THE AMAZING OFF ROAD BBQ PICNIC CABLE CAB TOUR

If you’re considering a day of exploring Madeira’s stunning landscapes with a dash of adventure, cultural insight, and great food, the Amazing Off Road BBQ Picnic Cable Cab Tour might just be your ideal choice. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed information and traveler reviews suggest it offers a well-rounded experience perfect for those who crave thrill, natural beauty, and authentic local flavors.

What’s especially appealing? The combination of off-road driving, spectacular viewpoints, and a traditional Madeira BBQ makes this tour stand out. A potential downside? The tour lasts a hefty seven hours, which could be a long day if you prefer more relaxed sightseeing. However, if you enjoy immersive experiences and don’t mind a full schedule, this trip is likely to satisfy.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers, photographers, and anyone eager to get a taste of Madeira’s lush scenery and local culture in a small group setting. It’s particularly appealing for those who want to combine nature, culture, and gastronomy into one memorable outing.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines off-road jeep adventure, scenic viewpoints, cable car rides, and a BBQ picnic.
• Authentic culinary experience: Enjoy traditional espeta da steak, Madeira bread, and local drinks included in the price.
• Breathtaking views: Expect panoramic vistas of mountains, ocean, and cliffs from multiple stops.
• Cultural insights: Stops at traditional villages and scenic viewpoints allow for a deeper appreciation of Madeiran life.
• Small group setting: Limit of 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.
• Flexibility: Use of reserve now, pay later policy and free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

Madeira is an island of dramatic landscapes, whimsical cliffs, and lush greenery. This tour offers a chance to see many of these sights while adding a healthy dose of adrenaline. The 7-hour itinerary is packed with varied stops, each showcasing a different facet of Madeira’s natural and cultural beauty.

The off-road jeep experience is a highlight. We loved the way the rugged vehicle navigates narrow mountain roads and rough terrain, giving you access to places that are hard to reach by regular car. This part of the tour isn’t just about getting from A to B—it’s about enjoying the journey through Madeira’s wildest landscapes, with plenty of opportunities for photos.

The viewpoints are another big draw. Stops like Cristo Rei and Miradouro do Guindaste provide postcard-worthy scenery. You’ll see impressive cliffs plunging into the Atlantic, lush green hills, and charming villages from elevated vantage points. One reviewer noted, “Beautiful landscapes, impressive cliffs, overall it was okay. I recommend the trip.” The views are often described as stunning, making this tour perfect for nature lovers and landscape photographers.

Many travelers value the tour’s inclusion of a traditional BBQ lunch—a true taste of Madeira’s culinary heritage. The espeta da steak, cooked over an open flame, is the star of the meal, paired with Madeira bread (bolo do caco), salad, and milho. This isn’t a rushed lunch but a social event where you can mingle with fellow travelers and locals alike.

The tour also includes a visit to the faja dos Padres beach via cable car. The ride itself offers unforgettable panoramic views and is more than just a means of transportation; it’s part of the adventure. You’ll also have time to relax or explore at this scenic location, adding a leisurely touch to the itinerary.

Throughout the tour, you’ll get tips and insights from a knowledgeable guide, often praised for their friendliness and local knowledge. One review highlighted, “The guides are very friendly and informative, making the experience even more enjoyable.”

Let’s walk through the day to understand what makes each stop special:

• Start with Pickup: Available from four locations—Câmara De Lobos, São Vicente, Funchal, and Ribeira Brava—offering flexibility for travelers staying in different parts of the island.

• Canical: The first stop is about an hour of sightseeing and scenic driving. Expect beautiful coastline views, photo opportunities, and a chance to stretch your legs after the drive. The off-road adventure begins here, taking you through rugged terrain.

• Santana: Known for its traditional houses, this stop offers a chance to see authentic Madeira architecture and snap photos of iconic thatched-roof buildings. The 1.5-hour visit allows for sightseeing and perhaps a quick look into local crafts.

• Boaventura: A scenic village with spectacular views and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s a great spot for photos and to take in the natural beauty of the hillside.

• Ribeira Brava & Funchal: Passing through these towns, the tour offers glimpses of local life and the chance to observe the island’s vibrant coastal culture.

• Cristo Rei: Similar to the famous Rio statue, this viewpoint offers impressive vistas of Funchal and beyond. You might take a walk around and enjoy some time to soak in the scenery.

• Faja dos Padres Beach: Accessed via the cable car, this secluded beach is perfect for relaxing, enjoying the views, and taking some photos. The cable car ride itself is a highlight, offering sweeping views over the ocean and cliffs.

• Miradouro do Guindaste: The last scenic stop provides a peaceful setting for photos and reflection before the tour winds down.

• Return to Drop-off: The tour concludes with stops back at Ribeira Brava, Câmara De Lobos, São Vicente, and Funchal, depending on your pick-up location.

The tour is priced at $92 per person, which covers transportation, a guide, the BBQ picnic, and the cable car ride. Given the variety of experiences packed into the day, this price offers good value—especially considering the included meal and personalized small-group setting.

The duration is around 7 hours, making it suitable for those prepared for a full day of activity. It’s important to note that the tour isn’t recommended for people with back problems or babies under one year old, due to the rugged terrain and long hours.

Transportation is by a comfortable jeep, ensuring you’ll be able to handle Madeira’s mountain roads without worry. The small group size (limited to 6) means more personal interaction and a less touristy feel, which many travelers appreciate.

The tour also features flexible booking options, including reserve now, pay later, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance—a great relief when planning travel during uncertain times.

From reviews, it’s clear that travelers appreciate the knowledgeable guides, who make the journey more engaging. One reviewer commented, “The guides are very friendly and informative, making the experience even more enjoyable.” The spectacular views seem to be the star attraction, with many mentioning the impressive cliffs and lush landscapes.

The BBQ experience is often highlighted as a genuine highlight—more than just a meal, it’s a social occasion with great local flavors. Many note that the traditional espetada and Madeira bread are delicious and authentic.

Some travelers mention that the tour’s long hours might be tiring but feel it’s balanced by the variety of stops and activities. If you’re looking for a full day packed with adventure, scenery, and culture, this tour delivers.

In the end, the Amazing Off Road BBQ Picnic Cable Cab Tour offers a comprehensive look at Madeira’s natural beauty, culture, and cuisine. It’s perfect for adventure seekers who want to explore off the beaten path, photographers eager for stunning vistas, and food lovers interested in local flavors.

This tour is especially suited for those who appreciate small-group experiences, want personalized insights from guides, and are prepared for a full day of exploration. The combination of off-road driving, spectacular viewpoints, cable car rides, and a traditional BBQ makes this a memorable way to experience Madeira’s diverse charms.

If you’re after authentic sights paired with a bit of adrenaline and good food, this tour should be on your list. Just be ready for a long, activity-filled day that promises plenty of stunning photos and stories to tell.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
The tour isn’t recommended for babies under 1 year or people with back problems due to the rugged terrain and long hours.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, making it a full-day adventure.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English, Polish, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are provided in Funchal and nearby areas.

What does the BBQ lunch include?
The meal features traditional espetada steak, Madeira bread (bolo do caco), salad, milho, and a drink of your choice.

Is the cable car ride included?
Yes, the cable car ride to Faja dos Padres beach is included, and optional at some stops.

What should I bring?
A jacket is recommended, especially since some stops are at higher elevations and in cooler mountain areas.

How many people are in each group?
Small groups are limited to 6 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Whether you’re after sweeping views, cultural insights, or just a fun day exploring Madeira’s rugged side, this tour combines all three into a memorable adventure.