Top Madeira Nature Walks

Slow down and explore the lush heart of Madeira island on this half-day walking tour from Rabaçal to 25 Fountains. Led by a local guide, you’ll learn about Madeira’s levadas (canals), catch stunning views of Rabaçal Valley, wander through a laurel forest, watch for the elusive trocaz pigeon—a bird found only on Madeira—and marvel at the clear, green water of 25 Fountains.

Embark on an adventure through Madeira’s breathtaking landscapes, starting in the Ecological Park of Funchal, surrounded by lush greenery and diverse terrain. The trail leads to Poço da Neve, offering unique views over Funchal harbor. Continue along the PR3 Vereda do Burro trail to the majestic Pico do Areeiro, the island’s third-highest peak. From here, the path guides you to the stunning Miradouro do Ninho da Manta, where you’ll witness Madeira’s rugged beauty. Then, head to Pedra Rija viewpoint, another breathtaking stop. Next, tackle the challenging yet rewarding “Stairway to Heaven,” where the ascent promises awe-inspiring vistas. After conquering this iconic climb, return to Pico do Areeiro to complete your hike. This route is perfect for seasoned hikers and nature lovers, offering some of the most spectacular views Madeira has to offer. Experience the island's wilderness and let it captivate your soul!

No visit to Madeira is complete without following one of the island’s ‘levada’ trails, renowned for their natural beauty. Perfect for travelers seeking a moderate walk, this 4-hour tour  takes you on a 5-km (3-mile) journey through the Serra de Agua Valley, from which you can see South Coast, Encumeada, Ribeira Brava and Campanário. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Rabaçal Valley on an 8-hour hike from Funchal. In a small group limited to 15, you’ll descend from the plateau of Paul da Serra and follow the ‘levada’ trail, an irrigation system developed in the 16th century. Marvel at a lagoon, towering cliff, and 25 natural springs. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

Its an early start but so worth the effort. Imagine Starting the day with a spectacular Sunrise from the 3rd highest peak of Madeira, Pico do Arieiro. Due to the late fires the full walk is not possible, but we don´t want you to miss out on the possibility to visit the 3rd highest peak. After the sunrise we go to 2 viewpoints along part of the walk where its still possible to do a 2.4 km long walk (return) After finishing we will drive you to a special comforting place for a warm drink

Hike through a unique Madeiran landscape of Laurisilva on a full-day hiking tour from Paul da Serra to Fanal, trekking 6.7 miles (10.8 km) across the Paul da Serra plateau. You’ll have spectacular views of the world’s largest surviving laurel forest, climbing and descending through a series of scenic valleys. This 8-hour guided hiking tour includes pickup and drop-off at selected hotels in Funchal, and it’s the perfect way to explore Madeira at its most untouched.

Explore the wonders along Madeira’s famed Levada do Caldeirão Verde on this leisurely guided walking tour. Your day begins with a convenient pickup from your central Funchal hotel, then set off on a short 45-minute ride to the starting point. As you stroll the path, your local guide will illuminate the surroundings with informative anecdotes. Admire a tranquil laurel forest, historical local paths, traditional irrigation channels, and sweeping vistas of the island’s north coast.

Follow a Madeiran levada, or canal, though the São Jorge Valley on a full-day hiking tour from Funchal, exploring a landscape of lush plants and thriving forests. You’ll cover 8 miles (13 km) of trail and stop at a peaceful waterfall, while taking in Madeira at its most untouched. This full-day, guided levada walking tour includes round-trip transport from select hotels in Funchal, and it’s the perfect introduction to Madeira hiking.

Ascend to Madeira’s highest peak on an 8-hour walk to Pico Ruivo, from the top of which travelers are rewarded with spectacular panoramas of Madeira. Ideal for visitors with a moderate fitness level, this tour takes you through an ancient heather forest and reveals a plethora of flora and fauna native to the island. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

Get acquainted with the verdant natural splendor of Madeira on a full-day tour of North West Madeira from Funchal. Alongside a knowledgeable guide, discover the secreted treasures of the Laurisilva Forest and enjoy the tranquility exuded by its abundance of flora and fauna. Continue to the spectral Rabacal Lake, home to 25 fountains and beautiful cascading waterfalls, and spend some relaxed free time enjoying the area of outstanding natural beauty. Enjoy the convenience of round-trip transportation from your Funchal hotel on this enriching excursion.

This is a great choice for travelers who enjoy walking and exploring the great outdoors. Enjoy a peaceful day in Ponta De São Lourenço with a certified mountain guide to accompany you so you don’t get lost. This small-group tour is limited to 8 people, so you’ll have better access to your guide for questions. See stunning viewpoints, learn about local vegetation, and enjoy spending time in nature.

Although Madeira is most famous for its natural landscapes, the Portuguese island also harbors a rich history. Receive an introduction to the history of Funchal during a walking tour that offers a more intimate glimpse into the Old Town than you’d get traveling by coach or car. This tour, which proves ideal for first-time visitors, allows you to benefit from the insider knowledge and personalized attention of your guide.

Spend the day hiking the remarkable Levada das 25 Fontes without any of the hassles of organizing transport, meals and more. On this small group hiking excursion, all of those things are pre-arranged for you. Catch your transport from Funchal and focus on the stunning landscapes of the Laurissilva Forest. Hike through to the center of the forest to get a close-up look at some of its natural highlights, including the dramatic 25 Fontes and Risco waterfalls.

Embark on one of Madeira’s most famous levada walks on a full-day tour of Levada do Caldeirão Verde. Beginning at the fairy tale village of Queimadas, you’ll walk through ancient forests and past streams and lagoons, stopping to enjoy Santana and the enormous Caldeirão Verde waterfall along the way. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

Explore the Rabacal area on this small group guided walking tour in Levada, that takes you through trails, and to see 25 waterfalls, too. This is a challenging walk, not offered by other companies. You’ll cover 10.5m (17k), and it should take around six to seven hours in total. Your guide will take you through the trails, but note that food and water are not included so you might want to bring some of your own.

Experience one of Madeira’s world-famous levada walks on an 8-hour hike from Ribeiro Frio to Portela. Departing from Funchal, you’ll wander through the Laurel Forest (Laurisilva), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enjoy panoramic views of Penha d'Aguia (Eagle Rock) and the town of Porta da Cruz. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included on this small-group tour, limited to 15 people.

Experience one of Madeira’s UNESCO-listed levada walks through the ancient Laurisilva forest with a guide who knows the area best. You’ll embark on the Levada do Alecrim walk without having to worry about losing your way. Plus, you’ll learn about how the landscapes were formed over millions of years.

Funchal’s waters are home to whales and dolphins—and this luxurious catamaran tour offers the best way to spot them. Head to Funchal’s marina and hop aboard your vessel, where you’ll enjoy Champagne, cocktails, soft drinks, and snacks like local bread and cheese. Indulge as you look out for whales and dolphins. Then, if you wish, enjoy a swimming and snorkeling break at Cabo Girao before returning to shore.

The Valley of the Nuns (Curral da Freiras) might be one of the coolest places you can visit in all of Portugal—and this tour makes it easy to explore the area. Not only is it a village built on the crater of an extinct volcano, but it was once a place where nuns would hide when pirates attacked the city of Funchal. Plus, during this tour, you’ll stop by the fishing village, Câmara de Lobos, and try a traditional Madeira drink.

One of the most popular hikes in Madeira is the challenging trek between the Arieiro and Ruivo mountain peaks. Take the guesswork out of getting there by booking a transfer service to easily get to and from the hike. This is not a guided tour but an easy way for visitors who don't have cars to access the hike.

Bask in the sun and sea of Madeira, one of the world’s tallest oceanside cliffs, on this catamaran excursion from the Funchal Marina. After boarding, find a nice spot on the deck or one of the four trampoline nets for spotting whales and dolphins. Your crew highlights landmarks and wildlife plus you have a choice of a morning or afternoon departure time.

This is a relaxing walk along one of the beautiful levadas on the neighbourhoods of Funchal, mixture of sea and mountains views is going to delight you. You will observe spectacular views over the village of Camacha. Throughout the walk we will have the opportunity to see the cultivated fields and learn more about Madeiras´ traditions and agriculture.

The Balconies Levada hike in Madeira is ideal for those who want a beautiful walk without committing to hours of hiking. Join a private guide and begin your hike in Ribeiro Frio, where you can take in the views of several of the island’s mountain peaks, including Ruivo and Arieiro. This tour is suitable for most travelers with pickup points from several parts of the island.