Full-Day Tour: Santana Houses, Pico do Arieiro, Free Rum Tasting

5.0
(1 reviews)

8 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: Portuguese and 2 more

This is more than just a sightseeing tour — it’s a fully immersive journey through Madeira’s wild heart. While other companies follow the same routes, we go further, exploring the island's untamed beauty and authentic heritage. From the dramatic cliffs of Ponta de São Lourenço to the glass platforms of Faial, each stop offers a unique perspective. Our expert guides share local legends and stories that bring each place to life. You'll explore ancient sugar mills, a 300-year-old working water mill, and taste tradition at a trout farm in Ribeiro Frio. Go off the beaten path in a powerful 4x4, venturing deep into the UNESCO Laurissilva forest. End the experience on a high at Pico do Arieiro — Madeira’s third highest peak, above the clouds. This is not a generic island tour. This is raw, real Madeira — authentic, adventurous, and unforgettable. Let others take the road. You’ll take the journey.

What's Included

4x4 experience, enjoying panoramic views and the thrill of adventure.
free pick-up in the Funchal area
Avoid crowds and enjoy unique places with privacy.
Air-conditioned vehicle
free rum tasting
Lunch
Pick-up available outside Funchal area with extra fee

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

We provide transportation services outside Funchal, but there will be additional costs. If it's within Funchal, the transportation is free. And where the driver picks you up, he should be waiting for you at the door of your hotel or house.

OR
Meeting point

Please wait in front of the Madeira Forum shopping center at the main entrance and you will find our driver with a sign next to the jeep with the company logo.

End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Itinerary

Duration: 8 hours (approximately)
  • 1

    Start this remarkable journey at the most eastern tip of the island, Ponta de Sᾶo Lourenço, also known as the dragon’s tail of Madeira. Here you will be amazed by ethereal landforms, while also experiencing an exhilarating view of both the north and south coast of the island on a clear day. Here we will stop for photos and enjoy the landscape.

    45 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 2

    Admire the captivating beauty of villages nestled in between the mountains. The majestic Eagle’s Rock, also known as Penha de Águia, can be visible along your commute. Stop at the Guindaste viewpoint in Faial, consisting of two newly made glass platforms, overlooking the ocean and imposing cliffs. This viewpoint offers spectacular scenery of Madeira’s northern coast. If the weather is favourable, the neighbouring island of Porto Santo can also be seen!

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 3

    Along the way, knowledgeable guides will share fascinating insights into Madeira’s rich history and culture. Historical stop at the ruins of Sᾶo Jorge, which consist of old sugarcane mills built in early settlement.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 4

    Get ready to embark on an unforgettable 4x4 off-road adventure through the heart of Madeira’s UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest. Feel the thrill as your expert guide navigates winding trails surrounded by dense vegetation, towering trees, and the island’s lush, untouched beauty.

    45 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 5

    Next, make your way to Santana, where you will encounter the iconic Santana houses, mostly recognized for their triangular-shaped structure, thatched roofing and striking colours.

    1 hour Admission ticket free
  • 6

    While uncovering the northern slopes of the island, stop in Ribeiro Frio as a passage point at a local trout farming facility.

    30 minutes Admission ticket free
  • 7

    To end the tour on a truly unforgettable high, ascend to one of Madeira’s most iconic landmarks — Pico do Arieiro. Standing majestically at 1,818 meters, it is the island’s third highest peak and offers breathtaking panoramic views above the clouds. Surrounded by dramatic mountain ridges and ever-changing light, it’s a place where nature reveals its most awe-inspiring side — the perfect finale to a day of adventure and discovery.

    45 minutes Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Não é permitido crianças com idade a inferior a 10 anos
Supplied by Nature Express Tours

Tags

Day Trips
Full-day Tours
4WD Tours
Safaris
Small Group
Adventure Tours
Likely To Sell Out
New Product
Short term availability

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

5.0 Based on 1 1 review
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