Shore Excursion Santana – Northeast 4×4 tour

Explore Madeira’s Northeast with a 4×4 Adventure for $74.52

This shore excursion offers an engaging way to explore Madeira’s northeast in a small group setting. Priced at $74.52 per person, the tour lasts around 7 to 8 hours and includes pickup and drop-off at the Funchal cruise terminal. The experience is led by a multilanguage guide who provides insightful commentary on the region’s history, flora, fauna, and culture.

Travelers appreciate that this tour takes place in an open-top 4×4 vehicle, allowing for exceptional views and a true off-road experience. With seven stops at notable villages, viewpoints, and attractions, the tour is perfect for those eager to see Madeira’s authentic countryside and coastal scenery. The lunch is included, though additional activities like visiting Santana’s traditional houses require extra tickets. The tour is well-suited for those who want a comprehensive and scenic introduction to Madeira’s northeast.

Key Points

• Price per person: $74.52
• Duration: 7 to 8 hours, starting at 8:30 am
• Includes: pickup/drop-off at cruise terminal, local guide, small group (up to 8 people)
• Transportation: open-top 4×4 vehicle for off-road and scenic drives
• Stops: 7 major locations, including charming villages and viewpoints
• Additional costs: lunch included, but some sites like Casas Tipicas de Santana** are extra
• Reviews: Rated 5/5 with 7 reviews, praised for knowledgeable guides and stunning vistas

Starting at São Vicente: First Impressions and Natural Beauty

The tour begins with a pickup at the cruise terminal in Funchal early in the morning, ensuring a smooth start. The first stop is São Vicente, where the group spends about 10 minutes. The town is known for its volcanic origins and lush surroundings, setting a scenic tone for the day. Expect to hear stories about the region’s geological background from the guide, adding context to the landscape.

From São Vicente, the route winds through native forests and old roads that are inaccessible to larger buses. The off-road capabilities of the 4×4 allow the tour to reach hard-to-access viewpoints and hidden spots. The small group size enhances the sense of adventure and ensures personalized attention from the guide.

Visiting Ponta Delgada: Coastal Charm and Local Life

Next, the group visits Ponta Delgada, a village offering a glimpse of authentic Madeiran life. The guide points out tiny shops and cozy cafes, where locals still maintain traditions. This stop is free of charge and provides an opportunity for photos of the coastal scenery and fishing port.

Travelers enjoy hearing about local customs and the historical importance of the town’s fishing industry. The route continues along off-road tracks that reveal the island’s diverse flora and native fauna, making it a rich experience for nature enthusiasts.

Boaventura: A Village Frozen in Time

The third stop, Boaventura, offers a 15-minute walk through a quaint village. Known for its traditional houses with thatched roofs, this site is a living example of Madeira’s past. The guide shares stories about local farming and the village’s historical significance.

This stop is perfect for those interested in local architecture and rural lifestyles, with enough time to explore small shops and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. The free admission makes this a cost-effective highlight of the tour.

Arco de São Jorge: Spectacular Coastal Views

The off-road journey brings travelers to the Arco de São Jorge, famed for its dramatic sea cliffs and panoramic vistas. Here, the group stops briefly to take in breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and surrounding valleys. The guide explains geological features and local legends, enriching the visual experience.

This scenic lookout exemplifies Madeira’s geographical diversity and offers excellent photo opportunities. The short stop is ideal for stretching legs and soaking in nature’s grandeur.

Santana: The Heart of Madeira’s Traditional Houses

At Santana, travelers spend around 45 minutes exploring the famous triangular houses with thatched roofs. These típicas casas are iconic symbols of Madeira’s heritage. The guide provides insights into local construction techniques and cultural traditions.

A highlight here is the chance to visit Casas Tipicas de Santana, a heritage site that showcases authentic rural architecture. The visit is 15 minutes long, with additional admission tickets available if visitors want a deeper experience.

Porto da Cruz: Coastal Village and Cultural Insights

The next stop is Porto da Cruz, where the group spends about 15 minutes. This fishing village boasts a long history of sugar and rum production, which the guide explains in detail. The site offers views of coastal terraces and the famous rum factory, although entrance fees are not included.

Visitors can enjoy scenic coastal vistas and local artisanal shops. The stop provides a relaxed atmosphere to appreciate Madeira’s maritime heritage.

Ponta de São Lourenço: A Nature Lover’s Paradise

The tour concludes with a 5-minute stop at Ponta de São Lourenço, a limestone promontory renowned for dramatic cliffs and unique flora. The guide highlights the geology and endemic plant species during this quick visit.

This location is ideal for short walks and photo opportunities, offering a spectacular ending to the sightseeing itinerary. The stop’s brief duration makes it manageable for all ages and fitness levels.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The tour departs at 8:30 am, with pickup arranged directly at the Funchal cruise terminal. The small group size—up to 8 persons—ensures a personalized experience. The multilanguage guide enriches the journey with stories and explanations about each location.

Included in the tour are local taxes, fuel, and transportation. Lunch is part of the package, offering a convenient meal during the day’s activities. Additional site visits, like the Casas Tipicas de Santana, may require extra tickets.

Experience Quality and Review Highlights

This tour boasts a perfect rating of 5.0 out of 5 from 7 reviews, reflecting consistent satisfaction. Reviewers emphasize the knowledgeable guides, particularly noting the driver and guide Leno, who is praised for being informative and taking guests to hidden gems.

The stunning viewpoints and off-road drives in native forests and coastal areas are consistently highlighted as highlights. The off-road nature combined with local cultural insights makes this trip stand out from typical bus tours.

Who Should Consider This Northeast 4×4 Tour?

This Madeira shore excursion is ideal for travelers seeking an active, scenic, and culturally rich experience. The small group size and open-top vehicle provide an intimate and flexible way to explore less accessible areas. It is particularly suited for nature lovers and anyone interested in local villages, viewpoints, and traditional architecture.

The 7 to 8-hour duration offers a full day of exploration without feeling rushed, but travelers should be comfortable with off-road driving. The lunch included adds value, especially for those looking for a convenient, all-in-one experience.

The Sum Up: A Scenic and Authentic Madeira Experience

The Shore Excursion Santana – Northeast 4×4 tour delivers a comprehensive look at Madeira’s northeast in a small-group, adventure-driven format. The expert guide, stunning vistas, and authentic villages combine to create a memorable day for those wanting to see Madeira off the beaten path.

While some sites like the Casas Tipicas de Santana require extra tickets, the main stops and scenic drives are included in the affordable price. The 8-hour duration allows ample time to enjoy nature, culture, and local stories. This tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, culture, and scenery, making it a recommendation for active travelers and those eager to experience Madeira’s true spirit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult. The tour is friendly for most age groups, especially those comfortable with off-road driving.

What is included in the price?
The price covers local taxes, pickup/drop-off, small group size, lunch, and the guiding services.

Are there any extra costs?
Yes, admission tickets for Casas Tipicas de Santana are not included and may require additional payment.

What kind of vehicle is used?
The tour uses an open-top 4×4 vehicle, perfect for off-road tracks and scenic viewpoints.

How long are the stops?
Most stops range from 5 to 45 minutes, with the longest at Santana for 45 minutes.

What time does the tour start?
The tour departs at 8:30 am from the cruise terminal.

Is lunch included?
Yes, lunch is part of the package, making for a convenient full-day experience.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is limited to 8 persons, ensuring a personalized experience.

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

Who operates this tour?
The tour is provided by Green Devil Safari, known for their off-road explorations in Madeira.