East Tour: Open Roof jeep tour to East Madeira – Santana

If you’re after a day that combines breathtaking scenery, authentic local culture, and a whole lot of fun, the East Tour with open-roof jeeps might just be your perfect Madeira experience. This 8-hour adventure promises a peek into the island’s hidden treasures, from mountain peaks to traditional villages, all guided by knowledgeable locals who love sharing their homeland.

What makes this tour stand out? First, you’ll enjoy spectacular views that look like they belong in a movie. Second, the classic Jeep rides bring an adventurous, off-road vibe that feels both exciting and authentic. Third, the tour offers a chance to learn about Madeira’s flora, history, and lifestyle, making it more than just a sightseeing trip. The only potential downside? With so many stops and terrain, it’s a full day, so some might find it a bit tiring. Still, if you love exploring with a sense of adventure, this trip is tailored for curious travelers eager to see Madeira’s wild side.

Good To Know

• Authentic local experience with a friendly, knowledgeable guide.
• Stunning viewpoints like Pico do Arieiro and Funchal harbor.
• Fun off-road riding on traditional open-roof Jeeps.
• Cultural highlights, including Santana houses and local flora.
• Tasty lunch with the chance to try Poncha.
• Flexible and personalized, with the tour tailored to your interests.
• Great value for a full day of sightseeing and adventure.
• Small group or private options available for a more intimate experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Unpacking the Experience: What to Expect from the East Tour

This tour, operated by Ricardo Off Road Madeira, is designed for travelers who want to see Madeira beyond the usual tourist spots. It’s a well-balanced mix of scenic drives, cultural stops, and fun off-road sections. From the moment you’re picked up at your hotel or cruise terminal, you’re in capable hands. Ricardo, the guide, is praised for his friendliness, knowledge, and ability to make the day both informative and enjoyable.

Starting Point: Funchal Pickup

The tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or cruise terminal, with options in Funchal or the cruise port. This flexibility is a plus, especially for cruise travelers seeking to maximize their time ashore. Ricardo kicks things off with a quick briefing, explaining the plan and answering any questions. This sets a relaxed, friendly tone for the day.

Scenic Drive to Lombo da Quinta

Your first stop takes you along the old-fashioned side roads leading to Lombo da Quinta, offering sweeping views of Funchal’s harbor. This vantage point is perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the city’s layout from above, along with lush greenery and local farms.

Pico do Arieiro: The Island’s Sky High Spot

Next, you’ll ascend to Pico do Arieiro, at 1,818 meters—the second-highest point on the island. Here, the views are often cloud-kissed but still breathtaking, with sprawling valleys and rugged mountain peaks stretching into the distance. Reviewers highlight this as a highlight, with one noting it’s “an amazing view to the valleys and forests below.” It’s a chance to breathe in the pure mountain air and appreciate Madeira’s diverse landscape.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Ribeiro Frio Trout Reserve

The tour includes a stop at the Ribeiro Frio Trout Reserve. This tranquil spot is perfect for a brief walk and observation of local flora and fauna. If you’re into nature, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to see how the island manages its natural resources.

Santana: The Traditional Houses and Off-Road Adventure

Santana is a focal point, famous for its colorful, traditionally built houses with palm-thatched roofs. Using an adventurous off-road route, the tour reaches Santana, giving you a taste of Madeira’s rural charm. Here, you might have time to wander around or explore the architecture before a well-earned lunch break. Reviewers mention the lunch menu as tasty, often with local specialties, and some even try Poncha, the traditional local drink, which adds to the culture.

Guindaste’s Glass Platform Viewpoint

A highlight for many is the visit to Guindaste, where a glass platform juts over the ocean. After a short walk, you can stand above the waves—something reviewers rave about as a “relaxing walk with spectacular views.” It’s a great moment for photos and to experience the raw beauty of Madeira’s coast.

Ponta da Cruz and Local Distillery

The tour wraps up with a visit to Ponta da Cruz, home to a historic distillery built in 1927. Here, you learn about local production methods, and some visitors enjoy tasting different spirits, adding a flavorful touch to the day.

The Jeep Experience: Off-Roading with a Smile

The core of this tour is the classic open-roof Jeeps, which turn what could be a standard sightseeing trip into a thrill. Driving along narrow, bumpy, and sometimes sandy roads, you’ll feel a genuine sense of exploration. Reviewers mention having “lots of fun” on these rides, especially when navigating off-road sections that reveal secluded spots typically inaccessible by regular vehicles.

The open roof design means you’re constantly in touch with Madeira’s fresh air and scenery. It’s the kind of experience that makes you appreciate the island’s natural beauty even more, feeling the wind and sunshine as you traverse mountains and valleys.

Cultural and Natural Highlights

Beyond the views and fun drives, this tour offers insights into Madeira’s flora and history. Your guide will point out local plants, herbs, and fruit, enriching your understanding of the island’s rural life. The Santana houses are a visual treat, with their distinctive triangular shape and traditional construction, offering a window into Madeira’s past.

Reviewers consistently praise Ricardo’s knowledgeable narration and friendly attitude, describing him as making the day both educational and entertaining. One comment notes, “Ricardo is an excellent guide and driver, very helpful and knowledgeable,” which speaks volumes about the quality of the guiding.

The Lunch and Refreshments

A meal typically features local flavors, and the chance to taste Poncha—a sugarcane spirit mixed with lemon juice and honey—is a highlight. Many reviewers say the food is “tasty,” and the relaxed pace ensures you’re not rushed. The optional alcohol adds a social element, perfect for unwinding after a busy morning of sightseeing.

Duration, Cost, and Practical Details

The 8-hour duration includes pickup and drop-off, making this a full-day activity packed with diverse experiences. At $84 per person, the tour offers good value considering the depth of sights, the personalized guiding, and the mix of cultural, natural, and adventure elements.

The tour is suitable for small groups or private bookings, providing a more tailored experience. It’s accessible for most, but not recommended for pregnant women or children under 2 years due to the off-road nature and terrain.

Final Thoughts

This East Madeira Jeep tour is an excellent choice for travelers craving more than the typical sightseeing. It’s perfect if you want to see impressive mountains, traditional villages, and stunning coastlines with a guide who genuinely loves sharing their homeland. The combination of scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and fun off-road adventures creates a well-rounded, memorable day.

If you appreciate authentic experiences, stunning scenery, and good value for money, this tour offers a fantastic way to explore Madeira’s less-traveled corners. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a relaxed yet adventurous pace, and for anyone eager to learn about Madeira’s history and natural beauty from a friendly local.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in the tour price?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with options available in Funchal or the cruise terminal.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 8 hours, including all the stops, driving, and guiding.

What is the tour price?
The cost is $84 per person, which covers guiding, transportation, and the main activities.

Are meals included?
No, food and refreshments are not included, but lunch is typically arranged during the visit to Santana, and you can try local drinks like Poncha.

Can I customize the tour?
The guide goes through the plan at the start to tailor it as best as possible to your interests, making it flexible and personalized.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 2 years or pregnant women due to off-road driving and terrain.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes, sun protection, and perhaps a camera to capture the views.

What kind of vehicle is used?
An iconic, classic open-roof Jeep that provides a fun and immersive experience.

Is the tour available rain or shine?
Yes, the tour takes place regardless of weather conditions, so dress accordingly.

What do reviewers say about the guides?
Many praise Ricardo for being knowledgeable, friendly, and entertaining, making the day enjoyable and informative.

This adventure-packed Jeep tour offers a captivating glimpse into Madeira’s stunning east coast, combining jaw-dropping vistas, cultural insights, and a dash of off-road fun. It’s a fantastic way to spend a full day exploring the island’s hidden corners, especially if you prefer a relaxed yet adventurous approach. Perfect for those who value authentic experiences, friendly guides, and the chance to see Madeira from a local perspective, this tour delivers on all fronts—making it a memorable highlight of any Madeira trip.

You can check if your dates are available here: