Santana: 4×4 Full-Day Tour to Northeast of Madeira Island

If you’re dreaming of exploring Madeira beyond the usual tourist spots, the Santana: 4×4 Full-Day Tour promises a captivating journey through the island’s lush northeast. With its mix of stunning viewpoints, charming villages, and natural wonders, this tour is designed for those who crave authentic experiences and scenic adventure.

What sets this experience apart? We love the chance to see Madeira’s hidden waterfalls and spectacular cliffs, the intimate small-group setting (limited to just 6 participants), and the opportunity to learn about local heritage at Santana’s traditional thatched houses. Plus, the visit to a rum distillery adds a tasty cultural touch.

One potential consideration is the off-road nature of the tour — it involves some bumpy rides, which might not suit everyone, especially those with mobility issues or back problems. Nevertheless, for anyone eager to explore Madeira’s wild side and enjoy panoramic views, this small-group tour hits the spot.

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural insights, and adventure, all while avoiding large crowds. It’s suited for those comfortable with moderate walking, prepared for variable weather, and eager to discover Madeira’s lesser-known treasures.

Good To Know

• Small Group Comfort: Limited to 6 participants for a more personalized experience.
• Diverse Highlights: From viewpoints and cliffs to waterfalls and cultural stops.
• Natural & Cultural Balance: Combines scenic landscapes with heritage visits.
• Off-Road Adventure: Jeep transportation offers access to hard-to-reach spots.
• Inclusive & Flexible: Hotel pickup, entrance fees, and a professional guide included.
• Not suited for: Children under 10, pregnant women, and those with mobility or health issues.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Journey Through Madeira’s Northeast: What to Expect

This full-day tour offers a well-rounded look at Madeira’s northeast, blending breathtaking views, cultural sites, and natural surprises. We’ll start in Machico, the island’s first settlement, giving you a taste of Madeira’s early history. Here, the guide might share tidbits about the town’s significance and its role in Madeira’s development.

Next, we ascend to Pico do Facho, a high point offering 360-degree vistas over the east coast. The panoramic views are a highlight, with cliffs, rugged shoreline, and ocean stretching as far as the eye can see. We’ve read that visitors love the feeling of being on top of the world here, especially when the weather is clear.

From there, the journey takes us south to Ponta de São Lourenço, Madeira’s easternmost tip. The dramatic cliffs and rugged coastline are genuinely impressive, and the walk along this stretch offers a chance to see the raw power of the Atlantic. The cliffs of Ponta do Rosto do not disappoint, with sheer drops and striking rock formations that make for fantastic photos and awe-inspiring moments.

A stop at Miradouro do Guindaste in Faial provides a glass-floored viewpoint overlooking Ponta do Clerigo, the northernmost point of Madeira. The thrill of standing on transparent flooring while looking out over the cliff edge makes this a memorable moment. Reviewers mention that this spot is less crowded and offers “breathtaking views that make you feel like you’re floating over the coast.”

In Santana, you’ll find the famous thatched houses—a perfect photo opportunity and a chance to appreciate local architecture. Some reviews mention that the houses are even more charming than they appear in photos, with their steep thatched roofs and colorful facades.

A scenic off-road drive leads to a hidden waterfall, a lesser-known gem that offers a peaceful retreat into lush greenery. This spot is often praised for being tranquil and less visited, giving you a true sense of discovery. If you’re a nature lover, the Rocha do Navio adds to the rugged charm of the area.

The tour continues to Porto da Cruz for a visit to a rum distillery, where you can learn about Madeira’s famous spirit and sample local varieties. Reviewers highlight the friendly guides and the chance to understand the island’s beverage traditions firsthand.

Finally, you’ll stop at the Cristo Rei statue, a smaller but meaningful homage to the famous Rio de Janeiro statue, overlooking the ocean and offering one last spectacular view before heading back to Funchal.

The Practical Details: What Makes It Worthwhile

The 7-hour duration balances a full day of exploration without feeling rushed, and the air-conditioned jeep ensures comfort during the off-road sections. The small group size means you’ll have more personalized attention from your guide, often appreciated when you want to ask detailed questions or get insider tips.

The hotel pickup and drop-off make it easy to start your day without logistical worries, especially if you’re staying in Funchal. The inclusion of entrance fees to natural sites and the rum distillery visit adds value, ensuring you won’t face extra costs along the way.

Pricing, from what we gather, reflects the value of a comprehensive, guided experience that combines scenic locations with cultural insights. The small-group format, coupled with a knowledgeable guide, makes this a great option for travelers seeking an intimate, authentic Madeira adventure.

Transportation & Accessibility

The journey is conducted in a comfortable air-conditioned jeep, which is well-suited for navigating Madeira’s often rough and winding roads. The off-road sections are part of the charm; they allow access to secluded spots that larger buses can’t reach.

However, the tour is not recommended for children under 10, pregnant women, or anyone with back or mobility issues. The terrain can be bumpy, and some walking is involved at viewpoints and walking trails. It’s best for travelers prepared for moderate activity and unpredictable weather, so packing sunscreen, water, snacks, and comfortable shoes is advised.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy natural landscapes with panoramic views, this tour offers some of the best sights on the island. It’s ideal for adventurers, culture enthusiasts, and photographers wanting to capture Madeira’s rugged beauty. The focus on small-group intimacy suits travelers who prefer a more personal, flexible experience rather than large coach tours.

Those interested in learning about Madeira’s heritage and local customs, especially through the visits to Santana and the rum distillery, will find this tour offers meaningful insights. It’s perfect if you’re keen to combine sightseeing with storytelling and culture.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Sum Up

The Santana 4×4 Full-Day Tour is a well-rounded way to experience Madeira’s northeast, blending scenic viewpoints, cultural stops, and small-group intimacy. It’s particularly suited for travelers seeking a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventure, away from crowded tourist spots. The off-road ride, coupled with spectacular vistas and a touch of local culture, makes for a memorable day.

While the terrain might not suit everyone, those prepared for some bumpy rides and moderate walking will find this tour both exciting and rewarding. It delivers excellent value, with knowledgeable guides and a carefully curated itinerary that captures the essence of Madeira’s wild, beautiful northeast.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a photographer, or someone eager to learn about Madeira’s traditions, this experience offers a genuine taste of what makes the island special.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour is not recommended for children under 10 years old, mainly due to the off-road driving and walking involved.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, camera, water, and snacks are recommended to stay comfortable and prepared for variable weather conditions.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours, including hotel pickup and drop-off, offering a full day of exploration without feeling rushed.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes transport in a comfortable air-conditioned jeep that can handle the rugged terrain.

What are the main highlights?
You’ll visit viewpoints like Pico do Facho and Miradouro do Guindaste, see the traditional thatched houses of Santana, explore cliffs and waterfalls, and visit a rum distillery.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if your plans shift.

You can check if your dates are available here: