Open Roof Jeep Tour with Madeira Wine Tasting

Exploring Madeira in a Classic Jeep with Wine Tasting: An Adventure Worth Every Penny

Recently, we came across a highly-rated Open Roof Jeep Tour with Madeira Wine Tasting offered by Ricardo Off Road Madeira, and it caught our attention. While we haven’t personally taken the trip, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what awaits.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the spectacular views of valleys, mountains, and the ocean that feel like scenes from movies. Second, the personalized guidance from local experts who share stories and insights you won’t find in guidebooks. Lastly, the delightful wine tasting of Henriques & Henriques wines, which offers an authentic taste of Madeira’s renowned wine culture.

Of course, no adventure is perfect—potential travelers should consider the six-hour duration including transport and the off-road driving on bumpy paths which might not suit everyone. But for those who enjoy scenic drives, cultural insights, and a bit of fun in the mud, this tour promises a memorable day.

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers who love scenic nature, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Families with older children, couples, and solo explorers who want a full day of exploration will find it particularly appealing.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The tour showcases some of Madeira’s most breathtaking valleys, ocean vistas, and mountain scenery.
• Authentic Local Guides: Guides like Ricardo and Andre offer personal stories, local knowledge, and a genuine connection to the island.
• Unique Transportation: Traveling in a classic open roof jeep adds a sense of adventure and allows for unobstructed photo opportunities.
• Wine Tasting: The visit to Henriques & Henriques provides a genuine Madeira wine experience, including sweet, dry, and medium dry options.
• Off-road Fun: Expect bumpy, exhilarating rides on narrow mountain roads and off-road trails that bring out the thrill-seeker in you.
• Customizable Experience: The guide begins with a briefing to adapt the day to your interests, ensuring a personalized adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Madeira Jeep Tour

The Itinerary: From Fishing Villages to Cliff Views

The tour kicks off with hotel pickup, where your guide introduces the plan for the day. From there, it’s a scenic drive through winding roads to Camara de Lobos, a charming fishing village famous for its colorful boats and local charm. This stop isn’t just a photo-op; it’s an opportunity to step into authentic Madeira life, with stories from guides like Andre, who grew up on the island.

Next, the journey takes you toward Jardim da Serra and Nun’s Valley. This area is known for its dramatic mountain vistas and lush landscapes. One reviewer, Ninelena, highlighted Andre’s storytelling as a highlight, sharing insights into local industries like eucalyptus, sugar cane, and wine. The views from Nun’s Valley are so stunning that they often leave visitors speechless—perfect for snapping memorable photos.

The Wine Tasting Experience

After soaking in the mountain scenery, your adventure continues with a visit to Henriques & Henriques, one of Madeira’s reputable wineries. Here, you’ll taste a selection of local wines—ranging from sweet to medium dry—while learning about Madeira’s wine-making traditions. One guest, Priti, appreciated how the guide personalized her experience, tailoring the tour to her preferences and making her feel special.

The wine tasting isn’t just about drinking; it’s a deep dive into Madeira’s rich wine culture. The relaxed setting and friendly guide help make this a highlight, especially for those who enjoy discovering local flavors.

The Cliff-Top Marvel: Cabo Girao

No trip to Madeira is complete without visiting Cabo Girao, one of the highest glass platforms in the world, perched 683 meters above the ocean. The views here are jaw-dropping, with sweeping panoramas of the coast and island landscape. Several reviews mention this as a must-see, with Raine noting it as a highlight of the day.

Standing on the glass platform, you’ll get a literal sense of standing at the edge of the world. It’s a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the vastness of the Atlantic.

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Off-Road Thrills and Local Delights

The tour’s off-road segments are described as bumpy but exhilarating. Guide Ricardo or Vitor will navigate narrow mountain trails, giving you a true sense of Madeira’s rugged terrain. It’s a fantastic way to experience the landscape beyond the usual viewpoints, and reviewers like Naara appreciated the personalized recommendations and the local delicacies like Poncha—Madeira’s famous sugarcane spirit—served at a local bar.

This off-road experience isn’t just for adrenaline junkies; it’s a chance to see the unseen parts of the island and get a real sense of local life.

Personalization and Local Knowledge

What sets this tour apart, according to reviewers, is the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. Andre, Vitor, and Ricardo are praised for their storytelling, local insights, and willingness to customize the experience. For instance, one reviewer raved about Ricardo’s enthusiasm, patience, and his ability to adapt the tour to their interests.

The small group size (often just a handful of travelers) ensures plenty of interaction and makes for a more intimate experience. This personal touch can turn a good tour into a memorable one.

Practical Details and Value

The price of $82 per person offers solid value considering the full six-hour experience, which includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, guided driving, and wine tastings. The tour’s inclusion of diverse stops—from fishing villages to mountain vistas and cliff platforms—gives you an immersive taste of Madeira’s natural beauty and culture.

The tour operates rain or shine, so packing comfortable clothes and being prepared for changing weather is recommended. Since entry tickets are not included, you might want to budget extra if you wish to visit specific sites like Cabo Girao’s platform or local restaurants.

The flexible booking option allows you to reserve now and pay later, which is helpful if your travel plans are still uncertain. The tour is not suitable for children under 2 or pregnant women, mainly due to the off-road driving and bumpy trails.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventurous souls and nature lovers who want more than just a standard sightseeing trip. If you’re interested in local stories, authentic wine, and stunning scenery, you’ll find plenty to love. It also suits those who enjoy off-road driving, as the rugged trails add an element of thrill.

Couples seeking a romantic day with breathtaking views, families with older children looking for an active outing, or solo travelers wanting a personalized experience will all find value here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included?
Yes, the tour includes convenient pickup and drop-off from your accommodation.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 6 hours, including travel time, stops, and tasting.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for mountain weather and some sturdy shoes for off-road sections are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not suitable for children under 2 years or pregnant women due to off-road driving on bumpy terrain.

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, the guide begins with a briefing to tailor the experience to your interests as much as possible.

Are tickets to attractions included?
No, entry tickets are not included, so plan accordingly if you want to visit specific sites or attractions.

What is the wine tasting like?
Expect to sample Madeira wines, including sweet, dry, and medium dry varieties, in a relaxed, friendly setting.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
The combination of stunning viewpoints, local stories, and the fun, open-roof jeep ride makes for a memorable day.

Final Thoughts

The Open Roof Jeep Tour with Madeira Wine Tasting offers a well-rounded, authentic look at the island’s beauty and culture. With passionate guides, exhilarating off-road drives, and spectacular vistas, it’s a fantastic way to experience Madeira beyond the standard tourist spots.

While the bumpy trails and full-day length might not suit everyone, those craving adventure, scenery, and local flavor will find this tour a top choice. It’s a chance to see Madeira’s mountains, valleys, and coastlines from a fresh perspective—all wrapped up with a glass of Madeira wine to toast the day.

This tour truly shines in its ability to mix fun, culture, and nature — making it a memorable highlight of any Madeira visit. Whether you’re a first-timer or a repeat visitor, it’s a day that’s likely to leave you with stories and views you’ll cherish long after your trip ends.

You can check availability for your dates here: