Explore Madeira’s East: Epic 4x4 Adventure from Pico Do Areiro to Santana
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for travelers in moderate physical condition comfortable with occasional short walks and uneven terrain.
Overview
Discover Madeira’s stunning eastern landscapes on an exhilarating 8-hour 4x4 tour. From volcanic peaks and ancient forests to traditional villages and local flavors, this trip offers an unforgettable exploration of the island’s authentic character.
East 4x4 Tour
Full Day Tour • 8h • Great first tour to whoever visits Madeira • Adults only
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable 8-hour East 4x4 tour, perfect for first-time visitors! Experience breathtaking views from Pico Do Areiro, explore rural gems like Ribeiro Frio and Santana, and admire traditional A-Frame houses. Enjoy local cuisine with stunning vistas, plus optional wine or rum tasting for a truly memorable adventure.
Great for a first tour of the island
Duration
8 hours
About
The East 4x4 tour has a little bit of everything and is suitable for everyone!
The First stop is Pico Do Areiro, the 3rd highest peak on the island, 1811m above sea level.
There are usually very dramatic views and we tend to spend a fair amount of time up there.
After that, we venture to the North side of the island, into the more rural areas such as Ribeiro Frio and Faial where you can find hints of Laurissilva forest.
Next is Santana.
This is where you will find the traditional, authentic "A-Frame" houses you might have seen online or in guide books.
We will see lots of agricultural terraces, we will meet locals and we will have lunch at possibly the best restuarant view on the island,
Quinta do Furao Hotel (optional extra, not included in price and highly recommended).
After lunch we usually like to include some wine or rum tasting depending on the time we have and what the group is like.
Sometimes we include a walk or two, depending on the group, the weather, the season, etc.
This is all very personalized so it depends on many factors.
This is a fun and informative trip for all ages and a great "first tour" for everyone visiting our beautiful island.
Included
- Guided Tour in a Land Rover Discovery 4X4
- Pick-up / Drop-off in Funchal
- Insurance as by Portuguese Law - RNAAT 820/2020
Adventure Tips
Pack layers for varying temperatures
At high elevations like Pico Do Areiro, temperatures can drop suddenly—bring a warm jacket even on warm days.
Bring sturdy footwear
Uneven terrain and short walks near levadas require good shoes to stay comfortable and safe.
Stay hydrated
Carry water to stay refreshed during the long day of active sightseeing and mild hiking.
Respect local traditions
When visiting villages like Santana, be mindful of private property and traditional practices.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Madeiran chaffinch
- Berthelot’s pipit
History
Santana’s A-frame houses date back centuries and reflect Madeira’s rural traditions, preserved as cultural landmarks.
Conservation
Operators promote responsible tourism by encouraging minimal impact on delicate laurel forests and local wildlife habitats.
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Adventure Hotspots in Funchal
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof jacket
Protection against sudden rain showers common in Madeira’s mountainous areas.
fall specific
Comfortable hiking shoes
To navigate rocky trails and village paths with stability and comfort.
Sunglasses and sunscreen
To guard against strong sun exposure during high-altitude stops.
summer specific
Camera or smartphone
Capture Madeira's spectacular landscapes and cultural sites throughout the tour.