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

Welcome to Madeira! Upon your arrival at the airport, a taxi will whisk you away to the quaint town of Machico, the island's first established town. Depending on your arrival time, you can explore the town's charming streets and enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beachside promenade.

Today, you'll embark on the famous Ribeiro Frio hike, a magical journey through Madeira's lush vegetation and ancient trees. The trail follows the Levada do Furao, a spectacular path carved into the cliffside. Don't miss the detour to the Vereda dos Balcoes, a viewpoint offering stunning vistas. After a day of exploration, you'll return to Machico.

Depart from Machico to the charming seaside village of Porto da Cruz. Begin your journey along a levada, then ascend to the Boca do Risco viewpoint for breath-taking scenery. Continue along the cliffside path with endless ocean views before descending to Porto da Cruz for a refreshing swim in the natural seawater pool. Your day ends in the picturesque village of Santana, where you'll spend two nights.

Today, you'll enter the green world of the laurisilva forest, home to lush vegetation, vibrant flowers, and cascading waterfalls. The highlight of the day is The Green Cauldron, a waterfall that plunges into a basin from a height of 100m. Afterward, you'll visit the small village of Ilha before returning to Santana for the night.

Today offers two hiking options. The moderate option takes you to Pico Ruivo, Madeira's highest point, offering panoramic views of the entire island. The more challenging option leads you through different ecosystems, from the Laurisilva to mountain forests, offering stunning views of the island's coastline. After a day of exploration, you'll transfer to Encumeada, where you'll spend two nights.

From your hotel in Encumeada, you'll embark on a beautiful loop hike on the Paul de Serra plateau. You'll follow a levada along the south coast, pass by the central ridge, and arrive at the Levada do Norte, which runs along the north face of the plateau. Along the way, you'll admire primary forests, numerous waterfalls, and spectacular views of São Vicente and the great peaks.

After breakfast, you'll be transferred to the trailhead at Boca da Corrida. The day's hike takes you along the ridge, offering the option to climb the summit of Pico Grande for stunning panoramas. You'll then descend through varied vegetation to Curral das Freiras, a small parish nestled between mountains. From there, you'll be transferred to the coastal village of Paul do Mar for an overnight stay.

Today, you'll be transferred to Paul da Serra's plateau to start a charming walk through an enchanted forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll visit the 25 Fontes, a collection of fountains or waterfalls, and marvel at the stunning scenery of streams and waterfalls. Afterward, you'll be transferred to Funchal, where you'll spend two nights in a city centre hotel.

Enjoy a free day of sightseeing around Funchal, a charming city built around a bay. Wander through the paved streets, explore the colourful gardens, and walk along the coast. Optional activities include a visit to the Monte palace tropical gardens via cable car, a thrilling ride on a traditional wicker-made sledge, a whale-watching trip, or a day trip to Porto Santo Island.

Your memorable journey through Madeira comes to an end today. After breakfast, you'll be transferred to Funchal Airport for your departure. Safe travels!