Madeira: "Levada" Hiking Trails (Self-guided Tour)

Welcome to Madeira! Upon your arrival at the airport, a taxi will take you to Machico, the island's first town and former capital. Now a tranquil seaside resort, Machico is the perfect place to start your adventure. Depending on your arrival time, you can explore the village and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beachside promenade.

Today, you'll explore the Peninsula of Sao Lourenço, located to the east of Madeira. This nature reserve boasts a unique landscape shaped by its semi-arid climate and basalt cliffs carved by wind and waves. It's a fantastic place to observe Madeira's unique flora and fauna. After a day of exploration, you'll return to Machico.

Get ready for a magical hike in Ribeiro Frio, one of Madeira's most famous walking trails. The trail follows a levada (irrigation channel) and takes you through lush vegetation and century-old trees of the primeval forest. The Levada do Furao is particularly impressive, as it's dug into the cliff wall and features arches carved into the rock. Don't miss the chance to take a detour and enjoy the stunning view from the 'vereda dos balcoes'. After a day of hiking, you'll return to Machico.

Today's hike takes you from Machico to Porto da Cruz, a charming fishermen's village. The trail starts 300 metres above the ocean and takes you through the terraced pastures of the Ribeira Seca valley. The highlight of the hike is the Boca do Risco coastal path, which offers stunning views of the ocean and the creaks below. After a big descent towards the ocean, you'll reach Porto da Cruz, where you'll stay for two nights.

Today, you'll embark on one of Madeira's most spectacular Levada hikes. The trail takes you through the famous Laurisilva, a humid and subtropical laurel forest. After passing through several tunnels and cliffside passageways, you'll reach the 'Green Cauldron' or Caldeira Verde. From there, you'll hike down towards the isolated village of Ilha, enjoying incredible views of the ocean along the way. After a day of hiking, you'll return to Porto da Cruz.

Today, you'll hike to Pico Ruivo, the highest point on Madeira. Standing at 1862m above sea level, the summit offers spectacular views over the entire island. The hike takes you along the central ridge of Madeira, through a fascinating landscape of volcanic peaks. After a day of hiking, you'll transfer to Funchal, Madeira's capital, where you'll stay for two nights in a city centre hotel.

Enjoy a free day of sightseeing in Funchal, a charming city built around a bay. The city's name comes from the word 'fennel' (Foncho in Portuguese), which grew in the bay when the Portuguese first landed here. You can wander through the paved streets, explore the colourful gardens, and walk along the coast. Optional activities include a cable car ride to the Monte palace tropical gardens, a traditional sledge ride down from Monte to Funchal city centre on a 'Carreiro do Monte', a whale-watching trip, or a day trip to Porto Santo Island.

Your unforgettable journey through Madeira comes to an end today. You'll be transferred to Funchal Airport for your departure. Safe travels!