultural stops. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy exploring off-the-beaten-path, want to learn about Madeira along the way, and are comfortable with some bumpy rides. The small group size and local guides make it a good choice for those wanting that personal touch.

If you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate outdoor activities and stunning vistas, this tour will be a highlight. However, if you’re seeking a more relaxed, less bumpy day, you might prefer a different kind of excursion.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
Generally, yes, but keep in mind the off-road sections can be bumpy and long. It’s best suited for older children or teens who enjoy adventure.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, and cash are recommended. Don’t forget your enthusiasm for scenic views and a sense of adventure!

How long is the tour?
The full-day experience lasts about 8 hours, including pick-up, sightseeing, and travel time.

Are meals included?
No, the basic price doesn’t include lunch, but there’s an option to add a traditional local meal for around $18, which many travelers find worth it.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. It’s flexible, which is great if your plans change.

Are private or small group options available?
Yes, they offer private or smaller groups, making the experience more tailored and intimate.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention meeting new friends and enjoying the guide’s company.

What if I want to see more of Madeira?
This tour mainly focuses on the peaks, forests, and Santana. For other areas like the west or more coastal spots, check out additional tours.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a full day of exploring Madeira’s mountain peaks, lush forests, and charming villages, this Santana & Peaks 4×4 tour delivers a well-rounded experience. With knowledgeable guides, stunning scenery, and the chance to taste local foods, it packs a lot into one day.

While the off-road drive can be a bit rough, it’s part of the adventure that many travelers find rewarding. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small group, this tour offers a genuine look at the island’s natural beauty and cultural highlights. It’s especially suitable for those who love an active, scenic day out and want to learn from local guides who clearly enjoy sharing their island.

Just be ready for a full day, a little bumpy ride, and lots of wow-worthy views. If that sounds like your kind of Madeira adventure, this tour is worth considering.

You can check availability for your dates here: