Top Activities on the Ground in Madeira

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!

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.

Check out some of Madeira’s top sights in one of the most fun ways around, on a custom-built trike. This private tour takes you to Pico do Arieiro, a fishing village, eucalyptus and pine forests, wine tasting, and several viewpoints. Helmets and jackets are provided for a safe and enjoyable excursion in Funchal.

Have the special opportunity to watch the sunrise from Madeira’s highest point on this small-group excursion. Following early-morning hotel pickup from your Funchal accommodation, travel via comfortable vehicle to Pico Ruivo. After disembarking, start your 1.5-mile (2.5-kilometer) hike in the dark; as you approach the peak, you will watch the sunrise begin.

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.

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.

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.

A hop-on hop-off bus tour is the ideal way to combine the flexibility of independent sightseeing with the convenience of a guided tour. With a choice of a 48-hour or 5-day ticket, this great-value deal offers full access to three routes—the highlights of Funchal, the village of Câmara de Lobos, and the Skywalk of Cabo Girão.

Uncover the natural splendor surrounding Funchal on this full-day northern wonders Jeep trip. Stay from Funchal’s well-trodden paths in a fully-equipped Jeep to see the awe-inspiring plateaus at Paul da Serra. Admire the natural Porto Moniz pools, formed by volcanic activity long ago, as well as the renowned São Vicente vineyards and Cabo Girao.

Explore hidden waterfalls and pristine rivers through an exciting canyoning experience on this half-day small-group tour from Funchal. Rappel, jump, and slide your way through natural pools surrounded by lush, endemic forests. Guided by experienced professionals, this day combines adrenaline-pumping activities with stunning landscapes, a great way to enjoy the island’s unspoiled beauty.

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.

Go off the main tourist routes on this half-day guided tour of Madeira in an open-top jeep. In a small group, travel off road and into the island's natural beauty. See mountains, the traditional fishing village of Câmara de Lobos ("the sea wolves' lair"), and ascend 3,280 feet (1,000 meters) for a view across Nun's Valley that not many visitors see. Toast the day with a freshly made poncha (traditional alcoholic beverage).

In this experience i'm suggesting some of the most beautiful walking trails in Madeira Island. All the tours are scheduled in the less busiest day in each area to provide you a calm and relaxing experiences out of the crowds. The schedule for the week will be the following: Monday: 25 Fountains and Risco levadas with waterfalls - Distance: 11km / Difficulty Level (1-5): 3 Tuesday: Larano coastal and forest trail - Distance: 11km / Difficulty Level (1-5): 2 Wednesday: Caldeirão Verde Levada - Distance: 13km / Difficulty Level (1-5): 3 Thursday: Fanal and Levada dos Cedros - Distance 12km / Difficulty Level (1-5): 4 Friday: Levada do Rei - Distance 10km / Difficulty Level (1-5): 1 Saturday: Ponta São Lourenço - Distance 7km / Difficulty Level (1-5): 2 You can search for these names to have a look at the sceneries before booking.

Madeira is known for its “levada” walking trails, but it requires ample research time to shortlist the best hiking trails. With this tour, you can save time and let someone else do the hard work for you as hiking instructions and a map are provided. Get picked up from your accommodation and dropped off at the start point, then have free time to explore the 25 Fontes and Risco trails before being picked up at the end.

The West Coast of Madeira is full of spectacular lookouts, traditional fishing villages, and natural wonders, but it can be hard to get around without your own transport. Maximize your time on this full-day tour from Funchal and take in highlights including Cabo Girão, Ribeira da Janela, Laurissilva forest, and the Porto Moniz natural pools. Hotel pickup and drop-off is included.

Explore the location of Pico do Arieiro, for a sunset experience and walk the Stairway to heaven famous trail (optional). The Stairway to heaven trail is a moderate level walk for about 1.2km that you can do. The return is through the same track. Pico do Arieiro location being a highly attracted and crowded sight, we offer a hassle free service of transfer with a local driver, so that guests dont have to rent a car and pay high parking fees, aswell as parking availablity. This activity is suitable for couples, family, friends and children and sometimes requested for small events, birthdays, engangment proposals or even just a romantic moment.

In this canyoning adventure, you'll explore the hidden gems of Curral das Freiras, immersing yourself in nature's beauty while enjoying thrilling moments. The route features 8 rappels, with the largest waterfall reaching an impressive 18 meters. Along the way, you’ll experience 2 exciting jumps, adding extra fun to the descent. The highlight of the adventure is a spectacular 6-meter toboggan or jump, which you can repeat for even more adrenaline. Throughout the tour, we’ll capture your experience in stunning photos, which will be provided to you as a keepsake of this unforgettable journey

In Fanal, the centerpiece is undoubtedly the grove of centuries-old tis (Ocotea foetens)—these specimens date back even before the archipelago's discovery. They are part of the indigenous Laurissilva forest, which here expresses itself in a state of conservation that is impressive for its vibrancy. The tour allows you to walk at your own pace within the time we provide, without having to hassle with parking a car or paying parking fees and being subjected to availability.

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.

East Madeira is known for its stunning A-Framed houses in Camacha. This day tour is perfect for travelers with limited time in Madeira as you’ll see many highlights in one tour. Get access to incredible Pico Arieiro views, see the UNESCO World Heritage site Laurissilva Forest, and Ponta de São Lourenço. Traveling with a guide means you won’t get lost, and you’ll learn about Madeira as you explore its attractions.

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.

Come and meet some of the oldest inhabitants of Madeira Island! Centennial trees and breathtaking views!

Enjoy this private tour, for up to 8 guests, of the Rabacal Valley and the gorgeous waterfalls you'll find there. You'll be transported in an air conditioned vehicle, and you'll be provided with walking sticks and a flashlight. Take food and water with you, as this is not provided in the tour. You'll visit three of the island's most impressive waterfalls today.