Top Funchal Nature Walks

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Delve into the spectacular landscapes of Madeira’s northwest coast on an explorative full-day tour from Funchal. Accompanied by your guide, travel through scenery of outstanding natural beauty, gazing at landmarks like Paul da Serra and Porto Moniz. Head deep into the mysterious forest on a guided hike; gain an insightful glimpse into Portuguese culture; and, weather permitting, sink your toes into the silky sands of the black sandy beach of Seixal.

A challenging and authentic walk, perfect for those looking for an experience outside the most famous scenarios. We started by the sea at 200 meters, and gradually climbed to about 700 meters, always with the ocean as the background. Along the way, we enjoy spectacular views of the sea, imposing cliffs, deep valleys and mountains. In the middle of the route we enter the forest, where the local fauna and flora are always present, bringing tranquility and pure contact with nature. In the final part we return again to the coast, with the ocean accompanying us to the end. The walk is calm, without crowds, ideal for those who value unique landscapes and authenticity. Led by me, Paul Jesus, certified mountain guide, born and resident on the island. In the end, there is the possibility of a diving in the sea.

Customize your own sightseeing itinerary on a private 5-hour jeep tour of Madeira. Depending on your preferences, you’ll explore the east or west side of the island in a 4x4 vehicle while receiving undivided attention from a private guide. Opt to discover Pico do Areiro and the Valley of the Nuns (Curral das Freiras) in the east, or ascend to Cabo Girão, Europe’s highest sea cliff, and Câmara de Lobos, home to a colony of monk seals, during a tour of the west.

This is undoubtedly one of the must do not miss, a magnificent route through the Laurissilva of Madeira, where it is possible to appreciate the unique vegetation of this natural heritage. The first part of the course is composed of a mixture of endemic vegetation and vegetation introduced after the discovery of the Island. Here several perspectives of the village and of the village appear in the distance. In the second part, the route enters the interior of the Island, which still remains as at the time of discovery, more than five centuries. On this path you will find the flora, natural and native fauna of Madeira. If you think you have reached the end of levada, continue walking. Explore the forest and discover the superb view that this secluded spot has yet to offer you. Undoubtedly one of the most beautiful routes of the Island of Madeira.

Delve into the otherworldly landscapes of the Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula on a full-day hiking tour from Funchal. With just a private guide and your party, you’ll embark on a trek through the lunar landscapes and coastal lookout points of the nature reserve, which features a few descents and steep climbs. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included on this active tour, recommended for travelers with a moderate level of fitness.

Ideal for travelers short on time, this tour covers the best of western Madiera in one day of sightseeing from Funchal. Highlights include visiting one of Europe’s tallest observation decks at Cabo Girão, checking out the lava pools in Porto Moniz, exploring the pretty fishing village of Camara De Lobos, and traversing Madeira's highest plateau.

Check out the center of Madeira Island, where you'll find the Valley of the Nuns. This is a half day small group tour, that runs twice weekly at 9:30am. You’ll stop at Miradouro Pico Dos Barcelos for a wonderful view of Funchal, and later at Eira do Serrado viewpoint for some gorgeous surrounding nature. You'll then spend time in the Valley of the Nuns with layers of white clouds among the mountain peaks.

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.

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.

Enjoy Madeira’s natural beauty and renowned wine on a half-day off-road adventure. After a convenient hotel pickup in Funchal or Caniço, travel by 4x4 to picturesque sites like the soaring cliffs of Cabo Girão and the vineyards of Sao Vicente. Learn about local wine customs and production from a local winemaker, and sample white, red, and rosé varieties.

Get a comprehensive tour of Funchal, combined with personalized attention, on this private excursion. With a dedicated guide behind the wheel, you’ll enjoy private transportation for a stress-free trip that ticks all of the important sights off your list. Stops include Sao Joao do Pico Fortress, Quinta das Cruzes, the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, Mercado dos Lavradores, and some impressive lookout points for great photo ops.

This full-day private island tour stops at several unique locations for a mix of cultural and natural attractions. Highlights include the UNESCO-listed laurel forest of Laurisilva, an optional swimming excursion in the lava pools of Porto Moniz, and panoramic views from the Cabo Girão lookout point. Tours also include door-to-door transfers—with hotel pickup—in a comfortable, Wi-Fi-equipped vehicle.

With this half-day tour, you can boost your knowledge of Madeira’s natural wonders—and in particular the flowers of Palheiro Gardens. Don’t worry about hiring a car and finding a parking space, as private transport is included. Then, once inside Palheiro Gardens, enjoy a scenic walk, followed by a visit to Palheiro Golf viewpoint—the perfect spot for panoramic photos over Funchal.

Madeira Island’s western shores are home to natural sea pools, traditional fishing villages, and more, but reaching the top sites requires local knowledge. On this group tour, travel from your hotel (select areas) via air-conditioned minibus and reach the sites with ease. Hit sites of interest, including Camara de Lobos, Porto Moniz natural pools, and the Ribeira Brava.