Top Madeira Walking Tours

Welcome to Madeira's Ultimate Self-Guided Foodie Adventure! The most flexible and tasty foodie tour ever, you can start when you want, where you want, are you on a cruise? that's fine we can tweak the timings to suit you, are you doing another tour? that's ok we can start later. As the heart of Madeira's largest foodie community (check out Madeira Foodies on Facebook or instagram), we've poured our passion and local expertise into crafting the ultimate self-guided digital tour. Forget rigid schedules and feeling rushed – this experience is all about savoring the island's culinary delights at your own pace. We've meticulously handpicked 5 of the best independent eateries and local businesses, from charming coffee shops to authentic tasca taverns, the oldest bakery and other gems, where you can indulge in exquisite coffee, fine wines, delicious tapas, and of course, Poncha. Explore, taste, and discover the true flavors of Madeira on your own terms.

Stray from the beaten path and see a side of Funchal that’s inaccessible to traditional tour vehicles on an excursion by 4x4 Jeep. As well as receiving personalized attention in a small group limited to eight people, you’ll discover landscape that feature everything from mountains and waterfalls to fishing villages and natural pools.

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.

Enjoy a peaceful sunrise stroll between Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo—without having to rush to keep up with a group—by choosing this self-guided hike package. To save you the hassle of organizing transport, the trip includes hotel pickup, then drop-off at Pico do Arieiro, and pickup from Achada do Teixeira once you’ve finished the hike.

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!

Escape the crowds and visit a unique corner of Madeira with this tour of Fajã dos Padres. Hop on the cable car from Quinta Grande to reach this fertile stretch of coast, once a Jesuit outpost and now an organic farm producing subtropical fruit and grapes for Madeira’s wine. Stroll through the orchards while learning about the area’s history and stop to relax on the beach or dine in the farm-to-table restaurant.

Begin your day above the clouds with a breathtaking sunrise at Pico do Areeiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak. As the sky turns shades of gold and violet, you’ll witness one of the island’s most unforgettable views. After sunrise, follow a stunning section of the PR1 trail toward the iconic “Stairway to Heaven” — a dramatic ridge walk with epic photo opportunities. Then, continue your adventure on the PR3 – Vereda do Burro, a quieter trail that leads you through wide mountain scenery, peaceful paths, and open skies. The full hike takes around 5 hours and offers the perfect balance of beauty, challenge, and serenity. At the end, relax with a coffee or local treat before your comfortable return. Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, with early and late start times available. Whether you’re chasing sunrises or unforgettable hikes, this is a true Madeira highlight. We will inform you the exact pickup time the day before, and keep you updated via WhatsApp.

Step into a world of misty mountains, moss-covered paths, and ancient greenery on the unforgettable Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk. Beginning in the lush Queimadas Forest Park in Santana, this 13-kilometer hike winds through one of Madeira’s most magical landscapes — the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva Forest. This is a journey deep into nature, where every turn reveals a new surprise: birdsong echoing through the trees, trickling streams beside the levada, and tunnels carved into the volcanic rock. The trail leads you to the stunning Caldeirão Verde lagoon, fed by a towering waterfall that cascades into a deep emerald basin — a moment of stillness and beauty you won’t soon forget. On clear days, you’ll also enjoy glimpses of the picturesque villages of Santana, Ilha, and São Jorge, scattered across the valleys below. Whether you’re an enthusiastic hiker or a curious explorer, this experience is a peaceful, awe-inspiring way to discover the wild heart of Madeira.

Taste your way around Madeira on this small-group food and walking tour. You won’t have to worry about language barriers as you’ll have a guide to translate and order for you. Save time researching and planning your trip by having a guide to show you around. Make the most of your day by visiting multiple places and tasting local specialties. All food and drink is included.

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.

Nature enthusiasts will love this dolphin- and whale-watching cruise from Funchal. Board your catamaran and kick back as you sail along Madeira’s south coast. Your crew guides you to the areas where whales and dolphins are most often seen. If the sea conditions are good in summer, take a dip in the waters beneath the Cabo Girão sea cliffs. Choose a morning or afternoon departure to suit your schedule.

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.

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.

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.

Being able to enjoy a cultural, gastronomic, mountain hiking experience, and the history and biodiversity of the island as a real place. Our activity will take you to eat like a local, in the restaurants that locals go to. Eat a regional kebab, drink a poncha, all this as a true Madeiran does, along trails little used by those who visit us. Get to know the story told by a certified guide born and raised on the island. Have a social and economic impact on local communities, thus bringing sustainability to our activity.

Go whale and dolphin watching, a unique experience from Madeira. Board a boat with your experienced captain and crew, then set out for the open seas to search for these friendly marine mammals. Learn about these fascinating creatures through your crew's informative commentary.

Being able to see the sunrise with your friends and family will make your day spectacular. A short walk to the observation site will bring to your memories countless colors, smells and even flavors until you reach the end of the day and get to know the mountains and trails like a real place. After sunrise we will pass through some of the most emblematic places on our island. RNAAT - 656/2020

See the extraordinary views from the summit of Pico Ruivo on this small-group sunrise hike. The PR1 hike from Pico do Arieiro takes you to the highest peak in Madeira, offering panoramic scenes of the island below. Set off long before the crowds arrive and climb the mountainous region to reach the top, often above the clouds, as the sun rises.

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.

It is a special activity because it takes place in the afternoon with few people on the route with the possibility to see the Por do Sol over the clouds in the Magic Forest of Fanal, where we will walk through the magic forest of Laurissilva UNESCO natural heritage since 1999. Endemic plants will always be a constant along the route, valleys, mountains and all its surrounding landscape. At the end of the walk we will have the observation of the sunset if the weather conditions allow, in a magical place as is the forest of Fanal with its centuries-old trees. Before arriving at Fanal we will see the north coast of the island of São Vicente, Seixal and Ribeira da Janela with a short stop to take some photos. It is included: transportation, insurance, certified mountain guide and tourist license from Portugal.

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.

Head beyond Funchal city limits, and explore some of Madeira’s most dramatic scenery, on this full-day Jeep tour. Depart from your hotel, and travel with just a small group for company. You’ll head to the Pico do Arieiro (Madeira’s third-highest peak), will explore the island’s UNESCO-listed Laurissilva Forest, will tour the Village de Santana (known for its traditional straw dwellings), enjoy seaside views from the Ponta de São Lourenço, and more.

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.