Jeep Tour to East ( Pico Arieiro, Santana, Faial, Caniçal)

Imagine scaling Madeira’s third-highest peak, Pico do Arieiro, where the air is crisp, and the views seem to stretch forever. From there, you’ll wind down through lush laurissilva forests, explore charming villages, and end at dramatic sea cliffs. This 8-hour Jeep tour costs around $71.21 per person and provides a comprehensive look at Madeira’s diverse landscapes. The tour is led by Toni, who reviews consistently praise for his infectious enthusiasm and local knowledge, making the experience both informative and fun.

What we really love about this tour is its focus on authentic sights—from panoramic mountain vistas to traditional houses—and the chance to experience Madeira’s natural beauty up close. Two standout features are the stunning photo opportunities at viewpoints like Guindaste and Ponta São Lourenço and the chance to enjoy a traditional lunch in Santana. The tour’s small group size (max four travelers) ensures a personal touch, making it feel more like a day out with friends than a crowded bus ride.

One possible consideration is that lunch is not included, so you should plan for a meal during the Santana stop. Also, since the tour is especially suited for those with an interest in scenic drives and outdoor viewing, it might not be ideal for very young children or babies under six years old. This tour is best for travelers who want a thorough, visually spectacular introduction to Madeira’s east coast, with a good mix of nature, culture, and photo ops.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: From Pico do Arieiro to Ponta São Lourenço, the scenery is breathtaking and photo-worthy.
• Authentic Experiences: Visit traditional houses in Santana and enjoy local delicacies.
• Small Group Setting: Max of four travelers for a more personalized experience.
• Flexible Options: Short walks at Ribeiro Frio and opportunities for photos at various viewpoints.
• Value for Money: Well-paced day with diverse sights for just over $70 per person.
• Expert Guide: Toni’s enthusiasm and local knowledge add depth to the tour.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Pico do Arieiro: The Peak of Views

Starting your day at Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest mountain, sets a high bar for scenic beauty. The air is often crisp, and the expansive views are hard to beat. You’ll spend about 20 minutes here, enough time to take photos, enjoy a coffee, and soak in the landscape. The fact that admission is included makes it a convenient highlight, and the vantage point offers sweeping vistas that make it worth the early start.

Travelers often mention how breathtaking it is—one reviewer, David_W, wrote, “First of all, Toni is extremely likeable and his infectious enthusiasm for all things Madeira comes through in abundance.” This enthusiasm makes the experience even more memorable, especially as you stand among the clouds and look down on the island’s rugged terrain.

Ribeiro Frio and the Laurissilva Forest

Descending from the mountain, the tour takes you to Ribeiro Frio, a spot loved for its lush, ancient laurissilva forest. Here, you can enjoy a short 30-minute walk along the Balcões levada, a gentle trail that offers panoramic views of the valleys and mountains. It’s a perfect chance to stretch your legs and marvel at Madeira’s verdant greenery.

If you’re feeling adventurous, this stop also provides an opportunity to try traditional poncha at a local bar—an authentic taste of Madeira’s hospitality. The free admission here is a bonus, making it accessible for all travelers.

Santana: The Traditional Heart of Madeira

Next, the charming village of Santana comes into view. Known for its iconic thatched houses, this stop is ideal for experiencing Madeira’s rural side. You’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore and enjoy a traditional lunch—although not included in the tour price, it’s well worth budgeting for. Many travelers rave about the authenticity of the food and the picturesque setting.

The highlight here is the chance to see the distinctive houses with their steep, tiled roofs, which have become a symbol of Madeira’s heritage. One reviewer mentions, “We loved the way the tour took in all the notable sights that we wanted to see and also some wonderful routes through the countryside.”

Guindaste Viewpoint: Perfect for Photos

After Santana, the journey continues to the Miradouro do Guindaste, a viewpoint famous for its spectacular photo opportunities. Here, you can snap shots of the steep slopes, cascading terraced fields, and the sea in the distance. The 30-minute stop is brief but impactful, especially if you’re keen on capturing Madeira’s dramatic landscape.

Travelers frequently comment on how photogenic this spot is, with one reviewer noting, “Take photos or videos—you’ll want to remember this view forever.” It’s a prime example of how Madeira’s natural beauty is best appreciated from high vantage points.

Ponta São Lourenço: End with a Cliffhanger

The tour wraps up at the Ponta São Lourenço viewpoint, a rugged headland promising sweeping views of the Atlantic and the jagged coastline. Walking along the cliffs or simply taking photos here provides a fitting conclusion to the day. This 30-minute stop allows reflection and photo-taking, often resulting in stunning souvenirs.

Many travelers comment that this final stop encapsulates Madeira’s diverse landscape, from lush forests to stark coastlines. It’s a fitting ending that leaves you with lasting memories of the island’s natural contrasts.

Transportation and Group Size

The Jeep itself is an open-top vehicle, giving lots of opportunities to enjoy the scenery without windows blocking your view. The small group size—limited to four travelers—ensures a more intimate experience, allowing for personalized attention and flexibility from your guide, Toni.

Timing is well-structured: starting at 9:00 am and lasting roughly eight hours, the tour allows for a relaxed pace, with plenty of time at each stop. Pickup is offered from your hotel, simplifying logistics and making the whole day hassle-free.

The Value of the Experience

At just over $70, this tour offers excellent value for its scope and depth. You’re not just riding around; you’re actively experiencing some of Madeira’s most iconic sights, with opportunities for photos, short walks, and local bites. The inclusion of key viewpoints and the small-group setup make it feel personal and worth every penny.

Reviews highlight how enthusiastic and knowledgeable the guide, Toni, makes the day. His passion for Madeira shines through, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the adventure. Authentic experiences, like tasting poncha or exploring traditional houses, elevate this beyond just sightseeing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who are eager to see Madeira’s natural beauty and cultural highlights in one day. It suits those who enjoy scenic drives, outdoor photography, and small-group intimacy. Because it’s not overly physically demanding but includes some walking, it’s also suitable for most healthy adults and older children—though not for babies or very young kids.

If you’re after a balanced mix of mountain panoramas, lush forests, charming villages, and coastal cliffs, this tour hits all those notes. It’s especially great if you want a guided experience that balances fun, education, and breathtaking views.

For anyone looking to explore Madeira’s east coast without the hassle of planning multiple outings, this Jeep tour offers a rich, well-rounded experience. It combines stunning vistas, cultural insights, and the convenience of small-group touring, all led by an engaging guide who loves sharing his island. The stops at Pico Arieiro, Santana, and Ponta São Lourenço are highlights that deliver both visual splendor and authentic local flavor.

While the tour does not include lunch, the stops for scenic viewing and exploration more than compensate. It’s perfect for travelers who want to cover a lot of ground comfortably and see Madeira’s diverse landscapes in one memorable day.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor eager to see iconic sights or a seasoned Madeira explorer wanting a guided overview, this tour provides a practical, engaging way to appreciate the island’s natural and cultural treasures.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel, making it easier to start your day without logistical worries.

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

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is four travelers, allowing for a more personalized and flexible experience.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included in the tour price, but there’s a stop in Santana where you can find local restaurants.

Can children participate?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s not recommended for babies or children under six years old.

What are the main sights visited?
The tour visits Pico do Arieiro, Ribeiro Frio, Santana, Guindaste viewpoint, and Ponta São Lourenço.

Is this a good tour for photography?
Absolutely, the viewpoints and scenic stops provide excellent photo opportunities, especially at Guindaste and São Lourenço.