Madeira: Wine & Tapas, Cabo Girão Skywalk 4×4 Jeep Adventure

If you’re contemplating a tour that offers a bit of everything—stunning vistas, authentic local flavors, and a dash of adrenaline—this Madeira experience might just be what you’re looking for. Promising an adventure-packed four hours, it combines wine tasting, a walk on the skywalk at Cabo Girão, and an off-road ride in a open-top 4×4 jeep.

What stands out immediately are the personal touch with small group sizes—no crowded buses here—and the variety of sights packed into a short time. I’ll point out some of the things that work well, as well as a few considerations to keep in mind.

Two aspects we really appreciate are the intimate atmosphere of small groups and the diverse experiences packed into one tour, from tasting exquisite Madeiran wines to feeling the thrill at Cabo Girão.

A potential drawback? The additional entrance fee at Cabo Girão isn’t included in the main price, which is typical but something to budget for. Also, the tour’s intensity might not be suitable for everyone—people with back issues or pregnant travelers should consider this.

This kind of tour suits travelers who value authentic experiences, enjoy scenic drives, and want a blend of cultural and natural sights without spending an entire day on the road.

Key Points

• Small group size ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
• Variety of experiences including wine tasting, skywalk, and scenic off-road rides.
• Expert guides add valuable insights and local stories.
• Cost-effective price for multiple memorable activities.
• Flexibility with booking — free cancellation up to 24 hours.
• Limited inclusions — entrance fees and wine tasting are extra, so budget accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience at a Glance

This Madeira adventure offers an engaging mix of sensory delights and scenic thrills, ideal for those who want more than just a sightseeing bus. It’s a route that combines culinary exploration, dramatic views, and off-road excitement, all wrapped into a four-hour package.

Starting from pickup points in Caniço or Funchal, you’ll first get a chance to stretch your legs with some free time in Funchal. From there, the journey begins with a scenic drive to the Cabo Girão skywalk, where you’ll walk on a transparent platform suspended over the sea at approximately 580 meters above the ocean. The views are genuinely jaw-dropping, giving you that perfect photo opportunity and a memorable thrill.

Next, the tour continues to the charming village of São Vicente, a peaceful spot known for its volcanic landscapes and welcoming atmosphere. Here, you get a brief guided tour and some free time, which is perfect for absorbing the local vibe or shopping for souvenirs.

The off-road part of the tour in a 4×4 jeep adds a layer of adventure. With an open-top vehicle, you’ll feel the wind on your face as you traverse rugged landscapes, passing through lush valleys and scenic lookout points like Serra de Água and Túnel da Encumeada. According to reviews, this off-road experience is “really great fun” and offers a chance to see parts of the island inaccessible by regular vehicles.

The highlight for many is the wine and tapas experience at Quinta do Barbusano Winery. Here, you’ll indulge in tasting six exceptional Madeira wines accompanied by cheese and chorizo. The reviews note that the wine tasting is “well organized” and the tapas, though modest, complement the drinks nicely. At €18 per person, this adds excellent value for those wanting to explore Madeira’s delicious wine culture.

Finally, the tour wraps up at the Cabo Girão skywalk, where you can take a few more photos and enjoy the panoramic views. The scenic drive back offers more stunning vistas, rounding out an experience that balances adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting Point:
You’ll have the option to be picked up from Caniço or Funchal—a convenient start that minimizes hassle and saves walking. Some reviews mention that pickup is straightforward, and even if you meet at the Cristiano Ronaldo Museum, it’s easy to find.

Funchal Stop:
A brief 20-minute walk in Funchal allows for some stretching and quick orientation, especially if you’re arriving from a cruise or nearby accommodation. It’s a good chance to get a glimpse of the city’s vibe before heading out into the countryside.

Cabo Girão Skywalk:
This is the star attraction for many. The skywalk is a glass platform extending out over the cliff, offering spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and the cliffs below. Travelers say standing there is “a thrill,” with some reviews describing it as “speechless”. The safety briefing ensures everyone feels comfortable, but for those afraid of heights, it’s worth noting how exposed the platform is.

São Vicente:
A peaceful village, ideal for a quick guided tour and some free time. Here, you can buy local crafts or just enjoy the quiet scenery. Reviewers mention the scenic views and the charming atmosphere making it a highlight.

Ribeira Brava and Serra de Água:
These scenic stops allow for photo opportunities and a chance to see how the landscape changes from lush valleys to mountainous terrains. The scenic drives between stops are a chance to appreciate Madeira’s diverse landscapes.

Túnel da Encumeada & Chão dos Louros Park:
Passing through the Túnel da Encumeada, travelers get a peek into the island’s volcanic roots. Stops here are brief but offer spectacular viewpoints.

São Vicente & Winery:
The highlight here is the Quinta do Barbusano Winery, where wine tasting is paired with a guided tour of the vineyard. The tasting includes six wines and is considered very good value, especially when paired with local cheeses and chorizo.

The Jeep Adventure:
This part of the tour, lasting about 3.5 hours, takes you through scenic off-road tracks, giving a true sense of Madeira’s rugged beauty. The open-top Jeep is praised in reviews for adding to the fun, and the driver’s stories make the ride even more memorable.

Final Stops at Cabo Girão & Miradouro da Encumeada:
The last scenic stops offer more photo opportunities and a chance to reflect on the day. The views from these vantage points are some of the most impressive on the island.

What Real Travelers Say

Looking at reviews, it’s clear the guides make a difference. Several reviewers praise guides like Lino or Dino for their knowledge, humor, and responsiveness. One comment describes the trip as “great fun,” with a driver who “created a fabulously fun afternoon.”

The wine tasting receives consistent praise for being well organized, with guests enjoying the opportunity to sample Madeira’s signature wines in a relaxed setting. The off-road drive is described as “really great fun,” and not too intense, making it accessible even for those who aren’t regular off-road adventurers.

One guest mentions that even if you’re the only person booked on the tour, the guide’s flexibility ensures a personalized experience—adding value that’s not always available on larger groups.

Pricing and Value

At $51 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the variety of activities and sights. The additional fees for entry and tastings (€2 for the skywalk entrance and €18 for the wine tasting) are reasonable extras that enhance the overall experience.

Compared to similar tours, this package provides a balanced combination of scenic beauty, culture, and adventure without the high price tag. The inclusion of small groups means you’re more likely to get personalized attention and flexible itineraries.

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Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who want to see Madeira from multiple angles—scenic, culinary, and exhilarating. It’s great for those who appreciate authentic local wines and want to try something a bit different than standard sightseeing tours.

However, travelers with back problems or who are pregnant might want to consider the off-road jeep portion carefully, as these involve rougher terrain. It suits people comfortable with heights (for the skywalk) and those eager to sample local flavors.

The Sum Up

This Madeira tour offers a well-rounded mix of stunning views, local wine, and off-road fun. The small group setup promotes a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, while the knowledgeable guides help bring the experience to life. The skywalk at Cabo Girão is a highlight that stays with you long after the tour ends, and the wine tasting adds a delightful flavor to the day.

For travelers who enjoy a blend of adventure, culture, and scenery, this tour provides great value. It’s especially suited to those who want an efficient but immersive taste of Madeira’s natural beauty and local customs, all wrapped into a memorable four-hour outing.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included in the Funchal and Caniço areas, making it convenient to join without worries about logistics.

What are the starting times?
Check current availability, as starting times may vary. The tour lasts about four hours and runs on different schedules.

How much does the entry to Cabo Girão cost?
The entrance fee for Cabo Girão is €2, payable on the spot.

How much is the wine tasting?
The wine tasting at Quinta do Barbusano (six wines plus tapas) costs €18 per person, not included in the basic price.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour involves heights and off-road driving, so it may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift.

Are guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides speak English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish, catering to diverse travelers.

This Madeira adventure offers a fine balance of sights, tastes, and thrills—perfect for curious travelers eager to explore more than just the beaten path.

You can check availability for your dates here: