Madeira East 4x4 Santana & Peaks Guided Tour — Pico do Areeiro, Santana & Laurisilva
An open‑top 4x4 day that threads Madeira’s eastern backbone: Pico do Areeiro’s summit vistas, Santana’s iconic thatched houses, a rum cellar and UNESCO-listed laurisilva. Expect steep roads, short walks, and a compact survey of the island’s geology and culture.
The Experience
Before You Go
Layer for altitude swings
Temperatures drop rapidly above 1,500 m—pack a windproof jacket even on warm days.
Sun and wind protection
Open‑top travel increases sun exposure and wind chill; bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat with a chin strap.
Motion-sensitive? Sit forward
Mountain switchbacks can be sharp; choose a seat facing forward and keep hydrated to reduce motion sickness.
Cash for village purchases
Small shops and rum tastings may prefer cash for souvenirs and extras—carry small euro notes.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Stop at a small roadside bakery in Santana for bolo do caco (Madeiran flatbread) still warm from the oven
- •Short viewpoint at Poiso offers dramatic cloud inversions—arrive early for clearer visibility
Wildlife
- •Madeiran chaffinch
- •Atlantic canary (wild endemic forms)
Conservation Note
Laurisilva is a protected UNESCO site—stay on marked paths and avoid feeding wildlife; local guides help minimize impact by concentrating stops and limiting off‑trail access.
Madeira’s settlement began in the 15th century; the island’s levada irrigation channels and sugarcane plantations shaped both landscape and early economy.
Photographer's Notes
- • Pico do Areeiro summit platform
- • Santana traditional house cluster
- • Ribeiro Frio trout viewpoint
What to Bring
Windproof jacketEssential
Blocks chilly gusts at high elevations and adds warmth during sudden temperature drops.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Needed for short, uneven walks at viewpoints and village streets.
Sunglasses & sunscreenEssential
Protects from strong sunlight and reflective glare during open‑top travel.
Wide-angle camera lens (or smartphone wide)
Captures expansive summit panoramas and the spread of terraces and coastline.
Common Questions
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about eight hours, including transport, stops, and short walks at viewpoints and villages.
Is the pickup included?
Pickup in the Funchal/Caniço area is usually free; other pickup points may incur a small fee (€5–€10 per person).
Are there steep hikes on the trip?
No long hikes—only short walks (10–20 minutes) to viewpoints. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
Can people with heart conditions join?
The provider advises against participation for travelers with severe cardiovascular issues due to steep roads and altitude variations.
Is food included?
Bottled water and a driver/guide are included; meals are not typically included so plan for snacks or stop at a village café.
How many people per vehicle?
Shared tours are small-group with up to eight passengers, offering a more intimate experience.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
8 hours
Location
Santana, Madeira
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Light activity level; suitable for travelers who can do short walks (10–20 minutes) on uneven ground and tolerate vehicle travel on winding roads.
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