East 4×4 Santana & Peaks

Discover the Island’s Hidden Corners with the East 4×4 Santana & Peaks Tour

If you’re looking to see Madeira beyond the usual tourist spots, this full-day off-road adventure offers a fantastic way to explore the island’s rugged landscapes, lush forests, and charming coastal villages. For around $75, you’re picked up from your Funchal hotel, whisked away in a comfortable 4×4, and taken on a journey that covers highlights like Santana’s traditional houses, Pico do Areeiro’s breathtaking heights, and a visit to a local rum factory. The tour lasts about 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to soak in the scenery, enjoy authentic local flavors, and experience Madeira’s natural beauty from a different perspective.

Two things we really love about this tour: the knowledgeable guides, who bring the island’s character alive with stories and insights, and the off-road driving, which lets you access parts of Madeira that are too tricky for regular buses. The tour is also quite well-structured, balancing scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and a chance to sample Madeira rum.

One consideration: the lunch isn’t included in the base price, so you’ll need to budget around an extra $12 for a meal. Also, since the tour can involve some bumpy off-road sections, it’s best suited for those comfortable with a little adventure and uneven terrain. This tour is perfect for curious travelers who want to see Madeira’s less touristy, more authentic side and aren’t afraid to get a bit muddy or discover the island’s secret corners.

It’s ideal for small groups, with a maximum of 8 travelers, which means more personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere. If you appreciate expert guides, spectacular views, and the chance to taste local produce, you’ll find this trip a highlight of your Madeira visit.

• Authentic off-road experience that goes beyond the usual bus tours.
• Spectacular views from Pico do Areeiro and other scenic spots.
• Cultural stops in Santana and Ribeiro Frio offer insight into local life.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with stories and knowledge.
• Flexible pickup options make planning easy, with some extra fees outside Funchal.
• Affordable value considering the personalized experience, stunning scenery, and cultural exposure.

Madeira is a rugged, green paradise known for its dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and idyllic villages. While many visitors stick to the main resorts and popular viewpoints, this off-road tour offers a chance to venture into the island’s hidden corners. Led by guides who know the terrain and local stories, you’ll see Madeira in a way that’s both authentic and exhilarating.

The Itinerary: A Well-Designed Route for Maximum Impact

The tour kicks off early from Funchal, with pickup options mostly in the morning around 8:30 am, though some locations are as early as 7:45 am. After a brief drive, the first stop is Machico, a historic town with a charming bay and a taste of local life. A quick 10-minute stop is enough to snap some photos and get a feel for Madeira’s seaside charm.

Next, your journey takes you to Miradouro da Portela, a scenic viewpoint where panoramic views of the coast stretch out before you. While admission isn’t included, this spot offers unparalleled vistas that are worth the brief stop. It’s a great place to get your bearings before heading inland.

The Porto da Cruz area then introduces you to Madeira’s famous rum culture. At the Madeira Rum House, you’ll get a quick glimpse into the island’s distilling traditions, and if you’re lucky, sample some Madeira rum. The review mentions a 15-minute stop here, which is enough to appreciate the craft and perhaps pick up a souvenir.

From there, the route continues through Fajal, a less touristy village that offers authentic local scenery before heading to Santana. Here, you’ll see the iconic traditional thatched houses, and if you choose to return later, it’s a highlight for many travelers. The stops in Santana are brief but give a real taste of Madeira’s architectural style and rural life.

The journey then leads to Ribeiro Frio, a lovely spot nestled in the Laurisilva forest, famous for its natural beauty and trout farms. This adds a lush, green layer to the trip that appeals to nature lovers.

Onward to Poiso, a mountain pass that offers fresh air and stunning views at higher altitudes. The highlight here is Pico do Areeiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak. The views from the summit are spectacular, with jagged ridges and sweeping valleys. As one review noted, the route is fantastic, with spectacular views, making this a must-see for those who love landscapes that seem to stretch forever.

The Experience: A Perfect Mix of Nature, Culture, and Adventure

The small group size—limited to just 8 travelers—means you’re not just a number. You’ll likely get personalized attention from your guide, who might share local anecdotes and insights you wouldn’t find in guidebooks. We loved how guides like Nuno and Dinarte received praise for their knowledge and personable approach, adding charm to the day.

The off-road driving is a highlight. We loved the way the vehicle navigated narrow dirt tracks and steep inclines—definitely not the typical sightseeing bus. It’s a fun, slightly adventurous way to access Madeira’s less accessible spots. The reviews echo this, with travelers describing the experience as beautiful, exciting, and a way to see areas fewer travelers visit.

Practical Details and Value

At $75.35 per person, this tour offers good value considering the comprehensive itinerary, expert guidance, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. The bottled water included keeps you refreshed without extra fuss. However, remember that lunch isn’t included—you should budget around $12 for a local meal, which you can enjoy in Santana or another village.

The tour’s 8-hour length is well-balanced. It’s long enough to see many highlights without feeling rushed. The pickup options are flexible, though outside Funchal, expect a small extra fuel surcharge or the need for advance arrangements.

What the Reviews Say

Multiple travelers praise the guides, calling them knowledgeable, personable, and fun. Ionel and MOEZ both highlight the spectacular views and the insight into Madeira’s culture. One reviewer even mentioned that the route takes you “to everything a normal tourist wouldn’t see,” emphasizing the off-the-beaten-path nature of the tour.

Others appreciated how the tour combined scenic beauty with local flavor, from the rum factory stop to the traditional houses of Santana. Some noted the fun and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for those who like a bit of adventure alongside cultural exploration.

This trip is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural discovery. If you’re comfortable in a small group and don’t mind a little bumpy off-road driving, you’ll love the unique access to Madeira’s less touristy sights. It’s ideal for nature lovers, history buffs, and foodies eager to taste Madeira’s local rum and traditional dishes.

Those seeking a more relaxed, bus-based tour might find this too adventurous. Also, if you’re pressed for time or prefer a shorter experience, consider the full-day length carefully.

The East 4×4 Santana & Peaks tour delivers excellent value for those wanting an intimate, authentic Madeira experience. It’s a chance to see the island’s hidden landscapes, meet local people, and enjoy spectacular views—all with a knowledgeable guide by your side.

The combination of off-road thrills, cultural stops, and breathtaking scenery makes this tour a memorable part of any Madeira itinerary. It’s especially worth considering if you crave adventure and authentic insight into this beautiful island.

Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group of friends, this tour’s relaxed, friendly atmosphere and carefully curated stops promise an engaging day that captures the essence of Madeira’s natural charm and rural traditions.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup from your Funchal hotel is included. For locations outside Funchal, there may be an extra fuel tax, and a small fee is charged for pickup at cruise docks.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving enough time to enjoy all stops without feeling rushed.

Do I need to prepare for off-road driving?
While the trip involves off-road driving in a 4×4, the experience is suitable for most travelers, especially those comfortable with some bumps and uneven terrain.

What’s the cost for lunch?
Lunch is not included in the main price but costs around $12 at a local restaurant, which is worth budgeting for as part of the experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans shift.

How many people are in each group?
The group is limited to a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and engaging experience.

This tour offers a balanced blend of scenery, culture, and adventure—perfect for explorers who want to see Madeira’s less traveled paths with the comfort of guided expertise.