Pico do Areeiro to Ponta São Lourenço: East 4x4 Expedition

5.0 (12 reviews) 8 hours Free cancellation

out of 5

12 reviews

5.0

Pico do Areeiro to Ponta São Lourenço: East 4x4 Expedition — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Pico do Areeiro to Ponta São Lourenço: East 4x4 Expedition, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

This experience goes far beyond a standard sightseeing tour, it combines adventure, culture, and nature in a way only Madeira can offer. Travel in a true 4x4 through hidden off-road trails, stopping at non-touristic viewpoints that most visitors never reach. Enjoy authentic local moments, from tasting fresh Poncha to exploring traditional Santana houses from the inside. Your guide ensures a smooth, relaxed day with curated stops, storytelling, and routes designed to show both the iconic highlights and the island’s secret gems. It’s an intimate, immersive journey that reveals Madeira’s eastern side with depth, excitement, and unforgettable scenery.

Day Trips Full-day Tours Private and Luxury Audio Guides Cultural Tours 4WD Tours Safaris Shore Excursions

At a glance

Duration: 8 hours
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 18 people
People per booking: 1–15
Audio guide: German, Russian, Finnish, Portuguese, Filipino, English, Italian, French, Spanish, Czech, Arabic, Ukrainian, Japanese, Slovak, Polish, Romanian, Danish, Dutch
Guide: German, Portuguese, English, French, Spanish
Operated by: SafariCo

Ages: Infants (0–1 years) · Children (2–10 years) · Youth (11–15 years) · Adults (16–60 years) · Seniors (61–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Drop Off at Funchal
Included: First Aid Kit
Included: Pick Up at Funchal
Included: Tour Guide
Included: Insurance

Not included

Not included: Meals
Not included: Alcoholic Beverages
Not included: Pick Up at any place outside of Funchal requires an additional fee

Itinerary

Stop 1

10 min

Perched above Funchal, this iconic viewpoint offers a sweeping panorama that feels like the city has unfolded itself just for you. From here, the terracotta rooftops, the harbor, and the dramatic green hillsides assemble in a quiet spectacle of colour and depth. It’s a peaceful stop where guests can breathe in the island’s atmosphere, capture stunning photos, and appreciate the unique blend of nature and urban charm that defines Madeira.
Stop 2

30 min

A welcoming traditional bar where guests are invited to taste Madeira’s iconic drink, poncha. Here, you can enjoy a freshly mixed glass while hearing a short explanation about its origins and its role in local culture. The warm, authentic atmosphere makes this stop feel like stepping into the island’s living heritage, surrounded by friendly locals and the cosy charm of a true Madeiran gathering spot.
Stop 3

Passing by

A scenic drive through one of Madeira’s most characteristic highland routes. Along the way, guests can enjoy views of grazing cattle and the island’s endemic trees that give this landscape its serene, timeless feel. It’s a peaceful stretch of road that reveals the rural soul of Madeira, offering a quiet glimpse into local nature and mountain life.
Pico Do Areeiro

30 min

A stop at Madeira’s third-highest peak, standing 1,816 meters above sea level. From this breathtaking viewpoint, the island’s ridgelines stretch endlessly, often rising above a blanket of clouds for dramatic, cinematic views. It’s also the official starting point of the famous PR1 trail to Pico Ruivo, making it a gateway to one of Madeira’s most iconic mountain adventures. An unforgettable high-altitude experience that feels like standing on the island’s rooftop.
Balcoes de Ribeiro Frio

45 min Admission not included

A short and gentle walk through the lush heart of Ribeiro Frio, leading to a panoramic viewpoint over the UNESCO listed Laurissilva Forest. At the end, guests can enjoy sweeping valley views and may even feed the friendly local birds that often approach the lookout. Your guide will meet you on the opposite side of the trail, so there’s no need to walk back the same way, just relax, explore, and enjoy this serene slice of Madeira’s nature.
Ribeiro Frio

20 min

A cosy stop at a local bar and restaurant, where the warm glow of the fireplace creates a welcoming atmosphere. Guests can enjoy a coffee, tea, or a light snack while taking in the rustic charm of this mountain setting. It’s a brief but comforting break that adds a touch of local flavour to the journey through Ribeiro Frio.
Stop 7

Passing by

An exciting off-road section that winds through a landscape filled with Madeira’s unique, towering vegetation. Along the way, guests are treated to impressive views of endemic trees and dense green scenery that feels both wild and majestic. It’s a thrilling off-road experience that showcases the island’s natural beauty from a completely different angle, blending adventure with the raw charm of Madeira’s forests.
Stop 8

10 min

A stop at a small, non touristic viewpoint offering an impressive overlook of the Faial valley, far from the crowds. From here, the landscape drops into deep green slopes and winding villages, revealing Madeira’s rural charm in full detail. The route down continues through steep, narrow mountain roads, classic Madeiran “ladeiras”, giving guests an authentic sense of the island’s dramatic terrain.
Santana

one hour

A relaxing lunch stop in the charming village of Santana, known for its traditional thatched houses and peaceful atmosphere. Guests can enjoy local cuisine, unwind, and take in the authenticity of this historic mountain village. It’s a calm and inviting pause before continuing the adventure
Casas Tipicas de Santana

15 min

A visit to Madeira’s iconic triangular thatched houses, where guests can step inside and discover how people once lived in this rural region. Exploring the interior offers a glimpse into past traditions, daily life, and the island’s unique architectural heritage. It’s an engaging cultural stop that brings Madeira’s history to life in a simple and authentic way.
Stop 11

15 min

A refreshing stop at the Água d’Alto waterfall, one of Santana’s hidden natural gems. Surrounded by lush greenery, this peaceful spot reveals Madeira’s wild beauty through its cascading waters and tranquil forest setting. A simple, scenic visit that invites guests to pause, breathe, and enjoy nature up close.
Stop 12

Passing by

A drive along the historic road of Santana, with short stops at several scenic points for photos. This route offers striking views over valleys, cliffs, and the island’s vibrant green landscape. It’s a beautiful stretch of Madeira where each pause reveals another angle of the island’s natural charm.
Miradouro do guindaste

15 min

A stop at one of Madeira’s most striking viewpoints, offering sweeping ocean and cliff views from dramatic heights. Here, guests can enjoy the thrilling walk-on-glass experience on the transparent platforms, standing above the landscape with nothing but crystal clear glass beneath their feet. It’s a breathtaking combination of scenery and adrenaline, perfect for unforgettable photos and panoramic moments.
Ponta de Sao Lourenco

30 min

A visit to the easternmost point of Madeira, where dramatic cliffs meet a uniquely dry, golden landscape unlike anywhere else on the island. From this viewpoint, guests can see both the south and north coasts at the same time, as well as the neighboring island of Porto Santo on clear days. It’s a striking geological and scenic highlight, showcasing Madeira’s wild, windswept beauty in its most elemental form.
Funchal

5 min

A smooth and convenient end to the tour, with guests dropped off at their accommodation or designated meeting point. A relaxed conclusion to a full day of exploration, ensuring everyone returns comfortably after an unforgettable journey through Madeira.

Meeting point and pickup

The operator picks every participant up from their accommodation or the points below.

Pickup points

Pestana CR7 Funchal

The guide will be at the meeting point or hotel holding a sign with the lead travelers name, making it easy for you to find the guide.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

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

If you cancel	You get back
At least one day before	100%
Less than a day before	0%

The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.
The operator may cancel if too few people book; you then get another date or your money back.