• Guided Tours | Madeira Island Adventure | Portugal Nature Trails
  • Madeira Great Walks | Hiking Trips | Portugal Nature Trails
  • Explore Madeira Island | Hiking Experiences | Portugal Nature Trails
  • Madeira Island Adventure | Scenic Hiking in Madeira | Portugal Nature Trails
  • Madeira Great Walks | Adventure Hiking | Portugal Nature Trails
  • Explore Madeira Island | Coastal Walking Holidays | Portugal Nature Trails
  • Explore Madeira Island | Walking Trips | Portugal Nature Trails
  • Explore Madeira Island | Hiking Adventures | Portugal Nature Trails
  • Madeira Great Walks | Mountain Hiking | Portugal Nature Trails
  • Madeira Island Adventure | Hiking Holidays in Madeira | Portugal Nature Trails
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Madeira Island Adventure

The astonishing pearl of the Atlantic

Book Self-GuidedBook Guided
Daily Distance

6 - 16 km

Daily Elevation Gain

50 - 900 m

Duration

13 Days & 12 Nights

From

2.700 EUR

Madeira Island Adventure

A full exploration of the Pearl of the Atlantic.

The Madeira Island Adventure is an incredible hiking tour through one of the most beautiful Portuguese islands, the Pearl of the Atlantic! If you are a hiking lover, this is the ideal opportunity to get to know Madeira and its unique characteristics through waking paths designed for avid hike seekers. This tour gives you a selection of the best Madeira trails, where you can discover stunning sceneries of this volcanic island on mountains, cliffs, and Levadas. The Levadas are part of an extensive network of small irrigation channels with gentle slopes, very typical of Madeira island, and a perfect path for any adventurous hiker! It's your time to explore this hiking paradise!

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TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
  • Mountain scenery in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean
  • Madeira’s highest peaks
  • Quiet trails and stunning scenery over the ocean
  • Levadas and volcanic rock formations
  • Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site
  • Madeira gastronomy, fresh fish, and products
VIEW ITINERARY

Tour Information

SELF-GUIDED 2026 PRICES

Low Season2.700 EUR
Single Room+ 650 EUR
04 Jan - 26 Feb
27 Oct - 15 Dec

Medium Season2.800 EUR
Single Room+ 690 EUR
27 Feb - 26 Mar
06 Apr - 15 Apr

High Season2.950 EUR
Single Room+ 830 EUR
27 Mar - 05 Apr
24 Apr - 26 Oct

Special Season3.100 EUR
Single Room+ 870 EUR
16 Apr - 23 Apr

Price Notes
• prices per person for a minimum of 2 people in double/twin room
• solo traveler supplement on request

  • Distance

    6 - 16 km / day

  • Profile

    Hilly

  • Route

    Mountain terrain, Levadas (irrigation channels with gentle slopes), single tracks, and cliff trails

  • Duration

    13 Days | 12 Nights

  • Start

    Santa Cruz

  • Finish

    Funchal

Guided and Tailor-Made Tours available on request:

Book Self-Guided Book Guided Request Tailor-Made
VIEW ITINERARY

Included and Optional Services

Preparation

  • Personalized assistance throughout the booking

  • Pre-departure Information Pack (checklist, general travel information)

  • Tour Information (description of daily stages & profiles)

  • Liability and personal accident insurance

Accommodations
  • 12 Nights in standard double / twin room

  • Breakfast daily

  • Private bathroom in all accommodations

  • If any accommodation isn’t available, we will propose an alternative solution

Transfers
  • Transfer on the day of arrival from Funchal Airport to the first hotel
  • Transfer from the last hotel to Funchal Airport

  • Transfers during the tour as mentioned in the daily description

  • Luggage transfers from hotel to hotel

Orientation
  • Welcome briefing in English

  • Digital Information Book delivered before the tour

  • Smartphone App
    & GPS Tracks

  • Local Support Number (free to call us 24h/day)

Optional

  • Extra Days & Nights (add them along the way): on request

  • Different arrival & departure transfers: on request

  • Not included: Boat trip from Cais do Sardinha to Marina Quinta do Lorde (Day 2)

Itinerary

Day 1Day 2Day 3Day 4Day 5Day 6Day 7Day 8Day 9Day 10Day 11Day 12Day 13
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Arrival in Santa Cruz

Welcome to Madeira!

After your arrival, our guide will pick you up and transfer you to your first accommodation, where you’ll be introduced to the journey ahead. During a brief briefing, our guide will provide an overview of the exciting days to come, detailing the tour itinerary and key highlights. Besides that, the day is yours to explore Santa Cruz. Wander through picturesque streets, admire the coastal views, and relax in the tranquil town square. Don’t forget to savor local specialties like espetada and bolo do caco. Your adventure begins here - let the magic of Santa Cruz captivate you!
Santa Cruz Village | Hiking Trips | Portugal Nature Trails

Transfer from Funchal

0:10 h

Santa Cruz Village

View hotel >
Hike Ponta de São Lourenço

Explore Madeira’s Easternmost tip: Ponta de São Lourenço

Start your day with a delicious breakfast before a short transfer takes you to the stunning Ponta de São Lourenço, Madeira’s easternmost peninsula. Renowned for its dramatic cliffside beauty, this volcanic landscape of basalt formations offers a surreal hiking experience surrounded by the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean. The trail follows São Lourenço Point, a historic location tied to the Age of Discoveries, and leads to the peninsula’s tip. Here, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the ocean and nearby islets. The Desembarcadouro Islet, a natural reserve, and the peninsula’s protected areas - part of the Natura 2000 network - are havens for fascinating birdlife such as Berthelot’s Pipit, Common Canary, Cory’s Shearwater, and Bulwer’s Petrel. Along the way, take in the striking contrast between the calm, serene waters of the southern coast and the wild, powerful waves of the north. With a bit of luck, you might even spot the rarest seal in the world, lovingly referred to as a sea wolf by locals. End this unforgettable adventure with a short transfer back to your accommodation, where you can unwind and savor the anticipation of more amazing experiences to come.
Santa Cruz Village | Hiking Holidays | Portugal Nature Trails

Transfer

0:20 h

Distance

8 km

Elevation Gain

+ 300 m

Transfer

0:20 h

Santa Cruz Village

View hotel >

Alternative
Boat trip from Cais do Sardinha to Marina Quinta do Lorde (not included).
Hike Levada do Furado

Discover the primary forest of Madeira

In the morning, a transfer will take you to the small village of Ribeiro Frio, where your hike begins. From here, you will embark on a scenic path along one of the island's oldest public levadas, the Levada do Furado. Located in the Ribeiro Frio Natural Park, this levada was one of the first acquired by the state to irrigate the farmlands of Porto da Cruz. As you walk, you'll be surrounded by the rich green hues of the Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The lush vegetation, dominated by trees from the Lauraceae family, provides a peaceful backdrop, while the dramatic Ribeiro Frio valley steals the show. As you continue, take in the stunning views of the farmlands of Faial, São Roque do Faial, and Porto da Cruz, as well as the towering Penha d'Águia rock formation. You will then follow the Levada of Serra do Faial at 860 meters high, until reaching the water station, where the waters split, marking the end of the Levada da Serra do Faial. From here, you will descend toward the Lamaceiros area, concluding your hike at the breathtaking Portela viewpoint. Take a moment to rest and enjoy the panoramic views before a transfer takes you back to your accommodation.
Santa Cruz - Santa Cruz Village | Hiking Adventures | Portugal Nature Trails

Transfer

0:35 h

Distance

12 km

Elevation Gain

+ 100 m

Transfer

0:20 h

Santa Cruz Village

View hotel >
Hike Vereda Boca do Risco

Conquering the Facho Peak

Today’s path combines the culture and traditions of Madeira Island with a mix of landscapes of sea and mountains. The day begins with a transfer to Machico, where you’ll get on a scenic trail along the Levada do Caniçal for approximately 2 kilometers. Along the way, admire the terraced fields where locals skillfully cultivate the island’s fertile soil - a testament to Madeira’s agricultural heritage. The trail gently ascends to Boca do Risco (322m), a breathtaking crest offering panoramic views of the dramatic northern cliffs and the picturesque Machico valley. Historically, this spot was vital for islanders, where towering bonfires were lit to warn of approaching enemy ships. From Boca do Risco, the path continues along a cliffside route, hugging the 300-meter contour and delivering unforgettable coastal vistas, before leading you to the charming town of Porto da Cruz. Here, your transfer will be waiting to return you to your accommodation, capping off a day of exploration and unforgettable scenery.
São Vicente - Solar de Boaventura | Hiking Experiences | Portugal Nature Trails

Transfer

0:10 h

Distance

16 km

Elevation Gain

+ 400 m

Transfer

0:15 h

Solar de Boaventura

View hotel >
Hike Levada do Caldeirão Verde

Caldeirão Verde: Madeira’s enchanting green cauldron

This captivating hike takes you through an unforgettable adventure along one of Madeira’s most iconic levada trails - Levada do Caldeirão Verde, showcasing the natural beauty that makes Madeira a hiker's paradise. The day begins with a transfer to Queimadas Forestry Park, where you’ll immediately be immersed in the cool, lush atmosphere of Madeira’s ancient laurel forests. From here, the trail follows the Levada, winding through the spectacular São Jorge Valley, offering stunning views of mountains and valleys. This levada, an engineering marvel built in the 18th century, channels water from the high mountains of Madeira, providing life to the island’s ecosystems. As you walk along its path, you’ll pass through several tunnels - don’t forget to bring a flashlight or headlamp for these sections. The highlight of the hike comes when you reach the Caldeirão Verde waterfall. Nestled in the heart of the island’s dense jungle, this towering waterfall spills into a crystal-clear lagoon, offering an enchanting and peaceful spot to pause. After taking in the stunning scenery, retrace your steps along the levada back to Queimadas Forestry Park. Here, a transfer will be waiting to take you back to your accommodation.
São Vicente - Solar de Boaventura | Guided Hiking | Portugal Nature Trails

Transfer

0:15 h

Distance

12 km

Elevation Gain

+ 50 m

Transfer

0:15 h

Solar de Boaventura

View hotel >
Hike Achada do Teixeira - Pico Ruivo - Ilha

Pico Ruivo, the highest peak on Madeira Island.

Set out to discover Madeira’s highest mountains, beginning your journey just below the mighty Pico Ruivo (1862 m). Follow the dramatic ridge toward Encumeada, where every step opens to breathtaking drops and sweeping horizons. To your left, the cliffs of Faial reveal Ribeira Seca, crowned by Pico das Torres and Pico do Areeiro in the distance. To your right, the rugged Santana range unfolds, guiding your gaze toward Queimadas and Achada do Marques. The trail rises and falls between 1800 and 1000 meters, carrying you through the wild heart of the Natura 2000 mountain massif. Here, resilient alpine vegetation clings to the slopes, shaped by wind, rain, and dramatic temperature swings. Magnificent peaks, deep valleys, and glimpses of the sea accompany you at every turn. On clear days, you may even spot Penha d’Águia and the far-off silhouette of Ponta de São Lourenço. At Pico Ruivo, pause to absorb the grandeur of mountains, villages, farmland, clouds, and sea all merging below. As you near Encumeada, panoramic views of Curral das Freiras, Serra d’Água, and São Vicente welcome you back along Vereda da Ilha.
São Vicente - Solar de Boaventura | Scenic Hiking | Portugal Nature Trails

Transfer

0:20 h

Distance

11 km

Elevation Gain

+ 900 m

Transfer

0:15 h

Solar de Boaventura

View hotel >
Hike Pináculo e Folhadal Loop - Paredão

One hike that shows you why Madeira is a hiker’s paradise.

One of Madeira’s true must-do hikes, combining iconic levada paths with big mountain drama. Starting near Levada das Rabaças and linking into the Levada do Norte, you begin on a peaceful, contouring trail through lush forest and along the water channel, easy to follow, beautifully scenic, and instantly immersive. It’s the perfect warm-up: the sound of running water, deep green laurel woodland, and constant “wow” moments as the valley opens up beside you. Then the hike turns up the adventure as you climb away from the levada toward the rugged Paredão section, where the route hugs the mountainside, and the views feel cinematic. The reward comes at Pináculo and Folhadal, with sweeping panoramas over ridgelines and valleys, and that classic Madeira feeling of being up in the clouds on a clear day.
São Vicente - Solar de Boaventura | Adventure Hiking in Madeira | Portugal Nature Trails

Transfer

0:10 h

Distance

14 km

Elevation Gain

+ 300 m

Solar de Boaventura

View hotel >
Hike Vereda do Fanal

Today's trail is in the area of the Laurissilva Forest.

Classified by UNESCO as a Natural World Heritage site since 1999 and a member of the European network of sites of community importance - Natura 2000. Start in Paúl da Serra plateau and follow the trail to visit several viewpoints that reveal a set of beautiful landscapes, which highlight the valley of Ribeira da Janela and Chão da Ribeira. Pay attention to the area known as "Fio", where visitors can appreciate what is left of an ingenious apparatus of steel cables that were used to carry wood and shrubs collected in the Fanal forest. Later you will arrive at Fanal, a small volcanic crater classified as a resting reserve of the Natural Park of Madeira with the centenary forest of Ocofeafoefens trees.
Porto Moniz - Aqua Natura Bay | Hiking Experiences in Madeira | Portugal Nature Trails

Transfer

0:25 h

Distance

10 km

Elevation Gain

+ 200 m

Transfer

0:25 h

Aqua Natura Bay

View hotel >
Hike Vereda da Garganta Funda

Explore the westernmost wonders of Madeira!

Today’s hike takes you to the serene beauty of Madeira’s westernmost region, starting near Ponta do Pargo in the Pedregal area after a comfortable transfer. This enchanting hike through rural landscapes and lush nature offers extraordinary views of Ponta do Pargo, the valleys, and the surrounding mountains, immersing you in a magical atmosphere. You’ll follow the peaceful course of Levada Nova da Ribeira da Vaca, a historic water channel that leads you through lush vegetation and vibrant flora. Along the way, the gentle sound of cascading waterfalls creates a soothing natural symphony, enhancing the tranquility of the journey. Pause at breathtaking viewpoints along the route, including the remarkable viewpoint near the Capela da Nossa Senhora da Boa Morte. From this iconic spot, take in sweeping panoramic views of the mountains, the sea, and the pristine landscape that surrounds you. This hike will immerse you in the heart of Madeira’s nature, where maritime pines, eucalyptus, and the endemic Laurissilva Forest surround you. Spotting species like the Canary Willow, Madeira Laurel, and Lily-of-the-Valley tree makes this experience scenic and enriching. The route continues along a forest path that will take you back to the starting point of the hike, where your transfer awaits to take you back to your accommodation.
Ponta do Sol - Estalagem da Ponta do Sol | Guided Walking Tours in Madeira | Portugal Nature Trails

Transfer

0:25 h

Distance

12 km

Elevation Gain

+ 400 m

Transfer

0:15 h

Aqua Natura Bay

View hotel >
Hike Vereda dos Zimbreiros

A breathtaking trail that showcases the rugged beauty and diversity of Madeira’s landscapes.

The initial section takes you along the coastline, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The trail is then known for its steep ascent, which leads hikers through lush vegetation, endemic plants, and patches of dense laurel forest. The Vereda dos Zimbreiros is named after the ancient juniper trees (zimbreiros) that once dominated the area. Today, it provides a mix of forested paths and open spaces with panoramic views of the valley below. As the trail climbs higher, you'll traverse narrow paths along terraced cliffs that Madeira is famous for. These terraces, still used for agriculture, provide a unique contrast to the wild nature of the trail. The hike culminates at Maloeira, a serene high-altitude plateau. Here, the sweeping views of Madeira’s mountains and coastline are a perfect reward for the effort. The lush greenery and cooler temperatures make it an excellent spot to rest. Look out for Madeira’s endemic species, such as the Madeira firecrest, butterflies, and wildflowers. The sound of birdsong and the fresh ocean breeze accompany you throughout the trail.
Ponta do Sol - Estalagem da Ponta do Sol | Walking Tours in Madeira | Portugal Nature Trails

Transfer

0:45 h

Distance

6 km

Elevation Gain

+ 700 m

Transfer

0:25 h

Estalagem da Ponta do Sol

View hotel >
Hike Levada das 25 Fontes

Discover one of Madeira’s most beloved trails!

After a delightful breakfast, a transfer will take you to the starting point of an extraordinary hiking experience. Begin with a gentle descent to Rabaçal, following a scenic path that reveals the stunning Levada do Risco waterfall. Surrounded by lush vegetation, vibrant fruit orchards, and picturesque gardens, this journey immerses you in the heart of Madeira’s UNESCO-listed Laurissilva Forest. Your adventure continues to the iconic Lagoa das 25 Fontes (Lagoon of the 25 Springs), one of Madeira’s most popular and breathtaking trails. This serene lagoon, fed by waters descending from the Mountain Marsh (Paul da Serra), offers a tranquil oasis framed by cascading springs and endemic flora. The levada itself, built in 1835, is a masterpiece of engineering and a testament to the island’s rich heritage. A transfer will take you back to your accommodation, where you can unwind while admiring the surrounding nature or delight in Madeira’s flavorful local cuisine—the perfect ending to an unforgettable day.
Funchal - Castanheiro Boutique Hotel | Nature Hiking | Portugal Nature Trails

Transfer

0:30 h

Distance

10 km

Elevation Gain

+ 100 m

Transfer

0:25 h

Estalagem da Ponta do Sol

View hotel >
Hike Levada do Norte to Cabo Girão

Discover Europe’s highest cliff, skywalk, and explore Funchal.

The Levada do Norte is one of the largest and most important of the island, which runs through much of the region. This magnificent stretch of the Levada do Norte ends just below the well-known Cabo Girão, the highest promontory in Europe. Along the way, you can enjoy the fantastic views that arise, which highlight the parishes of Câmara de Lobos and Campanário. In these views, you can also observe the green fields, the carefully worked plantations, and a set of houses and buildings that form the villages. Upon reaching Cabo Girão, take a moment to marvel at the breathtaking vistas of the Fajãs do Rancho and Cabo Girão - small cultivated terraces at the base of the cliff. From this vantage point, you'll also enjoy magnificent panoramic views of the ocean and the municipalities of Câmara de Lobos and Funchal. Take your time to explore the vibrant streets of its cosmopolitan center, where modern charm meets historical allure. Visit landmarks like the cathedral, relax at scenic ocean-view spots, or indulge in the island’s renowned gastronomy. From succulent espetada (meat skewers) to sweet banana cake and the iconic poncha drink, the culinary delights are endless. You will not be disappointed!
Madeira Island Adventure | Walking Holidays in Madeira | Portugal Nature Trails

Transfer

0:20 h

Distance

11 km

Elevation Gain

+ 200 m

Transfer

0:20 h

Castanheiro Boutique

View hotel >
Departure from Funchal

That’s it! This incredible journey comes to an end.

According to your schedule and preferences, your transfer will be arranged. If you’re looking to extend your adventure, consider staying an extra night in Funchal, exploring another captivating city, or even adding an extra day of hiking. Join us on this remarkable hiking tour and get ready to uncover the best of Portugal’s Nature Trails!
Madeira Island Adventure | Walking Holidays in Madeira | Portugal Nature Trails

Transfer to Funchal

0:30 h

Discover More Portugal Trails

1 review for Madeira Island Adventure

  1. ycmruns –

    I just returned from “Madeira Island Adventure” solo self guided hiking tour that was designed from Portugal Nature Trails and had a fantastic experience. I started working with their team about 6 months prior to the trip and was super impressed with how quick and professional they were in planning and customizing the trip to my needs. I’m into Landscape photography and had specific needs to be at photo locations for sunrise and sunset and they were able to accommodate all my requirements. All the hotels that were booked were top notch and had hired super friendly drivers to transfer me across the island. Madeira is absolutely a paradise for hikers & photographers and I was very satisfied with all the hikes and photo oppurtunities. I felt safe traveling solo every where and thoroughly enjoyed the food and drinks in all the locations. Portugal Nature trails guide and team were always available for answering my questions and to handle any last minute changes. I would plan to go back and explore Azores, Algarve and mainland Portugal. Super friendly people and lovely country for solo explorers like me.

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