East 4×4 Santana & Peaks

Set out on a thrilling off-road adventure in Madeira’s northeast region, where stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage await. Venture through lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and coastal villages in a 4×4 vehicle, marveling at the breathtaking vistas from Pico do Areeiro. Enjoy the charming Santana village, where you’ll discover the island’s unique triangular-roofed houses and witness artisanal crafts. This captivating tour promises to provide a deeper understanding of Madeira’s traditions and community. What lies beyond the off-road journey and the quaint village?

Key Points

• Explore Madeira’s northeast coast on an exhilarating 4×4 adventure, traversing through lush forests and dramatic cliffs to reach breathtaking vantage points.
• Visit the traditional Madeiran village of Santana, known for its distinctive triangular-roofed ‘Casas de Santana’ houses and immerse in local culture.
• Witness the stunning natural landscapes of Pico do Areeiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak, offering panoramic views of the island’s rugged terrain.
• Indulge in a traditional Madeiran lunch in Santana, and discover the local cuisine and culinary heritage of the region.
• Discover the charming coastal villages and experience the vibrant local life, connecting with Madeira’s rich cultural and natural heritage.

Tour Overview

This full-day tour from Funchal allows visitors to venture off-road in a 4×4 and explore the wild landscapes, lush forests, and coastal villages of Madeira’s north-east coast.

Highlights include spectacular views from Pico do Areeiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak, a traditional Madeiran lunch in Santana, and experiencing local life in villages like Ribeiro Frio.

Pickup is available from hotels in the Funchal area, with extra charges for cruise dock pickup and outside the Funchal region.

The tour includes a local guide and driver/guide, bottled water, and gratuities aren’t included. Lunch is an additional €12 per person.

Participants must be able to get in and out of the 4×4 vehicle, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Highlights

The tour highlights several of Madeira’s breathtaking natural wonders, beginning with the spectacular views from Pico do Areeiro, the island’s third-highest peak. Visitors can admire the dramatic mountain landscapes and lush forests that characterize Madeira’s northeast coast.

The tour also includes a stop in the traditional village of Santana, where travelers can experience local Madeiran culture and enjoy a traditional lunch.

Another highlight is the Porta da Cruz rum factory, which offers a glimpse into the island’s rum production process.

Throughout the day, the tour provides opportunities to explore charming coastal villages and take in Madeira’s unique natural and cultural heritage.

Pickup Details

The tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off services for the Funchal area at no additional cost, while pickup from cruise docks incurs an extra €5.00 per person fee. Pickup times vary depending on the location, with the Funchal area at 8:30 AM, Caniço area at 9:00 AM, Machico area at 9:15 AM, and the Calheta and Ponta Delgada areas at 7:45 AM.

Pickup Location	Pickup Time
Funchal Area	8:30 AM
Caniço Area	9:00 AM
Machico Area	9:15 AM
Calheta Area	7:45 AM
Ponta Delgada Area	7:45 AM

Tour Details

A local guide and driver/guide accompany participants throughout the tour, providing expert commentary and assistance. Bottled water is provided during the excursion.

While lunch isn’t included in the tour price, visitors can enjoy an additional €12.00 per person for a traditional Madeiran lunch at a local restaurant in Santana. Gratuities for the guide and driver aren’t included in the tour cost.

The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 8 people. Confirmation is received at the time of booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but participants with mobility concerns can still join the excursion.

Venture Off-Road

This full-day tour offers an exhilarating off-road adventure, inviting participants to explore the wild and rugged landscapes of Madeira’s north-east coast in a sturdy 4×4 vehicle.

Venturing off the beaten path, you’ll traverse through lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and coastal villages, experiencing the island’s diverse natural beauty. The powerful 4×4 allows you to navigate challenging terrains with ease, granting access to breathtaking vantage points that showcase Madeira’s stunning scenery.

Whether it’s the sweeping views from Pico do Areeiro or the charming traditional houses in Santana, this off-road expedition promises an immersive and unforgettable experience of Madeira’s untamed wilderness.

Explore Wild Landscapes

Venturing off-road allows participants to enjoy Madeira’s wild and untamed landscapes, where rugged terrain and breathtaking vistas await.

Traversing through lush forests and along dramatic coastal cliffs, the 4×4 vehicles grant access to stunning viewpoints that showcase the island’s diverse natural beauty.

Exploring the northeast coast, the tour ventures into areas that are largely inaccessible by traditional means, offering a unique opportunity to witness the island’s raw and untamed splendor.

From the towering peaks to the serene valleys, the tour immerses travelers in Madeira’s untouched wilderness, providing a remarkable and unforgettable experience for those seeking to connect with the island’s natural wonders.

Visit Santana Houses

The tour visits the traditional houses in Santana, showcasing the unique architectural style that’s characteristic of Madeira’s northeastern region.

These quaint, triangular-roofed dwellings, known as ‘Casas de Santana,’ provide a glimpse into the island’s cultural heritage and the traditional way of life that has been preserved in this charming village.

Visitors will have the opportunity to explore these picturesque houses, learning about the traditional construction methods and the significance of this iconic Madeiran architecture.

The tour allows travelers to enjoy the local culture, gaining a deeper appreciation for Madeira’s rich history and the enduring traditions that continue to shape the island’s unique identity.

Experience Local Life

Visitors enjoy the vibrant local life of Madeira’s northeastern villages, gaining authentic cultural insights throughout the tour.

They explore quaint towns like Ribeiro Frio, where they’ll witness traditional Portuguese customs and architecture.

The tour offers a chance to interact with friendly locals, who proudly share their way of life.

Travelers might watch artisans crafting intricate embroidery or woodcarvings, or simply stroll through narrow streets lined with colorful buildings.

This intimate experience provides a deeper understanding of Madeira’s heritage and allows visitors to appreciate the richness of the island’s community.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snacks and Drinks on the Tour?

Passengers are welcome to bring their own snacks and drinks on the tour. The tour provides bottled water, but additional refreshments are at the discretion of the traveler. Check with the tour operator for any restrictions on outside food and beverages.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for This Tour?

The tour does not have any age restrictions. Children of all ages are welcome to participate. However, parents should consider the suitability of the tour for young children, as it involves off-road driving and may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

Do I Need to Bring Any Specific Equipment or Gear?

Guests don’t need to bring any specific equipment or gear for this tour. The tour provider supplies bottled water, and appropriate off-road vehicles for the terrain. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended to fully enjoy the scenic landscapes.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary or Activities?

While the tour typically follows a set itinerary, the provider may allow some customization based on guests’ interests and needs. Travelers can inquire about modifying the tour activities or visiting additional sites during booking.

Are There Any Safety Precautions I Should Be Aware Of?

Travelers should be aware of safety precautions like wearing appropriate footwear, following the guide’s instructions, and staying within designated areas. The tour operator takes measures to ensure guest safety, but participants must exercise caution during the off-road adventure.

Recap

Embark on an exhilarating off-road adventure in Madeira’s northeast, where lush forests, dramatic cliffs, and captivating coastal villages await.

Venture through the island’s stunning natural beauty, marvel at the breathtaking vistas, and learn about local life by visiting the charming Santana village.

Discover the unique triangular-roofed houses, witness artisanal crafts, and gain a deeper understanding of Madeira’s rich cultural heritage.