THE AMAZING OFF ROAD BBQ PICNIC CABLE CAB TOUR

If you’re looking to combine adventure, natural beauty, and a taste of local culture, this 7-hour off-road and scenic tour in Madeira might just be your perfect match. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a compelling picture of an experience packed with breathtaking views, cultural stops, and genuine moments of fun.

What draws us in? The chance to explore Madeira’s rugged terrain in a jeep, enjoy a traditional barbecue featuring espetada steak, and ascend in cable cars offering panoramic vistas. The tour’s small-group format ensures a more personalized and relaxed vibe, making it ideal for those who want to see the highlights without feeling rushed.

A possible consideration is the moderate physical activity involved—if you have back problems or are traveling with very young children or babies under one year, this might not be the best fit. Still, for those craving an authentic, adventure-filled day in Madeira, this trip offers a lot of value. It’s especially suited for travelers eager to see diverse landscapes, learn a bit about Madeiran culture, and enjoy some spectacular scenery along the way.

Good To Know

• Natural beauty and panoramic views are central to this tour, with plenty of photo opportunities.
• The small group size (limited to 6) ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• The cultural stops and tasting of local delicacies add depth beyond just sightseeing.
• Scenic cable car rides elevate the adventure, with optional visits to iconic viewpoints.
• The included BBQ lunch is a highlight, offering a true taste of Madeira’s culinary traditions.
• Flexible cancellation and pay later options make planning stress-free.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Madeira Off Road Experience

Starting Point and Flexible Pickup Options

The tour kicks off with convenient pickup options from four locations: São Vicente, Funchal, Ribeira Brava, and Câmara De Lobos. This flexibility is handy, especially if you’re staying in different parts of the island. The actual start times depend on availability, so it’s worth checking in advance.

The small group format ensures you’ll likely travel with just about five other adventurers, fostering a friendly atmosphere and more meaningful interactions with the guide.

The Jeep Adventure: Off-Roading Through Madeira’s Unique Terrain

The core of this experience is the jeep tour, which whisks you away from the beaten path into Madeira’s natural landscape. You’ll traverse rough terrains and scenic dirt roads that reveal the island’s rugged beauty. This isn’t just a sightseeing bus—it’s a true off-road adventure that promises both thrills and the chance to see Madeira’s lesser-visited corners.

One reviewer praises the guides for their knowledge, mentioning that “the guides are very friendly and informative,” which enhances the experience. Expect to stop periodically to take in spectacular vistas of cliffs, mountains, and the Atlantic Ocean, perfect for photography.

Scenic Stops and Cultural Encounters

The itinerary includes stops at charming villages and scenic lookouts. For example, the stop at Canical offers a quick break, sightseeing, and fantastic photo opportunities. Then, heading to Santana, famed for its traditional thatched houses, you’ll gain insight into Madeira’s architecture and local lifestyle.

Other stops, like Boaventura and Cristo Rei, serve as perfect spots to stretch your legs, snap memorable shots, and soak in views. The stop at Faja dos Padres beach is particularly special, with a cable car ride offering sweeping views of the coastline and the chance to explore the quaint beach area.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Highlight: Traditional BBQ Experience

No Madeira tour is complete without experiencing its culinary delights. The included espetada, a dish of grilled beef skewers, is the star of the show. Served with fresh, traditional bread (bolo do caco), salad, and corn (milho), this meal is a real feast for the senses.

The social aspect of a BBQ on Madeira is highlighted in reviews, describing it as more than just food—it’s a communal event where travelers share stories and enjoy each other’s company. One reviewer notes: “The BBQ is a social event, where you can enjoy each other’s company, share stories and celebrate life.”

The Iconic Cable Cars and Scenic Vistas

A major attraction of this tour is the Faja dos Padres cable car ride. More than just transportation, this cable car offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the lush landscape below. Passengers often comment on the spectacular vistas and the unique perspective the ride provides.

The option to visit Rocha do Navio allows for additional exploration or simply enjoying the views from a high vantage point. The scenic lookout points like Miradouro do Guindaste afford sweeping panoramas of Madeira’s dramatic cliffs and ocean.

Nature and Photography Opportunities

Throughout the tour, you’ll have ample chances to snap photos of Madeira’s stunning natural scenery. From lush green hills to rugged coastlines and cloud-capped mountains, the landscape is a photographer’s dream. The guide’s commentary enriches the experience, helping you appreciate the significance of each stop.

One reviewer remarks, “More than just a physical journey, it’s an opportunity to connect with nature and take in unforgettable views.” The fresh mountain air and the sounds of nature make every stop feel like a mini-retreat.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Duration and Pace

The entire tour lasts about 7 hours, which includes travel, stops, and the BBQ lunch. The pace is leisurely enough for sightseeing and photo breaks, but not so slow as to lose the sense of adventure. Starting times vary, so checking availability is recommended.

Transportation and Group Size

Travel is in a comfortable, small-group jeep, which keeps the experience intimate and allows the guide to focus on each guest’s interests. The small group setup also means you’ll have plenty of opportunities to ask questions and customize your experience if desired.

Price and Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified, the tour includes pickup and drop-off, a guide, the BBQ lunch, and access to cable cars—all valuable features. The inclusion of local food and scenic rides makes this a good value for a full day of exploration.

What to Bring

Bring a jacket, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors or on the cable cars, where wind or cooler temperatures might surprise you. Comfortable shoes for walking and a camera are also recommended.

Accessibility and Suitability

The tour isn’t suitable for people with back problems or babies under 1 year, given the off-road Jeep ride and walking involved. It’s best suited for active travelers eager to experience Madeira’s outdoor beauty in a hands-on way.

Cancellation Policy

Flexible cancellation is available—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This ease of planning is a plus, especially for spontaneous travelers or those with unpredictable schedules.

Authentic Experiences from Past Travelers

A reviewer describes the experience as “Beautiful landscapes, impressive cliffs, overall it was okay. I recommend the trip,” highlighting that while the scenery is breathtaking, the overall trip is well-organized and worth considering. Another mentions the knowledgeable guides, which significantly enhances the journey.

Guests appreciate the blend of adventure, scenery, and culture—the stops at traditional villages and local eateries add a genuine touch often missing in more generic tours.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Off Road BBQ Picnic Cable Cab Tour in Madeira offers a well-rounded experience that combines adventure, scenic beauty, and culture. It’s ideal for travelers who want to see diverse landscapes in a single day while enjoying authentic local cuisine. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides ensure a personalized, engaging experience.

If you’re after stunning views, fun off-road driving, and a taste of Madeiran hospitality, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s especially suited for active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures and photography, as well as those curious about local traditions and flavors.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding experience, some of the stops—like the cable car ride—are optional, allowing you to tailor the day to your comfort level.

All in all, this trip promises a memorable day out that captures the essence of Madeira’s rugged charm, vibrant culture, and breathtaking scenery.

FAQs

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including travel, stops, and lunch.

What regions does the tour cover?
It covers various scenic locations including Canical, Santana, Boaventura, Faja dos Padres, and viewpoints like Cristo Rei and Miradouro do Guindaste.

Are meals included?
Yes, a traditional espada espetada BBQ lunch with bread, salad, milho, and a drink of your choice is included.

Can I opt out of the cable car ride?
The cable car at Faja dos Padres is part of the itinerary, but you can enjoy the area from different viewpoints if you choose not to ride.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for babies under 1 year or people with back problems. The off-road ride involves some bumpy sections, which might be challenging for very young children.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Polish, Portuguese, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

In summary, the Amazing Off Road BBQ Picnic Cable Cab Tour offers an engaging blend of adventure, breathtaking scenery, and cultural highlights. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a curious traveler, it’s a fantastic way to see Madeira’s highlights in a single, well-organized day.

You can check if your dates are available here: