Madeira’s Peaks & Nature: Private 4x4 Pico do Arieiro & Santana

A journey with Prestige Tours 4x4 Madeira is exceptional because it offers a 100% private, bespoke overland expedition tailored to your pace. We eliminate rigid schedules and commercial crowds. From your 5-star hotel lobby pick-up, the day belongs entirely to your group of up to 6 guests. You will explore Madeira’s dramatic Eastern landscapes aboard our iconic, classic green Land Rover Discovery 4x4. This distinctive vehicle blends rugged adventure with sophisticated comfort, accessing secret trails and hidden viewpoints that massive tour buses cannot reach. Ascend to the breathtaking heights of Pico do Arieiro, walk through the pristine Laurissilva forest, discover the traditional thatched houses of Santana, and enjoy an exclusive sugar cane heritage experience with a local rum tasting in Porto da Cruz. With Prestige Tours 4x4 Madeira, you enjoy the authentic East in ultimate comfort and style.

1. 1

   Pico do Arieiro

   30 min

   Begin your East Madeira tour at Pico do Arieiro, one of the island’s highest and most iconic viewpoints, located around 1,818 metres above sea level. This first stop offers dramatic mountain peaks, deep valleys and, when weather conditions allow, breathtaking views above the clouds. It is the perfect place to take photos, enjoy the fresh mountain air and experience Madeira’s natural beauty from one of its most unforgettable locations. Weather and visibility can change quickly in the mountains, making each visit a unique experience.

2. 2

   Ribeiro Frio

   1 hour

   Explore one of Madeira’s most beautiful green areas, surrounded by Laurissilva forest, mountain landscapes and peaceful natural scenery. This stop offers a chance to enjoy the island’s fresh mountain atmosphere and admire the contrast between deep valleys, native forest and panoramic views. An optional short walk to the Balcões viewpoint may be available during this stop. This walk has an additional cost of €4.50 per person, paid locally.

3. 3

   Santana

   3 hours

   Leave the busiest roads behind and follow quiet green rural tracks through some of Madeira’s most authentic landscapes. Travelling by 4x4, this scenic route to Santana takes you away from the crowds, with mountain views, lush valleys, narrow country roads and peaceful places connected to local life. Enjoy a soft off-road experience that combines adventure, scenery and a genuine view of Madeira’s countryside. In Santana, visit one of Madeira’s most emblematic villages, known for its colourful traditional thatched-roof houses, and learn about local culture, rural traditions and island heritage. During the stop, guests may have free time for lunch, local shops or regional products. Meals, drinks and personal purchases are not included in the tour price and are paid locally by each guest.

4. 4

   Fortim do Faial

   30 min

   Continue towards Faial, a peaceful coastal village on Madeira’s north-east side, known for its green mountains, ocean views and dramatic natural scenery. This stop offers a beautiful contrast between the island’s high peaks, deep valleys and rugged coastline. At Fortim do Faial, enjoy panoramic views over the village, the surrounding cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean. This small historic viewpoint is a great place to take photos, appreciate the quieter side of Madeira and learn more about the island’s coastal heritage and local way of life.

5. 5

   Porto da Cruz

   30 min

   Visit Porto da Cruz, a charming coastal village on Madeira’s north-east coast, known for its ocean views, volcanic landscapes and strong connection to the island’s sugarcane tradition. During this stop, discover the historic Engenhos do Norte, one of Madeira’s traditional sugarcane mills, where you can learn more about the production of sugarcane honey, aguardente and Madeira rum. This visit offers a cultural insight into an important part of the island’s history, linked to agriculture, local craftsmanship and traditional production methods.

6. 6

   Canical

   30 min

   Finish the experience in Caniçal, one of Madeira’s most distinctive coastal areas, known for its dry landscapes, dramatic cliffs and wide Atlantic views. This stop reveals a different side of the island, where the green mountains give way to volcanic scenery, open horizons and rugged coastline. Depending on the route and weather conditions, enjoy scenic viewpoints over the ocean and the eastern tip of Madeira, with time to take photos and appreciate the contrast between the sea, cliffs and surrounding natural landscapes. Caniçal also has a strong connection to Madeira’s maritime history, making this stop a beautiful mix of nature, culture and coastal scenery.

• Specialized infant seats are available
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Children aged 3 and over are welcome. Please let us know their ages in advance so we can provide suitable child seating if required.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.