How high do we go and is it physically demanding?

You'll reach 1,818m at Pico do Arieiro, but the tour is vehicle-based with optional short walks at viewpoints. It's not strenuous, though the altitude and open-air exposure can feel intense for some.

What if it's cloudy at the summit?

Cloud cover is common, especially in afternoon or winter. Morning tours statistically offer clearer skies. If visibility is severely limited, the driver will typically adjust stops, but weather cannot be guaranteed.

Is the road suitable for vehicles with mobility issues?

The route includes gravel and unsealed sections with bumps. If you have mobility constraints, confirm accessibility directly with the supplier before booking.

Are meals and drinks included?

No. The tour includes stops at the Tea House and other viewpoints, but food and beverages are at your own cost (typically €5–15 per item).

How does this compare to a hiking tour of the same peaks?

This is a scenic drive-focused tour ideal for those wanting high-altitude views without multi-hour hikes. If you prefer walking trails, consider a standalone hiking excursion instead.

What's the meeting point and how do pickups work?

Specific meeting point and pickup details are confirmed in your booking confirmation email. For cruise passengers, ask your ship's excursion desk if transfers are included.

Arieiro Peak, Nun´s Valley & Santo da Serra in Open Roof 4x4 1

Arieiro Peak, Nun´s Valley & Santo da Serra in Open Roof 4x4 2

Arieiro Peak, Nun´s Valley & Santo da Serra in Open Roof 4x4 3

Arieiro Peak, Nun´s Valley & Santo da Serra in Open Roof 4x4 4

Arieiro Peak, Nun´s Valley & Santo da Serra in Open Roof 4x4 6

Arieiro Peak, Nun´s Valley & Santo da Serra in Open Roof 4x4 7

Arieiro Peak, Nun´s Valley & Santo da Serra in Open Roof 4x4 9

Arieiro Peak, Nun´s Valley & Santo da Serra in Open Roof 4x4 10

Top Deal1 / 10

Arieiro Peak, Nun´s Valley & Santo da Serra in Open Roof 4x4

Top Deal

1 / 10

Arieiro Peak, Nun´s Valley & Santo da Serra in Open Roof 4x4

(3)

Funchal, Madeira, Portugal

Shore ExcursionsATV & Quad ToursNature Tours

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About this activity

Explore Madeira's dramatic mountain landscape from an open-roof 4x4, ascending to Arieiro Peak (1,818m) with sweeping views across the island, then descending through the verdant Nun's Valley and into pristine forest. This guided drive combines accessible high-altitude scenery, traditional agricultural terraces, and a working trout farm visit in just four hours.

With a beautiful and panoramic view over Funchal, Câmara de Lobos and Desert Islands, we start our tour at Pico dos Barcelos. From there, we drive towards the famous Curral das Freiras (Nun's Valley) which is surrounded by the highest mountains and historic places. Then we go uphill to Pico do Arieiro at 1818 mts., where we can enjoy magnificent landscapes and great views over Ponta de São Lourenço, Ribeiro Frio , Paúl da Serra, Curral das Freiras or even Porto Santo, if there is good weather. In our last stop, Ribeira Primeira Park, a sustainable project in the heart of the forest, you may visit the trout farm and enjoy a natural tea or portuguese coffee (not included) at the Tea House, overlooking the park and the magical forest. On our way back to Funchal, we will feel and see the real Madeira with many breathtaking views over the traditional terraces of the local farmers and amazing viewpoints

Highlights

✓Open-roof 4x4 drive with panoramic views of Funchal, Câmara de Lobos and the Desertas Islands
✓Ascend to Pico do Arieiro (1,818m) for expansive vistas across multiple valleys and coastal landmarks
✓Navigate Curral das Freiras (Nun's Valley), a historic crater valley ringed by sheer peaks
✓Visit Ribeira Primeira Park's sustainable trout farm in old-growth forest
✓See traditional terraced farming and hidden viewpoints on the return descent

Insider tips

★Morning departures offer the clearest mountain visibility; afternoon clouds often obscure summit views
★Bring layers—temperature drops significantly at 1,818m elevation, even in summer
★The Tea House at Ribeira Primeira offers natural herbal teas and local coffee with forest views; budget €5–10 if you want to order

Good to know

•4-hour duration includes drive time; allow 1.5–2 hours for stops and walking at viewpoints
•Open-roof vehicle means exposure to sun and wind at altitude; sunscreen and a windbreaker recommended
•Gravel or unsealed road sections; comfortable, closed-toe shoes advised
•Meeting point and pickup logistics typically arranged via supplier confirmation email—check booking details

Who it's for

Cruise passengers seeking a concentrated scenic tour without long travel timesPhotographers and nature lovers keen for mountain and valley landscapesFamilies wanting accessible high-altitude experience without strenuous hikingAnyone curious about traditional Madeira agriculture and forest ecosystems

Best time to visit

Late spring through early autumn (May–September) offers warmest temperatures and lowest cloud cover at the summit. Avoid winter (November–March) when peaks are frequently obscured by fog and afternoon rain is common.

Frequently asked questions

Reviews

(3)

Toni J.

Oct 2025

Diego our guide very good, and a stop the guide added on the fly we love it. Is much better than the tour we do in Marrakech before. We are very happy, recommend to all!

David P.

Apr 2025

our guide Joseph really knew their stuff and a little local spot off the usual route was the highlight, and honestly better than the tour we did in Crete last year, def recommend

Esme H.

Apr 2025

our guide Mateo couldnt do enough for us and a little local spot off the usual route was the highlight, and miles ahead of a similar tour we tried in Marrakech, no joke

from€45/ person

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