Madeira: Cabo Girão, Wine Tasting, & Serra d’Água Jeep Tour

Madeira: Cabo Girão, Wine Tasting, & Serra d’Água Jeep Tour

Exploring Madeira with this half-day Jeep tour is a fantastic way to see the island’s most striking sights without feeling rushed. For $85 per person, you’ll spend around four hours traveling from Funchal to the Cabo Girão skywalk, then off-road through Serra d’Água, and finally sampling Madeira’s renowned wines at a local vineyard.

What we love most about this experience are the breathtaking views from the Cabo Girão skywalk, suspended 580 meters above the Atlantic, and the off-road drive that takes you deep into Madeira’s lush Laurissilva forest, revealing the island’s hidden beauty. The wine tasting at São Vicente adds a delightful cultural touch, giving you a taste of Madeira’s long-standing viticulture.

One potential consideration is that the tour duration is around four hours, so it’s a bit tight if you’re looking for a leisurely, in-depth experience. Also, there’s an extra fee for entrance to Cabo Girão itself, which is not included in the base price. This tour is best suited for adventure lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those eager to see Madeira’s wild side beyond the typical tourist spots.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: From Cabo Girão’s skywalk to the lush valleys, the scenery is unforgettable.
• Authentic Off-Road Adventure: A fun, bumpy trip into Madeira’s interior with skilled guides.
• Cultural Insight: Learn about Madeira’s wine traditions during the vineyard visit.
• Small Group: Limited to just 8 participants for a more personal experience.
• Value for Money: Combines sightseeing, adventure, and wine tasting in a well-rounded package.
• Practical: Pickup and drop-off included, with Wi-Fi on the bus, making it convenient and comfortable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

This tour balances sightseeing, adventure, and wine culture in a way that really appeals to travelers wanting a taste of Madeira’s natural and cultural richness. Starting from Funchal, the journey takes you to the Cabo Girão skywalk, which is famous for its glass platform offering panoramic views of the Atlantic and the rugged coastline. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of the cliff, one of the highest in the world at 580 meters, giving us a clear understanding of why it’s such a popular stop.

At Cabo Girão, you’ll have some free time to soak in the views—perfect for photos or just standing in awe of the sheer drop below. While entrance to the skywalk costs around 3 euros, many visitors find the view worth the extra fee. As one reviewer put it, “The views are breathtaking, and it’s a quick but memorable stop.” Just keep in mind, if you’re sensitive to heights or prefer to avoid additional costs, you might want to plan accordingly.

From there, the tour heads into the Serra d’Água valley for the off-road drive. This is where the adventure truly begins. The guides expertly navigate steep, rugged terrain that’s impossible to access by regular vehicle. You’ll wind through traditional terraced landscapes and follow narrow, winding roads that reveal Madeira’s green heart. Multiple reviews highlight how much fun this part is, with one traveler mentioning, “The road was crazy but our driver was very skilled and funny, making the journey very enjoyable.” We found this off-road section offers the perfect mix of thrill and scenic beauty, with lush forests and mountain vistas around every bend.

One of the trip’s highlights is the visit to São Vicente, a charming town nestled in the mountains. Here, you’ll step out of the vehicle to explore the largest vineyard area in Madeira. The vineyard tour is led by knowledgeable staff who share insights into Madeira’s wine-making tradition, which dates back centuries. The tasting includes a selection of wines—one rosé, three whites, and two reds—paired with Portuguese cheese and chorizo, which adds a flavorful local touch.

Many travelers mention how much they appreciated the quality of the wine and the friendly, informative guide. One reviewer praised Gina’s expertise, saying, “The wine tasting was the cherry on top. Incredibly flavorful wines and a chance to learn about Madeira’s unique wine culture.” The tasting is relaxed but educational, giving you a chance to ask questions and savor the flavors.

The tour wraps up with a smooth return to Funchal, typically swapping stories about the day’s adventures. The overall experience emphasizes authenticity and scenic beauty — perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Madeira’s landscapes, culture, and adventure.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Pickup in Funchal
The tour begins with hotel pickup in Funchal, making it convenient for most travelers. The guides are friendly and attentive, setting a welcoming tone for the day ahead. The small group size ensures more personal attention and a relaxed atmosphere.

Stop 2: Cabo Girão Skywalk
Your first major stop is the famous skywalk. Standing on the transparent glass platform, you’ll get breathtaking vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and the jagged coast below. Many reviews praise the view as “breathtaking,” and the experience as “a quick but memorable stop.” Take your time to snap photos, soak in the scenery, and appreciate the thrill of being so high above the water.

Stop 3: Serra d’Água Scenic Drive
Next, the off-road adventure takes you into Madeira’s lush interior. The 4×4 vehicle handles steep hills and rugged terrain with ease, thanks to the skillful driver. On the way, expect to see traditional terraced farms, mountain streams, and native flora. Travelers describe the ride as “fun,” “exciting,” and “beautiful,” with some noting it’s a highlight of the trip.

Stop 4: Vineyard Tour & Wine Tasting in São Vicente
This is where you’ll explore Madeira’s wine-making culture. The vineyard tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at the largest vineyard area on the island. The wine tasting features a carefully curated selection, with reviews highlighting the quality and flavor of the wines, as well as the knowledge of the guide. The pairing with local cheeses and chorizo enhances the tasting experience.

Return to Funchal
After the vineyard visit, the bus heads back to Funchal, with plenty of opportunities to reflect on the day’s sights and stories. Wi-Fi onboard keeps you connected, and the small group setting adds to the cozy, friendly environment.

Practical Aspects and Value

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic views, adventure, and culture. At $85, it provides excellent value considering the quality of the experience—including hotel pickup, guidance, and tastings. The inclusion of Wi-Fi is a thoughtful touch, allowing you to share photos or look up more about Madeira while on the move.

The timing is tight but efficient, with plenty packed into just four hours. If you prefer a slow, leisurely day, this might feel a bit rushed, especially with the extra fee for Cabo Girão’s entrance. However, given the positive reviews emphasizing guides’ expertise and scenic beauty, most travelers find the pace just right for a half-day adventure.

This experience is particularly suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities, want a small group setting for more interaction, and are curious about Madeira’s wine traditions. It’s also ideal if you’re looking for a photo-rich tour that provides stunning vistas and authentic local flavor.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking a combination of breathtaking scenery, off-road adventure, and authentic wine tasting, this tour hits the mark. The knowledgeable guides, spectacular views, and fun-filled drive turn Madeira’s natural beauty into a memorable experience. It offers a great value for money, especially with its small-group setup and inclusive pickup.

While it may feel a little quick for some, most reviews confirm that the highlights—particularly the Cabo Girão skywalk and the off-road drive—are worth every euro. If you love nature, adventure, and local culture, this tour is a superb way to spend part of your Madeira holiday.

It’s especially ideal for active travelers who want to see the island’s most dramatic landscapes without sacrificing comfort or authenticity. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply a scenery lover, this experience offers a well-rounded peek at what makes Madeira so unique.

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FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off in Funchal are included in the tour.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours.

What is the price?
The cost is $85 per person, which covers transportation, guide, and wine tasting.

Are entrance fees to Cabo Girão included?
No, the entrance fee (~3 euros) to Cabo Girão is extra and payable on site.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not recommended for children under 3 years old, pregnant women, or wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are advisable as there is walking involved.

Is there Wi-Fi on the vehicle?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available during the tour.

Can I cancel in advance?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to 8 participants for a more intimate experience.

Do I need to pay upfront?
You can reserve now and pay later, giving you flexibility to confirm your plans.

This Madeira Jeep tour combines stunning views, adventure, and local flavor in a package that’s hard to beat for explorers eager to see the island’s finest sights.