Portugal
• Guided hiking journey
The Wild Paths of Madeira
Explore levada trails, green valleys, and coastal viewpoints on an island made for walking.
4 Days / 3 Nights
Moderate
Max 12 guests
From
$1,190
per person
Destination
Portugal
Duration
4 Days / 3 Nights
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
Approx. 42 km
Group Size
Max 12 guests
Best Season
March – October
Start / End
Funchal / Funchal
A closer look at
Portugal
Madeira is a walker’s island, threaded with centuries-old levadas: narrow irrigation channels that carry water from the mountains to the farms below. This short journey follows the best of them through the UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forest, past waterfalls and along terraced valleys. We also climb above the clouds on the island’s highest peaks and finish on the wind-sculpted cliffs of its eastern tip. You stay in a characterful hotel in Funchal throughout, so there is no daily packing. Evenings are free to explore the old town, its markets and its famous wine lodges.
Journey highlights
01
The 25 Fontes waterfalls
02
Ancient Laurisilva forest
03
Pico do Arieiro above the clouds
04
Ponta de São Lourenço sea cliffs
Day by day
Day-by-day itinerary
The pace and distance of each day are adapted to the group and conditions on the trail.
Day 01 · Arrival in Funchal
Meet your guide in Funchal for a welcome briefing, then take a gentle walk through the old town and harbour.
Day 02 · Rabaçal & 25 Fontes
Follow two classic levadas into a green valley to the 25 Fontes cascades and the Risco waterfall.
Day 03 · Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo
Hike the island’s spectacular high mountain trail, with tunnels, stone stairways and views above the clouds.
Day 04 · Ponta de São Lourenço
A final coastal walk across the island’s dramatic eastern peninsula before returning to Funchal for departures.
What’s included
Professional English-speaking hiking guide
Accommodation as specified in the trip plan
Meals listed in the itinerary
Local transfers listed in the itinerary
Route planning and pre-trip support
Any permits explicitly listed on this page
What’s not included
Flights to and from the destination
Travel insurance
Personal hiking clothing and equipment
Meals not specified as included
Personal expenses and tips
Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
Who this hike is for
Suitable for travellers with some hiking experience who are comfortable walking 4 to 6 hours a day. Some levada paths are narrow with drops, so a head for heights helps.
Please contact us before booking if you have questions about accessibility or the route.
Packing notes
Broken-in hiking shoes or boots appropriate to the terrain
Weather-appropriate layers and waterproof outerwear
Daypack, refillable water bottle, and sun protection
Personal medication and essential items
Any additional gear listed in the pre-trip information
Dates & availability
Choose your departure
Select a preferred date or contact our team about a private departure. We’ll confirm availability, group size, and everything you need before you book.
Questions
Before you go
How fit do I need to be?
Review the difficulty rating and daily walking details above. If you are unsure, contact our team with your recent hiking experience and we can help you assess whether the route is suitable.
Is equipment provided?
Personal clothing and footwear are not included. Any technical equipment supplied by TREKVENTA or a local partner will be listed in the trip inclusions.
Can the itinerary change?
Yes. Weather, trail conditions, local restrictions, and other factors may require changes. Your guide will make reasonable adjustments with the group’s safety in mind.
Can I request a private departure?
Yes, subject to guide and supplier availability. Use the enquiry form and tell us your preferred dates and group size.
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