THE AMAZING OFF ROAD BBQ PICNIC CABLE CAB TOUR

This detailed review covers the Amazing Off-Road BBQ Picnic Cable Cab Tour in Madeira, Portugal—a seven-hour adventure packed with scenic drives, cultural insights, delicious food, and unforgettable views. We haven’t personally taken this tour but based on firsthand reviews and detailed descriptions, it offers a balanced mix of thrill, culture, and relaxation, making it a compelling option for a variety of travelers.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the off-road jeep adventure promises an adrenaline buzz while unveiling Madeira’s rugged beauty. Second, the cultural stops—including traditional villages and scenic viewpoints—allow for authentic taste and insight into local life. Third, the included BBQ lunch, centered around Madeira’s famous espetada, provides a genuine culinary experience that’s both hearty and social.

One potential consideration is the tour’s duration and pace—seven hours means a fairly full day, which might be a lot for travelers with limited mobility or tight schedules. However, if you love nature, adventure, and local culture, this tour offers excellent value. It’s best suited for those who enjoy outdoor activities, picturesque landscapes, and a taste of Madeira’s culinary traditions.

Contents show

Key Points

Authentic Madeira Experience: Combines off-road exploration, cultural stops, and local cuisine.
Stunning Views: Panoramic vistas of mountains, cliffs, and the Atlantic.
Cultural Touchpoints: Visits to traditional villages and scenic viewpoints.
All-Inclusive Dining: Traditional espetada BBQ with local bread, salad, milho, and a drink.
Flexible Cable Car Option: Opportunity to ride the cable cars at Faja dos Padres.
Small Group Experience: Limited to 6 participants for a more personalized touch.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Breakdown of the Tour

Looking for more options in Funchal? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Gathering and Starting Out

The tour kicks off with a pickup from one of four locations—Sao Vicente, Funchal, Ribeira Brava, or Câmara De Lobos—making it convenient regardless of where you stay. The small group size (up to six people) hints at an intimate experience, perfect for those who prefer avoiding mass tourism and enjoying personalized attention from guides.

Scenic Drive and Off-Road Adventure

Once underway, the jeep begins its journey across Madeira’s rugged terrain. What we love about this part is how the vehicle is fitted for both comfort and the rugged landscape, allowing us to venture where regular vehicles can’t go. The off-road sections are highlighted as a key feature, offering a sense of adventure and providing unparalleled access to remote spots. Reviewers note that the views in Canical, Santana, and Boaventura are breathtaking, with dramatic cliffs, lush greenery, and sweeping ocean vistas.

Cultural and Sightseeing Stops

This tour isn’t just about the thrill of the ride; it’s rich in cultural stops. In Santana, for instance, you’ll have time to take photos of the iconic traditional houses, and in Cristo Rei, a scenic view and a quick walk offer a chance to appreciate Madeira’s landscape from above. These moments give a genuine taste of local life and scenery, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

More Great Tours Nearby

Faja dos Padres and Cable Car Ride

One of the tour’s highlights is the Faja dos Padres stop, where travelers can enjoy some free time, admire the views, visit the beach, or opt for a cable car ride. The cable car isn’t mandatory but offers a unique perspective of Madeira’s cliffs and ocean. Based on reviews, the cable car ride is a breath-taking journey, providing an unforgettable panoramic view that many travelers cherish.

There's plenty more to explore in Funchal

The BBQ Picnic

At the heart of the experience is the traditional BBQ featuring Madeira’s famous espetada—a generous skewer of beef seasoned and grilled to perfection. Accompanying the meat are local bread (bolo do caco), salad, milho, and a drink of your choice. Guests often describe this as a feast for the senses, not just because of the delicious food but because of the communal, social atmosphere typical of Madeira’s BBQ gatherings. Several reviewers emphasize that this is more than just a meal—it’s a warm, shared experience in a beautiful setting.

Natural Beauty and Photo Opportunities

Throughout the day, there are multiple chances to pause and take photos. From the Miradouro do Guindaste to scenic viewpoints along the coast, the landscape is breathtaking. Reviewers like one who said, “Beautiful landscapes, impressive cliffs,” finding that the views truly match Madeira’s reputation as a photographer’s paradise.

Tour Duration and Flexibility

The full experience lasts about 7 hours, which includes transport, sightseeing, and the meal. Start times vary, so it’s advisable to check availability ahead of booking. The tour’s flexibility is a plus—if you’re interested in particular stops or views, the small group setting means guides can tailor the experience where possible.

What We Appreciate About This Tour

Knowledgeable guides are a standout, with reviews indicating that guides like David and Sofia are friendly, informative, and passionate about Madeira. Their insights make the stops more meaningful, and their enthusiasm is infectious.

Authentic local cuisine is another big plus. The espetada BBQ isn’t just a meal; it’s an opportunity to taste Madeira’s culinary traditions in a social setting, often shared with new friends.

Natural scenery — the views of cliffs, mountains, and ocean—are genuinely spectacular. The tour makes sure you get plenty of photo-worthy moments, whether at viewpoints or during the cable car ride.

Cultural stops help paint a fuller picture of Madeira, giving insight into local livelihoods and architecture that typical tourist spots might overlook.

Small group size means more personalized service, less waiting, and a more intimate atmosphere for conversation and photos.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is suited best for adventurous travelers who enjoy exploring nature and scenic locations. It’s perfect if you want a combination of thrill, cultural insights, and good food. It’s also a great pick for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who prefer a more intimate, engaging experience.

However, it might not be ideal for those with back problems or very young children, given the rugged off-road terrain and the 7-hour duration. If you’re seeking a relaxed, sit-down tour or have mobility concerns, you might prefer other options.

The Sum Up

The Amazing Off-Road BBQ Picnic Cable Cab Tour offers a well-rounded day of adventure, cultural discovery, and culinary delight. Its blend of off-road exploration, panoramic views, and authentic Madeira cuisine delivers excellent value for those wanting to experience the island’s most scenic spots with knowledgeable guides. The inclusion of the BBQ and optional cable car ride adds a memorable, local touch that’s hard to find elsewhere.

This tour is best suited for travelers who crave a bit of adrenaline, want to see Madeira’s natural beauty without strenuous hikes, and enjoy sharing a hearty meal in a social environment. If you’re after a personalized, scenic, and flavorful day out, this experience ticks all the boxes.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children or babies?
The tour is not recommended for babies under 1 year and may not be suitable for very young children or people with back problems due to the rugged off-road terrain.

What should I bring?
A jacket is recommended, especially if weather conditions change or you plan to spend time outdoors during scenic stops.

Can I cancel this tour if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility for your travel plans.

Are there multiple pickup points?
Yes. You can be picked up from Sao Vicente, Funchal, Ribeira Brava, or Câmara De Lobos, making it convenient regardless of your accommodation.

Is the cable car ride mandatory?
No, the cable car in Faja dos Padres is optional. You can enjoy the views from the top without it or choose to ride for an even more memorable experience.

How long does the entire tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and meals. Be sure to check the specific starting times when booking.

This tour offers a carefully curated taste of Madeira’s natural beauty, culture, and cuisine—all wrapped into one memorable day. Whether you’re an outdoors enthusiast or simply looking to soak in stunning scenery with a laid-back vibe, it’s a ride worth considering.