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Madeira, the best of the island
This hiking trip on the island of Madeira offers the chance to discover one of the most stunning destinations in the Atlantic Ocean. This authentic Portuguese archipelago is a true paradise for nature enthusiasts and hikers. Surrounded by unique flora and fauna, you'll be able to explore a variety of trails, from dramatic coastlines to lush green valleys, all while enjoying panoramic views of the island's interior. It's the perfect opportunity to recharge and immerse yourself in nature's beauty!
Highlights
- Madeira's must sees
- The majestic Pico Ruivo Madeira
- Comfortable accommodation.
8 days
/ 7 nights
from 670 €
Activity
Hike
Journey TypeTrip Semi-itinérant
Trip TypeLiberté
Hiking Grade : Terrain Difficulty : Possible departures from 20 June to 1 January
Day by day program
Day 1: Arrival at Funchal - Machico airport
Meet your car hire agent at the airport and pick up your hire car.
Drive to Machico, a magnificent typical town nestling in the bay.
Check into your accommodation in Machico for two nights.
TRANSFER TIME: 10 minutes
ACCOMMODATION : in a hotel***.
Day 2: Crossing from Machico to Porto da Cruz via the Boca Riso
Departing from the vibrant coastal village of Machico, embark
on one of the most scenic hikes of your stay in Madeira.
This historic "wine route" once served as the main connection between Machico and Porto da Cruz, when trade between the two towns was essential and this path the only link.
This historic "wine route" once served as the main connection between Machico and Porto da Cruz, when trade between the two towns was essential and this path the only link.
From the coastline, tackle the trail’s only significant
ascent-a rewarding climb with a short detour to Pico do Facho,
offering an unforgettable view of the striking São Lourenço
Peninsula.
From there, follow the Levada do Caniçal to Boca do Risco
("Risky Mouth"), where the trail becomes truly spectacular: a
narrow path carved into the cliffs, forming a natural balcony above
the Atlantic.
As you continue, descend gently through a chain of quaint
hamlets, surrounded by terraced hillsides and lush vegetation,
before arriving in the peaceful village of Porto da Cruz.
This 15-kilometre journey ends with a return by bus (under €5
per person) or taxi (under €10 per person) back to your
accommodation.
HIKING TIME: 5.5hrs
ASCENT: + 450 m
DESCENT: - 450 m
DISTANCE: 14.5 km
TRANSFER TIME: 30 minutes by taxi or 2 hrs by bus
ACCOMMODATION: in a 3-star hotel
Day 3: Levada do Caldeirao Verde
An exhilarating hike along one of Madeira’s most iconic
levadas, winding through lush, untamed vegetation and clinging to
the sheer walls of a dramatic mountain cirque shaped by
ever-present water.
Tunnels, waterfalls, and narrow paths carved into the rock
make this route as thrilling as it is beautiful-culminating in a
visit to one of the island’s most breathtaking waterfalls.
For the more adventurous, the hike can be extended to the
Caldeirão do Inferno (+2 hours), transforming the route into a more
demanding but safe adventure, occasionally crossing dizzying
heights. This extension leads you into a cirque twice the height of
Caldeirão Verde, where the trail passes through an extraordinary
network of sophisticated levada catchment systems-an engineering
marvel set deep in nature.
Settle into your accommodation in Santana for a 3-night
stay.
HIKING TIME: 5.5hrs
ASCENT: + 150 m
DESCENT: - 150 m
DISTANCE: 11.5 km
TRANSFER TIME: 40 minutes
ACCOMMODATION: in a **/*** or **** hotel,
depending on the category of accommodation chosen.
Day 4: Levada do Rei
A gentler day awaits-perfect for recharging and enjoying your
hotel’s amenities.
Perched above São Jorge, the Levada do Rei invites you on a peaceful walk through the lush, shaded embrace of Madeira’s laurel forest. The well-maintained, relatively flat path offers a refreshing and tranquil experience, ideal for a slower pace.
Perched above São Jorge, the Levada do Rei invites you on a peaceful walk through the lush, shaded embrace of Madeira’s laurel forest. The well-maintained, relatively flat path offers a refreshing and tranquil experience, ideal for a slower pace.
Originating from Ribeiro Bonito-literally “beautiful
river”-this 10 km round-trip offers the option to cool off at the
trail’s end: take a dip in a crystal-clear waterhole or enjoy a
natural shower beneath the small waterfalls cascading above the
levada.
HIKING TIME: 4.5hrs
ASCENT: + 155 m
DESCENT: - 155 m
DISTANCE: 9.9 km
TRANSFER TIME: 40 minutes
ACCOMMODATION: in a **/*** hotel at **** depending on the category of accommodation chosen.
Day 5: Pico Ruivo
The highest peak on the island, Pico Ruivo, is surprisingly
accessible from Achada do Teixeira-just 3 hours round-trip on a
well-marked trail.
Choose the clearest day of your stay for this hike, as the panoramic views from the summit are nothing short of breathtaking.
Choose the clearest day of your stay for this hike, as the panoramic views from the summit are nothing short of breathtaking.
Optional variation:
For a more adventurous experience, consider the spectacular traverse between Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo-Madeira’s most iconic mountain route. This dramatic path, carved into the ridgelines over 50 years ago, offers unforgettable views and thrilling terrain.
For a more adventurous experience, consider the spectacular traverse between Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo-Madeira’s most iconic mountain route. This dramatic path, carved into the ridgelines over 50 years ago, offers unforgettable views and thrilling terrain.
We can arrange a transfer to Pico do Arieiro in the morning,
with pick-up in the afternoon from below Pico Ruivo, returning you
to your accommodation.
Transfer available by pre-booking or on-site request (weather-dependent).
Cost: €45 per person, subject to availability.
Transfer available by pre-booking or on-site request (weather-dependent).
Cost: €45 per person, subject to availability.
HIKING TIME: 4.5hrs (5.5hrs for the variant)
ASCENT: + 270 m (650 m for the variant)
DESCENT: - 155 m (650 m for the variant)
DISTANCE: 9.9 km
TRANSFER TIME: 40 minutes
ACCOMMODATION: in a **/*** hotel or in a **** hotel, depending on the category of accommodation chosen.
Day 6: The Encumeada balconies
Another spectacular day of discovery awaits, exploring the
dramatic "balconies" of Encumeada.
We suggest a unique Y-shaped hike that follows two levadas on either side of the mountain ridge dividing north and south Madeira. This route offers contrasting landscapes, as the vegetation shifts dramatically with the changing exposure-lush and humid on the north-facing slopes, drier and sunlit on the south.
We suggest a unique Y-shaped hike that follows two levadas on either side of the mountain ridge dividing north and south Madeira. This route offers contrasting landscapes, as the vegetation shifts dramatically with the changing exposure-lush and humid on the north-facing slopes, drier and sunlit on the south.
Along the way, you’ll pass through several impressive
tunnels-a torch is essential-as you traverse the heart of the
island along ancient water channels, surrounded by sweeping views
and ever-changing scenery.
Check into your hotel in Porto Moniz for a 2-night stay.
HIKING TIME: 5hrs
ASCENT: + 40 m
DESCENT: - 45 m
DISTANCE: 11.5 km
TRANSFER TIME: 1h40
ACCOMMODATION: in a hotel*** or in a hotel**** depending on the category of accommodation chosen.
Day 7: The 25 springs loop
The 25 Fontes loop is one of Madeira’s most iconic and beloved
hikes.
Following a levada that feeds the Calheta hydroelectric power station, this enchanting trail winds through ancient laurel and heather forests, creating a truly romantic and immersive experience in nature.
Following a levada that feeds the Calheta hydroelectric power station, this enchanting trail winds through ancient laurel and heather forests, creating a truly romantic and immersive experience in nature.
The path leads to the stunning 25 Fontes waterfall, where the
bravest hikers can take a refreshing dip in its clear, cool
basin.
On the return, the Casa do Rabaçal offers a welcome stop for
rest and refreshments before you make your way back to the car
park.
HIKING TIME: 4.5hrs
ASCENT: + 350 m
DESCENT: - 350 m
DISTANCE: 9 km
TRANSFER TIME: 40 minutes
ACCOMMODATION: in a hotel*** or in a hotel**** depending on the category of accommodation chosen.
Day 8: Levada Bica Cana or Funchal Tropical Market
Several options for your final day on the island:
Option 1: Levada da Bica da Cana
Spend your last day exploring a lesser-known gem-Levada da Bica da Cana-a quiet, intimate trail that contours along rugged cliffs with sweeping views over Madeira’s south coast.
At 1,300 meters above sea level, this narrow, unshaded levada offers a peaceful atmosphere, far from the busier routes. At the trail’s end, a tiny, refreshing waterfall awaits-an idyllic reward for those who venture along this secluded path.
Spend your last day exploring a lesser-known gem-Levada da Bica da Cana-a quiet, intimate trail that contours along rugged cliffs with sweeping views over Madeira’s south coast.
At 1,300 meters above sea level, this narrow, unshaded levada offers a peaceful atmosphere, far from the busier routes. At the trail’s end, a tiny, refreshing waterfall awaits-an idyllic reward for those who venture along this secluded path.
HIKING TIME: 4hrs
ASCENT: + 145 m
DESCENT: - 145 m
DISTANCE: 9 km
TRANSFER TIME: 1h40
ASCENT: + 145 m
DESCENT: - 145 m
DISTANCE: 9 km
TRANSFER TIME: 1h40
Option 2: Free day in Funchal
Prefer a relaxed urban experience? Spend the day discovering the charm of Funchal:
Prefer a relaxed urban experience? Spend the day discovering the charm of Funchal:
- Stroll through its bustling Mercado dos Lavradores, filled
with tropical fruits and flowers
- Explore the historic old town and local craft shops
- Sample wines at traditional Madeira wine cellars
- Visit the botanical gardens or take the cable car for
panoramic views over the bay
- A perfect way to savor your final hours on the “Island of
Flowers.”
Some stages may be modified for technical or weather-related reasons, and the order of the days may be adjusted based on hotel availability.
Dates and prices
Dates and prices
Departures possible every day of the year
Prices from 01/11 to 30/03
| Comfort version | Top-of-the-range version | |
|
For 1 person 1 double room |
1140€ | 1640€ |
|
2 persons 1 double bedroom |
740€ | 1040€ |
|
3 persons 1 triple room |
670€ | 1100€ |
|
4 persons 2 double bedrooms |
640€ | 970€ |
|
5 persons 1 double bedroom 1 triple bedroom |
620€ | 940€ |
Prices from 01/04 to 31/10
| Comfort version | Top-of-the-range version | |
|
1 person 1 double room |
1200€ | 1700€ |
|
2 persons 1 double bedroom |
810€ | 1120€ |
|
3 persons 1 triple room |
770€ | 1040€ |
|
4 persons 2 double bedrooms |
730€ | 1100€ |
|
5 persons 1 double bedroom 1 triple bedroom |
710€ | 990€ |
Options available:
Comfort accommodation for individuals: €220 for 7 nights.
Individual accommodation in top-of-the-range accommodation: €350 for 7 nights.
Possibility of adapting the stay with more or fewer days (proposal on request).
For requests for more than 5 people, please contact us.
The price includes
Travel documents,
Rental car from D1 to D8,
Accommodation in a room of 2, depending on the package chosen,
Breakfasts from D2 to D8,
Dinners from D2 to D7,
Registration fees.
The price doesn't include
Insurance, including optional insurance for vehicle hire,
Air travel,
Fuel,
Any parking charges,
Site entrance fees,
Drinks,
Lunches,
Dinner on day 1,
Personal expenses,
Single room option,
Late drop-off supplement for arrivals after midnight.
Personalize your trip
Do you like this trip but would you like to add a few modifications? We can make you a tailor-made proposal.
Trip Notes
Level
Medium level.
Between 4 and 6 hours' walking.
Accommodation
Comfort version :
Days 1 and 2 in Machico
Centrally located 3-star hotel with rooftop terrace and panoramic views. Pebble beach 200 m away on foot. Comfortable, spacious rooms.
Days 3 to 5 in Santana
2/3-star hotel overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, with an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by lush vegetation.
Day 6 and 7 in Porto Moniz
3-star hotel with sea views in a central location, with the natural pools of Porto Moniz less than 10 minutes away on foot.
Top of the range version :
Days 1 and 2 in Machico
Centrally located 3-star hotel with rooftop terrace offering panoramic views. Pebble beach 200m away on foot. Comfortable, spacious rooms.
Days 3 to 5 in Santana
4* hotel perched on the edge of a cliff with an exceptional view of the Atlantic, bordered by vineyards. Comfortable, tastefully decorated rooms. The hotel has an outdoor infinity pool and wellness area.
Days 6 and 7 in Porto Moniz
4-star hotel overlooking the sea and the coast of Porto Moniz. Ideal location for visiting the town and the natural pools. The hotel has an indoor and outdoor swimming pool and a wellness area. Comfortable rooms with sea view.
Internal transfers
By hire car.
For the duration of your stay, you will drive a category B or D rental vehicle, depending on the number of people.
A higher category is available at extra cost. Please contact us for details.
Please note: the driver must be at least 23 years old and have held a driving licence for at least 1 year.
Category B - 1 to 2 people
Type: Citroën C1 or similar
Category D - 3 to 5 people
Type: Hyundai I20 or similar
Included in the rental price :
- 8-day car rental, unlimited mileage.
- Pick-up and drop-off at Funchal airport.
- Third-party liability insurance.
Not included in the price of the car rental and payable locally: excess buy-back, theft, glass breakage and tyre damage, passenger insurance, additional driver insurance.
Supplement charged for arrival after midnight, to be paid on site (even for delayed flights).
Extra charge for infant/child seats, to be paid locally.
IMPORTANT
Before you leave :
Check with your bank to make sure that your international bank card is compatible for vehicle collection.
Check that the international option on your credit card is activated, and that the limit is sufficient to cover the excess.
When collecting your vehicle:
- Show the car hire company your bank card and driving licence in the name of the main driver shown on the booking, as well as the licences of any additional drivers so that they can be insured (according to your quote).
- If you have taken out additional protection or optional services, they must be included in the contract, so make sure you check this (you can ask for a contract drawn up in French).
And conversely, make sure that the options and insurance you have booked do not appear in the supplements you have to pay; don't forget that any contract you sign is binding on you.
- Check the condition of the vehicle before setting off and have any damage recorded on the contract.
In all cases, we recommend that you read the contract carefully on the spot. If you initial and sign the contract with additional insurance, the hire company will debit your credit card accordingly and this amount will not entitle you to any refund from us.
Baggage carrying
With your hire car.
Group
From one person.
Management
There is no guide on this trip.
Before you leave, we'll give you a road book specially designed for this tour, with precise instructions so that you can explore and hike in complete freedom. To fully enjoy and appreciate your hiking trip, you must be able to ensure your autonomy in the field with the documents provided.
Hiking folder
Travel documents will be sent to you after receipt of the balance (within one month of the departure date).
They include :
- A technical description of the itinerary and hikes,
- A map of Madeira,
- A route map showing the accommodation booked for your stay.
Welcome
At Funchal airport.
How to get there :
By plane
Scheduled flights :
- With TAP Air Portugal, flights via Lisbon from Paris Orly, Lyon and Marseille (daily connections).
- With Transavia, direct flights from Paris Orly (daily service).
Seasonal flights :
- With Ryanair direct flights from Paris Beauvais (on Mondays and Fridays), from Marseille (on Wednesdays and Sundays).
- With Easyjet, direct flights from Paris CDG (Wednesdays and Sundays until March and in July and August, then Saturdays from April to June), from Lyon (Tuesdays and Saturdays), from Geneva (Tuesdays and Saturdays).
Dispersion
At Funchal airport.
Formalities
Valid national identity card (maximum stay 2 months) or passport (maximum stay 3 months) for French, Belgian or Swiss nationals. For other nationalities, we will be happy to help you with the formalities.
Learn more
Pico Ruivo Madeira :
Hike to the largest peak in Madeira : Pico Ruivo Madeira. From the top, you will have breathtaking views of the island. Pico Ruivo Madeira is a must for hikers, you walk along narrow ridgelines, tunnels and up staircases.
Pico Ruivo Madeira also allows you to cross to Pico Arieiro, it's an exceptional path that was built 50 years ago.
At the summit of Pico Ruivo Madeira, you can see the central highlands, north and south coasts of the island and the unique formation of clouds below you.
Individual equipment
Luggage
You must pack all your belongings in 2 bags: 1 rucksack and 1 large soft travel bag.
1 - The rucksack :
A hiking rucksack with a capacity of around 35 litres, it will be useful for carrying your personal belongings during the day.
It can also be used as hand luggage when travelling for all your fragile items (cameras, etc.), valuables (if your accommodation does not have a safe) and any medicines you may need.
It will be in the cabin when travelling by air. Generally, cabin baggage is limited to 10 kg per person.
2 - The large flexible travel bag:
This should contain the rest of your belongings. You'll find it every evening. It will be transported by your hire car.
Before your departure, you will receive Terres d'Aventure labels, which will enable you to identify your luggage with your name and address, and will facilitate the grouping of bags on arrival at the airport.
It will be in the hold during air transport. The weight of hold baggage will be indicated on your ticket.
Clothing
- 1 sun hat or cap
- 1 scarf
- T-shirts. Avoid cotton, which takes a long time to dry; prefer short-sleeved T-shirts made from breathable material
- 1 undershirt or long-sleeved shirt
- 1 fleece jacket
- 1 pair of shorts
- 1 pair of trekking trousers
- 1 pair of comfortable evening trousers
- 1 light, simple Gore-tex jacket
- 1 rain cape
- 1 pair of waterproof overtrousers (optional)
- 1 swimming costume
- Underwear
- Walking socks. Avoid tennis socks (cotton), which take a long time to dry and carry a high risk of blisters.
- 1 pair of hiking boots with good ankle support (Vibram-type soles)
- 1 pair of sandals or casual shoes for the evening.
The clothing list should be adapted to suit the season.
Equipment
- 1 pair of high quality sunglasses
- 1 pair of telescopic poles (optional): make ascents and descents easier, and are very useful on uneven or slippery terrain.
- 1 water bottle (minimum 1.5 litres)
- 1 headlamp (essential for tunnels)
- 1 pocket knife (to be packed in checked baggage)
- 1 small pouch (preferably waterproof) for your money
- Toiletries: preferably biodegradable products
- 1 quick-drying towel
- Sun cream and lip balm
- An airtight plastic box to carry your picnic, a cup and cutlery
Personal pharmacy
- Your usual medicines
- Pain medication: preferably paracetamol
- Elastic adhesive tape (Elastoplast type, 6 cm wide)
- Sets of adhesive dressings + disinfectant pads
- Double skin (for blisters, available from sports shops, chemists, drugstores, etc.)
- Mosquito repellent (optional)
Reviews of this trip
5
Linda
3 Juin 2024
Hiking Trails in Madeira
A beautiful destination where you can go from the ocean to the mountains in just moments, passing through tropical forest along the way. A change of scenery and a relaxing atmosphere, thanks to the warm and peaceful locals.
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22-06-2025
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Self-guided holiday in Madeira