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

Exploring Madeira’s eastern landscape becomes an adventure with the Full Day Jeep Safari East tour, offered by Safari Madeira at just $67.20 per person. This 8-hour excursion starts at 9:00 am with hotel pickup, making it easy to begin your day without hassle. The tour takes you through remote villages, spectacular viewpoints, and accessible natural spots that are hard to reach in regular vehicles, all while riding in a comfortable 4×4.

What truly sets this tour apart is the focus on local expertise, with guides providing live commentary and fascinating insights along the way. The group remains intimate, with a maximum of 8 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. From Pico do Areeiro to Ponta de São Lourenço, the tour offers a balanced mix of scenic stops, light walks, and cultural visits, making it a family-friendly choice that combines nature, history, and local flavors.

While the tour covers many highlights, it does not include lunch or drinks, so planning for meals is recommended. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off saves time, allowing the full focus to be on the breathtaking sights.

Key Points

• Affordable full-day adventure exploring Madeira’s east coast in a 4×4 vehicle
• Stops at Pico do Areeiro, Santana, Machico, and Ponta de São Lourenço with stunning viewpoints
• Expert guides offer live commentary and detailed insights into the island’s natural and cultural sites
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics simple and stress-free
• Well-suited for families and small groups, with a maximum of 8 travelers
• Not including lunch or drinks, so bring your own or plan to purchase during stops

Madeira’s East Coast in a Comfortable 4×4 Vehicle

This tour begins with a hotel pickup at Funchal, setting the stage for a relaxed, day-long exploration. The 8-hour itinerary covers key sights in Madeira’s east, with stops designed to showcase the island’s natural beauty and unique villages, all while traveling comfortably in a 4×4 jeep. The tour is ideal for those wanting an intimate, guided experience with a focus on scenic photography and cultural insights.

The small group size ensures personalized attention, with a guide explaining local facts, landmarks, and history. This tour strikes a balance between off-road adventure and leisurely sightseeing, appealing to travelers who enjoy a mix of exploration and relaxation.

Visiting Pico do Areeiro: The High Mountain Marvel

The journey begins at Pico do Areeiro, one of Madeira’s highest points, offering spectacular panoramic views. The 25-minute stop includes no entrance fee, providing ample opportunity to enjoy the breathtaking landscape and take photos of the surrounding peaks and deep valleys.

This spot is a favorite for its dramatic mountain scenery and the chance to see cloud formations from above. The drive to Pico do Areeiro is part of the adventure, with the guide offering insights into the region’s geology and climate.

The Levada Walk at Balcões de Ribeiro Frio

Next, the tour takes a 20-minute walk at Balcões de Ribeiro Frio, a popular levada trail. The free admission makes it accessible, and the short walk offers a close-up view of lush, tropical vegetation and mountain scenery.

The Levada dos Balcões trail is easy enough for most visitors and provides a great photo opportunity. The guide often points out local flora and birdlife, making this a rewarding stop for nature lovers.

Santana’s Traditional Houses and Local Lunch

A highlight of the tour is the 2-hour stop in Santana, renowned for its traditional, colorful houses with thatched roofs. This is where the tour combines sightseeing with cultural appreciation.

Guests have time to check out the houses, browse shops for souvenirs, and enjoy a local meal (lunch is not included but recommended). The village atmosphere and authentic architecture make Santana a favorite for those interested in Madeira’s heritage.

Panoramic Viewpoint at Miradouro do Guindaste

The 15-minute stop at Miradouro do Guindaste offers a breathtaking viewpoint over the coastline. The visuals of rugged cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean are stunning and often cited as a top photo spot.

While limited in time, this stop offers enough opportunity to soak in the spectacular vistas and understand why Madeira’s coastline is so famous. It’s an ideal place for a quick photo break.

Rum Tasting at Porto da Cruz

A unique experience on this tour is the 20-minute visit to the Porto da Cruz Rum Factory, where visitors can sample Madeira Rum. The free tasting provides insights into the island’s legendary distilling tradition and allows for some local shopping.

This stop adds a flavorful twist to the day, giving a taste of Madeira’s culinary heritage. It’s also a chance to purchase souvenirs like bottles of locally crafted rum.

Ponta do Rosto Viewpoint and Porto Santo Visibility

The final stop, Ponta do Rosto, is a 15-minute viewpoint where visitors can see the red cliffs and, if weather permits, even catch a glimpse of Porto Santo island. The scenic rugged coastline makes this a must-see for landscape photography.

This location caps off the tour with breathtaking views of Madeira’s coast, often praised for its dramatic natural beauty. Weather can influence visibility, so a clear day enhances this experience.

Passing Through Machico and Santa Cruz

On the way back, the tour passes through Machico, Madeira’s first capital, and Santa Cruz, offering a glimpse into the island’s settlement history and local life. These areas are mostly viewed from the vehicle, but they add context to Madeira’s development and culture.

The final drop-off at your hotel wraps up the day, making it easy to relax after exploring some of Madeira’s most scenic and culturally significant spots.

Practical Details: Logistics and Booking

This tour is designed for ease and comfort, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. The meeting point is flexible, and the mobile ticket format simplifies access. The group size is limited, ensuring attentive guiding, and the guides are often multi-lingual.

While the price of $67.20 provides excellent value, travelers should note that lunch and drinks are not included, so bringing snacks or planning meals ahead is advisable. The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness, as some stops involve short walks.

The Sum Up: A Well-Rounded Madeira Adventure in a Small Group

This full-day Jeep safari offers a great way to see Madeira’s eastern highlights without the stress of self-driving or large bus tours. The combination of scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and off-road driving makes it a fun and informative experience, especially for those who appreciate small-group tours and personalized guiding.

The expert guides receive praise for their knowledge and friendly approach, making each stop informative and engaging. The narrative around the local history, natural features, and traditions enhances the overall experience.

However, travelers should be prepared for a full day of exploration. The tour’s off-road sections and narrow mountain roads may be nerve-wracking for some, but guides like Alex, Ernesto, Pedro, and Victor are noted for their skilled driving and calming presence.

This tour is highly recommended for anyone wanting a comprehensive, lively, and scenic way to discover Madeira’s east coast in a small-group setting with excellent value.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $67.20 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am.

What stops are included in the itinerary?
Stops include Pico do Areeiro, Balcões de Ribeiro Frio, Santana, Miradouro do Guindaste, Porto da Cruz, and Ponta do Rosto with views of red cliffs and Porto Santo if the weather permits.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch and drinks are not included; it is advisable to bring snacks or plan to buy food during stops.

What type of vehicle is used?
A 4×4 jeep is used, providing an off-road capable, comfortable ride.

Are there any physical requirements?
Yes, travelers should have moderate physical fitness as some stops involve short walks.

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

How many people will be in the group?
The maximum group size is 8 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience.

Can children join this tour?
Yes, children must be accompanied by an adult.

What guides operate this tour?
The tour is typically operated by multi-lingual guides, with guides like Ernesto, Alex, Pedro, or Victor praised for their knowledge and friendliness.