Madeira : Tailor-made Custom Trike Tour of the Island

Imagine cruising along Madeira’s winding roads on a sleek, comfortable two-seater trike, led by a knowledgeable guide who knows exactly where to stop for the best views and stories. That’s exactly what you get with the Madeira Custom Trike Tour offered by Adventure Trikes. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the detailed reviews and description paint a picture of a memorable and personal way to see this stunning island—especially if you love a mix of adventure, scenery, and cultural tidbits.

What immediately stands out is the flexibility of the experience. You can choose from various durations and routes, or even craft your own adventure—perfect for those who want a more intimate connection with the landscape. The small group size (limited to four participants) ensures you won’t be lost in a crowd, and you’ll get plenty of personalized attention.

Two particular features I find especially appealing: First, the expert guides speak multiple languages—English, Portuguese, and Dutch—so language barriers won’t be an obstacle. Second, the scenic stops like Nuns Valley (Curral das Freiras) and Monte promise spectacular views and insightful commentary, making the journey as enriching as the scenery.

A potential consideration for travelers: this tour is not suitable for children under five, given the nature of riding a trike, and if you plan to explore outside Funchal, you might need to arrange additional transportation. Also, keep in mind that some costs like entrance fees or food and drinks are not included, so budget accordingly. That said, at $159 for up to two people, this offers a pretty good deal for a personalized, scenic escapade.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Customized routes allow for tailored exploration based on your interests, whether you prefer the coast, mountains, or villages.
• Expert guides like Garth, praised for being friendly, informative, and making guests feel at ease, enhance the experience.
• The scenic stops at places like Nuns Valley and Monte are highlights for breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
• Small group size keeps the tour intimate, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy personalized commentary.
• Flexible durations from 3 to 6 hours give options for a quick overview or a more in-depth exploration.
• Language options in Dutch, English, and Portuguese make communication smooth for diverse travelers.

The Appeal of a Trike Tour in Madeira

While many visitors stick to bus tours or rental cars, a trike tour offers a more dynamic way to experience Madeira’s varied landscapes. The open-air feeling combined with the ability to get up close to viewpoints makes it stand out. Plus, the driver and guide are right there with you, turning what could be a solitary drive into a shared adventure filled with stories and tips.

The cost of $159 per group up to two means you’re paying for a personalized experience rather than a large bus tour. For that price, you get the comfort of a two-seat trike, a professional guide, and pick-up service from your hotel in Funchal or Funchal Harbor. This convenience means fewer logistics for you and more time soaking in the scenery.

The Itinerary Options

Option 1 – 3-Hour Tour:
This is an ideal quick sampler. You’ll visit a charming fishing village and the Nuns Valley, both offering stunning views and a taste of Madeira’s rural charm. The tour is perfect if you’re short on time but still want to see key highlights.

Option 2 – 4-Hour Tour:
A longer version that explores more of the Funchal surroundings, giving you a deeper dive into the island’s beauty. Expect a mix of coastal and mountain vistas, with plenty of photo stops and commentary.

Option 3 – 6-Hour Tour:
The most extensive option, focusing on either the North West or North East routes. The North West includes Monte (with the iconic statue erected after World War I), Santana’s traditional houses, Ponta São Lourenço, and Machico. You’ll also visit one of the island’s rare man-made golden sand beaches—a real treat.

The North East tour stops at Nuns Valley (Curral das Freiras), a breathtaking mountain village with views over the surrounding peaks and valleys. This route is ideal if you want a mix of mountain scenery, charming villages, and a more relaxed pace.

Option 4 – Custom Route:
If you have specific interests—be it more coastal scenery, historical sites, or nature—let the operators know. They’ll craft a tour that matches your curiosity, making the experience truly your own.

What You’ll Experience and Why It Matters

Stop at Nuns Valley (Curral das Freiras):
This viewpoint is a highlight for photographers and nature lovers alike. The dramatic mountain backdrop and the secluded village below offer a sense of both adventure and tranquility. It’s a photo-worthy spot that captures the essence of Madeira’s rugged beauty.

Monte and the WWI Statue:
Perched above Funchal, Monte is famous for its stunning views, lush gardens, and historic sites. The statue erected after WWI serves as a reminder of Madeira’s place in world history and provides a great vantage point.

Traditional Villages & Beaches:
Santana’s iconic thatched-roof houses are a delight and a window into Madeira’s rural past. Machico’s golden sands are a rare sight for a volcanic island—perfect for those looking for a different beach experience.

Flexible Timing & Group Size:
The fact that the tour is limited to four participants means you won’t feel like just another face in the crowd. Plus, with the ability to pick your start time (subject to availability), you can plan around your other activities.

Guides Who Make a Difference

A recurring theme in reviews is the quality of the guides. Joanne praised Garth as “excellent, informative, friendly, and totally put us at ease.” His suggestions tailored to first-timers made the entire experience comfortable, and his knowledge added depth to what you see. Guides speaking multiple languages ensure clear communication, making the tour accessible to a wide range of travelers.

Practical Considerations and Value

The price of $159 for up to two people is quite reasonable for a personalized, guided tour lasting up to six hours. Think of it as a sightseeing experience that combines the freedom of a rental with the expertise of a local guide, all in a fun, open-air vehicle.

Keep in mind that food & drinks, entrance fees, and pick-up outside Funchal are not included, so plan to bring snacks or budget for additional costs. The pickup service is a bonus, saving you the hassle of finding transportation to the tour start point.

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of scenic beauty, cultural insights, and a touch of adventure—all without the formality of large group tours. It’s ideal for couples, friends, or solo travelers who want a flexible and personal way to explore Madeira’s highlights.

If you’re after a small-group experience that’s both scenic and informative, this tour hits the spot. It’s perfect for those who want to stay flexible, explore at their own pace, and avoid the hustle of large buses. The knowledgeable guides and beautiful stops make it particularly appealing for curious travelers and first-timers eager to see Madeira’s best without feeling rushed.

On the other hand, if you’re traveling with very young children or prefer a more traditional, all-day sightseeing vehicle, this might not be the best fit. Also, those looking for included meals or entry tickets should keep in mind that this is a more streamlined, personalized experience focused on scenery and cultural points.

A tailor-made trike tour in Madeira offers a lively, intimate way to see the island’s most scenic spots. With flexible routes, expert guides, and a small group setting, you’ll enjoy personalized insights and stunning vistas that are hard to match with larger tours. It’s a great option if you love a little adventure, want to explore off the beaten path, and value the comfort of a private guide. Whether you’re after mountain panoramas, quaint villages, or coastal views, this experience delivers genuine connection with Madeira’s natural beauty—and at a fair price.

If you’re looking for a memorable, flexible way to see Madeira with friendly guidance, this trike tour is well worth considering.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Not for children under 5 years old, as riding a trike requires a certain level of stability and comfort.

What languages do the guides speak?
Guides speak Portuguese, Dutch, and English, making communication easy for most travelers.

Can I customize the route?
Yes, the tour offers a tailor-made option where you can specify your interests, and the guides will craft a unique adventure.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the driver, comfortable two-seat trike, and pick-up from Funchal area and harbor.

Are there any additional costs?
You might need to pay for food and drinks or entrance fees if visiting specific attractions—these are not included.

How long does the tour last?
Options range from 3 to 6 hours, depending on your choice, with availability to see which start times fit your schedule.

What should I wear or bring?
Bring weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses, and sunscreen. The open-air trike makes you exposed, so dress accordingly.

Is the tour COVID-safe?
The description mentions a small group size, which helps with distancing and safety; confirm current protocols with the provider.

How do I book?
Reserve online via the provided link, with the option to pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What if I want to explore outside Funchal?
You’ll need to arrange separate transportation for pickups outside the main town, as the tour primarily covers Funchal and nearby sites.

This Madeira trike tour promises a lively, authentic way to experience the island’s stunning landscapes and charming villages—perfect for travelers craving a little adventure and a lot of scenery.