- Walk through the botanical paradise of Madeira
- Stroll alongside flower-lined levadas with stunning coastal views
- Discover spectacular mountain scenery, including Pico Ruivo, the highest peak on the island
- Visit Unesco sites include the ancient Fanal Forest
- Enjoy a mild year-round climate, perfect for walking
Walking the Island of Madeira
8 Days
from
8 Days
from
Walking & Trekking
Itinerary
Machico Funchal
Start Machico
We start at our hotel in Machico, which overlooks the beach of Machico Bay. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, in which we can discuss the adventures to come and you can ask any questions you may have.
Fly to Funchal; transfer to Machico
Fly to Funchal and transfer (approximately 15 minutes) to our hotel in Machico, which overlooks the beach of Machico Bay. Overnight in Machico.
Walk to the easternmost point of the island, Ponta de São Lourenço, a rocky peninsula with ocean views for miles
Today we walk the classic route along the Ponta de São Lourenço. Although challenging in parts, this path takes us through fantastic scenery as we admire wallflowers, stalwarts and many other tiny plants that resist the windy environment and grow in soils with high salinity levels. Rocks, sculptured by nature, have a great diversity of colours ranging from black to red, and are in stark contrast to the blue of the ocean. Park rangers watch over the plants and animals that belong to this eastern extremity of the island, around Casa do Sardinha. We return to our hotel in Machico in the afternoon, and there is free time to explore the village or relax at the beach.
Spectacular walk along the north coast path to the village of Porto da Cruz
This morning, we take the public bus and walk a scenic route along a cliff trail on the north coast. We set off along the little Levada do Caniçal, more modest and quieter than yesterday’s path, then begin a gradual climb to the crest of the cliffs at Boca do Risco, where we enjoy amazing views along the north coast. We then head west along the coastal path: a spectacular route, in many places cut right into the cliff. We finally descend to Porto da Cruz, once a bustling port but now a sleepy, picturesque village. Time permitting (and if open), we have a short look around a factory that has been producing Madeira rum for several centuries. Later, we transfer to Santana for the night.
Transfer to Queimadas; walk along Levada do Caldeirão Verde to the remote village of Ilha
After a quick stop to admire the thatched-roof houses of Santana, we take a short transfer inland to Queimadas Natural Park, where we walk along the Levada do Caldeirão Verde. This route has many waterfalls and we may need to pass under some to continue the path. We use our torches/flashlights to walk through tunnels carved into the mountains. We finish the walk with a descent into the village of Ilha before a transfer to the coastal town of Porto Moniz in the west of the island.
Vereda do Fanal, the ancient forest of Madeira
Our walk today starts on the Paul da Serra plateau and ends at the Unesco World Natural Heritage site of Fanal Forest. We walk via open landscapes with fabulous views over the Ribeira da Janela and Chão da Ribeira valleys, and through the largest surviving area of laurisilva forest on the planet (believed to be 90 percent primary forest).
We end the hike at the fairytale Fanal Forest, a small volcanic crater filled with twisted trees and often shrouded in mist. Many of the ocotea foetens trees here predate the founding of Madeira in 1419, and we take time to absorb the unique energy of the forest before returning to Porto Moniz.
Morning transfer to Funchal; free day to explore the city or join an optional whale-watching excursion
After a morning transfer (approximately one hour) via the mountainous interior, today is free for you to explore Funchal, the island capital and our base for the final two nights of the trip. The city is easily explored on foot and sites of interest include Sé Cathedral, built between 1493 and 1514, and the imposing statue of Madeira founder, João Gonçalves Zarco, on Avenida Arriaga.
Alternatively, take the cable car to Monte Palace and Tropical Gardens to enjoy fascinating installations and magnificent views over the city, learn about the production of Madeira’s ever-popular wine at Blandy’s Wine Lodge, or join a whale-watching tour to spot some of the 28 whale and dolphin species that grace Madeira’s waters throughout the year.
Early departure for Pico Arieiro; continue the path to Pico Ruivo
Today we embark on the most strenuous walk of the trip. We depart early to reach the third highest mountain on the island, Pico Arieiro (5,965ft/1,818m), in time for sunrise, then continue to Pico Ruivo (6,109ft/1,862m), the highest peak, for more fantastic views. We finish by taking the 1.9mi (3km) path to Achado do Teixeira. The path has lots of ascents and descents along the way, but the memorable scenery is ample reward. At the end of the walk, we transfer back to Funchal.
Please note: On occasion, the route to Pico Ruivo may be closed due to mudslides or inclement weather. Our guide will always try to offer another route up to Pico Ruivo, but if this is not possible, an alternative walk from Ribeiro Frio to Portela will be available. This route traverses native forest and offers wonderful coastal views.
End Funchal
The trip ends in Funchal after breakfast. Hop into your free transfer to the airport. Or, if you’d like a little longer on the island, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
Transfer to Funchal; fly to London
Transfer to the airport (approximately 30 minutes), fly to London.
Essential Info
Weather
The climate in Madeira is like that found around the Mediterranean and is renowned for its year-round mildness; however, there is always the possibility of inclement weather. The island has several micro-climates, so expect temperatures and weather to vary from day to day as we visit different areas of the island, from chilly and foggy in the mountains to warm and dry in Funchal.
From April to June, and October to November, temperatures are pleasant and with some rainfall. From July to September, daytime is a little warmer, typically dry with an average of seven to eight hours of sunshine a day, but the odd shower is still possible. Winter is generally wetter, particularly at high levels with rain falling between periods of fine, settled weather (so waterproofs are essential). Please note, we may be forced to amend the itinerary depending on local weather conditions, which can change quickly.
Weather Charts
Three- and four-star hotels
Throughout the trek, we stay in good quality hotels, some right on the coast with amazing views. Below are the hotels we normally use:
Machico: Hotel Dom Pedro (nights 1 & 2)
The hotel has sweeping views over Machico Bay and offers a range of leisure amenities, including table tennis, a pool table, and an outdoor pool (open in good weather). There is a piano bar with occasional live music and coffee/cake is served throughout the day in the lounge area.
Santana: Hotel O Colmo (night 3)
In the heart of Santana, a traditional village in the north, this hotel has spacious rooms and an indoor pool. It also has a much-loved restaurant, which serves typical Madeiran and Portuguese cuisine (plus international) and attracts a local crowd from Funchal.
Porto Moniz: Hotel Aqua Natura Madeira (nights 4 & 5)
The Hotel Agua Natura has an enviable location with views over the natural swimming pools in town. Hotel amenities include a hot tub and sauna where you can rest your tired limbs, and we dine in the excellent hotel restaurants during our stay.
Funchal: Hotel do Carmo or The Views Baia (nights 6 & 7)
Hotel do Carmo has a quirky 1960s theme, with each room paying homage to a different star from the Swinging Sixties. There’s also a rooftop pool, along with a lovely outdoor terrace on the ground floor. The Views Baia (above) overlooks the picturesque Bay of Funchal and has extensive amenities including the Four Feelings Spa, two swimming pools and a gym.
Trip Experts
Reviews
Add your own reviewSpectacular walking and scenery
Excellent trip. We saw so much of the island.
Most Inspirational Moment
Reaching the top of the highest mountain in Madeira above the clouds and swimming in the natural pools at Porto Moniz.
Thoughts on Group Leader
The group leader was excellent - very enthusiastic about his homeland and very knowledgeable. Very considerate of all members of the group and various abilities. He did tend to repeat himself a little though.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be mindful that there are quite a few very high paths - albeit mostly with handrails - definitely think twice about this trip if you are not great with heights! Some of the walks were quite challenging.
Suggestions
The first meal that was included in Porto Moniz was not very good - the second one in the hotel was much better.
Wonderful walks showing the beauty of Madeira!
What a wonderful way to experience the varied landscape and unique plant life in Madeira! This was my first walking trip, and I was worried that I would get bored after a few days of walking, but what we saw each day was so different from the last! We did have one day of walking in the rain, but I think we got very lucky as the walk we did that day was covered for a lot of the way by trees and we were walking through some tunnels as well. The hotels were comfortable and lovely, but the one in Porto Moniz was beauuuuutiful!
Most Inspirational Moment
Making it to Pico Ruivo! The views from the top were amazing and it was relatively clear when we got there, so Andre was able to point out all of the places that we had gone to while on the trip from the peak of the mountain! It was really cool to see all of the places that we had visited over the week on the last walk :)
Thoughts on Group Leader
Andre is a hilarious guide with a lot of passion for his island! He was vigilant when it came to safety while on the walks - especially the day it was raining as it was super slippery in certain areas of the path. On day 5, the walk was meant to the Fanal Forest - it was what I was looking forward to most on the trip, but due to the wind conditions, we had to switch to a different walk. Andre was quick to set up alternative plans for the group and I the walk we did ended up being one of my favourites from the trip!
Advice for Potential Travellers
Definitely bring hiking boots, those are a must! And the trip notes mention this, but the last hike to Pico Ruivo involves walking on paths with a sheer cliff drop on one or both sides of the path. It can be scary for people who have a fear of heights!
Suggestions
Try the poncha!
Trekking in Madeira
Lovely island, great guide and group. Really nice hotels, lucky with the weather! However, the most interesting walks to the Eastern peninsula and the central mountains were very busy. Also, for me, the overall pace was rather slow and the distances covered could have been greater.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Excellent.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Take 50 cent coins for toilets.
Thank you, Andre!
This was a great trip. Madeira is a stunning island, with an abundance of natural beauty. We were very lucky to have sunny clear weather for the Pico Ruivo, and the views were well worth the at times tricky climb. The food and wine were lovely in Madeira!
Most Inspirational Moment
Taking in the 360 degree view from the Summit of the Pico Ruivo - amazing!
Thoughts on Group Leader
Andre Ponte, our guide, was fantastic fun, a very experienced and knowledgeable trip leader. He showed us his island with enthusiasm and pride, and is very conscious and protective of its environment; he adapted the walks according to the (sometimes very changeable) weather conditions. He knows the nature and plant life on the island very well. A huge thank you again, Andre!
Advice for Potential Travellers
I would very much recommend this trip if you are of moderate fitness, and you don't have bad knees! Pack for varied weather conditions if you are going in March; we were lucky most days, but the wind means that weather changes quite rapidly. Wear shoes with good ankle support if you are susceptible in that area. And take a few 50 cent coins for the public toilets - you need them.
Suggestions
Some of the walks were very busy in March, which I didn't expect; take a good camera, a bit of extra patience, and enjoy those stunning views!
Excellent trip, booking was frustrating.
Andre was an attentive, highly knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide, it was a pleasure to walk with him. The itinerary had been changed before we arrived, and was adjusted during the trip to the weather. It included some stunning scenery, and unfortunately quite a bit of damp weather in the hills. I would say that we got the best of the island for the time of year. Regarding booking, I was a bit awkward in wanting to stay extra nights, which meant booking other flights via Exodus to maintain ATOL. Your process for doing this needs review, as it was unreasonably long winded and error prone. At one point, weeks after my initial calls, I was sent an invoice showing the wrong flights from the wrong airport, for considerably more money than we’d already agreed. I almost gave up at that point. That said, the trip itself was the usual Exodus pleasure, and I’m sure I’ll be joining you again soon.
Most Inspirational Moment
Day 2 along the North East coast was stunning, EXACTLY what we came for.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Like every previous Exodus leader, he was the perfect host. His enthusiasm for the island and its nature shone through.
Advice for Potential Travellers
The most scenic parts of the island are also the dampest, so be prepared for that in winter.
Suggestions
I think most of us will have read the average temperatures and expected warmer weather than we had. As mentioned above, the scenic north coast and mountain tops get a LOT of mist and rain. In my extra days I rented a motorbike and experienced just how much the weather can change from one side of this small island to the other. From sparkling sun, to freezing fog, to rainstorms in a few miles. I think your trip notes should make more of that.
well-organised and relaxing walking trip
This holiday provided straightforward walking in exceptional and sometimes unusual scenery in great company and with an experienced and characterful guide. It was exactly what we were looking for in a short break from the British winter. The accommodation was excellent and the whole trip was well organised, and good value. Everyone involved that we met (eg hotel staff, transfer vehicle drivers etc) were without exception helpful and friendly. We found the holiday relaxing and rewarding.
Most Inspirational Moment
We were part of a group of fourteen, and it was a pleasant surprise to find that all group members were completely co-operative with the leader and arrangements, and that the group gelled perfectly. The friendship, rapport and empathy within our group exceeded our expectation.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our group leader, Andre Pontes, was excellent. He was a great character, and provided much interesting and useful commentary on the walks, covering history, geography, geology, and even extending to some recipe hints. He was very entertaining company, concentrating on our safety and welfare in the walks at high level, and provided much useful information for us to make use of on the rest day. His local knowledge led us to excellent restaurants and cafes for refreshments and meals during the walks and in the evenings. He had a good and expressive use of English.
Advice for Potential Travellers
At this time of year be prepared for a chance of heavy rain at high levels, as well as for more gentle conditions generally. Most shops / cafes etc take bank cards but smaller shops and cafes, particularly in the countryside, may only take cash (Euros). English is widely spoken to a good standard, which we found helpful.
Suggestions
no.
Start
Finish
Availability
Adult Price From
Optional Single Supplement
Saturday Saturday
30 Dec 2023 30 Dec 2023
Saturday Saturday
06 Jan 2024 06 Jan 2024
Availability Sold Out
Adult Price From £ 1,199 £ 1,699
Optional Single Supplement
+£ 375
Available upon Request
New Years Eve - Special dinner & fireworks display
New Years Eve - Special dinner & fireworks display
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
06 Jan 2024 06 Jan 2024
Saturday Saturday
13 Jan 2024 13 Jan 2024
Availability Sold Out
Adult Price From £ 1,349 £ 1,749
Optional Single Supplement +£ 390
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
03 Feb 2024 03 Feb 2024
Saturday Saturday
10 Feb 2024 10 Feb 2024
Availability Guaranteed (On Request)
Adult Price From £ 1,199 £ 1,599
Optional Single Supplement +£ 390
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
10 Feb 2024 10 Feb 2024
Saturday Saturday
17 Feb 2024 17 Feb 2024
Availability On Request
Adult Price From Usually £ 1,199Now £ 1,049Saving £ 150 Usually £ 1,599Now £ 1,449Saving £ 150
Optional Single Supplement +£ 390
Availability
This trip is available on request. Please proceed with your booking online or contact our Sales Team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
24 Feb 2024 24 Feb 2024
Saturday Saturday
02 Mar 2024 02 Mar 2024
Availability Guaranteed (Limited) Only 3 spaces left!
Adult Price From £ 1,199 £ 1,599
Optional Single Supplement +£ 390
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead but there are only 3 spaces left. Do not delay your booking!
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
02 Mar 2024 02 Mar 2024
Saturday Saturday
09 Mar 2024 09 Mar 2024
Availability Guaranteed (On Request) Only 4 spaces left!
Adult Price From £ 1,349 £ 1,749
Optional Single Supplement +£ 390
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
09 Mar 2024 09 Mar 2024
Saturday Saturday
16 Mar 2024 16 Mar 2024
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Adult Price From £ 1,199 £ 1,599
Optional Single Supplement +£ 390
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
16 Mar 2024 16 Mar 2024
Saturday Saturday
23 Mar 2024 23 Mar 2024
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Adult Price From £ 1,199 £ 1,679 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 390
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
30 Mar 2024 30 Mar 2024
Saturday Saturday
06 Apr 2024 06 Apr 2024
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Optional Single Supplement +£ 390
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
13 Apr 2024 13 Apr 2024
Saturday Saturday
20 Apr 2024 20 Apr 2024
Availability Guaranteed (On Request)
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Optional Single Supplement +£ 390
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
04 May 2024 04 May 2024
Saturday Saturday
11 May 2024 11 May 2024
Availability Guaranteed (Available) Only 5 spaces left!
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Optional Single Supplement +£ 390
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View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
11 May 2024 11 May 2024
Saturday Saturday
18 May 2024 18 May 2024
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Optional Single Supplement +£ 390
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
18 May 2024 18 May 2024
Saturday Saturday
25 May 2024 25 May 2024
Availability Guaranteed (On Request)
Adult Price From £ 1,199 £ 1,699 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 390
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
01 Jun 2024 01 Jun 2024
Saturday Saturday
08 Jun 2024 08 Jun 2024
Availability Guaranteed (On Request)
Adult Price From £ 1,199 £ 1,699 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 390
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
15 Jun 2024 15 Jun 2024
Saturday Saturday
22 Jun 2024 22 Jun 2024
Availability Guaranteed (On Request)
Adult Price From £ 1,199 £ 1,699 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 390
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
06 Jul 2024 06 Jul 2024
Saturday Saturday
13 Jul 2024 13 Jul 2024
Availability On Request
Adult Price From £ 1,199 £ 1,699 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 390
Availability
This trip is available on request. Please proceed with your booking online or contact our Sales Team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
31 Aug 2024 31 Aug 2024
Saturday Saturday
07 Sep 2024 07 Sep 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 1,199 £ 1,699 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 390
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
14 Sep 2024 14 Sep 2024
Saturday Saturday
21 Sep 2024 21 Sep 2024
Availability Guaranteed (On Request)
Adult Price From £ 1,199 £ 1,699 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 390
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
21 Sep 2024 21 Sep 2024
Saturday Saturday
28 Sep 2024 28 Sep 2024
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Adult Price From £ 1,199 £ 1,699 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 390
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
05 Oct 2024 05 Oct 2024
Saturday Saturday
12 Oct 2024 12 Oct 2024
Availability On Request
Adult Price From £ 1,199 £ 1,679 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 390
Availability
This trip is available on request. Please proceed with your booking online or contact our Sales Team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
12 Oct 2024 12 Oct 2024
Saturday Saturday
19 Oct 2024 19 Oct 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 1,199 £ 1,679 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 390
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
19 Oct 2024 19 Oct 2024
Saturday Saturday
26 Oct 2024 26 Oct 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 1,199 £ 1,699 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 390
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
02 Nov 2024 02 Nov 2024
Saturday Saturday
09 Nov 2024 09 Nov 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 1,199 £ 1,649 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 390
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Saturday
16 Nov 2024 16 Nov 2024
Saturday Saturday
23 Nov 2024 23 Nov 2024
Availability Available
Adult Price From £ 1,199 £ 1,649 Book with 25% deposit
Optional Single Supplement +£ 390
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesWould you like to include flights with your booking?
- ATOL protected
- Competitive flight prices
- Full refunds in the event of FCDO cancellations or major disruption at your UK departure airport
- Specialist support to rearrange flights and transfers
- Regional flights available from many UK airports
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Walking the Island of Madeira
8 Days
from
8 Days
from