Madeira Jeep Tour - Is it worth your time? Trip with Green Devil Safari
Madeira is full of stunning viewpoints, hidden waterfalls, and charming towns. However, many of these gems are tucked away in remote corners of the island, accessible only via steep, narrow, and winding roads—or even rugged dirt tracks. While renting a car is the most popular way to explore Madeira, what if you’re not comfortable navigating cliffside routes or tackling off-road terrain? This is where jeep safaris come in, offering an adventurous and hassle-free way to experience the island’s beauty.
Who Are Jeep Safaris on Madeira For?
Jeep safaris are perfect for anyone who wants to explore Madeira without worrying about logistics. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family with kids, or a group of friends, these tours let you enjoy the adventure while leaving the tricky driving to the pros.
If you’re looking for a mix of popular tourist spots and off-the-beaten-path locations, a jeep tour is an excellent choice. However, if you have a specific itinerary in mind or prefer to customise your route, a guided tour may not be the best fit, as most follow pre-planned schedules with limited flexibility.
Types of Jeep Tours on Madeira
Madeira has around 20 jeep tour operators offering a variety of itineraries. Tours are typically divided into half-day and full-day options. Full-day tours are about 30% more expensive but provide a richer experience, allowing you to explore more remote areas and immerse yourself in Madeira’s unique landscapes, so if you only have the time we suggest you go for the full-day experience.
Popular routes include:
• Northwest (e.g., Fanal Forest, Porto Moniz, Seixal): Known for dramatic landscapes and natural swimming pools.
• East (e.g., Machico, Porto da Cruz, Santana, Pico do Arieiro): Features picturesque villages and mountain views.
• Northeast (e.g., São Vicente, Boaventura, Caniçal): Offers lush greenery and quiet coastal roads.
• Southwest (e.g., Ponta do Sol, Ponta do Pargo): Perfect for sunsets and serene countryside.
The full-day northwest tour, called Enchanted Terraces, is especially popular. It includes highlights like the natural swimming pools in Porto Moniz and the black sand beach in Seixal, with time for a refreshing swim in summer. Prices for shared full-day tours start at around €50 per person, making them an affordable and exciting way to discover the island.
When’s the Best Time for a Jeep Tour on Madeira?
Jeep tours run year-round, thanks to Madeira’s mild, spring-like climate. The island’s microclimates mean that even if one area experiences rain, there’s likely a sunny spot nearby—and your tour operator will know exactly where to go. Plus, with a 4x4 jeep, you can reach remote viewpoints and hidden gems no matter the weather. Even rainy days can add a sense of adventure as you explore rugged trails with an off road vehicle.
Our Experience with Green Devil Safari on Madeira
As residents of Madeira, we thought we’d seen it all—but Green Devil Safari proved us wrong. From the start, the tour surprised us with new viewpoints we hadn’t yet discovered, along with fascinating insights into Madeira’s history and flora. Our guide, Duarte, shared stories about how locals used to navigate the island before modern highways were built, braving narrow, winding roads that would make most drivers today think twice.
The highlight of the day for us was an off-road adventure from Tabua to Lombo do Mouro. What began as a paved road soon turned into a steep, rocky dirt track that seemed impassable. Yet our sturdy 4x4 jeep handled it with ease. Duarte explained that older, classic off-road vehicles are specifically chosen for these tours because of their incredible durability and performance. Driving through these rugged paths felt like a true adventure, offering breathtaking views at every turn.
Unlike many operators that stick to highways for efficiency, Green Devil focuses on the journey itself, taking lesser-known routes. After our off-road excursion, we visited iconic spots like Fanal Forest, Porto Moniz, and Seixal, with Duarte always finding scenic, winding routes to get us there.
The day started at 8:30 AM and ended after 4:30 PM when we returned to Funchal. By the end, we were left with a newfound appreciation for Madeira—and for the unique experience of exploring it by jeep.
Why Choose a Jeep Safari on Madeira?
A jeep safari isn’t just about reaching the island’s most beautiful locations—it’s about the adventure along the way. With an expert driver, rugged vehicles, and insider knowledge, these tours take you deep into Madeira’s raw and untamed landscapes. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or think you’ve seen it all, a jeep safari offers you a fresh perspective. So why not trade the stress of driving for the thrill of exploration? You might just discover a side of Madeira you never knew existed.
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Madeira is such an amazing place to visit, and we still can't believe we've been able to call it home for the past two years. During our stay, we explored all the best spots on the island and tried all the most exciting activities, many of them more than once! This helped us create these comprehensive guides that will help you plan your own trip to Madeira.
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