Madeira’s rugged landscapes offer a thrilling adventure for visitors. The “Santana & Peaks Full Day Tour by Open 4×4” showcases the island’s natural wonders, from the UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forest to the towering peaks. Travelers can explore traditional straw-thatched houses, visit a sugar cane factory, and marvel at panoramic vistas. With knowledgeable guides and rave reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Madeira’s unique charms. What secrets await as you explore this captivating journey?
Key Points
- This full-day tour in Madeira offers exploration of the UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forest, Madeira’s highest mountains, and traditional straw-thatched houses in Santana.
- The tour features visits to Machico town, Eagles Rock, and a sugar cane factory in Porto da Cruz, providing insights into the island’s history and culture.
- The tour is available in multiple languages and includes hotel pickup in Funchal, with an additional fee for locations outside the city.
- The tour is priced at Kč 1,727 per person and features an overall rating of 4.8/5 based on 279 reviews.
- The tour may not be suitable for pregnant women or individuals with back problems, and participants should be prepared for rugged terrain and an immersive experience in Madeira’s landscapes.
Tour Overview
The tour is an 8-hour Madeira: Santana & Peaks full day tour by Open 4×4. Priced from Kč 1,727 per person, it’s available in several languages – Spanish, English, French, Portuguese, and German.
Hotel pickup in Funchal is included, though there’s an additional fee for locations outside the city.
The tour highlights include visiting the UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forest, admiring Madeira’s highest mountains, exploring Machico town and Eagles Rock, and touring a sugar cane factory in Porto da Cruz.
Guests can also see the traditional straw-thatched houses in Santana and reach the third-highest peak, Riveiro Frio.
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Itinerary Highlights
Visiting the UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forest, one of the tour’s highlights, offers a chance to explore Madeira’s awe-inspiring natural landscapes.
Admiring Madeira’s highest mountains promises breathtaking vistas.
Madeira’s highest mountains offer breathtaking vistas to admire.
Exploring Machico town and Eagles Rock provides insight into the island’s history and culture.
The tour also includes a stop at Porto da Cruz for a sugar cane factory tour, offering a unique glimpse into local traditions.
Reaching Riveiro Frio at 1818 meters, the third-highest peak, rewards visitors with panoramic views.
Lastly, the tour visits Santana, famous for its traditional straw-thatched houses, showcasing Madeira’s architectural heritage.
Booking Information
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, the tour offers flexibility for travelers.
The Reserve now & pay later option allows them to secure their spot without an immediate payment.
For an additional €18 per person, an optional lunch is available.
With an overall rating of 4.8/5 based on 279 reviews, the tour provides excellent value for money.
Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and enjoyable experiences.
However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with back problems.
Travelers should come prepared with comfortable attire, sunglasses, and cash.
Customer Experience
Travelers have rated this tour with an impressive overall score of 4.8 out of 5 stars, based on 279 reviews.
The guide rating stands at 4.9/5, while the transportation and value for money ratings are 4.7/5 respectively.
Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guides, who provide an enjoyable and informative experience.
Customers appreciate the opportunity to explore Madeira’s stunning landscapes, from the UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forest to the island’s highest peaks.
The tour offers great value, allowing travelers to discover the unique cultural heritage of Santana and its traditional straw-thatched houses.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Notes
Although this tour offers a fantastic opportunity to explore Madeira’s natural wonders, it may not be suitable for all travelers. Certain restrictions apply, including not being recommended for pregnant women or individuals with back problems. To ensure a comfortable and safe experience, it’s advisable to come prepared with the following items:
| Recommended Items |
|---|
| Comfortable shoes |
| Sunglasses |
| Camera |
The tour involves traversing rugged terrain, so participants should be in good physical condition and ready to enjoy Madeira’s stunning landscapes.
The Laurisilva Forest
The Laurisilva Forest is a UNESCO-listed natural wonder that captivates visitors to Madeira.
This ancient laurel forest covers over 15% of the island and is one of the last remaining vestiges of a prehistoric ecosystem.
Guests on the Madeira tour will have the chance to explore this lush, verdant landscape, marveling at the towering laurel trees and unique flora and fauna.
The trail winds through a serene, mossy world, providing a tranquil respite from the outside world.
This unique ecosystem is a highlight of the tour, offering a glimpse into Madeira’s remarkable natural heritage.
Madeira’s Highest Mountains
As the tour ventures deeper into Madeira’s rugged interior, travelers are treated to awe-inspiring vistas of the island’s highest mountains.
Madeira’s rugged interior reveals awe-inspiring vistas of the island’s towering mountains carved by centuries of erosion.
These towering peaks, carved by centuries of erosion, reach for the sky, offering breathtaking panoramas.
The tour highlights three of the most prominent summits:
- Pico Ruivo, the island’s highest point at 1,862 meters, boasting stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Pico do Arieiro, the third-highest peak at 1,818 meters, which provides a vantage point to appreciate Madeira’s dramatic volcanic origins.
- Pico das Torres, a majestic mountain reaching 1,851 meters, known for its unique geological formations and rich biodiversity.
The Traditional Straw-Thatched Houses of Santana
Nestled amidst the lush landscapes of Madeira, the traditional straw-thatched houses of Santana stand as a testament to the island’s rich cultural heritage. These unique dwellings, with their distinctive triangular roofs, have become an iconic symbol of Madeira’s architectural identity. Centuries-old techniques are used to construct these charming homes, which blend seamlessly with the surrounding environment. Visitors can explore the village, admiring the quaint houses and learning about the history and craftsmanship behind this age-old tradition.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Roof | Thatched with straw or reeds |
| Walls | Constructed with local stone and mud |
| Layout | Compact, with a single room and loft |
Since You Asked
What Is the Maximum Group Size for the Tour?
The maximum group size for the tour is not specified in the provided information. The tour overview covers various details, but does not mention the maximum number of participants allowed on the tour.
Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?
Yes, customers can request a private tour instead of a group tour. Private tours provide a more personalized experience and allow for greater flexibility in the itinerary. Additional fees may apply for a private tour option.
Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?
The tour doesn’t offer discounts for children or seniors. Prices are the same for all participants, regardless of age. However, the tour may have special considerations for certain groups, so it’s best to check with the tour provider directly.
How Much Time Is Spent at Each Stop Along the Itinerary?
The tour’s itinerary allocates varying durations at each stop, with more time spent exploring the UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forest, Machico town, and the traditional straw-thatched houses in Santana. Exact timelines may vary based on traffic and group size.
Are There Any Restroom Breaks Planned During the Tour?
The tour itinerary doesn’t explicitly mention scheduled restroom breaks, but it’s likely there will be opportunities to use facilities during stops at the various attractions. The length of the tour suggests there should be adequate time for comfort breaks.
The Sum Up
The “Santana & Peaks Full Day Tour by Open 4×4” offers an immersive exploration of Madeira’s stunning natural landscapes and cultural treasures. Travelers can expect to witness the UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forest, towering mountain peaks, and traditional straw-thatched houses, all while learning from knowledgeable guides. With a remarkable rating, this tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to experience the breathtaking beauty of this island paradise.
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