Shore Excursion – East Madeira Peaks & Santana

Exploring Madeira’s Natural Beauty and Traditional Charm: A Review of the East Madeira Peaks & Santana Shore Excursion

When your cruise ship docks in Funchal, Portugal, a day exploring Madeira’s captivating landscapes and traditional villages can be a highlight of your trip. This 8-hour guided tour offered by Green Devil Safari** takes you through lush forests, scenic viewpoints, and the iconic thatched houses of Santana, all for around $75 per person. Led by knowledgeable guides like Lino and Diogo, you’ll visit sites like Machico, Porto da Cruz, and Pico do Arieiro, with the added convenience of pickup and drop-off at the cruise terminal or other locations, plus included lunch options.

What we love about this tour is its combination of stunning vistas—think views from Pico do Arieiro and Balcoes de Ribeiro Frio—and the chance to see Madeira’s famous traditional houses in Santana. The open-top 4×4 ride creates an immersive experience, letting you feel the wind and absorb the scenery up close. Plus, the group size is small—up to 8 travelers—which means more personalized attention from your guide and fewer crowds.

However, one consideration is that some reviewers have expressed discomfort with the transportation arrangements. A few noted that the jeep used for the tour isn’t always spacious enough for larger groups, with uncomfortable seating and limited views for some passengers. This could be a downside if you prefer a more comfortable ride or have mobility issues.

This tour suits travelers who want to see Madeira’s natural highlights, enjoy authentic local architecture, and appreciate an informal, friendly guide. If you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic day that balances on-road sightseeing with off-road adventure, this could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Scenic Views & Highlights: Expect breathtaking viewpoints like Pico do Arieiro and Balcoes de Ribeiro Frio.
• Authentic Culture: Santana’s traditional thatched houses provide a glimpse into Madeira’s rural past.
• Small Group Experience: Up to 8 travelers means a more intimate, flexible tour.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Lino and Diogo are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Transportation: Open-top 4×4 offers an immersive ride, though some may find seating arrangements tight.
• Value for Money: At $75, including transportation, a guide, and stops at key sites, the tour offers good value, especially considering the personalized experience.

In-Depth Review of the East Madeira Peaks & Santana Tour

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour is designed to be hassle-free. For $75.24 per person, you get pickup and drop-off at the cruise terminal or other designated areas, a knowledgeable driver/guide, and several planned stops at some of Madeira’s most scenic and culturally important sites. Lunch is not included in the price, but vegan and vegetarian options are available, making it flexible for dietary needs.

However, it’s worth noting that lunch is a separate expense, so budget accordingly if you want to indulge in local cuisine. The small-group setting (up to 8 people) enhances the experience, allowing for more interaction and flexibility.

How the Day Unfolds: An Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Machico – A quick 10-minute stop, this town was Portugal’s first settlement on Madeira and offers a pleasant introduction to the island’s history. Although the stop is brief, it sets a relaxed tone for the day ahead.

Miradouro da Portela – Just 5 minutes at this viewpoint, you’ll get a taste of Madeira’s rugged coastline and lush greenery. It’s a perfect spot for a quick photo and to soak in the panoramic views.

Porto da Cruz – While the schedule doesn’t specify the duration, this charming village is known for its sugarcane fields and rum production. It’s an authentic stop, giving insight into local traditions.

Fortress of Faial – Another brief stop (about 5 minutes), this viewpoint offers dramatic views of the coastline and the historic fortress. It’s a postcard-perfect moment.

Santana – The highlight for many travelers, the traditional thatched houses are unmistakably iconic. You’ll have around 15 minutes here to walk among these colorful structures, which are some of Madeira’s most recognizable symbols of rural life.

Casas Tipicas de Santana – Although the tour notes that this is a paid entry, you can view the houses from outside or choose to explore further on your own. It’s an excellent photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate the craftsmanship.

Balcoes de Ribeiro Frio – A natural park and small village, this stop offers a peaceful setting and a chance to breathe in Madeira’s natural beauty. No entrance fee here, and the scenery is lush and inviting.

Pico do Arieiro – The highest of the viewpoints, standing at 1,818 meters, offers breathtaking vistas. A 15-minute stop here lets you absorb the expansive views, often above the clouds, which visitors find truly memorable.

Throughout the day, the driver/guide manages all logistics, so you can relax and focus on the scenery. The drive itself is part of the experience, especially in the open-top 4×4, which offers unobstructed views and an adventurous feel.

Authentic Experiences and Highlights

One of the best aspects of this tour is the expert commentary from guides like Lino and Diogo, who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge. As one reviewer noted, they add humor and insight, making the day both educational and fun.

The views from Pico do Arieiro and the Balcoes de Ribeiro Frio are, without doubt, some of the most impressive on the island. Expect to be wowed by the contrast of rugged mountains, verdant forests, and sweeping coastlines. Many travelers raved about how these vistas made the trip worthwhile.

A standout feature is the traditional houses in Santana, which provide a rare glimpse into Madeira’s rural architecture. Their vivid colors and thatched roofs are photogenic and evoke a sense of stepping back in time.

Transportation and Comfort

While the open-top 4×4 ride is a major selling point, some reviews highlight discomfort. A few customers mentioned that the jeep used for the tour isn’t always spacious enough for larger groups or for those who prefer a more comfortable ride. One reviewer wrote, “Most uncomfortable Ride,” noting that the seats faced each other with limited views for some passengers. If you’re sensitive to seating arrangements or prefer more comfort, this is something to consider.

Despite this, many reviewers appreciated the adventure and authenticity that the off-road experience provides. The open-air vehicle allows you to truly feel part of Madeira’s environment, even if it means sacrificing some comfort.

The Guide’s Role and Local Insights

Multiple reviews emphasize the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. Diogo, in particular, received praise for his humor, local insights, and ability to keep the group engaged. Such personal touches turn a sightseeing trip into a memorable experience.

Because the tour is limited to small groups, guides can tailor some stops or provide more detailed commentary, which enhances value, especially for those interested in Madeira’s geology, flora, or culture.

Pricing and Value

At around $75 per person, this tour provides solid value for a full day filled with diverse sightseeing, expert guidance, and scenic drives. The included stops at key viewpoints and sites ensure you get a rundown of Madeira’s eastern highlights.

However, since lunch is extra, budget for a meal if you want to sample local flavors. The cost becomes even more reasonable considering the personalized experience and the convenience of transportation.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This trip is ideal for cruise travelers who want to maximize their time and see the highlights without worrying about organizing transport or schedules. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic drives and natural beauty, as well as authentic cultural sights like Santana’s houses. If you’re comfortable with a bumpy ride and are looking for a small-group experience with friendly guides, this tour fits well.

It’s less suited for travelers with mobility challenges or those seeking a more luxurious or comfortable ride, given the reported discomfort with some jeep seats. Those who prioritize convenience and comfort may want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

The East Madeira Peaks & Santana tour strikes a good balance between adventure, scenery, and cultural sights, especially considering its fair price point. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides ensure a personalized experience that many travelers find rewarding. While transportation comfort may be an issue for some, the breathtaking views and genuine insights make it a worthwhile option.

If you love dramatic mountain vistas, traditional architecture, and a touch of off-road fun, this tour offers a solid way to see Madeira’s best eastern spots in one day. It’s particularly suitable for active travelers who don’t mind a less plush ride and want to learn about the island from passionate guides.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy multiple stops and take in the scenery.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at the cruise terminal or other designated locations are included, with a small-group setting in open-top 4×4 vehicles.

Are vegetarian or vegan options available for lunch?
While lunch is not included in the price, vegan and vegetarian options are available if you choose to buy lunch separately.

What stops are included?
Stops include Machico, Miradouro da Portela, Porto da Cruz, Fortress of Faial, Santana, Casas Tipicas de Santana, Balcoes de Ribeiro Frio, and Pico do Arieiro.

How much walking is involved?
Stops are brief, usually 5-15 minutes, mainly to enjoy views or take photos. Expect minimal walking but be prepared for uneven terrain at some viewpoints.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. Keep in mind the ride might be bumpy for younger kids.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, the tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What makes this tour worth it?
The combination of expert guides, stunning viewpoints, and an intimate group setting makes it a rewarding way to explore Madeira’s eastern landscape without the hassle of planning it yourself.

To sum it up, this tour offers an engaging, scenic, and culturally rich experience of Madeira’s east coast, especially suited for those who appreciate authentic sights and a bit of adventure. While transportation comfort could be improved, the overall value, guided insights, and stunning views make it a memorable choice for many travelers.