Madeira Nature Lovers Hiking

Known for its rugged terrain and lush vegetation, Madeira is also home to over 1, 350 miles of levadas, irrigation channels that bring water from the mountain tops down to the drier parts of the island. Some levadas date back as far as the 16th century. This 5-day itinerary allows you to explore Madeira's natural areas with guided hikes that utilize the network of walking paths that follow alongside the levadas.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1:

Welcome to Madeira

Upon your arrival at Madeira International Airport, you’ll be met by a driver and brought to your hotel in Funchal to drop your bags. The day is then yours to explore the charming city streets. Stroll down to the waterfront and relax at a cafe.

Day 2:

Ribeiro Frio

The Ribeiro Frio to Portela levada walk is a moderate walk along one of the most beautiful and well-known levadas of Madeira, surround by Laurissilva Forest. The day starts at Ribeiro Frio where the trout farm is located. Travel through the indigenous forest of Madeira on the way to Portela, where the only sounds that you hear are from the vast bird life. Now and then, you will see trout swimming in the cold water of the levada do Ribeiro Frio. Later, enjoy the magnificent view over Porto da Cruz and Penha d’Aguia before the walk concludes (11 km, 4 hours of walking, moderate difficulty).

Day 3:

Kings Levada

On today's hike deep in the green lush valley of Sao Jorge, experience the luxuriant vegetation and large variety of species endemic to the Island. The King Levada walk will treat you to splendid views of the Sao Jorge river valley, the isolated village of Ilha, and finally, the great Atlantic (11 km, 4 hours of walking, moderate difficulty).

Day 4:

Valley de Paradise

Today, you will enjoy a shorter, relaxing walk alongside a levada with the aroma of eucalyptus in the air. The Valley de Paradise levada is located in a forest of eucalyptus and pine trees in Camacha. Along the way, delight yourself with pretty flowers and the different vegetables and fruit grown by local farmers (5 km, 2 hours of walking, low difficulty).

Day 5:

Until Next Time

After breakfast, use the last of your time in Funchal to shop for souvenirs or simply relax at a café before your transfer back to the airport for your flight home.