Jeep Safari & Levada Walks with Madeira Happy Tours - Funchal

Jeep Safari & Levada Walks with Madeira Happy Tours

Funchalmoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for those with moderate fitness levels able to handle uneven terrain and 1–2 hour walks at steady pace.

Overview

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.

Details

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.

Adventure Tips

Wear sturdy shoes

Levada paths can be narrow and uneven; bring hiking shoes with good grip.

Bring a light rain jacket

Weather can shift quickly along the coast and levadas; be prepared for unexpected showers.

Stay hydrated

Carry water, especially during the jeep safari portion under the sun.

Listen for local guides

Guides share insights about Madeira’s geology, flora, and history—engage with their commentary for a richer experience.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • Morena’s less-visited viewpoints
  • Quiet levada paths away from the main trails

Wildlife

  • Madeiran chaffinch
  • Laurisilva forest moths

History

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.

Conservation

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Mid-morning
Late afternoon

Best Viewpoints

  • Southeast coast cliffs
  • Morena lookout
  • Machico bay

What to Photograph

Dramatic ocean vistas
Water flowing through levadas
Traditional wicker crafts

Recommended Gear

Sturdy hiking shoes

Essential

Critical for gripping narrow levada paths and rocky jeep trails.

Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)

Essential

Protects against strong sun exposure during open jeep segments.

summer specific

Light rain jacket

Essential

Keeps you dry during sudden coastal or levada rain showers.

spring|fall|winter specific

Water bottle

Essential

Staying hydrated is important for both driving and walking portions.

Book Now