About this tour
Discover Madeira’s mountain landscapes on a 2-hour buggy adventure from Água de Pena, combining scenic roads with an easy off-road trail through Santo da Serra, Lombo das Faias and the Casa Velha area near Poiso. The focus is on the views, the buggy and the contrast between mountain roads and off-road tracks. This is one of several buggy tours in Madeira, each covering a different route across the island.
Briefing & departure: Arrive at the Madeira Trail Up base in Água de Pena. Protective equipment and safety briefing, with a walk through the buggy, the route and what to expect. Roll out about 15 minutes later.
Uphill to Santo da Serra: Depart from Matur and head uphill by road towards Santo da Serra, where the mountain part of the experience begins.
Parque da Ribeira Primeira to Achada do Barro: The route starts at Parque da Ribeira Primeira and climbs towards Achada do Barro. From here the paved road is left behind.
Easy off-road trail: A gentle, mostly flat off-road section. The terrain is easy to handle and leaves time to enjoy the drive while taking in wide views across Madeira’s green mountain landscape.
Lombo das Faias & Casa Velha: The most scenic part of the tour, continuing through the mountain area around Lombo das Faias towards Casa Velha, near Poiso, with quiet surroundings, open terrain and panoramic views. Casa Velha marks the end of the off-road section.
Return to base: After leaving the trail the route returns by road towards the base in Água de Pena, completing the 2-hour adventure. The route may be adjusted when required by weather, trail conditions or safety.
Meeting Point
Estrada Regional 101, Água de Pena, Machico. Please arrive 15 min early.
Funchal hotel pickup can be arranged by message with the supplier, notified 24h before departure.
Itinerary
- Água de Pena (Matur)
- Santo da Serra
- Parque da Ribeira Primeira
- Achada do Barro
- Lombo das Faias
- Casa Velha, near Poiso
What is included
- Buggy rental, 2 or 4 seats per buggy
- Safety briefing
- Local guide
- Protective goggles and protective equipment
Know before you go
- Drivers must hold a valid Category B driving licence.
- Two licensed participants sharing a buggy may swap drivers during the tour.
- Bring your driving licence, sunscreen, comfortable clothes you do not mind getting dusty or muddy, and closed-toe shoes.
- Open-toed shoes are not allowed. Smoking, alcohol and drugs are not permitted, and baby carriages cannot be accommodated.
- Rain does not automatically cancel the activity. Muddy trails are part of the off-road experience.
Frequently asked questions
Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes. The pace is matched to the group and the briefing covers everything you need for the trail.
Can the passenger drive too?
Yes. Drivers can swap mid-trail as long as both hold valid licences. Let the guide know at the start.
Are there photo stops?
Yes. There are short stops at every major viewpoint.
What if it rains?
Mud is part of the plan. The tour is only cancelled for orange or red weather warnings or if safety is compromised, and in those cases it is rescheduled at no cost.
