Madeira Jeep Safari: Pico do Areeiro, Santana & Rum Tasting

Summary

Mountain peaks, thatched houses, ocean cliffs and madeira rum

You’ll ride up winding roads in a 4x4 jeep from Funchal to Pico do Areeiro’s wild summit, walk ancient levadas through laurel forest, share lunch in Santana’s colorful village houses, taste fiery Madeira rum by the sea and end with Atlantic views that linger long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

We bounced up the narrow road out of Funchal before I’d even finished my coffee — the sort you drink half-awake, staring at misty hills. Our driver João grinned in the mirror, radio crackling some local tune. The jeep windows stayed open; mountain air felt cold and sharp as we climbed towards Pico do Areeiro. Clouds drifted low enough to brush your face if you leaned out (I did, got a wet cheek for my trouble). At the top, João pointed out where the old trails cut through the rock — I tried to picture hiking it, but honestly just stood there gawking at all those jagged ridges rolling off into fog. You could smell damp earth and something like eucalyptus.

Later we rolled down into Ribeiro Frio. It was quieter here — just birds and water moving somewhere unseen. João led us along this levada path to Balcões viewpoint. I remember touching the mossy stone, cool under my hand, while he explained how these channels have watered Madeira for centuries. There’s a kind of hush when you reach the lookout: green valleys below, clouds snagged on peaks. Someone handed me a pastel de nata from their bag (not included, but still warm), and for a second it felt like time stopped. I didn’t expect that part.

Santana came next — those little triangular houses with bright doors looked almost too perfect, but people actually live there. We had lunch in a small place João knew; fish stew and bread thick enough to mop up everything left on the plate. Li laughed when I tried to say “espetada” properly (probably butchered it). After that we hit Guindaste viewpoint — wind whipping so hard it nearly took my hat — then Porto da Cruz for rum tasting at Engenhos do Norte. The smell inside was sweet and sharp; tasted stronger than I thought it would be. By Ponta do Rosto, late sun hit volcanic cliffs in orange stripes and nobody said much for a minute or two.

I still think about that view over Machico bay as we drove back down through Santa Cruz — quiet now except for João humming along to some old fado song on the radio. It’s not really about ticking off sights; more about how each place leaves its own mark on you without asking permission.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Madeira's East by Jeep Safari

• Visit Pico do Arieiro peak
• Walk Levada dos Balcões trail
• Stop for lunch in Santana
• Enjoy views at Guindaste viewpoint
• Taste rum at Engenhos do Norte
• See cliffs at Ponta do Rosto
• Pass through Machico town
• Pass through Santa Cruz town

Top questions

How long is the Madeira jeep safari day trip?

The tour lasts a full day with several stops between Pico do Areeiro and Ponta de São Lourenço.

Is hotel pickup included in this jeep tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

Do we visit Santana’s traditional houses?

Yes, there’s a stop in Santana where you can see the famous thatched houses and have lunch.

Is lunch provided during this Madeira jeep tour?

Lunch is included during the stop in Santana village.

Can children join this day trip?

Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult; specialized infant seats are available if needed.

Is there any walking or hiking involved?

There’s a short walk along Levada dos Balcões to reach one of the viewpoints; moderate fitness is recommended.

Will we taste Madeira rum on this safari?

Yes, there’s a stop at Engenhos do Norte Rum Factory in Porto da Cruz for rum tasting (minimum drinking age 18).

Are guides multilingual on this tour?

The tour may be operated by a multilingual guide depending on group needs.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off anywhere around Funchal or nearby areas, all transport by 4x4 jeep with live commentary from your local driver-guide throughout the journey, entry fees where needed, plus a traditional lunch stop in Santana village (with time to try local dishes) before returning late afternoon or early evening.