moderate
4 hours
Suitable for those with moderate fitness levels able to handle uneven terrain and 1–2 hour walks at steady pace.
Join Madeira Happy Tours for a dynamic four-hour journey combining an off-road Land Rover safari with a peaceful levada walk along Madeira’s dramatic Southeast Coast. Witness captivating scenery from rugged cliffs to serene water channels while experiencing local culture and history firsthand.
Madeira, a rugged volcanic island off Portugal’s southwest coast, presents an adventure playground defined by dramatic cliffs, lush forests, and an intricate network of levadas—ancient irrigation channels carved into the landscape. Madeira Happy Tours taps into this wild beauty with their Mini Combo lasting roughly four hours, blending a thrilling Land Rover safari along the Southeast Coast with a gentle yet scenic walk alongside one of the island’s iconic levadas.
Starting in Funchal, Madeira’s bustling capital, guests climb aboard a Land Rover to tackle steep, twisting trails that wind above the Atlantic Ocean. The southeast coastline’s raw, rocky outcrops and sweeping views of turquoise water set the tone early. Along the route, travelers encounter the charming wicker city, a true local cultural quirk where traditional handcrafted baskets hint at the island’s artisanal past. Remote spots like Morena reveal unspoiled natural vistas and native laurel forest, part of the island’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
The adventure shifts gear with a serene levada walk, a gentle hike tracing water channels that have shaped Madeira’s agriculture and settlement patterns for centuries. These paths traverse shady woodlands and fertile valleys, offering an up-close look at the island’s rich flora, including endemic hummingbird trees and vibrant orchids.
Ending in Machico, the first place touched by Portuguese settlers in the early 1400s, the tour ties natural splendor to the island’s layered human history. Madeira Happy Tours provides not just a ride or a walk, but a tightly woven experience that reveals the island’s raw landscapes and cultural roots with authenticity and energy. This combo encapsulates why Madeira remains a standout destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking unique, rugged, and rewarding adventures.
Levada paths can be narrow and uneven; bring hiking shoes with good grip.
Weather can shift quickly along the coast and levadas; be prepared for unexpected showers.
Carry water, especially during the jeep safari portion under the sun.
Guides share insights about Madeira’s geology, flora, and history—engage with their commentary for a richer experience.
Machico, the endpoint of the tour, was the first landing point for Portuguese settlers in the 15th century, marking the beginning of Madeira’s colonization.
The levada network is carefully maintained to preserve water management and protect endemic laurel forest habitats that are part of Madeira’s UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Critical for gripping narrow levada paths and rocky jeep trails.
Protects against strong sun exposure during open jeep segments.
summer specific
Keeps you dry during sudden coastal or levada rain showers.
spring|fall|winter specific
Staying hydrated is important for both driving and walking portions.