Full-Day Small Group Jeep Safari Tour from Funchal

Experience Madeira’s Landscape on a Full-Day Small Group Jeep Safari

A full-day Jeep safari around Madeira offers a chance to see the island’s diverse scenery from a different perspective—behind the wheel of a rugged 4×4, with an experienced guide leading the way. For around $72, you’ll spend roughly eight hours exploring scenic villages, waterfalls, volcanic pools, and more, all in a small group that keeps the experience personal and engaging.

Your adventure kicks off with pickup in Funchal or Caniço, and you’ll be securely buckled into a well-equipped Jeep, with open-top options to maximize your views. Whether you opt for the Northwest, East, or Northeast routes**, each promises a unique slice of Madeira’s breathtaking terrain.

Two things we especially love about this tour: First, the flexibility of choosing different routes to suit your interests—from waterfalls and volcanic pools to traditional villages and rum factories. Second, the small group size (up to eight people per vehicle), which fosters friendly interactions and a more personalized experience.

A potential consideration is the price—though very reasonable given the depth of experience, some may find that food, drinks, or optional extras aren’t included. But if you’re looking for an authentic, scenic adventure with knowledgeable guides, this tour hits the mark perfectly.

This tour suits adventurous travelers and photography enthusiasts eager to explore beyond typical tourist spots, especially those who enjoy off-road driving and learning about local culture in a relaxed, friendly environment.

Key Points

• Varied routes tailored to your interests: NorthWest, East, or Northeast.
• Small group size ensures a more intimate experience and opportunities to interact with guides.
• Expert guides provide insightful commentary on sights, history, and local culture.
• Off-road driving on rugged terrain adds a sense of adventure.
• Authentic stops include waterfalls, traditional villages, volcanic pools, and local markets.
• Flexibility in half-day or full-day options allows you to customize your experience.

A Deep Dive Into the Full-Day Jeep Safari Experience

The Basics: What You Get and Why It’s Worth It

For about $72, you gain access to an eight-hour guided adventure that takes you across Madeira’s most scenic and culturally interesting spots. The tour is offered by Green Devil Safari, and you can expect pickup in Funchal or Caniço, making it easy to start your day without hassle. What makes this tour stand out is the small group size, limited to 24 travelers, which fosters a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of room for questions and conversation.

The well-equipped 4×4 vehicles are designed to handle Madeira’s often rugged terrain comfortably. Some reviews highlight the open roof, which is a real bonus for photography and simply soaking in the panoramic views without glass barriers blocking your shot.

Route Options: Tailoring Your Adventure

You can choose from three distinct full-day routes, each offering a different flavor of Madeira:

• Northwest Route: Unesco sites & volcanic pools at Porto Moniz
• East Route: Traditional houses in Santana and Pico Arreiro
• Northeast Route: Rustic villages and a rum factory

This flexibility means you can pick the route that most excites you, whether it’s the natural beauty of volcanic pools, culture in traditional villages, or a combination of both.

What Makes Each Stop Special?

Northwest Route: Unesco & Porto Moniz

The highlight here is the chance to peer into Madeira’s volcanic past with a visit to the Porto Moniz volcanic pools. These natural swimming pools are formed from solidified lava and filled with crystal-clear water—perfect for a quick dip or simply snapping some incredible photos. The route also includes a drive along rugged mountain roads, with many reviewers praising the spectacular views and off-road sections that add a sense of adventure.

Reviewers like Lynne_W mention a “long dirt/rock road over the mountains” with stunning scenery, and the last stop in Sao Vicente for Madeira’s famous fortified wine tastings adds a delightful cultural touch.

East Route: Santana & Pico Arreiro

This route offers a look at traditional thatched houses in Santana, often called the “fairy-tale village” for its distinctive architecture. If you love local culture and historic buildings, this is a highlight. The visit to Pico Arreiro provides sweeping views, and the guides tend to keep things lively with historical and cultural details.

Northeast Route: Traditional Houses & Rum Factory

Here, you’ll see authentic villages with stone houses and get to visit a rum factory—a perfect stop for those interested in local spirits and craftsmanship. The off-road sections allow you to see a less touristy side of Madeira, with reviewers appreciating the informative guides Dinarte and Nuno who make each stop engaging.

Guide Expertise and Tour Atmosphere

From reviews, guides like Hugo, Miguel, Nelson, and Dinarte receive high praise for their knowledgeability, passion, and friendly attitude. They often go beyond just pointing out sights, sharing stories and answering questions, making the trip both educational and fun.

Many travelers mention how the guides are considerate of pace and free to customize stops if requested. One reviewer notes that Nelson was very personable and passionate about Madeira, and a person named Hugo was called an “amazing guide,” which speaks volumes about the quality of guiding.

Off-Road Adventure and Scenic Views

The off-road driving is a significant part of the experience—expect rocky, dirt roads and mountain trails that standard buses simply can’t navigate. This adds a real sense of adventure and allows access to hidden spots with spectacular viewpoints.

Photographers will especially love the open roof options, capturing sweeping vistas of waterfalls cascading down cliffs, lush valleys, and quaint villages tucked into the mountainsides. Several reviews mention how the views and stops exceeded expectations, proving that this tour offers more than just a drive; it’s an immersive experience.

Value for Money

While the price of $71.99 per person might seem modest, the value lies in the personalized experience and the variety of sights covered. Food and drinks are not included, but the trip’s focus on natural beauty and cultural highlights makes it worthwhile. Many reviewers agree that paying a bit more for this type of small-group adventure is justified, especially considering the professional guiding, comfortable vehicles, and flexibility.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participation

• Book at least 13 days in advance—this tour is popular and fills quickly.
• Choose your route based on your interests—nature, culture, or spirits.
• Be prepared for off-road sections that might be bumpy but are part of the fun.
• Bring your camera—views are stunning, and many stops are photo-worthy.
• If you have dietary restrictions or specific interests, note that food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.
• Children are welcome but must be supervised by an adult.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This safari suits active travelers who enjoy being outdoors and seeing authentic local sights. It’s ideal if you’re interested in natural scenery, off-road driving, and cultural stops like villages and rum factories. If you love small groups for a more personal experience and good storytelling, you’ll feel right at home with guides who are passionate and knowledgeable.

It’s also a good choice for photographers seeking panoramic shots and unique perspectives. If you’re traveling with family or friends and want a flexible, fun way to explore Madeira without the constraints of large bus tours, this safari delivers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup is offered in Funchal or Caniço, and you’ll travel in a well-equipped 4×4 vehicle.

How long is the tour?
The full-day option lasts about 8 hours, including stops and off-road sections.

Can I customize the route?
You can select from three different full-day routes—Northwest, East, or Northeast—based on your interests.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes the driver/guide, local guide, and pickup; food, drinks, and lunch are not included.

Are children allowed?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
Yes, most travelers can participate, though off-road sections may be bumpy and require a basic level of mobility.

What language do guides speak?
The tour is often operated by a multi-lingual guide, so language shouldn’t be a concern.

Final Thoughts

A full-day small group Jeep safari in Madeira offers a fantastic way to see the island’s diverse scenery and cultural highlights while enjoying the comfort and camaraderie of a guided tour. The combination of off-road adventure, expert guides, and tailored routes makes it stand out as a memorable, value-packed experience.

Perfect for those who want to venture beyond the beaten path, this tour invites you to soak in breathtaking vistas, explore traditional villages, and learn about Madeira’s history and local products—all in a fun, relaxed atmosphere. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or someone eager to discover local culture, this safari is a top pick for making your Madeira visit truly special.