Outdoor Adventure with Bravelanders' Private North Tour from Funchal
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have average fitness levels; some walking, standing, and vehicle riding involved.
Overview
Discover Madeira’s natural beauty and rich history on Bravelanders' Private North Tour. From glass platforms at Guindaste Viewpoint to traditional houses in Santana, this 8-hour journey is perfect for adventurous travelers seeking a comprehensive experience of the island’s highlights.
Private North Tour
Ages 2+ • 8 Hours • Discover the beautiful north coast in a unique way with your own group!
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About This Adventure
Embark on an exhilarating 8-hour adventure from Funchal to Machico, where history meets breathtaking views. Experience the thrill of glass platforms at Guindaste Viewpoint, explore the iconic Casas Típicas in Santana, and immerse yourself in local customs and nature through off-road excursions. Recharge with a scenic lunch before returning, filled with unforgettable memories.
Duration: 8 hours
We leave Funchal for Machico, a popular city since it was here that Gonçalves Zarco and Tristão Vaz Teixeira disembarked, in 1419, when they discovered Madeira. Crossing to the north coast, the Guindaste Viewpoint creates a multiple sensation between the views of the coast and the vertigo of two glass platforms suspended over the sea.
Santana is known for its Casas Típicas, traditional stone houses with steep thatched roofs in the shape of a triangle.
The parish of Ilha and São Jorge up to Arco de São Jorge fills us with local customs as well as a lot of local agriculture and many off-road excursions, so that the adrenaline leads us to feel nature in a very special way.
The lunch break allows us to recharge our batteries so that we can run along the coastline between Boaventura, Ponta Delgada and in São Vicente we cross back to the south coast.
The return to Funchal arrives at the end of the afternoon and full of emotions of a great day!
Highlights
- Funchal – Ribeira Brava – Paul Da Serra – Fanal – Ribeira Da Janela – Porto Moniz – Seixal – São Vicente – Funchal
Includes
- Hotel / Stay pick up and drop off in Funchal area
Excludes
- Lunch
Important to Know
- Extra charge on pick ups outside Funchal
- Free for hotels in Funchal area
- Please wear comfortable clothes, bathing suits, shoes and jacket if cold weather
Meeting Point
- If you have chosen to go to the meeting point on your own, please meet us at Leroy Merlin Funchal (R. do Engenho Velho 4, 9000-291 Funchal, Portugal)
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy footwear
The off-road paths and glass platforms require comfortable, supportive shoes.
Bring layers for variable weather
Madeira’s climate can change quickly, so pack a light jacket or raincoat.
Hydrate regularly
Ensure you carry water to stay hydrated during the active day.
Capture the scenery early in the day
The best lighting for photos is often during morning hours before crowds arrive.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Madeira Laurel Pigeon
- Bootlace Snakes
History
Madeira has a long history of sugar cultivation, which shaped its cultural landscape—a heritage reflected in local architecture and customs.
Conservation
Bravelanders emphasizes low-impact tourism, supporting local initiatives to preserve Madeira’s unique ecosystems.
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Adventure Hotspots in Funchal
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for walking on uneven terrain and viewing platforms.
Light rain jacket
Protects against unexpected weather changes during the trip.
spring|fall|winter specific
Sunscreen
Blocks UV rays during sunny parts of the day.
summer specific
Camera or smartphone
Capture sweeping views and memorable moments along the route.