Top Madeira Nature Walks

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

Hike through the spectral landscapes of the UNESCO-listed Queimadas Forest Park, Madeira, on an enriching 5-hour excursion from Funchal. Accompanied by an expert guide, stroll at a leisurely pace through landscapes reminiscent of fairytales; see thatched-roof cottages, ancient trees and exotic bird species as you explore. Gaze at the emerald green lagoon beneath the famous Caldeirão Waterfall before taking the same route back to the start point.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Madeira's mountains are a must-see but navigating them without local know-how can be tricky. This small-group hike pairs you with a mountain guide, taking you along the PR3 trail to Pico do Areeiro, the island's third-highest peak. Cross the Stairway to Heaven ridge and pause at clifftop viewpoints over the valleys before reaching to the summit.

Madeira is an island of soaring peaks and rugged valleys, but there are plenty of easier hikes throughout the challenging terrain—if you know where to look. On this walking tour, avoid problems with navigation, follow a guide along Madeira’s more gentle walking routes, and enjoy sweeping views over the open countryside. With pickup and drop-off at your Caniço or Funchal accommodation, reaching the open wilderness is easy.

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.

Hike through the Madeira highlands on a half-day walk that follows the historic Levada da Serra do Faial, a century-old irrigation canal, through lush forest. You’ll cover 3.4 miles (5.5 km) of trail, earn views of Madeiran villages, and see a wide range of plants in a scenic, natural environment. This 4-hour, guided walking tour includes pickup and drop-off at Funchal hotels.

Madeira is known for its abundance of scenic nature spots and this tour is the perfect way to access them. Save time organizing car hire and go on a guided tour from Funchal instead. Tick off Pico do Arieiro; Ribeiro Frio, which is surrounded by Laurissilva Forest; Santana Madeira Biosphere Reserve, and the scenic Pico do Facho viewpoint.

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.

Plunge into Madeira’s lakes and waterfalls on an 8-hour levada walking tour from Funchal, a moderate excursion designed for first-time visitors. Alongside your guide, you’ll follow one of Madeira’s famous levadas past waterfalls and rock pools, and through ancient forest. Plus, you’ll ascend to lookout points around the island’s highest mountain. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included. A nature fee is payable on the day of the walk.

Embark on a gentle hike through Madeira’s endemic flora and fauna on a half-day levada walk from Funchal. Beginning in the area of Refertas in Porto da Cruz, you’ll head to the Rock of Penha d’Aguia and admire views of agricultural plots and quaint houses. Plus, you’ll take a rest by crystalline lakes. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

It can be tough knowing where to find good snorkeling spots while traveling. This tour takes away the risk of wasting time, by traveling with a guide to a spot known for its rich marine life. All equipment is provided which means you can pack light. The day starts with a Kayak tour along the Underwater Nature Reserve of Garajau and then plenty of time to snorkel and swim.

"Ribeiro Bonito" (Beautiful River) is the name given to the torrential stream that feeds the Levada do Rei. This enchanting walk along the "King´s Levada" leads through a fairly pristine laurel forest (world heritahe by UNESCO since 1999) penetrating deep into the delightful valley of the Ribeiro Bonito. This amazing hike take place in the north of Madeira Island.

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.

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.