Pico do Arieiro Santana and Ponta Sao Tour

Explore the spectacular natural wonders and cultural heritage of Madeira’s East Coast on an exciting 4x4 tour, moving far away from the crowded tour buses. Driven by an expert local guide, the route follows this exact sequence: Pico do Arieiro: Stand above the clouds at the island's third-highest peak (1818m). Ribeiro Frio: Walk along a gentle levada in the UNESCO-listed Laurisilva Forest. Miradouro do Guindaste: Walk on famous glass platforms suspended over the sea. Miradouro do Cortado: Enjoy stunning coastal views overlooking Eagle's Rock. Rocha do Navio: Admire dramatic green cliffs and waterfalls over a nature reserve. Santana: See iconic thatched triangular houses and enjoy free time for lunch. Porto da Cruz: Visit the historic steam-powered sugar cane rum factory. Ponta de São Lourenço: Marvel at the unique volcanic rock peninsula scenery. NOTE: Shared tours use Land Rover Discovery 4x4 vehicles. The classic Portuguese UMM jeep is strictly for Private Tour bookings.

1. 1

   Pico do Arieiro

   40 min

   Stand above the clouds at Madeira’s third-highest peak (1818m). Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views over the central mountain range and deep valleys. Perfect for stunning morning photographs. Please note that exploring this scenic viewpoint is completely free, and admission is included as a public stop on this tour.

2. 2

   Balcoes de Ribeiro Frio

   40 min

   Immerse yourself in the world-famous UNESCO Laurissilva Forest. Take a short, gentle walk along a traditional levada, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and visit the local trout hatchery surrounded by lush native vegetation. Please note that exploring this natural park is completely free, and admission is included as a public stop on this tour.

3. 3

   Miradouro do guindaste

   20 min

   Stop at the breathtaking Guindaste viewpoint, famous for its stunning glass floor platforms suspended over the ocean. Enjoy incredible panoramic views of the dramatic northern coastline, Faial’s Eagle Rock, and the island of Porto Santo on clear days—a spectacular spot for unforgettable photos. Please note that exploring this scenic viewpoint is completely free, and admission is included as a public stop on this tour.

4. 4

   Stop 4

   10 min

   Stop at the scenic Cortado viewpoint for a stunning perspective of Madeira's north coast. Nestled between towering mountains and the sea, this spot offers a magnificent, sweeping view of the famous Eagle's Rock (Penha d'Águia) and the village of Faial down below. Please note that exploring this scenic viewpoint is completely free, and admission is included as a public stop on this tour.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   10 min

   Stop at the breathtaking Rocha do Navio viewpoint, perched high on a cliff overlooking a strict Nature Reserve. Enjoy stunning views of the dramatic Atlantic coastline, isolated traditional farmlands down by the sea, and beautiful waterfalls cascading down the green cliffs. Please note that exploring this scenic viewpoint is completely free, and admission is included as a public stop on this tour.

6. 6

   Santana

   1.5 hours

   Discover the iconic, traditional triangular houses of Santana with their historic thatched roofs. This charming village offers a wonderful look into Madeira's authentic culture and heritage. This is also our main lunch stop, where you will have plenty of free time to explore the area and enjoy regional cuisine at a local restaurant. Please note that lunch and drinks are at your own expense and not included in the tour price.

7. 7

   Porto da Cruz

   30 min

   Visit the charming coastal village of Porto da Cruz, famous for its dramatic sea cliffs and traditional sugar cane culture. We will make a stop at the historic "Engenhos do Norte" factory to see how authentic Madeiran rum (Aguardente) is still produced using 19th-century steam power. Please note that exploring the village is free, but any rum tastings, drinks, or purchases inside the factory are at your own expense.

8. 8

   Ponta de Sao Lourenco

   25 min

   Explore the easternmost peninsula of Madeira, located within a protected natural reserve. Unlike the rest of the lush green island, this area features a unique volcanic, semi-arid landscape with dramatic rock formations and sea cliffs crashing into the Atlantic Ocean—a true paradise for photography lovers. Please note that exploring this scenic coastal area is completely free, and admission is included as a public stop on this tour.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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