Madeira Safari – East of the island

The Madeira Safari – East of the island offers a memorable way to discover the island’s natural beauty and cultural richness. Priced at $62.23 per person, this 7-hour tour departs from Funchal and is ideal for those eager to see Madeira’s landscapes from a unique perspective. With open-roof 4×4 vehicles, guests enjoy an unobstructed view of the island’s mountains, valleys, waterfalls, and traditional villages. The tour has earned a 4.5 out of 5 rating based on 9 reviews, with many praising the knowledgeable guides and breathtaking scenery.

This safari is well-suited for travelers who appreciate scenic drives, local history, and culture. The tour includes pickup service, making logistics easier, and features several prominent stops across the east coast, including Santana, Ribeiro Frio, Ponta de São Lourenço, and others. While the tour offers an exhilarating ride and rich storytelling, it’s important to note that most travelers can participate, and weather conditions could influence the experience.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: At $62.23, this 7-hour tour balances a comprehensive sightseeing experience with good value.
• Open-roof vehicles: All 4x4s have open roofs, providing perfect panoramic views of Madeira’s landscapes.
• Expert Guides: The tour features friendly and knowledgeable guides, with Victor often highlighted for his storytelling and friendliness.
• Stops and Highlights: Includes visits to Santana, Ribeiro Frio, Ponta de São Lourenço, and other notable locations along the east coast.
• Booking and Cancellation: Can be booked 73 days in advance on average, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours prior.
• Group Size: Limited to 16 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Madeira’s East Coast in a 4×4 Adventure

The core appeal of this Madeira Safari lies in its open-roof 4×4 vehicles, offering unobstructed views of the island’s lush landscapes. Traveling along ancient roads, the tour navigates through terrains that typical buses can’t access, revealing the true character of Madeira’s mountains and valleys. The exhilarating ride is often praised for its fun factor, especially thanks to the friendly driver, Victor, who combines local knowledge with engaging storytelling.

The tour’s itinerary covers the most scenic spots and cultural highlights of the east, such as the colorful village of Santana, famous for its traditional houses, and Ribeiro Frio, known for its lush nature and trout farms. The stop at Ponta de São Lourenço offers dramatic coastal views and wild landscapes, perfect for photography and appreciating Madeira’s rugged beauty.

Exploring Santana and Its Traditional Houses

Santana is one of the main stops on this safari, celebrated for its historic, triangular-shaped thatched houses. Visitors observe these iconic structures, which showcase Madeira’s architectural style. The visit lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, allowing plenty of time to explore, take photos, and learn about local construction traditions.

This stop provides a break from the more mountainous areas, giving insight into the island’s rural life. The nearby traditional markets and factories offer glimpses into Madeira’s local crafts, textiles, and culinary traditions. It’s a favorite for those interested in authentic regional culture and architecture.

From Poiso to Ribeiro Frio: Mountain and Valley Views

The route includes a drive through Poiso, a mountain area that leads toward Arieiro’s Peak, one of Madeira’s highest points. These high-altitude stops provide sweeping views over the landscape, with some stops allowing brief walks. The Ribeiro Frio stop immerses visitors in lush greenery, a stark contrast to the arid mountain tops, and offers opportunities to see local trout farms and dense forest.

This part of the tour appeals particularly to nature lovers, offering picture-perfect vistas and fresh mountain air. The guides explain the significance of terraces, mountain agriculture, and local flora, enriching the experience.

Coastal Highlights at Ponta de São Lourenço

The Ponta de São Lourenço stop is among the most striking, with rugged cliffs and panoramic ocean views. The tour often allows some free time here for short walks along designated paths, where visitors can admire wild, windswept landscapes and dramatic waves crashing below.

This area is renowned for its natural beauty and contrasts sharply with inland green zones. It’s an ideal spot for photography and enjoying Madeira’s unspoiled coastal scenery.

Porto da Cruz and Faial: Cultural and Scenic Gems

The stops at Porto da Cruz and Faial showcase local villages with authentic charm. Porto da Cruz is famous for its traditional rum distilleries and local markets, where visitors can observe regional crafts and taste local produce.

Faial offers peaceful coastal views, small beaches, and local eateries. Both stops provide insights into Madeira’s community life beyond the tourist centers, adding depth to the overall experience.

Logistics, Group Size, and Booking

The meeting point is conveniently arranged, with pickup offered to streamline the day. The tour begins promptly at 9:00 am, giving travelers a full day to explore. The maximum group size of 16 travelers ensures that the experience remains intimate and personalized.

Most bookings are made 73 days in advance, indicating strong interest. The tour operates rain or shine, but poor weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling with a full refund or alternative date.

The Guide: Friendly, Knowledgeable, and Engaging

Guests consistently praise the guide, Victor, for his friendly demeanor and extensive local knowledge. His storytelling makes the journey lively and informative, enriching the scenic views with historical and cultural insights. The exhilarating ride combined with good communication makes this experience both fun and educational.

Value and Cancellation Policy

Priced at $62.23, the tour offers a solid value considering the length, stops, and scenery. The free cancellation policy provides peace of mind, allowing cancellations up to 24 hours in advance without penalty. This flexibility makes it suitable even for travelers with unpredictable plans or weather concerns.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This safari suits adventurers, nature lovers, and those keen to explore Madeira’s less accessible areas. The open-roof 4×4 vehicles are perfect for those who enjoy scenic drives and stunning vistas. It’s also a good pick for culture enthusiasts, thanks to stops at traditional villages and markets. People who prefer guided tours with expert commentary** will find this particularly rewarding.

Final Thoughts on Madeira Safari – East of the island

This 7-hour safari offers a dynamic blend of landscapes, culture, and adventure, making it an excellent way to see Madeira’s east coast. The open-roof 4x4s, combined with visits to Santana and Ponta de São Lourenço, create a vivid and engaging experience.

While the ride is exhilarating and the scenery breathtaking, travelers should be prepared for some bumpy roads and variable weather. The small group size ensures plenty of interaction with guides, who bring Madeira’s stories to life. This tour balances fun, education, and stunning views, making it a worthy addition to any Madeira itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Madeira Safari – East of the island tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including multiple scenic stops and time for exploration.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs $62.23, offering good value for a full day of sightseeing.

Are pickup services available?
Yes, pickup is offered, making the start of the tour smooth and convenient.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Santana, Poiso, Arieiro’s Peak, Ribeiro Frio, Faial, Porto da Cruz, and Ponta de São Lourenço.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should consider the bumpy terrain and walks involved at some stops.

What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable clothes, camera, and weather-appropriate gear are recommended. The open-roof vehicles provide great photo opportunities.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, with full refunds.

How many people are on each tour?
The group size is limited to 16 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of open-roof 4x4s, expert guides, and diverse stops across Madeira’s east make this an exciting and comprehensive way to explore the island.

Is the weather a concern?
Yes, poor weather could lead to cancellations or rescheduling, so check the forecast before booking.