North-East Madeira: Santana, Porto da Cruz, Faial, Caniçal

North-East Madeira: Santana, Porto da Cruz, Faial, Caniçal
Location: Madeira, Portugal
Country: Portugal
Rating: 5/5 (based on 2 reviews)
Price: $68 per person
Supplier: Green Wheels
Similar Experiences:

• Santana’s Straw Thatched Roofed Houses Tour
• West Madeira Waterfalls & Rock Pools
• Personalized Jeep Adventure

Meta Description: Discover Madeira’s northeastern charm on this 6.5-hour tour featuring Santana’s thatched houses, Porto da Cruz rum, and breathtaking coastal views.

Quick Thoughts: What We Like About This Tour

This tour promises a scenic, well-paced exploration of Madeira’s north-east coast — perfect for those who love authentic villages and dramatic landscapes. We particularly appreciate the small group size, which makes for a more intimate experience and allows guides like Guilherme to customize stops based on your interests — a real plus for flexible travelers.

The stops are well-chosen, from the colorful, traditional houses of Santana to the volcanic cliffs of Porto da Cruz. And, the inclusion of local treats like sugarcane rum offers a taste of Madeira’s culture.

One potential consideration is the price of $68, which stacks up against other tours, but the value is evident in the personalized service, knowledgeable guides, and stunning scenery.

This experience suits travelers who value authentic cultural stops, natural beauty, and a relaxed pace, all delivered by friendly guides who know the island well.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Authentic Villages: Santana’s iconic straw-roofed houses are straight out of a storybook.
• Cultural Tastes: Sampling Madeira’s famous sugarcane rum in Porto da Cruz makes for a flavorful stop.
• Breathtaking Views: Rugged cliffs and ocean panoramas along the coast are a standout feature.
• Small Group: Limited to 4 participants, ensuring a personalized, flexible experience.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Guilherme offer insights and flexibility, enhancing the trip.
• Price & Duration: At $68 for 6.5 hours, the tour offers good value for a comprehensive day out.

A Deep Dive into the North-East Madeira Tour

Starting Out: Pickup and First Impressions

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your accommodation in Madeira. Green Wheels uses a white Smart #3 with red accents for their pickups, making it easy to spot your guide. Expect a friendly welcome and a brief overview of the day ahead. The small group size means you’re not just another face in the crowd — guides like Guilherme are known for their accommodating and flexible approach, which many reviews highlight as a real highlight.

Caniçal: A Maritime Heritage Tour

Your first stop is Caniçal, a fishing village that once thrived on whale hunting. Today, it’s a peaceful spot where you can stroll along the coastline and appreciate Madeira’s maritime roots. While the official stop doesn’t include entry fees, we loved the way the guide shared stories about the village’s past, giving us a glimpse into local life. Walking along the rugged coastlines here is relaxing, and you’ll find plenty of spots to snap photos of the Atlantic crashing against volcanic rocks.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Santana: The Picture-Perfect Village

Next, it’s off to Santana, famous for its straw-thatched roof houses. These iconic structures are a postcard image of Madeira and stand as a testament to the island’s traditional architecture. The guide will probably give you some background on how these houses are built and why they’ve become symbols of Madeira culture.

One review mentions how flexible the stops can be, allowing longer visits to soak up the atmosphere or take photos. Walking through Santana’s lush surroundings, you’ll notice the bright green farmland and the colorful houses, offering plenty of photo opportunities and a chance to feel what life here might have been like generations ago.

Porto da Cruz: Rum, Cliffs, and Culture

The next highlight is Porto da Cruz, renowned for its rum distillery. Sampling the local sugarcane rum is a must. You might also explore the nearby coastline, where volcanic cliffs rise dramatically above the ocean. The guide’s knowledge about the distillery process adds depth, and many visitors find this tasting a fun, flavorful way to connect with Madeira’s culture.

The reviews mention how guides like Guilherme are friendly and flexible, often allowing extra time for photos or exploring. The scenery here is rugged and awe-inspiring, with views that showcase Madeira’s volcanic origins.

Faial: Surrounded by Mountains and Natural Beauty

Heading inland, the tour stops at Faial, a small village in a valley surrounded by towering mountains. This area reveals Madeira’s more untamed natural side, with steep cliffs and lush greenery. Expect jaw-dropping vistas of the Penha de Águia, one of the island’s most majestic viewpoints.

The guide will share insights into the island’s volcanic geology and the farming traditions that thrive here. Visitors often comment on the peaceful, almost untouched quality of this part of Madeira, making it a perfect spot for photos and quiet reflection.

Caniçal & Return: Wrapping Up the Day

After exploring Faial, the tour makes its way back towards the starting point, with a final stop in Caniçal if time allows. The total duration of 6.5 hours balances sightseeing with comfort, avoiding overly rushed visits.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The high praise from guests about the knowledgeable guides — especially Guilherme — really makes a difference. They’re known for their friendly, flexible approach, allowing travelers to linger at favorite spots or adjust the itinerary to suit their pace.

The scenic diversity from coastal cliffs and traditional villages to lush valleys provides a well-rounded picture of Madeira’s north-east. The inclusion of local food and drink, coupled with stunning views, adds to the authentic feel.

Transportation & Comfort

Green Wheels uses electric premium vehicles, making the ride both eco-friendly and comfortable. The small group size ensures fewer crowds and a more personal experience, which many travelers appreciate, especially when taking photos or asking questions.

Value for Money

For $68, you get a comprehensive, 6.5-hour tour with a knowledgeable guide, access to stunning viewpoints, cultural stops, and the chance to taste local rum. Considering the personalized service, small group size, and included water bottle and high-quality photos, it’s a good deal for those wanting a relaxed, authentic day out.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a genuine glimpse into Madeira’s northeastern treasures. It caters well to travelers who love scenic landscapes, cultural spots, and a more intimate, flexible experience with friendly guides. The stops are thoughtfully selected to showcase the island’s diversity — from traditional houses to volcanic cliffs — making it a well-rounded day.

While the price is higher than some group tours, the small-group approach, expert guides, and authenticity justify the cost. It’s especially great for those who want to avoid large crowds and appreciate personalized attention.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for culture enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those seeking a relaxed, personalized day around Madeira. If you enjoy exploring traditional villages, tasting local specialties, and soaking in dramatic views, you’ll find plenty to love here. The tour’s flexible style also makes it perfect for travelers who prefer not to be rushed, as guides like Guilherme are known for accommodating individual preferences.

It’s suited for people comfortable with a 6.5-hour commitment, and the small-group format appeals to anyone who values intimacy and interaction with guides. Plus, if you’re passionate about photography, the scenic stops and high-quality photos included make it a practical choice.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, transportation is provided in an electric premium vehicle, ensuring a comfortable and eco-friendly ride throughout the day.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 6.5 hours, with multiple stops along Madeira’s north-east coast.

Are meals or entrance fees included?
No, meals and entrance fees are not included. The tour focuses on sightseeing, cultural stops, and tasting local rum.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, and the small group size helps facilitate ease of movement at various stops.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve ahead of time, especially during peak seasons, but you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I customize the stops or timing?
Yes, guides like Guilherme are known for their flexibility, allowing you to spend more time at places that interest you most.

To sum it up, the North-East Madeira tour by Green Wheels offers a thoughtfully curated day of scenic beauty, cultural charm, and authentic local experiences. Its small-group setting, knowledgeable guides, and stunning stops make it a compelling choice for those wanting a genuine taste of Madeira’s northeastern coast. Whether you’re after picture-perfect villages, dramatic cliffs, or a flavorful rum tasting, this tour delivers a balanced mix of all. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer intimate, flexible, and meaningful exploration over large, rigid group outings.

You can check if your dates are available here: