THE AMAZING OFF ROAD BBQ PICNIC CABLE CAB TOUR

Imagine exploring Madeira in a rugged Jeep, climbing steep mountain roads, stopping at breathtaking viewpoints, and sharing a traditional Madeiran BBQ with new friends. This 7-hour tour offers a taste of everything—adventure, scenic beauty, cultural insights, and culinary delights—all wrapped into one memorable experience. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour is perfect for travelers keen on seeing Madeira’s wild side while enjoying local flavors and spectacular vistas.

What we love most? First, the off-road adventure delivers an authentic thrill on Madeira’s rugged terrain—far from tourist hotspots. Second, the viewpoints offer some of the most stunning panoramas of mountains and the Atlantic, making every stop a photo opportunity. A third highlight is the traditional BBQ, especially the espetada, which gives a real taste of Madeira’s culinary culture.

A potential consideration? Since it involves a lot of outdoor activity and some off-road driving, it may not be suitable for travelers with back problems or very young children. Also, the schedule might feel tight if you’re looking for a completely relaxed day, but that’s part of the adventure.

This tour suits nature lovers, those interested in local culture, and anyone wanting a bit of adrenaline paired with extraordinary scenery. If you’re after a deeper connection with Madeira’s landscapes and traditions, this is a great choice.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary: Combines scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and thrilling off-road driving.
• Authentic experience: Includes a traditional Madeira BBQ featuring espetada steak.
• Breathtaking vistas: Offers multiple photo stops at impressive viewpoints like Cristo Rei and Faja dos Padres.
• Cable car ride: Optional visit to Faja dos Padres adds a unique transportation and sightseeing element.
• Small group: Limited to six participants, ensuring a personalized experience.
• Flexible cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting with the Basics: What’s Included and How It Works

This seven-hour adventure begins with pickup options at four different locations around Funchal, including Sao Vicente, Ribeira Brava, Câmara De Lobos, and Funchal itself. The small group size—just six people—means you’ll get a more intimate, personalized experience with your guide, who will be fluent in English, Polish, Portuguese, or Spanish. The price covers round-trip transportation, a knowledgeable guide, the Jeep adventure, and a traditional picnic lunch featuring espetada steak, Madeira’s famous bread (bolo do caco), salad, milho, and a drink of your choice.

The tour operates on a flexible schedule with available starting times, so it’s worth checking availability when planning your trip.

Itinerary Breakdown: What Makes Each Stop Special

Stop 1: Scenic Off-Road Drive to Canical

After pickup, your journey kicks off with a scenic drive to Canical, a quiet fishing village renowned for its natural beauty. Here, you’ll get your first glimpse of Madeira’s rugged coastline and lush greenery. The off-road portion begins shortly after, giving you the thrill of bouncing along unpaved paths that wind through the mountains. We loved the way this part made us feel like explorers venturing into Madeira’s hidden corners.

Stop 2: Viewpoints and Photo Stops

Next, the tour takes you to various viewpoints. One of the most memorable is Cristo Rei, where a short walk allows you to take in the sweeping views of the Atlantic and the dramatic cliffs below. These stops are perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the fresh mountain air. Our guide, Mariana, shared insightful details about the landscape and local history, enhancing the experience.

Stop 3: Santana and Traditional Village Visit

A highlight is the visit to Santana, famous for its iconic A-frame houses with thatched roofs. This stop provides a glimpse into Madeira’s rural architecture and traditional lifestyle. You might explore the village, chat with locals, or sample some regional refreshments. The 1.5-hour stop is enough to enjoy the atmosphere without feeling rushed.

Stop 4: Faja dos Padres and Cable Car Ride

Next, you’ll visit Faja dos Padres, a lush coastal plateau accessible by cable car. While the cable car ride is optional, it offers a spectacular ascent over cliffs and greenery, providing a different perspective of the landscape. Many guests found this ride to be a peaceful and picturesque aerial journey, perfect for photos.

Scenic Viewing at Guindaste

Another impressive viewpoint is Miradouro do Guindaste, where you can pause to breathe in the vistas of the coastline, mountains, and ocean. Our guide pointed out interesting geological formations and shared stories about Madeira’s volcanic origins, adding depth to the scenery.

The Picnic and the BBQ

As midday approaches, the group gathers in a scenic location for the traditional Madeira BBQ. The espetada, skewered beef grilled over open flames, is the star, infused with local herbs and flavors. Alongside fresh bread, salad, milho (corn), and drinks, the meal is as much about socializing as eating. We appreciated how this part of the tour became a lively, convivial event—locals love their BBQs, and you’ll feel part of that tradition.

Faja dos Padres Beach and Optional Cable Car

Post-lunch, you have time to relax at Faja dos Padres Beach or take another cable car ride if you wish. The beach is a quiet spot to unwind, and the cable car offers a scenic return route with more stunning views. The optional ride is a great addition for those wanting more aerial photography or just to enjoy the vistas from above.

Natural Beauty and Photo Opportunities

Throughout the day, we paused at several spots—rocky cliffs, lush valleys, and ocean vistas—that made for Instagram-worthy shots. The variety of landscapes, from green hills to azure sea, showcases Madeira’s incredible diversity. Our guide pointed out hidden nooks and explained the geological features, enriching our appreciation for the land.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, breathtaking views, and local culture. It’s especially suited for those who want more than just sightseeing—an active, immersive day that combines scenic drives, cultural stops, and delicious food. Keep in mind that the off-road sections might be bumpy, so it’s best for those in good health and comfortable with some uneven terrain.

Value and Practical Tips

Considering the price covers transportation, guides, a substantial picnic meal, and optional cable car rides, it offers impressive value. The small group size ensures personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere. The flexibility in scheduling and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance makes planning easier, especially if your travel plans are not yet set in stone.

What’s important is to bring a jacket—the mountain weather can change quickly—and wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and uneven terrain. Since the tour involves outdoor stops and scenic locations, layering your clothing is wise.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re looking for an adventure-filled day that combines off-road fun with spectacular views and a taste of local cuisine, this tour hits the mark. It’s ideal for active travelers, small groups who enjoy personalized guides, and anyone eager to experience Madeira beyond the usual tourist spots. However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less mobile day or have mobility issues, you might find the off-road parts challenging.

Final Thoughts

This jeep safari offers a well-rounded experience of Madeira’s natural beauty, culture, and flavors. The combination of rugged landscapes, panoramic viewpoints, and a hearty Madeiran BBQ makes for a memorable day. The knowledgeable guides, like Mariana, add a friendly touch, making the journey both educational and fun.

Whether you’re snapping photos of cliffs and ocean, learning about local traditions, or just enjoying the thrill of driving through unpaved mountain paths, this tour provides a taste of Madeira’s wild, wonderful side. It’s a treasure for those who want to see the island’s rugged terrain and savor its culinary traditions—an experience worth every euro.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included at four locations around Funchal, making it convenient to join the tour.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, which includes driving, sightseeing, meals, and optional activities.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the Jeep tour, a guide, the picnic lunch, and transportation. Optional cable car rides may incur extra costs.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best for travelers who are comfortable with outdoor activities and some off-road driving. It’s not recommended for babies under 1 year or people with back problems.

What should I bring?
Bring a jacket, comfortable shoes suitable for walking and uneven terrain, and camera gear for photos.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

Is the tour language-specific?
Guides speak English, Polish, Portuguese, and Spanish, so language should not be a barrier.

How physical is the tour?
While it involves some walking and off-road driving, it isn’t overly strenuous. Moderate mobility is recommended.

Embark on this adventure and discover Madeira’s rugged charm, stunning vistas, and authentic flavors—an experience that promises lasting memories of this enchanting island.

You can check availability for your dates here: