Half day jeep Wine tour and tasting, & sea cliff adventure

A half-day adventure in Madeira, offered by Green Devil Safari, combines off-road jeep rides, breathtaking views from Cabo Girao, and a wine tasting at Quinta do Barbusano. Priced at $61.66 per person, this 3.5-hour tour is designed for those seeking a lively, scenic, and cultural snapshot of the island. It departs from Funchal, with pickup included, making it convenient for visitors. The small group size—maximum 8 persons per jeep—ensures a personalized experience, and the inclusion of a mobile ticket adds to the ease of access. The tour has earned a perfect 5.0/5 from 18 reviews, with 94% recommending it, reflecting its popularity and value.

While the itinerary is packed with iconic sights and delicious wine, the tour’s real strength lies in its combination of adventure, scenery, and culture. The off-road jeep ride takes you to some of Madeira’s most dramatic viewpoints, and the wine tasting offers a taste of Madeira’s famous viticulture. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a short but comprehensive taste of the island’s natural beauty and local flavors. However, keep in mind that admission fees, such as Cabo Girao’s 3 euros, are not included, and some stops are free.

Key Points

• Affordable at $61.66 per person, for a 3.5-hour tour that covers scenic vistas and wine tasting
• Includes pickup from Funchal and small group experience for personalized attention
• Highlights include Cabo Girao, Quinta Grande, Serra de Água, and a vineyard visit
• Off-road jeep ride provides access to hard-to-reach viewpoints with stunning scenery
• Wine tasting at Quinta do Barbusano features 6 local wines paired with cheese, bread, and chorizo
• Reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, beautiful views, and fun atmosphere

Madeira’s Must-See Viewpoints: Cabo Girao and Sea Cliffs

The tour begins with a visit to Cabo Girao, one of Madeira’s most famous landmarks. This cliffside lookout offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Funchal, with the Skywalk Platform extending out over the edge for a thrilling photo opportunity. Although the admission fee of 3 euros is not included, the views are well worth the visit. The tour allows plenty of time to explore different viewpoints, making it ideal for snapping photos or simply enjoying the vastness of the landscape.

Next, the sea cliffs and surrounds are explored from the comfort of the open-top 4×4 jeep. This vehicle allows for an up-close experience with Madeira’s dramatic coastal scenery. The off-road ride is highlighted in reviews for its fun and adventurous feel, taking travelers to places difficult to access by regular vehicles. The scenery is consistently praised for its beauty and variety, from rugged cliffs to lush valleys.

Exploring the Historic Quinta Grande Estate

The quintessential Quinta Grande, with its centuries-old history, serves as a cultural highlight. Known as the “Big Estate”, it played a significant role during Madeira’s early agricultural and colonial periods, with crops like sugarcane and cereals cultivated here. Today, it stands as a symbol of Madeira’s farming legacy and offers a glimpse into the island’s traditional land use.

While the admission is free, visitors can appreciate the historical significance and scenic views from the estate. The location also provides a peaceful stop to appreciate the landscape’s beauty and historical architecture. The stop offers a break from the jeep ride and an opportunity to soak in some local history.

The Coastal Charm of Campanário

A short drive takes travelers to Campanário, a coastal village renowned for its maritime traditions and fishing history. Named after the bell tower of its church, the village has maintained its fishing roots for centuries. This stop offers a quintessential glimpse into Madeira’s sea-based livelihood.

The village’s history as a fishing community shows in its traditional houses and seafront views. While the visit is brief, it adds a local flavor to the tour, emphasizing Madeira’s maritime culture. Visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and scenic sea views, perfect for a quick photo or a moment of reflection.

Ribeira Brava and the Old Town’s Heritage

A visit to Ribeira Brava offers an insight into Madeira’s early settlement. Founded in the 15th century, this town has a long-standing reputation as an agricultural and trading hub. The river that runs through the town is known for its strong currents, matching the name “Wild River”.

The stop is free of charge, giving ample time to admire the colorful houses and historic landmarks like the church of São Bento. The town’s charming streets provide a lovely contrast to the scenic cliffs and countryside visited earlier in the tour.

Serra de Água and Meia Légua: Water and Agriculture

The Serra de Água area, meaning “Water Mountains,” lives up to its name with its streams and rivers that nourish the lush valleys. Located centrally, this area features scenic mountain views and terraced farming, particularly vineyards and bananas.

Nearby, Meia Légua, or “Half a League,” is a serene rural zone characterized by terraced farmland. Its name refers to a historical measurement of distance. The area is known for its agricultural roots, with vineyards and fruit plantations on its hillsides. These stops highlight Madeira’s farming traditions and rural landscape.

Both locations are free to visit, offering a peaceful break from the more scenic viewpoints.

The Charm of São Vicente and Its Cultural Legacy

São Vicente offers a vibrant glimpse into Madeira’s cultural heritage. Known for its colorful houses and historic landmarks, it features the Church of São Vicente, dating back many centuries. The town played a key role in religious and community life on the island.

The stop here is brief but meaningful, providing an authentic taste of local life. Visitors can explore the streets, enjoy local architecture, and appreciate the long-standing traditions of this charming town.

Discovering Lime Kilns at Rota da Cal

The Rota da Cal showcases Madeira’s lime production history. The trail features traditional lime kilns used in past centuries for construction, agriculture, and crafts. This cultural route offers a rare look into a once-important industry on the island.

The 20-minute stop is not included in the admission, but it provides an educational experience for those interested in Madeira’s industrial heritage. It emphasizes the practical craftsmanship that supported local building and farming traditions.

Quinta do Barbusano: Wine and Vineyard Views

The culmination of the tour is a visit to Quinta do Barbusano, an established vineyard in Madeira. This stop lasts about an hour, offering wine tastings featuring 6 different Madeira table wines. The pairing with toasted bread, cheeses, and chorizo enriches the experience.

The vineyard is a key part of Madeira’s winemaking legacy, dating back to the early settlers. Visitors gain insight into local wine production and enjoy breathtaking vineyard scenery. The taste of Madeira’s renowned wines here is often highlighted as a tour highlight.

Practicalities and Booking Information

The tour includes free pickup from Funchal center and Caniço, with options for mobile tickets for easy access. The small group size ensures personalized service, and the friendly guides are praised for their knowledge and humor in reviews.

Additional costs include Cabo Girao’s 3 euro entrance fee and wine tasting at €18 per person. For cruise visitors, a €5 pickup fee applies at the harbor. The entire experience is cancellable free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility for travelers.

This half-day jeep tour offers a perfect balance between adventure, sightseeing, and wine tasting. It’s especially suited for those with limited time but who still want a comprehensive snapshot of Madeira’s natural beauty and local traditions. The off-road ride guarantees fun and access to hard-to-reach viewpoints, while the wine tasting provides a delicious taste of Madeira’s famous wines.

While the stops are brief, each offers meaningful insights into the island’s geography, history, and culture. The small group size fosters a relaxed atmosphere, and the guides’ expertise receives high praise from past reviews.

This tour is a solid choice for those looking for a compact but richly textured introduction to Madeira. The balance of scenery, culture, and flavors makes it an ideal half-day option for curious travelers seeking fun and meaningful experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.

What is the price per person?
The cost is $61.66 per person, which includes pickup and a guided experience.

Are meals or additional tastings included?
The wine tasting at Quinta do Barbusano costs €18 per person and includes 6 wines, cheese, bread, and chorizo.

Is pickup available from cruise ships?
Yes, there is free pickup from Funchal center and Caniço; a €5 fee applies if pickup is at the harbor.

What stops are included in the itinerary?
Stops include Cabo Girao, Quinta Grande, Campanário, Ribeira Brava, Serra de Água, Meia Légua, São Vicente, Rota da Cal, and Quinta do Barbusano.

Are the attractions accessible for all physical levels?
The tour involves off-road jeep rides and walking at viewpoints. Participants should be comfortable with moderate physical activity and standing.

Are entrance fees included?
No, Cabo Girao’s entrance fee of 3 euros and wine tasting are paid separately if chosen.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.

Who operates this tour?
The experience is provided by Green Devil Safari, known for their adventurous and personalized tours.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While most travelers can participate, the off-road ride and walking may not suit very young children without additional assistance or supervision.

This half-day jeep wine and sea cliff adventure offers a blend of Madeira’s natural beauty, cultural sites, and local flavors that makes it a memorable, efficient way to experience the island.