Madeira Walking Tour

Day 1 Arrival

Arrive at Funchal Airport (FNC) where a private transfer will pick you up and take you to your accommodations in Machico.

Unwind by the hotel’s swimming pool, or get some warm-up steps in on the beach in preparation for your first day of walking the island tomorrow.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Machico
Distance: None
Meals: None

Day 2 Explore Madeira’s Famous Levadas

The island of Maderia is home to over 1400km of snaking narrow water channels known as levadas.

A short transfer this morning will take you to Maroços, where you’ll explore your first levada, following its winding paths back to Machico on a scenic adventure. You’ll enjoy spectacular views of the bay and the city below during this walk.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Machico
Distance: 4.5 hours, 15km, 150m of ascent, 400m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 3 Scenic Circuit Walk in Ponta de São Lourenço

The São Lourenço is a well-known natural landmark on the island and a must-see highlight! Its volcanic origins make it the direst point on the island, and you’ll marvel at the contrast in landscape between this area of protected natural reserve and other more lush areas on the island that you’ll soon discover.

Return to your accommodations in Machico this afternoon by public bus or by taxi.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Machico
Distance: 3 hours, 7km, 350m of ascent, 350m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 4 Levada do Caniçal and the Boca do Risco Vista Point

Today’s route is packed with challenging stretches met with ample reward!

A taxi transfer will take you to the start point between Machico and Caniçal, and from here you’ll follow the Levada do Caniçal, warming up for the upcoming steep ascent to the Boca do Risco vista point. Enjoy a picnic here surrounded by mesmerizing views before continuing along the Vereda de Larano, a beautiful path carved into the cliffs.

Finally, arriving in Porto da Cruz, a taxi transfer will take you to your next accommodations in Santana.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Santana
Distance: 5 hours, 15km, 750m of ascent, 505m of descent
Meals: Breakfast, dinner

Day 5 Levada do Furado and Madeira Laurel Forests

A taxi transfer will take you to your start point in Ribeiro Frio this morning, where you’ll begin today’s route tracing the Levada do Furado.

A fairytale woodland surrounds you as you make your way through Madeira’s UNESCO World Heritage laurel forest. The route has you gradually gaining altitude, winning you increasingly majestic views of the coast and the island canyons and hills.

You’ll reach Portela, where you’ll continue on a cobbled path to Porto da Cruz. From here, a taxi transfer will take you back to Santana.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Santana
Distance: 5 hours, 14km, 370m of ascent, 875m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 6 Levada do Caldeirão Verde and the Village of Ilha

A taxi transfer will take you to your start point at the Parque Florestal das Queimadas, where you’ll be invited into a typical Madeiran house bar for a refreshment.

Following the Levada do Caldeirão Verde, you’ll encounter a beautiful waterfall before retracing your steps and enjoying a scenic detour to the picturesque village of Ilha. From Ilha, a taxi will pick you up and return to Santana.

Be aware, It’s important to bring a headlamp and waterproof wear on today’s walk!
Overnight Location: Hotel in Santana
Distance: 4 hours, 11km, 50m of ascent, 650m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7 Walk the Caminho Real

Your final day of walking will introduce you to the ancient footpaths of the Caminho Real, a network of paths spanning 182km across the entire island, linking major harbours and villages.

You’ll begin your route in Santana, making your way through fascinating ruins and villages until you reach the end of the route, where a taxi will take you back to Santana.
Overnight Location: Hotel in Santana
Distance: 5 hours, 13km, 560m of ascent, 850m of descent
Meals: Breakfast

Day 8 Departure

Following breakfast this morning, check out of your accommodations. A private transfer will take you to the airport to depart.
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast