Current as of: April 25, 2024 - 14:42
Walking the Island of Madeira Trip Notes
- Ways to Travel: Guided Group, Private Group Adventures
- Destination: Portugal
- Programmes: Walking & Trekking
-
Activity Level:
3 out of 7 - Moderate
- 8 Days: Land Only
- Ages: 18+
- Trip Code: TSD2
- Carbon Footprint: 14kg CO2e
Trip Overview
Explore verdant landscapes on one of the most scenic islands in Portugal
Discover the wild and varied scenery of Madeira, from gentle strolls along flower-lined levadas (centuries-old waterways) and spectacular coastal footpaths, to more demanding forays among the jagged ridges and peaks of the volcanic interior. Relax by the sea in the village of Machico, see waves crashing close to shore in Porto Moniz and discover the historic importance of Funchal, an old trade centre famous for exporting sugar and wine to the Indies and New World.
At a Glance
- Seven nights in three- and four-star hotels
- Five days walking; one free day
- Group normally 5 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 18
- Altitude maximum: 6,109ft (1,862m); average: 2,460ft (750m)
- Not suitable for vertigo sufferers
- Transport by private minivan and public bus
- We may need to amend the itinerary depending on local weather conditions, which can change quickly
Highlights
- 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
Is This Trip for You?
This trip is rated Activity Level 3 (Moderate). For more on our trip gradings, visit our Activity Level Guidelines page.
This trip consists of five daywalks and one free day. The walks are fairly easy, medium-duration walks, or more challenging, shorter walks. Reasonable fitness is required. The paths we use are generally flat and well maintained but some routes cross rougher terrain with longer ascents and descents, and some trails involve walking up or down steps. Some of the paths are quite narrow and stony underfoot and require walking in single file.
On several occasions, where the path narrows and has a steep drop to one side, walkers need a head for heights. Handrails sometimes protect these sections, but these are not in place in all parts; therefore, we do not recommend this holiday for vertigo sufferers. A few of the levada paths enter short tunnels through the rock but these are easily navigated with the aid of a torch/flashlight.
Adult min age: 18
Min group size: 5
Max group size: 16
Itinerary
Land Only
- Start City: Machico
- End City: Funchal
Land Only Itinerary
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.
Please note: It is possible the order of the itinerary listed above will be changed to ensure the best possible conditions for each activity during the trip. All listed activities and services will be included. Your leader will inform you of any changes locally after assessing conditions.
Accommodation
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 Bay (nights 4 & 5)
The Hotel Agua Natura Bay 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, Terrace Mar Suite Hotel or Pestana Casino Suites (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 Terrace Mar Suite Hotel (pictured above) is a 43 all suite property with a heated rooftop pool and jacuzzi. The Pestana Casino Suites is a 5 minute walk to the centre of Funchal with an outdoor pool and access to the indoor and spa facilities of the neighbouring Pestana Casino Park Resort.
Single supplement from USD 645
Food & Drink
Breakfast: All breakfasts are included and usually consist of coffee/tea, fruit juice, rolls or bread, butter and jam, cereal, ham and cheese.
Lunch (not included): The ingredients for lunch are usually bought at a nearby shop or supermarket each morning before taking the transfer/public bus to the start point of the walk. Premade sandwiches and snacks are available, or you may prefer to purchase bread rolls and freshly cut cheese/meat to create your own lunch.
Dinner: Two dinners are included while in Porto Moniz. For dinners not included, we aim to eat in a different restaurant each night. Scabbard fish is a local delicacy, along with espetadas (beef skewers). Typical Madeiran cuisine incorporates a lot of meat and fish with rather plainly cooked vegetables and boiled potatoes. There will generally be at least one vegetarian option on the menu, but vegetarians should be prepared to request an alternative dish if required.
Transport
Transport from and to the airport is by taxi or minibus and is included. Other transport mentioned in the itinerary as an integral part of the guided walks is also included, as is the transfer of luggage between hotels.
On three days during the itinerary, we use public buses to move around Madeira. This helps to keep our environmental impact low and allows you to contribute directly to the local economy. The buses are single-decker coaches in appearance and tickets are included.
Transport on optional excursions, or where you have voluntarily curtailed a group walk, is not included.
Weather & Seasonality
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
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Hotel Dom Pedro, Caminho de São Roque, 9200-126 Machico
Phone: +351 291 969 505
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Funchal Airport (FNC)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 15 minutes’ drive from the airport. Exodus provides free arrival transfers to the start hotel from the airport for all customers.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
Exodus provides free departure transfers for all customers to Funchal Airport (FNC) from the end hotel.
Please note, unless specified otherwise, the transfers will be to the start (or pre-tour) hotel and from the end (or post-tour) hotel and will be on the date on which the tour starts/ends; transfers to other hotels in the same city and/or on different dates may attract an extra charge. Transfers should be booked with your sales representative at least two weeks before the tour starts.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Machico
Location end: Funchal
What To Take
Essential Equipment
- Good quality wind/waterproofs (jackets and trousers/pants)
- Lightweight walking boots (waterproof with good ankle support)
- Warm jacket or sweater
- Woolly hat and gloves
- Water bottle
- Sunhat
- Sunscreen
- Swimwear and towel
- Torch (flashlight) for tunnels
- Daypack (approximately 25 litres should suffice)
Optional Equipment
- Trekking poles
Please note, bathroom facilities on many of the hikes are extremely limited until we reach the end of the hike. Please ensure you plan accordingly.
Practical Information
Passport
Remember to check the expiration date of your passport if travelling internationally. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months after the date of your scheduled return.
Visa
Portugal
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Portugal. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/portugal
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/portugal
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/portugal/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Portugal.html
Vaccinations and Health
Portugal
There are no required vaccinations. However, you may want to consider vaccinations for tetanus and rabies. Please confirm with your doctor or travel clinic.
Dengue fever and/or Chikungunya are known risks in places visited on this trip. Both are tropical viral diseases spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available for either, and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
If you’re a UK citizen, please note that your UK-issued European Health Insurance Cards (EHIC) are still valid and offer the same cover as the Global Health Insurance Cards (GHIC) in the EU. This gives you medical care at a reduced cost, and in some cases for free, in many European countries, but should not be considered a substitute for adequate insurance. Once your EHIC has expired, replace it with a GHIC.
Local Time
Portugal's time zone: Europe/Lisbon (UTC +01:00)
Electricity
Portugal's electricity: Plug types C (two round pins, European standard) and F (two round pins) – 230V, 50Hz
Money
Portugal's currency: Euros (EUR)
ATM Availability
Cash machines are available in Funchal and other towns.
Extra Expenses & Spending Money
Allow €5-€10 for lunch, purchased in the supermarket each morning and eaten at a scenic spot during the walk. Allow €15-€20 for dinner (taken in restaurants), excluding alcoholic beverages. A reasonable bottle of wine in a restaurant will cost about €15. You will also need some extra cash for drinks or ice creams in cafes or bars during the daywalks or in the hotel bar in the evening. Typically, a beer or coffee will cost around €1.50.
Tipping
Our local staff are paid well and fairly for their work with Exodus. Most of our clients wish to tip their guides in appreciation of their help and friendliness. This is, of course, not compulsory and depends on the service received. For this trip, we recommend a starting point of €20 per person for the leader.
People, Places & Planet
We work hard to create trips that improve life for the people and places we visit, and look after the planet we explore. Find out more about our sustainable travel ethos and practice here, and find out about the work of the Exodus Travels Foundation here.
Some sustainable travel highlights of this trip include:
People: How this trip helps improve life for local communities.
- We always use an experienced local guide, bringing income and employment directly to those individuals, and giving our customers the opportunity to speak with knowledgeable local people.
- Income and opportunity is provided to locally owned hotels and restaurants in the destination communities. An emphasis is placed on eating locally produced food and supporting local enterprise.
- All the hotels we stay in hire local staff, which benefits the community by providing employment opportunities and income where they may otherwise be hard to find, particularly in more rural areas such as Santana.
- Several stops at villages and towns on our route are quite rural and the locals there depend heavily on tourism as a means of income, therefore our visit greatly benefits them.
Places: How this trip helps protect and conserve local landscapes and nature.
- Read about our commitment to nature protection and restoration here, including our rewilding commitment for every customer who travels.
- By travelling in a small group, led by a local guide, we ‘tread lightly’ to minimise our impact on local resources and the environment.
- Walking trips like this have very little detrimental impact on the environment and the locals, as it is a quiet, low impact activity requiring comparatively few resources to support.
- We work with our partners on the ground to proactively eliminate or reduce waste. On this trip, we recommend drinking tap water, which is safe to drink, thus eliminating the need for plastic water bottles.
Planet: How we seek to keep the carbon footprint of this trip low.
- Read about our climate action here, including our carbon reduction and compensation commitments.
- We use the public bus rather than private transfers on three days during the itinerary, which removes the need for private vehicles and keeps our carbon footprint low.
- Accommodation and restaurants in the itinerary use locally sourced food which has not been transported long distances.
- Vegetarian and vegan options are available at most of the accommodations and restaurants.
- This trip favours locally owned and run accommodation.
Tips for sustainable travel on this trip
- Leave no trace: We do all we can to ensure we leave no rubbish behind in the wild and beautiful places we visit; we ask that you do the same.
- Plastic waste reduction: Please bring your own reusable water bottle on this trip; tap water is safe to drink.
Important Information
Water safety
This trip includes time by a lake, river or sea, where there may be opportunities to swim. You should always seek local advice before deciding whether to swim. Open-water or wild swim spots should be treated with extreme caution. Information on how to keep yourself safe while swimming is shown here.
Important Information
Your safe participation
When booking this trip, you should be confident in your ability to participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you have any doubt about your suitability, please call the Exodus office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone’s ability to safely take part in an activity, or their impact on other people’s enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that activity.
By booking this trip you agree to our Booking Conditions which clearly state that our leaders have the authority to do this. In these rare instances we will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional costs incurred.
How to Book
- Check availability: Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
- Secure your place: You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for between three and seven days.
- Complete your booking and payment
When you’re ready to book, go to our website for online bookings, book over the phone or you can complete a booking form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque.
After booking
You will receive your booking confirmation letter and invoice, which includes extra information and guidance about your travel arrangements.
Full joining instructions, including local emergency numbers and details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you approximately two to three weeks prior to departure. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure, or require them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Trip Note validity
These Trip Notes are valid from the “Current as” date on page one. They will occasionally be updated after booking and before departure; if there are any updates that significantly impact the inclusions or itinerary, customers will be written to separately. They will also receive a link to the most up-to-date Trip Notes with their Final Joining Instructions before travelling.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where necessary. Occasionally, it may not be possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a variety of reasons – climatic, political, physical or other. In these circumstances we will make the best-possible alternative arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
Licensing
Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number 2582, issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators (FTO) and ABTA – The Travel Association. This means you can book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all money paid to us for your trip is fully protected.