A must on Madeira is a Jeep safari. It provides a chance for you to see parts of the island you would not see any other way, get off the beaten track in a small group with a driver with expert local knowledge and in our case excellent English. You get the chance to stop at spectacular viewpoints, pick and sample fresh fruits growing wild along the tracks, meet local characters and really feel as though you are in the heart of the island.
You will visit some of the popular tourist points but this does not detract from the impression that for much of the day you are well off the tourist track. Be prepared to be bounced around, don't try this trip if you enjoy travelling first class. Off road in this case means exactly what it says, but hold on tight, have your camera ready and enjoy a day in the country with a traditional lunch along the way all for under 50 euros.
Quick Tips:
The owner relations staff at the resort were an excellent source of information on what was available, where to get it from and how to get from place to place. There are plenty of kioks in Funchal offering discount prices on attractions and events.
Best Way To Get Around:
Taxis are all metered and good value, if you want a personal chauffeur cheaply hire a taxi for a day or half a day.
Buses are regular, punctual and cheap. You buy tickets either at the bus station or on the bus, you can get all over the island by public transport.
Levada walking is popular, either independently or in organised groups with a guide. They range from easy to difficult and really let you get into the countryside. Levadas are irrigation channels built all over the island with footpaths along side.
Try the cable car to Monte and the toboggan run back.