Full Day Jeep Safari East – Pico do Areeiro – Santana – Ponta de são Lourenço

Experience the best of Madeira’s east coast with this full-day Jeep Safari, offering a mix of rugged off-road driving, breathtaking views, and cultural stops. For just $67.20 per person, you’ll explore iconic sites like Pico do Areeiro, Santana, and Ponta de São Lourenço, all with the comfort and intimacy of a small group—averaging just 8 travelers. Led by an experienced local guide, this tour combines adventure with authentic encounters, making it a fantastic choice for those who want a deep, personal look at the island’s natural beauty and local charm.

What we especially love about this tour is how it balances scenic highlights with off-the-beaten-path experiences. The off-road jeep rides are a highlight, giving you access to remote areas that larger buses just can’t reach. Plus, the stops at viewpoints like Miradouro do Guindaste and Ponta de São Lourenço promise spectacular photo ops you’ll cherish. However, be prepared for some bumpy roads—the off-road sections are exhilarating but might be less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those seeking a completely smooth ride.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy a mix of nature and culture, and are happy to spend a full day exploring with plenty of stops. Families with children over moderate fitness levels will find it accessible, but those with very young kids might want to consider how the off-road sections could impact their comfort. Overall, if you’re after an immersive, small-group experience that combines scenic beauty with local flavor, this safari hits the mark.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures an intimate and personalized experience.
• Expert local guides like Ernesto and Alex provide insightful commentary and safe driving.
• Access to remote, inaccessible spots offers a unique view of Madeira’s natural landscape.
• Optimum balance of scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and leisurely levada walks.
• Family-friendly but requires moderate physical fitness.
• Value for money considering the variety of stops, guide expertise, and included hotel pickup.

A Closer Look at the Full Day Jeep Safari

If you’re craving a full-day adventure that mixes breathtaking scenery with cultural insight, this tour offers good bang for your buck. Starting at 9:00 am with hotel pickup, the journey kicks off with a visit to Pico do Areeiro, one of the highest points on the island. Here, you get sweeping views of the mountains and a chance to breathe in the fresh air—no admission fee here, just pure panoramic beauty.

Next, you’ll head to Balcoes de Ribeiro Frio, famous for its levada walk to Levada dos Balcões. This short, 20-minute trek is well worth it, especially if you enjoy taking photos or simply want to stretch your legs. The reviews highlight how scenic and relaxing this walk is, with one traveler noting the “little levada walk which takes about 20 minutes and it is worth it.” It’s a manageable stop for most, even if you’re not a seasoned hiker.

Santana is a highlight—known for its traditional A-frame houses with thatched roofs, which look like they’re straight out of a fairy tale. Here, you’ll stop for lunch and a chance to admire these iconic structures. As one reviewer put it, “the trip was wonderful—lots of crazy off-road driving and beautiful viewpoints,” and Santana is often cited as a favorite part of the tour.

The journey continues with a visit to the Miradouro do Guindaste, a viewpoint offering spectacular vistas of Madeira’s rugged coastline. You might find that the 15-minute stop here is perfect for snapping pictures and soaking in the scenery.

In Porto da Cruz, a stop at the Rum Factory offers a taste of Madeira’s famous spirit—this added treat is highly praised by visitors, who enjoy the brief tasting session. A reviewer said, “made a taste test of the Madeira Rum,” and appreciated the chance to learn about local products.

Finally, the Ponta do Rosto viewpoint provides a dramatic view of the red cliffs and, if the weather cooperates, a glimpse of Porto Santo in the distance. The 15-minute stop here makes for a fitting closing scene, with some travelers noting how stunning the scenery is from this vantage point.

Throughout the day, you’ll pass through Machico, the island’s first capital, and Santa Cruz, giving you a glimpse of local life and history. The tour wraps up with hotel drop-off, typically around 5 pm, leaving you with a full, enriching day.

The Experience of Off-Roading and Scenic Views

What makes this tour truly stand out is the off-road jeep experience. The reviews rave about the “crazy off-road driving” and “thrilling” rides, which add a sense of adventure that large buses simply can’t match. One traveler described their guide as “very knowledgeable and personable,” which makes a big difference when navigating narrow mountain roads.

The small group size (max 8 travelers) means you won’t feel lost in a crowd or hurried through stops. Instead, you get the flexibility to linger at viewpoints or ask questions. Guides like Ernesto and Alex are highlighted for their expertise and friendliness, ensuring everyone feels comfortable and informed.

Another favorite aspect noted in reviews is the balance of sightseeing and leisure. For example, the short levada walk in Ribeiro Frio offers a peaceful moment amidst the scenic drive, and the cultural stops at Santana add a tangible sense of local tradition. The inclusion of a rum tasting at Porto da Cruz adds a flavorful local touch you won’t get on larger tours.

What to Expect from the Itinerary

Pico do Areeiro

This high-altitude stop is all about panoramic views. It’s a quick 25-minute stop, but the vistas make it worth the early wake-up call. Expect crisp mountain air and sweeping vistas that stretch across the island’s peaks.

Balcoes de Ribeiro Frio

A manageable 20-minute levada walk makes this spot a relaxing point to soak in Madeira’s lush greenery. The walk is short but rewarding, with plenty of opportunities to take photos of the surrounding landscape.

Santana

A must-see for anyone interested in Madeira’s traditional architecture. The colorful houses are charming, and the 2-hour stop allows enough time for a leisurely lunch, exploration, and photos.

Miradouro do Guindaste

This viewpoint is perfect for a quick photo stop. The dramatic coastline and rugged cliffs make it one of the scenic highlights.

Porto da Cruz

A taste of local culture with a visit to the Rum Factory. The 20-minute tasting session is a hit with visitors, offering insight into Madeira’s famous spirit.

Ponta do Rosto

The final stop offers a spectacular coastal view of red cliffs, and potentially, a view of Porto Santo if weather permits. It’s a fitting end to a day filled with natural beauty.

Passing Through Machico & Santa Cruz

These towns give you a taste of local life and history, rounding out your understanding of Madeira’s diverse character.

Authentic Encounters and Practical Considerations

From the reviews, it’s clear that guides like Rodrigo, Alex, Ernesto, and Victor make or break this experience. Their knowledge, friendly disposition, and driving skills ensure a safe, informative, and fun day. Several reviews mention how well the guides tailored the experience, even adjusting routes when weather was less than perfect.

The price of $67.20 per person is quite reasonable considering the full day of varied activities, the small group setting, and the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off. The tour’s value comes from the combination of scenic variety, cultural insights, and adventure.

However, note that lunch and drinks are not included, so bringing some snacks or planning for a meal in Santana is advisable. Also, the moderate physical fitness requirement means you should be comfortable with short walks and some bumpy rides.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to see remote viewpoints and enjoy off-road driving. Families with children over moderate fitness levels will appreciate the flexibility and engaging stops. If you’re craving an authentic, small-group experience with local guides, this tour offers an excellent mix of scenery, culture, and fun.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, smooth ride or are less comfortable with off-road driving, you might want to consider other options. The tour is also well-suited for those wanting a full-day immersion without the hassle of planning multiple stops themselves.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, from 9:00 am pickup to around 5:00 pm drop-off, giving you a full day of sightseeing.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers hotel pickup and drop-off, local taxes, a driver/guide, and live commentary. Lunch and drinks are not included.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult and should have moderate physical fitness due to some walking and off-road driving.

Are the roads safe and manageable?
Yes, guides like Ernesto and Alex are experienced drivers, and reviews highlight their skill in navigating mountain and off-road roads safely.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes for short walks, sunglasses, and sunscreen are advisable. It’s also good to bring water and perhaps a camera for the stunning viewpoints.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Less notice means no refund.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour operates with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.

To sum it up, this Full Day Jeep Safari in Madeira offers a balanced mix of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural insight. It’s ideal for those looking to combine off-road excitement with meaningful stops at the island’s most picturesque sites. Guides like Ernesto and Alex make it enjoyable and informative, turning what might be a simple sightseeing trip into a memorable exploration. With its small-group setting, reasonable price, and stunning itinerary, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a personal, authentic Madeira experience—especially if you’re comfortable with some bumpy roads and want to see the island’s hidden corners.