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

If you’re looking to see Madeira beyond the usual tourist spots, the Santana 4×4 full-day tour offers a fantastic way to explore the island’s natural beauty and traditional culture. This guided journey takes you off the beaten path in a small group, delivering authentic sights and memorable experiences. From dramatic cliffs to quaint thatched houses, this tour promises a genuine taste of Madeira’s eastern treasures.

What we love about this experience is its combination of scenic viewpoints—especially Pico do Facho’s panoramic vistas—and its chance to see authentic Madeira architecture in Santana. Plus, the off-road waterfall adventure is a highlight. A possible concern? The tour’s full day and bumpy Jeep rides might be less suitable for travelers with mobility issues or those prone to motion sickness. Overall, if you’re an adventurous explorer seeking natural beauty and cultural charm, this tour fits the bill perfectly.

Key Points

• Authentic Madeira sights including Santana’s iconic thatched houses and Ponta do Rosto cliffs
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience
• Off-road waterfall visit adds an adventurous twist
• Panoramic viewpoints like Pico do Facho and Miradouro do Guindaste offer unbeatable photo ops
• Cultural insights at a local rum distillery round out the day
• Suitable for active travelers comfortable with bumpy rides and walking

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Santana 4×4 Full-Day Tour

This tour from Madeira Green And Blue Tours is a well-rounded way to spend a day exploring the northeast coast, with a balance of scenic views, cultural stops, and natural wonders. The journey is designed for small groups—limited to six participants—which means more personalized guidance and fewer crowds, allowing you to truly soak in each experience.

Starting Point: Machico and Pico do Facho

Your adventure begins with a pickup at your hotel in Funchal, in a comfortable, air-conditioned Land Rover Discovery. From there, we head to Machico, Madeira’s first settlement, giving you a taste of the island’s early history. While the town itself is charming, the real treat is the ascent to Pico do Facho. At this panoramic viewpoint, you’ll enjoy a 360-degree view of Madeira’s east coast, a perfect spot for photos and to appreciate the island’s rugged landscape.

Travelers often comment on how breathtaking the views are. One reviewer noted, “We loved the way the scenery opened up at Pico do Facho—definitely a highlight.” The elevated position also provides insight into the island’s layout, making it easier to understand Madeira’s diverse geography.

The Cliffs of Ponta do Rosto and Ponta de São Lourenço

Next, the journey takes you to Ponta do Rosto, where sheer cliffs plunge into the Atlantic, offering dramatic scenery that makes for spectacular photo opportunities. The landscape here is wild and windswept, a reminder of Madeira’s volcanic origins.

From there, you’ll head to Ponta de São Lourenço, Madeira’s easternmost tip. Here, the cliffs are even more dramatic, and the walk along the trail provides spectacular views of the Atlantic and rugged coastline. This is the tour’s most adventurous part, offering a chance to see the crashing waves and unique geology up close.

Miradouro do Guindaste: The Glass-Floored Viewpoint

A highlight for many travelers is the Miradouro do Guindaste in Faial, featuring a glass-floored platform that juts out over the cliffs. It’s a thrilling vantage point that offers a sense of floating above the landscape. Looking down, you’re treated to views of Ponta do Clerigo and the Atlantic beyond. This site exemplifies Madeira’s innovative viewpoints and makes for memorable photos.

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Santana’s Traditional Houses and a Hidden Waterfall

The tour then moves inland to Santana, famous for its colorful, thatched-roof houses. These structures are a symbol of Madeira’s rural heritage and provide a glimpse into traditional life on the island. Be sure to take your camera for photos of these picturesque dwellings.

Following this, you’ll go off-road to discover a secluded waterfall, a special treat for nature lovers. The waterfall is less known, which means you’ll enjoy a quiet, lush setting away from crowds. Many reviews mention how peaceful and beautiful this spot is, making it a perfect photo and relaxation point.

Rocha do Navio and the Secluded Beauty

Continuing the adventure, the tour includes a visit to Rocha do Navio, a stunning coastal area accessible via 4×4 tracks. The landscape here is rugged and pristine, with opportunities for more photos and contemplation. This part of the tour emphasizes Madeira’s volcanic origin and natural resilience.

Porto da Cruz Rum Distillery and Cristo Rei

No Madeira experience is complete without tasting local rum. At a rum distillery in Porto da Cruz, you’ll learn about the island’s historic methods of rum-making, which date back centuries. Many visitors find this to be an engaging cultural stop, providing both tasting and insight into Madeira’s heritage.

Finally, the tour concludes with a visit to the Cristo Rei statue, a smaller-scale version of Rio’s famous Christ statue, offering one last panoramic view over the island before heading back to Funchal.

Transportation and Practical Aspects

The tour’s Jeep ride is part of its charm—bumpy enough to add adventure but manageable for most travelers in good health. The small group size, limited to six participants, means you’ll have a more personal experience and easier access to your guide’s insights. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the many scenic drives.

Starting times vary, so it’s wise to check availability ahead of booking. The full-day duration (about seven hours) offers a comprehensive look at Madeira’s northeast, but keep in mind that this means a fair amount of walking and vehicle time. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which simplifies logistics.

What to Bring

Prepare with comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain, a hat and sunscreen for protection against Madeira’s sun, and a camera to capture the spectacular sights. A water bottle and snacks are recommended, as the tour involves several stops and you may want to stay energized. Weather can change quickly, so packing a light raincoat or layered clothing might be wise.

Cost and Value

At a typical full-day price, the tour offers a lot in terms of diverse experiences—viewpoints, cultural visits, natural wonders, and local tastings. Given the inclusion of transport, a professional guide, and entrance fees, you’re paying for a well-organized day that covers Madeira’s highlights with expert narration. The small group size adds value by providing personalized attention.

Authentic Experiences and Visitor Feedback

Many travelers appreciate the combination of scenic beauty and cultural insight. One reviewer said, “The views from Pico do Facho and the viewpoints were absolutely stunning, and I loved seeing the traditional houses in Santana.” Others note that the waterfall and off-road tracks add an element of adventure not found on standard tours.

Negative comments are rare but often relate to the bumpy ride or the full-day schedule, which might be tiring for some. Still, most agree that the diverse sights and local flavor more than make up for the physical effort.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for active travelers who enjoy scenic drives, walking, and authentic cultural sights. It suits those comfortable with bumpy off-road rides and eager to see Madeira’s natural wonders and traditional architecture. If you prefer a relaxed, seated tour, this might be a bit too adventurous. It’s not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or anyone with mobility or health issues.

It’s a great choice for solo travelers, couples, or small groups wanting an intimate exploration of Madeira’s east coast, combining adventure, culture, and spectacular views.

The Sum Up

The Santana 4×4 full-day tour offers a balanced mix of Madeira’s natural beauty, cultural sights, and a touch of adventure. You’ll get close to dramatic cliffs, enjoy panoramic viewpoints, and explore authentic villages—all in a small, friendly group. The off-road waterfall visit and local rum tasting add unique flavors to the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing day.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or simply an explorer at heart, this tour provides genuine value. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, active day out that showcases the rugged charm of Madeira’s northeast coast. With excellent guides and carefully curated stops, this tour is a memorable way to deepen your Madeira experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 7 hours long, with starting times that vary. It’s a full-day experience designed to give you a comprehensive look at Madeira’s northeast.

Does the tour include hotel pickup and drop-off?
Yes, the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient to start your adventure without extra planning.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers a professional guide, transportation in an air-conditioned Jeep, entrance to natural sites, and a visit to a rum distillery. Meals and personal expenses are not included.

Is it suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s not recommended for children under 10, pregnant women, or people with mobility, back, or heart problems. The off-road ride and walking on uneven terrain may be challenging for some.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, camera, water, snacks, and weather-appropriate clothing. Prepare for varying conditions and some physical activity.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to a small group of 6 participants, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for changing plans.

Overall, this tour offers a vivid, authentic look at Madeira’s east coast. It’s perfect for travelers eager to combine natural beauty, cultural charm, and just a touch of adventure—delivering a memorable slice of Madeira’s rugged landscape and warm traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: