Walking the Island of Madeira was our first hiking tour and it was a delight! The five hikes were wonderfully varied, taking place on different parts of the island. From soaring cliffs, surf pounding jagged rocks, lush green forest and farms, charming towns – this series of walks had it all. We went in late February/early March, knowing the weather could be a bit unpredictable and it was. We got rained on, the “official” trails were closed by the government due to high winds one day, and a freak snowfall made the final hike atop Pico Arieiro impossible. But through it all, our guide Paulo proved unflappable. He rolled with the conditions, adapted, and came up with new routes that continually showcased the charm and beauty of his home island. We loved the exposure to the off-the-beaten-path small towns and local coffee shops and pubs where the locals go. Everything was quite affordable (two pints for $3.90 Euros in one neighbourhood cafe). This was less the case, though, in the capital of Funchal which has some very touristy areas with cruise ships docking. Overall, this was a relaxing, fascinating week on this hidden gem of an island.
Madeira Hiking Tours
Top 5 Highlights of Madeira Tours
Madeira Hiking Trips
Explore Portugal’s largest and most enchanting island, the main island of Madeira. With its all-year-round subtropical climate, exotic botanical gardens, black sand beaches and volcanic mountain scenery, Madeira hiking tours are perfect for walkers and hiking enthusiasts alike.
It comes as no surprise that the Maderia Islands have won Europe’s Leading Island Destination 2020 at the World Travel Awards six times in a row. Located in the Atlantic Ocean, 350 miles from Morocco the island of Madeira boasts natural pools carved out of lava rocks, waterfalls and beautiful black sand beaches, there are plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel and windsurf in the island’s warm waters.
On our hiking in Madeira trip discover the island’s spectacular coastal way-marked trails, visit the quaint fishing village of Machino and wander through the old trading centre of Funchal to learn about how their sugar and wine were exported to the Indies and the New World. On this Madeira tour, hike to the top of the island’s highest mountain, Pico Ruivo (1862m), enjoy a beautiful walk through the chestnut and eucalyptus woods from Encumeada and delve into the local history with a visit to the bustling Mercado dos Lavradores, “workers market” for a true cultural experience. We recommend trying their wide selection of tropical fruits, like peach-passion fruit, pitangas and Indian figs, or pick up some coloured bonbons that vary from Poncha to Madeira wine flavours.
Another spectacular Madeira tour is our Marvels of Madeira Self-Guided Walk. While on this Madeira tour, you’ll explore the ancient cobbled circular route towards Sao Jorge, go on a gentle hike from the Parque das Queimadas to the Vale de Lapa and enjoy an exhilarating walk through pink belladonna flowers and eucalyptus trees to the lofty sea cliff of Cabo Girao for unforgettable views of the Atlantic.
Our Best Madeira Hiking Tours
Karen Mayne Walking the Island of Madeira
Susanne Maden Walking the Island of MadeiraWe have had this trip on our radar for a few years but had been put off by poor reviews of both the leader & some of the hotels but we decided to take the plunge & finally book it & we were so glad that we did!
We were blessed with having a great group who bonded well together & having Paulo as our leader which made for a fantastic holiday!
The walks were all different, from rugged coastal walks to Levadas & magical forests which gave us a true taste of Madeira. Paulo took us to local villages to experience the culture & learn about the history of the island.
The hotels were all different in style;- The Dom Pedro is very dated & despite paying for an upgrade, our room was not very nice! The Pestana Casino Studios we liked for their quirky decoration & big rooms although others in our group found them too noisy! For us, the Aqua Natura Hotel was amazing from the fantastic oceon views, the natural salt water pools & lovely food!
We felt that the whole holiday was well planned, taken at a relaxed place & tailored to everybodies needs; the trip exceeded our expectations!
Leslie Byrnes Walking the Island of MadeiraWhat an excellent trip! The hikes varied in terrain and vistas, from coastal walks to levadas to mystical forests to mountain tops, but all were spectacular and each day was as good as or better than the one before. Paulo was a wonderful guide, knowledgeable about the island, its history, culture, flora and fauna. We were fortunate to have very good weather, and even more fortunate to have a group that gelled beautifully. Not only did everyone get along well, but everyone was fit and hiked at a similar pace. (We understand from other reviews that that’s not always the case.) First hotel in Machico was pretty dated, but good location and breakfast. The hotel at Porto Moniz was the best of the trip, modern, well-equipped, great food – and right across the road from volcanic pools. Very scenic. The hotel in Funchal was fine and in a great location.
Planning your trip to Madeira?
Our experts have provided advice and tips to answer the most common questions about small-group guided adventures in Madeira. Get in touch if you need any more information.
Home to lush levadas, ancient forests and the iconic Pico do Arieiro, Madeira is an incredible destination for adventure seekers who like to enjoy life at a slower pace. If you’ve been dreaming of exploring this incredible island but you’re new to hiking holidays, we have the perfect Madeira tour for beginners. Led by an experienced guide, our Madeira Discovery tour takes you on an unforgettable journey through some of Portugal’s most beautiful scenery. Assigned an activity level of easy and moderate, this trip promises breathtaking views and cultural immersion. Discover the verdant forests on levada walks, sample local delicacies and unwind on the exotic beaches of Porto Santo.
Discover a botanical paradise filled with unparalleled natural beauty on Madeira hiking tours. This unique and diverse island boasts a subtropical climate, making it an all-season destination for hiking. If you prefer to avoid the summer crowds while still enjoying the lush, flower-lined landscapes, the best time of year to visit Madeira is during the shoulder months. From April to June and September to November, you can enjoy balmy temperatures and cool breezes, allowing you to explore comfortably.
Imagine standing at the edge of an ancient levada, the emerald wilderness of Madeira stretching endlessly before you. At Exodus Adventure Travels, we have several Madeira tours that steer you through the island’s famous levadas. These incredible channels transport water from the mountains to lush valleys, as they wind between a subtropical world of lush forests, cascading waterfalls and panoramic ocean views. Running alongside the levadas, a series of hiking trails bring you closer to the rich flora and fauna, traditional villages and local culture. From the Levada do Caldeirão Verde to the Levada do Caniçal, you’ll gain a unique perspective on Madeira’s diverse landscape.
Are you a solo traveler with a thirst for adventure but you feel unsure about going it alone? Then our guided group Madeira hiking tours are the perfect solution. Our guided trips are ideal for solo travelers looking to connect with nature and like-minded explorers. Picture yourself walking along dramatic coastal cliffs and immersing yourself in the island’s untamed beauty while making new friends who share your sense of adventure. With our experienced guides ensuring your safety and enriching your experience, you’ll wonder why you didn’t take the leap to travel solo sooner.
Packing for your hiking tour in Madeira is just the beginning of your adventure. To make the most of your trip, it’s important to pack for both comfort and safety. Some of the essentials you’re going to need include:
- Strong, well-fitted, waterproof hiking boots that will give you support on the rugged trails
- Moisture-wicking clothing
- Lightweight, waterproof jacket and pants for unpredictable showers
- A durable daypack to carry snacks, water, first-aid kit and layers
- Merino wool socks
- Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
- Lastly, don’t forget your camera to capture every special moment of your trip!
For more information on your tour and what to pack, take a look at the Essential Info section on the individual tour pages of our website.
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