Full-Day Off-Road Tour in Eastside Madeira With Pick-Up

Embarking on a full-day off-road adventure in Eastside Madeira promises an unparalleled exploration of the island’s captivating landscapes. Offering personalized experiences for small groups of up to six participants, this tour invites travelers to discover the region’s hidden gems, from the breathtaking vistas atop Pico do Areeiro to the charming villages of Santana and Porto da Cruz. Along the way, visitors will enjoy the local culture, partaking in a traditional poncha-making experience that promises to delight the senses. With convenient pick-up locations and a focus on creating unforgettable memories, this tour is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who embark on the journey.

Key Points

• A full-day off-road tour in Eastside Madeira that lasts 8 hours and is limited to 6 participants for a small group experience.

• The tour includes pickup locations in Funchal and Caniço, with a €20 fee for Red Land Rover pickups.

• Highlights of the tour include an ascent to Pico do Areeiro, a poncha-making experience, and visits to Santana and Porto da Cruz.

• The tour provides an opportunity to explore Madeira’s rugged, unspoiled beauty and experience the island’s cultural heritage.

• Recommended to bring comfortable clothes, beachwear, and warm clothing due to variable weather conditions.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This full-day off-road tour in Eastside Madeira offers an immersive experience for explorers seeking to discover the island’s rugged terrain and natural wonders.

Lasting 8 hours and limited to a small group of 6 participants, the tour includes pickup from Funchal and Caníço, with an additional €20 fee for Red Land Rover pickups.

Visitors can enjoy the tour in various languages, including English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, and Polish.

The tour features highlights such as the ascent to Pico do Areeiro, a poncha-making experience, and visits to the iconic thatched-roof houses of Santana and the village of Porto da Cruz, with optional swimming at Praia da Alagoa beach.

Itinerary Highlights

Ascending to the third highest peak in Madeira at 1818 meters, visitors spend approximately 30 minutes taking in the breathtaking views of the mountainous terrain and neighboring peaks at Pico do Areeiro.

The tour then stops for about 15 minutes at a local mountain restaurant to witness and taste traditional poncha, Madeira’s signature drink.

In Santana, visitors explore iconic thatched roof houses, symbols of Madeira’s rural heritage, and enjoy a lunch break for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.

The tour makes a 20-minute stop at Miradouro do Guindaste to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the surroundings before exploring the village of Porto da Cruz.

Pico Do Areeiro

The tour ascends to the third highest peak in Madeira, Pico do Areeiro, reaching an elevation of 1818 meters.

Visitors spend approximately 30 minutes at the summit, taking in the breathtaking views of the mountainous terrain. From this vantage point, they can see neighboring peaks and the stunning natural landscapes that define Madeira’s dramatic eastern coastline.

The tour guide provides commentary on the geological and ecological features of the area, enriching the experience for participants.

This stop offers a chance to capture memorable photographs and appreciate the island’s rugged, unspoiled beauty up close.

Poncha-Making Experience

During the tour, participants make a stop at a local mountain restaurant to witness and taste the traditional poncha, Madeira’s signature drink.

This 15-minute experience provides an opportunity to learn about the history and preparation of this unique beverage:

• Poncha is a cocktail made from aguardente de cana (sugar cane spirit), honey, lemon, and sometimes orange juice.
• The drink is hand-crafted by a local expert, who demonstrates the precise mixing techniques.
• Participants can observe the step-by-step process and then sample the refreshing, citrusy poncha.

This culture allows visitors to appreciate Madeira’s time-honored traditions and culinary heritage.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Santana

From Pico do Areeiro, the tour makes its way to the charming village of Santana, known for its iconic thatched-roof houses that embody Madeira’s rural heritage. Guests will enjoy a lunch break of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, allowing them to explore the quaint streets and perhaps sample local cuisine. The thatched-roof houses in Santana are a distinctive symbol of Madeira’s traditional architecture and way of life, offering a glimpse into the island’s cultural past.

Santana Highlights
Iconic Thatched-Roof Houses	Symbols of Madeira’s Rural Heritage
Lunch Break (1.5 Hours)	Opportunity to Explore and Dine Locally
Traditional Architecture	Glimpse into Madeira’s Cultural Past
Charming Village Atmosphere	Quintessential Madeira Experience

Miradouro Do Guindaste

After departing from the charming village of Santana, the tour makes a 20-minute stop at Miradouro do Guindaste.

This scenic viewpoint offers visitors a chance to relax and soak in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Some highlights of this stop include:

• Panoramic vistas of the rugged, mountainous terrain that characterizes Madeira’s east side
• Opportunity to snap photos of the dramatic cliffs and crashing waves below
• Peaceful ambiance, allowing guests to simply pause and appreciate the tranquil atmosphere
• Chance to stretch one’s legs and recharge before continuing the adventure-filled day

Important Information

Travelers should bring comfortable clothes, beachwear, towel, and swimwear for this tour. Warm clothing is recommended due to the variable weather conditions.

Baby carriages aren’t allowed on the tour. The itinerary is subject to change, ensuring a flexible and adaptable experience.

This full-day off-road adventure in Eastside Madeira provides a unique opportunity to explore the island’s hidden gems and natural wonders. Knowledgeable guides lead the way, ensuring the safety and enjoyment of guests during the off-road excursions.

The tour is designed to offer a personalized and immersive experience, allowing visitors to discover the best of Madeira’s rural heritage and stunning landscapes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is This Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues?

The tour may not be suitable for people with mobility issues. The itinerary includes off-road driving and hiking to viewpoints, which could be challenging for those with limited mobility. Participants should be able to navigate uneven terrain and climb stairs.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Tour?

No, pets are not allowed on this tour. The tour operator’s policy indicates that only participants are permitted, and baby carriages are also not permitted for safety reasons during the off-road activities.

Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary is set, but travelers can’t customize it. However, the operator may accommodate special requests, subject to availability and additional fees. Guests should inquire about any modifications when booking the tour.

How Experienced Are the Tour Guides in Off-Road Driving?

The tour guides are highly experienced off-road drivers, having undergone extensive training and safety protocols. They expertly navigate the challenging terrain, ensuring a thrilling yet safe adventure for all participants.

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The minimum age requirement for this tour is not explicitly mentioned. However, the tour involves off-road driving, so participants must be old enough to ensure their safety and the safe operation of the vehicle.

Recap

This captivating full-day off-road tour in Eastside Madeira offers an unforgettable adventure. Guests will experience the island’s stunning landscapes, from the breathtaking Pico do Areeiro to charming villages like Santana. They’ll also enjoy a traditional poncha-making experience, ensuring a day filled with exploration and immersion in Madeira’s rich culture. With personalized attention and convenient pick-up locations, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an authentic Madeiran adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: