Highlights
- Drive your own buggy across Madeira’s mountains to the north coast
- Explore off-road trails surrounded by lush forest and mountain scenery
- Admire spectacular views from Boca do Risco and Portela
- Splash through water pools and tackle dirt, mud, and uneven terrain
- Enjoy panoramic views over Porto da Cruz, Pico Ruivo, and Machico
Description
Begin your adventure in Água de Pena with a safety briefing and an introduction to the buggy. Once ready, follow your local guide inland and get comfortable behind the wheel as you make your way towards Fajã dos Rolos.
Then leave the asphalt behind and enter the off-road trails. Climb through Madeira’s mountain landscape towards Boca do Risco, where dramatic views open up over the north coast and, on clear days, Porto Santo can be seen on the horizon.
Continue towards Portela for one of the most exciting sections of the experience. Drive through forest tracks, uneven terrain, and water pools before stopping at a panoramic viewpoint overlooking Porto da Cruz and the surrounding mountains, including views towards Pico Ruivo.
The adventure continues with a second off-road section beginning near O Roque. Cross rural and agricultural landscapes and follow approximately 30 minutes of trails towards Ribeira Primeira, surrounded by the contrasting scenery that makes Madeira’s interior so unique.
From here, enjoy views back towards Machico before beginning the return journey through Santo da Serra, passing through the peaceful mountain village and descending towards Água de Pena.
Throughout the tour, experience how quickly Madeira’s landscape changes as you cross the island — from sunny coastal areas to lush mountain vegetation and the greener northern slopes.
Includes
Buggy rental (capacity per buggy: 2 seats or 4 seats)
Safety briefing
Local guide
Protective goggles
Protective equipment
Important Information
- Drivers must have a valid Category B driving licence.
Two licensed participants sharing the same buggy may change drivers during the tour.
Wear comfortable clothes that you do not mind getting dusty, wet or muddy.
Rain does not automatically cancel the activity — muddy trails are part of the off-road experience.
If an orange or red weather warning is in effect, the activity may be cancelled or rescheduled for safety reasons. In this case, travellers can choose between a full refund or rescheduling the activity to another available date.
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
