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Walks Madeira Guide: 5 scenic hikes you will love
Madeira is a hikers’ paradise, and when we visited the island, our holiday quickly turned into a hiking holiday! But maybe you are wondering which hikes in Madeira are actually worth your time, and suit your fitness level? In this post, we will highlight the best walk in Madeira we discovered during our trip!
Whether you like a challenge like climbing Pico Ruivo, or you want an easy stroll with kids at Levada dos Balcões, there is something for you here. And we are not done yet, and hope to visit again soon to add more walks in Madeira to this list! We stayed 10 days on the island and went on 6 hikes!
We will also add some hiking tips, as each trail now requires a reservation and a payment. This way you know what to expect before heading out, and also what to bring in terms of snacks, torches etc. As we plan to explore more beautiful hikes on our next visit to Madeira, we’ll keep updating this post with new favourites!
Exploring some of our favourite walks in Madeira, Portugal
There are tons of hikes in Madeira, and it’s one of the most popular Portuguese hiking destination! We, too, had to make a selection of which ones we wanted to do. There is an extensive network of levadas (irrigation channels) and veredas (mountain paths), and the island offers some of the most spectacular hiking trails in the world.
We probably picked the most famous and popular ones, but they are much loved for a reason, right? And we can’t wait to see more on our next visit! Here are some of our best hikes in Madeira for now!
PR1 Pico do Arieiro – Pico Ruivo
At Pico Ruivo, you’re literally on top of the world! This is the tallest mountain on Madeira, with a height of 1.862 meters (6,109 feet). And there are a few ways to reach Madeira’s highest top: the PR1 and the PR1.2 being the most popular.
The PR1 Vereda do Arieiro, or Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, is perfect if you’re up for a challenge in a mountainous landscape. The paths are great, but it’s one of the more challenging trails on the island due to the height gain. On this trail, you’ll also come across several tunnels.
Most people hike this trail one way, from Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo. The path back to Pico Arieiro is steep, but thankfully, you can arrange a transfer back to your car instead of walking.
The PR1 is also a top-rated tour on the island. An experienced guide will help you along the trail, including all transportation (so no need to hike back!). The stunning views from the top are definitely worth it!
- Length: 10.5 kilometres (6.5 miles)
- Time: around 2 to 4 hours
- Elevation gain: 1,172 meters
- Level: Hard
- Route type: Round trip (one way possible)
- Precautions: steep drops on both sides, vertigo risk, exposed and windy conditions, tunnels and dark sections, rapid weather changes, can have slippery surfaces, physical effort, not ideal for inexperienced hikers.
PR1.2 Pico Ruivo
The PR1.2 Pico Ruivo is like a mini version of PR1 from Pico do Arieiro. You’ll drive up the mountain to Achada do Teixeira to start the 5.4-kilometre round trip (2.8 kilometres, 1.74 miles one way) to the top of Madeira.
The trail is easy to follow and doable for most fitness levels. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views over the valley of Ribeira Seca, and you can see Pico do Arieiro in the distance.
For both hikes, wearing good hiking boots is advisable. Also, Madeira’s weather can change quickly, especially in the mountains. Some shelter huts are along the trail, but comfortable and suitable clothing will go a long way.
Bring plenty of water and some snacks. But if needed, you can visit Casa de Abrigo do Pico Ruivo, a small cafe just before the summit.
Tip!
Climbing Pico Ruivo during sunrise or sunset is extra magical!
- Length: 5.4 kilometres (3.3 miles)
- Time: around 1 to 2 hours
- Elevation gain: 304 meters
- Level: Easy to moderate
- Route type: Round trip
- Precautions: steep and uneven stone steps, vertigo risk, sustained downhill sections, exposed and windy conditions, fast-changing weather, slippery surfaces in wet conditions, proper hiking footwear required.
PR6 Levada 25 Fontes e Risco
Levada das 25 Fontes is one of the most popular hiking trails in Madeira, and it’s a stunning route through the lush greenery of the Rabaçal valley. Going early will pay off as it’s one of the busier trails. The route itself is relatively flat and doable for most fitness levels.
This 11-kilometre (6.8 miles) long trail starts at the Rabaçal parking area or in Calheta on the E.R. 211 and takes you through a dense forest of laurel and heather. Along the way, you’ll cross tons of water streams, pass through tunnels, and walk along the edge of cliffs.
The trail ends at the impressive 25 Fontes Waterfall, where 25 springs converge to form a stunning cascade that falls into a crystal-clear pool. From the 25 Fontes waterfall, your walk in Madeira will continue to the Risco Waterfall, a 100-meter (328-foot) tall waterfall. (It’s considered one of the highest waterfalls on the island!)
Depending on your route, you should bring a torch to cross a nearly 1-kilometre-long tunnel. This walk in Madeira can also be pretty wet, as water literally seeps from the rocks. Good hiking shoes are, therefore, a recommendation.
Depending on the weather, bring waterproof clothes, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a picnic to eat along the way. You can also enjoy a healthy snack and a drink at the Rabaçal Nature Spot Cafe.
- Length: 11 kilometres (6.8 miles)
- Time: around 3 to 5 hours
- Incline: 350 meters
- Level: Easy to moderate (moderate is some parts between the waterfalls)
- Route type: Round trip Rabaçal → Rabaçal. Can be extended with Levada do Risco.
- Precautions: narrow levada paths, slippery rocks and steps, wet conditions near waterfalls, dark tunnels, uneven terrain, busy sections on popular days.
PR8 Ponta de São Lourenço
The Ponta de São Lourenco trail is a must for those who love coastal hikes. This nearly 8-kilometre-long trail takes you along the island’s easternmost point, offering incredible views of the Atlantic Ocean and the rugged coastline. We were lucky on a clear day and enjoyed the most amazing views!
The path starts just outside the village of Caniçal and takes you through a lunar landscape of volcanic rocks and endemic flowers. You’ll also pass through a nature reserve that is home to several rare bird species.
During this hike, there is no sun, wind or rain protection! So bring layers and be prepared. The landscape is very different here than other walks in Madeira, and the gravel can be pretty slippery.
The last part of this hike might be challenging, but don’t stop just yet! The view is stunning from the top! Afterwards, you can enjoy a snack or a drink at Casa do Sardinha!
- Length: 7.4 kilometres out-and-back (4.5 miles)
- Time: around 2 to 3 hours
- Elevation gain: 417 meters
- Level: Easy to moderate (the last climb is the biggest challenge, but worth it)
- Route type: Round trip
- Precautions: exposed coastal trail with no shade, vertigo risk, strong winds year-round, steep and rocky sections, uneven and loose terrain, intense sun and heat, limited water points, slippery rocks after rain, not suitable in extreme weather conditions.
PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde
Levada do Caldeirão Verde is a long hike in Madeira, but the flat surface makes it easy. This nearly 12-kilometre-long trail starts at the Queimadas Forestry Park and takes you through a dense laurissilva forest and incredible mountains.
Along the way, you’ll pass through several tunnels and across narrow bridges. The trail’s highlight is the Caldeirão Verde waterfall, which cascades down a moss-covered cliff into a stunning emerald pool!
Bring a picnic to enjoy a well-deserved snack before heading back! At Queimadas Forest Park, you can also enjoy a drink or snack at Casa de Abrigo das Queimadas. This is a typical Madeira house that looks magical in this setting!
We strongly recommend starting early, as the route is so long. This way you don’t have to rush back before it gets dark. There is also an option to extend this hike to Caldeirão do Inferno, but this is currently closed.
- Length: 11.9 kilometres (7.4 miles)
- Time: around 3 to 5 hours
- Elevation gain: 93 meters
- Level: Easy to moderate
- Route type: Round trip
- Precautions: long levada route, vertigo risk, narrow paths with drops, dark tunnels, wet and slippery surfaces, uneven terrain, headlamp required.
PR11 Vereda dos Balcões
Levada dos Balcões is definitely the most manageable and easy walk in Madeira, and one that is popular with families. The trail is totally flat, and it only takes 20 to 30 minutes to reach the viewpoint. This 2.7 kilometres trail starts at the Ribeiro Frio parking area and follows the levada through a forest of trees.
The trail’s highlight is the Balcões viewpoint, which offers stunning views of the valley and the surrounding mountains. You’ll see both Pico Ruivo and Pico do Arieiro from here! The viewpoint is a popular spot for birdwatching, and you may spot some of the island’s endemic bird species.
Ribeiro Frio is a popular spot for tours to stop. This means it can be jam-packed on the trail. If you prefer peace, you might want to avoid this trail. Or come early and ahead of everyone else because the view is very much worth the short walk!
The area has other challenging routes, such as the Chão das Feiteiras route. Canyoning is also possible in the beautiful area.
- Length: 2.7 kilometres (1.6 miles)
- Time: around 1 hour
- Elevation gain: 112 meters
- Level: Easy
- Route type: Round trip
- Precautions: uneven and muddy sections, slippery surfaces when wet, limited space at the viewpoint, fog and changing weather.
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Practical tips for hiking in Madeira
How to make your hiking reservation in Madeira?
Since January 1st 2026, you’re required to book a reservation and pay in advance before hiking official PR trails in Madeira. You can no longer just show up and start walking.
To make this easy, I’ve created a clear step-by-step guide that walks you through the entire process, from choosing a trail to completing payment online.
The reservation system was introduced after years of overcrowding on popular hikes. We personally saw unsafe situations on narrow trails, blocked paths, and chaotic car parks. In some areas, nature was clearly suffering from the pressure.
The new system helps to:
- Limit the number of hikers on busy trails
- Improve safety on narrow and exposed routes
- Reduce damage to nature and levadas
- Create a more enjoyable hiking experience overall
Some hikes sell out quickly, especially well-known routes and sunrise trails, so it’s best to book a few days in advance if you’re visiting in peak season.
WalkMe Madeira App
WalkMe Madeira is a mobile app designed to help you easily explore the hiking trails in Madeira. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices and can be downloaded from the App Store or Google Play Store. Before you go on any of these hikes, it’s advisable to download it to your phone.
It’s very cheap, and the app will help you find the car parks, track your route, tips, reviews, and much more! This includes an interactive map that provides real-time information about your location, the trail route, and nearby points of interest.
How to choose the right hike in Madeira
There are more than 20 PR trails in Madeira and Porto Santo, but it’s important to do a little research before you put on your hiking shoes. We used the WalkMe Madeira app to filter by “difficulty”. Keep in mind your fitness level, especially for hikes with an elevation gain.
Also allow plenty of time and add some extra time for each hike for unknown circumstances. When you visit Madeira, you will also see several different landscapes. Do you want to hike along the coast, see waterfalls, go high into the mountains or explore the beautiful Laurisilva forest?
Weather and microclimates
Always check the weather before heading out! Even better, have a look at the webcam if there is one! NetMadeira has several webcams on the island, which can be of great help. This way you can prepare with the current weather conditions.
Madeira has microclimates and the weather can always change. We use the IPMA website and app to see the forecast, but it’s always good to dress in layers and bring something for colder temperatures (and dry socks!)
Madeira trail closures
Unfortunately, sometimes trails are closed. This can be due to bad weather, but also for safety. It’s always wise to check the trails upfront to see if they are open. You can check this on the official IFCN website, as they always have the latest information. If conditions change or a trail is closed, turn back. Ignoring closures puts pressure on rescue services.
Travel insurance
Hiking is great, until something happens! And unfortunately, things do happen on the trails. As search and rescue is expensive, and hospital visits can add up, we always take out travel insurance. For the last four years we’ve been with HeyMondo, and our readers get 5% discount on any policy!
What to pack for your Madeira hikes
We were usually en route the whole day and brought:
- Plenty of water in a reusable water bottle
- Snacks and sandwiches
- Tissues and wet wipes
- A plastic bag to collect trash
- A headlamp or torch (we preferred a headlamp to keep our hands free)
- Phone and power banks
- Microfiber towel
- Dry socks and shoes
- Layers: short sleeve shirts, long sleeve, shorts and leggings/long pants
- Hiking boots
- Sunglasses and hats
- Sunscreen
- A rain jacket
- Small first aid kit. Blister plasters are the big one here!
Some optional items are walking sticks, offline maps (we used the WalkMe Madeira app), scarf and or gloves, depending on the temperatures. Some hikes also give you an opportunity to swim!
Madeira trail etiquette
There are new rules in place in Madeira to make a reservation and pay, and it’s not a surprise this came to play. We saw countless people trespassing, blocked trails, they didn’t stay on the paths, didn’t let people pass on narrow paths etc. Please don’t be that person! And yes, we saw all the examples below.
The number of faeces we saw, including toilet paper, was disgusting! Please respect the levadas, and take your rubbish home! There are not often trash bins, and nature is being destroyed in many places on the island. Remember to bring a bag!
Also, check if you’re allowed to fly drones if you intend to do this! Oh, and don’t hang in the trees, carve your name in plants, pick fruits from people’s properties, never enter private property, keep noise levels low, etc.
Madeira’s levadas and trails are fragile. Following basic trail etiquette helps keep them open, safe, and beautiful for everyone.
Reach the Madeira trails without a car
Madeira is a paradise for hikers, and with its extensive network of levadas and veredas, there are plenty of options for hiking without a car. While having a vehicle can provide more flexibility regarding trail access, it’s not essential for exploring the island’s hiking trails.
The island has four different bus services: SAM, EACL, Horários do Funchal and Rodoeste. SAM is driving primarily on the eastern part of the island. EACL runs services between Funchal en Caniço. Horários do Funchal covers Funchal and surrounding areas. Rodoeste covers a lot of areas in western Madeira.
As you can see, most trails can be reached by bus, but a car is needed for some. You can also opt to take a bus and then a taxi to the start of the hiking trail.
Hiring a car in Madeira
If, like us, you like to travel off the beaten path, a car is recommended, and most travellers decide to rent a car during their time on the island. Especially when hiking, it might also be nice to stay in a cabin in the middle of nature. With a car, your adventures in Madeira will be super easy.
Thankfully, DiscoverCars made it even easier. On their website, you can easily filter by price, model, automatic and car rental company. Check the prices below if you’ve decided a vehicle will be most convenient. If you’re unsure how renting a car in Portugal works, check this article for helpful information.
Guided hiking tours in Madeira
If you’re new to hiking or prefer to have a guide, several tour operators in Madeira offer guided hiking tours. These tours include transportation to and from the trailhead and a knowledgeable guide who can provide information about the area’s flora, fauna, and history.
They often depart in Funchal so that you can see the best of both worlds! Guided tours can be a good option for those who want to learn more about the island and its hiking trails. They also often already arrange the trail reservations for you!
Many tours already book the trail reservation for you, so that’s less stuff to worry about.
Where to stay in Madeira on a hiking holiday
Madeira is a beautiful island with plenty of accommodation options to choose from. If you plan to go hiking in Madeira, we recommend staying in a convenient location to reach the trail heads.
Funchal is the capital city of Madeira and the most popular tourist destination on the island. It’s an excellent base for hiking if you like taking tours over the island. You won’t need to rent a car as transport is usually included.
If you like to stay in nature, you can book anywhere else on the island. Santana is very close to some Madeira hikes I’ve done, and we loved our stay there. Pico Ruivo, Parque Florestal das Queimadas and Levada dos Balcões are all at your doorstep!
Machico is very close to Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço. Here you’ll also find Praia de Machico, one of the few sandy beaches on the island.
Estreito da Calheta is the perfect base for hikes on the island’s Southside. There are some stunning places to rent, such as the beautiful Calheta Glamping Pods and the cottages of Banda Do Sol. There is something suitable for every budget, and you can see all places by clicking on the map below.
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FAQ
How difficult are the hikes in Madeira?
Madeira has flat and easy levada walks, but also challenging mountain trails. Many routes are suitable for beginners, while others, like high-altitude hikes, require good fitness and proper hiking boots. Always check distance, elevation, and the weather before choosing a trail.
What are the best months to hike in Madeira?
You can hike all year-round, but in winter, it can rain more and there is a chance of strong winds in the mountains. The best months for hiking in Madeira are April to June and September to October. In spring, you can also spot many wildflowers and the mild temperatures are perfect. During the autumn, you can still expect warm weather, but without the peak summer crowds.
What is hiking in Madeira like?
We loved it, and there is so much variety! One moment you walk along historic levadas and laurel forests, and the next you see exposed ridges, and volcanic peaks. One hike can include tunnels, waterfalls, cliffs, and ocean views, often with changing weather along the way.
What is the most beautiful walk in Madeira?
This, of course, depends on your preferences, but we loved the Pico Ruivo trail! We were there for sunset, and the dramatic mountain views are something we won’t easily forget.
How to decide which hike to pick?
Choose your hike based on fitness level, time available, weather conditions, and what scenery you prefer. For a relaxed experience, pick an easy levada walk. For panoramic views and a challenge, choose a mountain trail. Always check trail status and access rules before setting off.
Are you ready to discover the best walks in Madeira?
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just starting, Madeira offers a range of hiking experiences to suit all ability levels. With well over 400 trails to choose from, it really is a hiker’s paradise. PR1 and PR6 are some of Madeira’s most famous hiking trails! But there are also many hidden gems on the island where you barely see any people.
The WalkMe Madeira App will be of great use during your walks in Madeira! With the proper preparation and precautions, hiking in Madeira can be a truly unforgettable experience. We can’t wait to return, and discover more trails on the Portuguese island!
Other things to do in Madeira, Portugal:
- 30 best things to do in Madeira Island Portugal
- 30 Amazing things to do in Funchal Portugal
- Discover the beautiful Monte Palace Madeira gardens
- Ride the toboggan in Madeira, one of the coolest commutes in the world
- Visit Santana in Madeira and discover beautiful Santana Madeira houses
- How to make Madeira trail reservations (step-by-step guide)
- Beautiful Vereda do Pico Ruivo hike to Madeira’s highest peak
- Enjoy beautiful views at PR11 Levada dos Balcões in Madeira
- Beautiful PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde: A Madeira must-do
- The stunning PR6 Levada Das 25 Fontes and Risco Waterfall
- Beautiful Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço Hike in Madeira
- Discover Walks Madeira – hike some fabulous trails
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