Santana / Typical Houses Tour

If you’re planning a trip to Madeira and want a comprehensive look at some of the island’s most iconic sights, the Santana / Typical Houses Tour might just be worth considering. This well-loved excursion offers a solid mix of nature, culture, and stunning scenery—all packed into roughly an 8-hour day. While it’s not perfect, it’s a good way to get a taste of Madeira’s diverse landscapes and charming villages without the hassle of driving yourself.

What we really like about this tour is how it combines scenic viewpoints with authentic local experiences. The stops at Pico do Arieiro and Ribeiro Frio give you a chance to see the island’s dramatic peaks and lush forests, while the visit to Santana offers a glimpse into traditional village life with those iconic triangular thatched houses. Plus, the tour’s guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, which can make a big difference in how much you enjoy the day.

That said, there’s one important thing to keep in mind: the overall experience can vary depending on the guide and the group. Some travelers have had issues with the bus seats and comfort, and the tour’s popularity means the schedule can get busy. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a structured day of sightseeing, are okay with a group, and want to see a broad slice of Madeira in one go.

If you’re after a straightforward, budget-friendly way to explore Madeira’s highlights and enjoy some breathtaking viewpoints, this tour could be a good fit. It’s especially suitable if you value knowledgeable guides and a varied itinerary, but perhaps less ideal if you’re seeking a more personalized or super comfortable experience.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary offers a good mix of nature, culture, and scenic views.
• Guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor.
• Major sights include Pico do Arieiro and Santana’s houses, giving a comprehensive Madeira experience.
• Comfort and transport issues have been raised by some travelers, so expectations should be realistic.
• Price offers good value for a full day of sightseeing, especially with all fees and taxes included.
• Tour size is limited to 15 travelers, maintaining a somewhat intimate group atmosphere.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Off at Camacha

The tour kicks off in Camacha, a small village famous for its traditional wicker and cane crafts. Here, you get a quick 20-minute stop to see local artisans at work and browse some of their handcrafted pieces. It’s a brief look into Madeira’s rural roots, and many visitors appreciate the authenticity of this stop. One reviewer mentioned, “We saw a genuine traditional old house, not just those built as tourist attractions,” which hints at the tour’s effort to show real local life.

Pico do Arieiro: The Summit Viewpoint

Next, you’re off to Pico do Arieiro, the island’s third-highest peak at 1,818 meters. This is the highlight for many—offering sweeping views that stretch across Madeira, often with clouds crossing rocky formations. You’ll spend about 40 minutes here, enough to soak in the vistas or snap some photos. The views are often described as “breathtaking,” and you’ll understand why when you look out over the island from this lofty vantage point.

Ribeiro Frio’s Laurel Forest

The journey continues to Ribeiro Frio, a UNESCO-listed spot in the Laurissilva forest. This lush, primary forest is home to a huge variety of plants and birdlife, making it a favorite for nature lovers. Here, you can see a trout farm in a beautiful natural setting, with clear water flowing from levadas (irrigation channels). It’s a peaceful place, with many travelers noting the “fantastic variety of plants,” and it’s a wonderful chance to breathe in Madeira’s natural beauty.

The Fortress of Faial and Penha de Águia

Moving on, the tour visits Faial, where you’ll see the striking Penha de Águia rock formation. This dramatic cliff separates Faial from Porto da Cruz and offers dramatic views of the coastline. It’s a quick stop (around 30 minutes), but enough to enjoy the rugged landscape and take some photos. Several reviews mention the scenery here as “imposing” and “spectacular,” perfect for those who love dramatic coastlines.

Santana’s Traditional Houses

The long stop at Santana is arguably the tour’s highlight, especially for those interested in Madeira’s cultural heritage. You’ll have about two hours to enjoy a leisurely lunch and wander around the village. The star attraction—the brightly painted, triangular thatched houses—is as charming as it’s famous. Many visitors find the houses very picturesque, although some mention that the area can feel a little commercialized or touristy, akin to being in a themed village. One reviewer remarked, “It was a bit fakey, like Euro Disney,” but still enjoyed the chance to see and photograph these iconic homes.

Ponta de São Lourenço: Nature’s Wild Side

Next, you’ll head east to Ponta de São Lourenço, a rocky promontory jutting into the Atlantic. This landscape is characterized by striking rock formations and rugged coastlines. The stop here (around 30 minutes) is ideal for a quick walk and taking in the expansive views of the sea and cliffs. Travelers often describe the scenery as “magnificent,” with some noting it’s a more wild, untouched part of Madeira.

Machico: The Discoverer’s Town

The tour wraps up in Machico, the first landing point of Portuguese explorers on Madeira. This historic town offers a relaxed atmosphere and some interesting sights. You’ll have about 30 minutes to explore or enjoy a quick stroll before the day ends. One reviewer called it “the largest city in Madeira,” and appreciated the historical significance of the place.

What the Tour Means for You

The Value of the Experience

At $35.60 per person, this tour is definitely budget-friendly, especially considering it covers multiple key sights with all fees and taxes included. You get a full, guided day without the stress of navigation or planning, which can be a real bonus if you prefer to relax and let someone else handle the logistics. The included pickup simplifies logistics, and the small group cap (15 travelers) helps keep things manageable and personal.

What You Might Not Love

However, some travelers have raised concerns about the comfort of the bus seats and the abruptness of the driver, which can occasionally taint the experience. The seats on the mini-bus are reported to be broken or uncomfortable, with a few mentioning broken seat belts. If you’re sensitive to vehicle comfort or air conditioning noise, this is worth knowing. Also, the schedule can feel rushed at times, especially during the long stop at Santana, which might be a downside if you prefer a more relaxed pace.

The Guide’s Role

Guides seem to make a big difference here. Several reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, often saying they’re well-informed and personable. One reviewer said, “Renata was an excellent host, a first-class guide,” which highlights how much smoother and more enjoyable the day can be with a good guide.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience is well-suited to travelers who want a rundown of Madeira without having to drive or organize multiple separate excursions. It’s great if you’re interested in variety—nature, culture, viewpoints—and enjoy the camaraderie of a small group. If you’re someone who values authentic local culture and stunning vistas, this tour ticks those boxes.

In Summary

This Santana / Typical Houses Tour offers a balanced blend of Madeira’s natural beauty and traditional charm. The stops at Pico do Arieiro, Ribeiro Frio, and Ponta de São Lourenço particularly stand out for their breathtaking views and scenic landscapes. The guide’s knowledge and friendly approach can make the long day more engaging, even if the bus seats and comfort are not perfect.

While it’s not a tour for those seeking ultra-luxury or complete relaxation, it delivers good value for money and a solid overview of the island’s highlights. If you’re after a practical, well-organized day with plenty of photo opportunities and authentic sights, this tour is worth considering.

FAQs about the Santana / Typical Houses Tour

Is the tour suitable for children? The tour is generally suitable for most travelers, but since it involves a full day of sightseeing with some walking and bus travel, families with kids should be prepared for a long day.

Does the tour pick up from my hotel? Yes, pickup is offered, which simplifies your day. Check with the provider or the booking details to confirm your specific location.

Are the stops included in the tour time enough to see everything? The scheduled times are designed to give enough time for each stop, but some visitors find the Santana stop a bit rushed, especially if they want to explore more deeply.

What should I bring on this tour? Bring comfortable shoes for walking, a camera for those scenic views, and possibly some snacks or water, especially for the longer stops.

Is the tour weather-dependent? Yes, the tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people usually join the tour? The tour caps at 15 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

What’s the main highlight of the tour? Many agree it’s the panoramic views from Pico do Arieiro and the colorful houses in Santana, but the guides’ local insights also add a special touch.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change? Absolutely, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility in your planning.

The Santana / Typical Houses Tour offers a well-rounded taste of Madeira, especially if you’re interested in scenic vistas and traditional villages. It might not be the smoothest ride or the most luxurious experience, but for genuine sights and friendly guidance, it’s a solid choice.