Shore Excursion - Santana & Peaks 4x4 tour

Whether you're arriving by cruise ship or staying at a hotel, join us for an unforgettable off-road journey to Pico do Areeiro! Rise above the clouds at 1,818m on Madeira's 3rd highest peak with breathtaking views of the entire island Explore the ancient UNESCO Laurisilva forest at Ribeiro Frio and Portela - a magical world of unique wildlife and plants Visit a genuine 240-year-old Santana house and enjoy delicious traditional Madeiran lunch Capture stunning photos along the dramatic north coast at Faial and Porto da Cruz Go OFF-ROAD on hidden back roads through Funchal's hills for secret viewpoints

1. 1

   Machico

   10 min

   Machico is where Madeira’s history began and where tranquility meets the sea. Its golden-sand beach, calm bay, and palm-lined promenade create a resort feel, while the surrounding hills offer postcard-perfect viewpoints over the town and ocean.

2. 2

   Miradouro da Portela

   10 min

   Portela is one of Madeira’s classic viewpoints, a balcony over a sea of green. From here, sweeping views open over Machico’s valley, rugged cliffs, and the endless Atlantic, especially magical at sunrise when the light paints the landscape in gold.

3. 3

   Porto da Cruz

   15 min

   Porto da Cruz is a coastal hideaway where mountains fall straight into the ocean. Black-sand beaches, natural pools and powerful Atlantic waves create a dramatic setting, softened by white houses, vine-covered hills and the charm of a small fishing village.

4. 4

   Engenhos do Norte

   15 min

   Engenhos do Norte is Madeira’s rum heritage brought to life. The historic sugarcane mill still works with traditional machinery, filling the air with the aroma of molasses and steam, while tastings reveal the island’s rich rum culture in every sip.

5. 5

   Fortim do Faial

   Faial

6. 6

   Kartodromo do Faial

   10 min

   Guindaste is a sky-high terrace hanging above the Atlantic. Sheer cliffs, endless blue, and the wild north coast stretching into the distance make it a dream spot for sunrise, photography, and feeling the full power and beauty of Madeira’s coastline.

7. 7

   Santana

   15 min

   Santana is the green heart of Madeira’s north, framed by deep valleys and soaring peaks. It’s a gateway to some of the island’s most beautiful hikes, while its rural charm, traditional farming terraces, and slow rhythm offer an authentic taste of Madeiran life.

8. 8

   Santana

   15 min

   Santana is the green heart of Madeira’s north, framed by deep valleys and soaring peaks. It’s a gateway to some of the island’s most beautiful hikes, while its rural charm, traditional farming terraces, and slow rhythm offer an authentic taste of Madeiran life.

9. 9

   Casas Tipicas de Santana

   15 min

   The typical houses of Santana are Madeira’s storybook icons. These A‑frame cottages, with thatched roofs and brightly painted doors, look like they’ve come straight from a fairy tale and offer a charming glimpse into the island’s traditional rural architecture.

10. 10

    Ribeiro Frio

    10 min

    , emerald sanctuary in the middle of the mountains. Known for its levada walks, trout pools, and dense Laurissilva, it offers some of the island’s most beloved forest trails, rewarded by breathtaking viewpoints over deep valleys and distant sea.

11. 11

    Madeira Islands

    10 min

    Poiso, Madeira is a lush Atlantic paradise where dramatic cliffs plunge into deep-blue seas, forests are wrapped in mist, and flowers bloom all year. The island combines wild nature, warm hospitality, and a gentle climate, making it perfect for both adventure and relaxed, slow travel.

12. 12

    Pico do Arieiro

    15 min

    Pico do Areeiro is one of Madeira’s crown jewels, a high peak rising above the clouds. At sunrise and sunset, the jagged ridges glow in surreal colors, and the legendary trail toward Pico Ruivo reveals some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in all of Europe.

13. 13

    Stop 13

    Pass by

    (Snow Well) — is a historic ice well set high in the mountains, where snow was once stored for Funchal’s nobility. Today it is a quiet, atmospheric spot surrounded by high-altitude scenery, offering peaceful walks and wide views over Madeira’s central massif.

14. 14

    Pico Do Areeiro

    20 min

    Pico do Areeiro is one of Madeira’s crown jewels, a high peak rising above the clouds. At sunrise and sunset, the jagged ridges glow in surreal colors, and the legendary trail toward Pico Ruivo reveals some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in all of Europe.

15. 15

    Miradouro do guindaste

    10 min

    Guindaste is a sky-high terrace hanging above the Atlantic. Sheer cliffs, endless blue, and the wild north coast stretching into the distance make it a dream spot for sunrise, photography, and feeling the full power and beauty of Madeira’s coastline.

• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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