Guided 4×4 Adventure and Skywalk with Wine and Tapas in Madeira

Exploring Madeira often involves breathtaking scenery and delightful flavors, but this tour combines both in a way that feels uniquely captivating. Priced at around $60 per person, it lasts approximately three and a half hours and is operated by Green Devil Safari, a company known for small-group adventures. The highlight? An open-top 4×4 jeep ride through some of Madeira’s most scenic spots, paired with a visit to the famous Cabo Girão skywalk and a wine tasting tour at Quinta do Barbusano.

What I really like about this experience is how it balances thrill and leisure. The off-road jeep ride offers a taste of adventure that’s engaging without being overwhelming — especially since most reviews praise the skill and friendliness of guides like Delano. I also appreciate the quality of the wine tasting, which is often highlighted as a standout feature, with visitors enjoying wines paired with local tapas, cheese, and chorizo. However, a point to consider is that the tour’s included activities can be affected by weather; heavy rain once prevented part of the winery experience, and the vehicle used for the adventure has been described by some as battered, with concerns about safety features like seatbelts.

Key Points:
Balanced adventure and culture — combining scenic views with wine and food tastings.
Small group sizes — limited to 8 persons per jeep, ensuring a personalized experience.
Authentic local insights — guides, often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, enhance the journey.
Stunning vistas — from the skywalk at Cabo Girão to the cliffs of Serra de Água.
Good value for the price — with included tastings and diverse stops, many travelers find it worth the cost.
Consider weather impacts — heavy rain can limit certain activities, so flexible planning might be wise.

An In-Depth Look at the Madeira 4×4 and Skywalk Experience

The adventure begins with a convenient pickup service in Funchal or Caniço de Baixo. From there, you’re whisked away in an open-top 4×4, which honestly adds to the sense of thrill and immersion from the get-go. With a cap of 8 travelers per jeep, the group feels intimate, allowing for personalized interactions and better viewing opportunities.

The First Stop: Cabo Girão

The iconic Cabo Girão skywalk is the main event, perched 580 meters above the Atlantic. Walking out onto the glass-floored platform, you get panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see. I love how many reviews mention the jaw-dropping vistas of the ocean and Funchal, creating perfect photo opportunities. One reviewer called it an “extraordinary vantage point,” and I agree — it’s a highlight that sticks in your memory.

A visit to Cabo Girão isn’t complete without a stroll through the nearby village of Câmara de Lobos. It’s a charming spot with colorful buildings, a peaceful harbor, and local eateries serving fresh seafood. Here, you experience authentic island life and get a break from the more touristy spots.

The Scenic Drive to Quinta Grande and Serra de Água

The jeep takes you through the lush Serra de Água region, with stops at viewpoints and hiking trails that showcase Madeira’s rugged beauty. I love how the guides share stories about the landscape’s history and traditions, adding richness to the scenery.

The stop at Quinta Grande is particularly memorable because of the glassy platform with stunning ocean views. From there, you can gaze over cliffs plunging into the Atlantic, a sight that’s both humbling and exhilarating. The area is also home to Quinta do Barbusano, one of the exciting parts of the tour.

The Vineyard Experience

Visiting Quinta do Barbusano offers an inside look at Madeira’s winemaking. Guided tours here walk you through indigenous grape varieties and local production methods, with tastings of several wines paired with tapas, cheese, and chorizo. Reviewers talk highly of the knowledgeable guides and the quality of wines, describing the tasting as “very enjoyable” and providing a real sense of place.

Keep in mind, if weather doesn’t cooperate, this part of the experience might be abbreviated or missed altogether — which some guests have noted. The winery visit costs around 18 euros, so it’s worth considering if you’re eager to explore Madeira’s wine culture.

Additional Stops: Serra de Água and Rosário

The journey explores Serra de Água’s picturesque landscapes and historical sites, where visitors can appreciate traditional architecture and verdant scenery. Rosário offers a tranquil retreat with unspoiled nature, ideal for those looking to unwind or take photos of sweeping hills and streams.

Practical Considerations and Value

This tour’s price of just under $60 offers good value, especially considering the small group size, multiple scenic stops, and wine tastings included. The fact that most reviews mention the guides’ friendliness and knowledge adds to its appeal — a good guide can turn a scenic drive into a story-filled adventure.

The main considerations are weather dependence and the condition of the jeep. One review noted the vehicle was battered and lacked working seatbelts, raising safety questions, so it’s wise to be cautious about that aspect. Also, additional costs like entry to Cabo Girão (€2), Quinta do Barbusano guided tour (€18), and possible dock fees (€5) should be factored into your overall budget.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a lover of stunning scenery and authentic local culture, this experience is perfect. It’s also suitable for adventure seekers who enjoy a bit of off-road driving, and wine enthusiasts curious about Madeira’s vinicultural heritage. Families and smaller groups will appreciate the personalized, relaxed atmosphere, and travelers looking for a multi-faceted day trip will find this itinerary balances adventure, culture, and relaxation nicely.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira 4×4 adventure with skywalk and wine tasting offers a well-rounded taste of the island’s natural beauty and cultural richness. The combination of thrilling off-road driving, awe-inspiring views, and tasting local wines makes for an engaging day out, especially if you appreciate authentic experiences led by knowledgeable guides. While weather can impact certain parts of the tour, most guests find the overall value—both in stunning sights and quality tastings—well worth the price.

It’s especially suited for those who enjoy small-group travel, scenic drives, and learning about Madeira’s agricultural traditions. If you’re after a lively, informative, and visually spectacular day, this tour is certainly worth considering.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
Approximately 3.5 hours, including multiple stops for sightseeing, tasting, and exploration.

What’s included in the price?
The open-top 4×4 ride, guide, wine tastings, and some scenic stops. Additional costs for admission, winery tours, or dock fees are extra.

Is pickup available?
Yes, pickup is offered exclusively in Funchal and Caniço de Baixo, making logistics easy.

How many people are in each jeep?
Limited to 8 persons per jeep, which helps keep the experience intimate and personal.

Are the views suitable for photos?
Definitely. The skywalk and viewpoints provide incredible photo opportunities, especially from the glass platform at Cabo Girão.

What about the vehicle safety?
Some reviews mention the jeep as battered with questionable seatbelt functionality. It’s something to keep in mind if safety concerns are a priority.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is there a recommended age or physical requirement?
Most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking and off-road driving.

What’s the best time of day to do this?
Most tours run during daylight hours; sunset stops at the skywalk are popular for the views.

Any tips for making the most of the tour?
Bring layers for changing weather, camera gear for capturing views, and a cheerful attitude ready for some off-road fun.

This tour offers a fantastic blend of Madeira’s rugged charm with its refined flavors. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a wine lover, the experience is designed to showcase the best of the island’s scenery and culture in a relaxed, small-group setting.