Hike the lush Levada trails of Madeira
Follow narrow stone channels cut into vertical basalt precipices, walking through emerald UNESCO laurel forests, mossy waterfall gorges and mountain tunnels.
At a glance
April to October (drier trails, lush blossoms and active waterfalls)
Early morning to secure parking and walk before groups arrive
4 to 5 hours (12 km return on PR9 Caldeirão Verde)
Mountain trail & gorge walk · Self-guided or guided
Moderate
Advance booking recommended
Why hike Madeira's levadas?
Starting in the 16th century, Portuguese engineers and stonemasons carved more than 3,000 kilometres of narrow stone irrigation channels (levadas) into Madeira's vertical mountains to distribute rainwater from the wet northern slopes to southern farmland.
The maintenance ledges alongside these channels form some of the world's most dramatic flat-gradient trails. On the PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde, you traverse rock-hewn tunnels and walk along sheer green chasms filled with ancient laurel and giant ferns before arriving at a breathtaking 100-metre waterfall basin.
What to expect
Queimadas starting point
Begin your walk beside the traditional thatched stone cottages of Queimadas under giant Japanese cedars.
Cliffside ledges and tunnels
Follow the gentle gradient alongside the rushing watercourse, passing through four dark unlit tunnels carved through volcanic rock.
Caldeirão Verde amphitheatre
Reach the colossal vertical cirque where a ribbon of water plunges 100 metres into an emerald green pool.
Plan your experience
When to go
Madeira enjoys year-round spring-like weather. Always check the IFCN trail bulletin and mountain webcams before setting off; avoid canyon walks during torrential rain.
Getting there
Hire a car or take a dedicated hiking transfer shuttle from Funchal. Paid parking is available at Queimadas.
Booking & permits
Non-resident visitors are required to pay a nominal environmental contribution per certified PR trail via the official regional government portal (simplifica.madeira.gov.pt).
What to bring
- Headlamp or flashlight (essential for navigating tunnels)
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
- Sturdy walking boots with deep grip (stones can be slippery)
- Warm layer and trail snacks
Before you go
- Carry a proper headlamp so your hands remain free for balance along narrow paths.
- Mind your head in the unlit tunnels where rock ceilings are low and uneven.
Official information
Always verify permits, seasonal weather conditions and access directly with public authorities:
Official Madeira forestry institute providing real-time trail status updates and safety alerts
Official regional portal for visitor PR trail fee registration and confirmation
Official tourism portal with comprehensive hiking route descriptions and safety advice
Ways to experience it
Walk independently with your own vehicle and headlamp along the well-signposted PR9 trail.
Join an authorized local mountain guide who provides transport and botanical interpretation.