Madeira Walking Tour
Overview
The Portuguese island of Madeira, voted the world's best island in 2018, is a nature lover’s paradise best discovered on foot. The 8-day self-guided Madeira Walking Tour will introduce you to some of the island's most remarkable landscapes, allowing you to soak up every moment as you enjoy exciting daily walks at your own pace.
The island is known for its vibrant culture, incredible hiking opportunities, and world-class cuisine. As the tour unravels across magical landscapes, you'll traverse among levadas, staggering coastal cliffs, and fascinating ruins. The tour's final leg has you navigating the ancient trails of the island's Caminho Real, a network of ancient footpaths that circle the entire island, spanning 182km.
Visits and overnight stays to authentic villages on the island will ensure that you get not only a true sense of the land but also its warm and hospitable inhabitants. With the towns of Machico and Santana as your overnight bases, you'll enjoy exhilarating day walks paired with splendid evenings spent unwinding over Madeira's mouthwatering cuisine and local wines.
There's no better way to experience the island of Madeira than this fantastic walking tour!
Madeira Walking Tour Overview
The Portuguese island of Madeira, voted the world's best island in 2018, is a nature lover’s paradise best discovered on foot. The 8-day self-guided Madeira Walking Tour will introduce you to some of the island's most remarkable landscapes, allowing you to soak up every moment as you enjoy exciting daily walks at your own pace.
The island is known for its vibrant culture, incredible hiking opportunities, and world-class cuisine. As the tour unravels across magical landscapes, you'll traverse among levadas, staggering coastal cliffs, and fascinating ruins. The tour's final leg has you navigating the ancient trails of the island's Caminho Real, a network of ancient footpaths that circle the entire island, spanning 182km.
Visits and overnight stays to authentic villages on the island will ensure that you get not only a true sense of the land but also its warm and hospitable inhabitants. With the towns of Machico and Santana as your overnight bases, you'll enjoy exhilarating day walks paired with splendid evenings spent unwinding over Madeira's mouthwatering cuisine and local wines.
There's no better way to experience the island of Madeira than this fantastic walking tour!
Explore the majestic island of Madeira, voted the best island in the world in 2018.
Enjoy sensational views at locations like the Boca do Risco vista point on the island’s dramatic northern coast.
Navigate the island’s UNESCO World Heritage lush laurel forests, and the snaking levadas that span 1400km.
Enjoy charming accommodations as you immerse yourself in Portuguese island life, savouring exquisite food and wine.
Trip map for Madeira Walking Tour
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Itinerary for Madeira Walking Tour
Arrival
Arrive at Funchal Airport (FNC) where a private transfer will pick you up and take you to your accommodations in Machico.
Unwind by the hotel’s swimming pool, or get some warm-up steps in on the beach in preparation for your first day of walking the island tomorrow.
Explore Madeira’s Famous Levadas
The island of Maderia is home to over 1400km of snaking narrow water channels known as levadas.
A short transfer this morning will take you to Maroços, where you’ll explore your first levada, following its winding paths back to Machico on a scenic adventure. You’ll enjoy spectacular views of the bay and the city below during this walk.
Scenic Circuit Walk in Ponta de São Lourenço
The São Lourenço is a well-known natural landmark on the island and a must-see highlight! Its volcanic origins make it the direst point on the island, and you’ll marvel at the contrast in landscape between this area of protected natural reserve and other more lush areas on the island that you’ll soon discover.
Return to your accommodations in Machico this afternoon by public bus or by taxi.
Levada do Caniçal and the Boca do Risco Vista Point
Today’s route is packed with challenging stretches met with ample reward!
A taxi transfer will take you to the start point between Machico and Caniçal, and from here you’ll follow the Levada do Caniçal, warming up for the upcoming steep ascent to the Boca do Risco vista point. Enjoy a picnic here surrounded by mesmerizing views before continuing along the Vereda de Larano, a beautiful path carved into the cliffs.
Finally, arriving in Porto da Cruz, a taxi transfer will take you to your next accommodations in Santana.
Levada do Furado and Madeira Laurel Forests
A taxi transfer will take you to your start point in Ribeiro Frio this morning, where you’ll begin today’s route tracing the Levada do Furado.
A fairytale woodland surrounds you as you make your way through Madeira’s UNESCO World Heritage laurel forest. The route has you gradually gaining altitude, winning you increasingly majestic views of the coast and the island canyons and hills.
You’ll reach Portela, where you’ll continue on a cobbled path to Porto da Cruz. From here, a taxi transfer will take you back to Santana.
Levada do Caldeirão Verde and the Village of Ilha
A taxi transfer will take you to your start point at the Parque Florestal das Queimadas, where you’ll be invited into a typical Madeiran house bar for a refreshment.
Following the Levada do Caldeirão Verde, you’ll encounter a beautiful waterfall before retracing your steps and enjoying a scenic detour to the picturesque village of Ilha. From Ilha, a taxi will pick you up and return to Santana.
Be aware, It’s important to bring a headlamp and waterproof wear on today’s walk!
Walk the Caminho Real
Your final day of walking will introduce you to the ancient footpaths of the Caminho Real, a network of paths spanning 182km across the entire island, linking major harbours and villages.
You’ll begin your route in Santana, making your way through fascinating ruins and villages until you reach the end of the route, where a taxi will take you back to Santana.
Departure
Following breakfast this morning, check out of your accommodations. A private transfer will take you to the airport to depart.
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Dates and prices for Madeira Walking Tour
Solo Traveller
Single Room (2+)
Double/Twin Room
Triple Room
2 Double/Twin Rooms
| Solo Traveller | Single Room (2+) | Double/Twin Room | Triple Room | 2 Double/Twin Rooms | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 1, 2024 to Dec 22, 2024 | $1,775USD | $1,575USD | $995USD | $875USD | $895USD |
| Dec 23, 2024 to Jan 2, 2025 | $2,075USD | $1,825USD | $1,150USD | $995USD | $1,050USD |
| Jan 3, 2025 to Feb 22, 2025 | $1,775USD | $1,575USD | $995USD | $875USD | $895USD |
| Feb 23, 2025 to Mar 30, 2025 | $1,850USD | $1,625USD | $1,025USD | $895USD | $925USD |
| Mar 31, 2025 to Jun 28, 2025 | $1,995USD | $1,775USD | $1,125USD | $975USD | $995USD |
| Jun 29, 2025 to Jul 10, 2025 | $2,075USD | $1,825USD | $1,150USD | $995USD | $1,050USD |
| Jul 11, 2025 to Sep 11, 2025 | $2,125USD | $1,875USD | $1,175USD | $1,025USD | $1,050USD |
| Sep 12, 2025 to Sep 30, 2025 | $2,075USD | $1,825USD | $1,150USD | $995USD | $1,050USD |
| Oct 1, 2025 to Dec 23, 2025 | $1,995USD | $1,775USD | $1,125USD | $975USD | $995USD |
| Dec 24, 2025 to Dec 31, 2025 | $2,125USD | $1,875USD | $1,175USD | $1,025USD | $1,050USD |
What’s included for Madeira Walking Tour
Meals
7 breakfasts and 1 dinner are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 7 nights are included on this tour.
Transportation during the Tour
All private transfers and luggage transportation according to the itinerary are included on this tour. Transfers to and from the airport are also included on this tour.
Also Included
- Digital route notes and maps
- GPS App
- 24-hour phone assistance
Not Included
- Flights
- Public transport transfers
- Visas if required
- Travel Insurance
- Tourist taxes if applicable
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Fees not mentioned as included
Optional Extras
- Activities and excursions unless otherwise mentioned as included
- Single room supplements
- Solo traveller supplements
- Whale watching tour on Pico Island
- Printed tour materials (in addition to digital)
Accommodation for Madeira Walking Tour
This tour is based in 4-star hotels. All accommodations on the tour are equipped with modern amenities to make your stay more comfortable. All accommodations offer private rooms with ensuite bathrooms.
In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
If you are a solo traveller or prefer a single room, the required supplements are included in the listed price.
Frequently asked questions for Madeira Walking Tour
How hard is the Madeira Walking Tour?
We rate this tour as a 3 / 5. Daily walks average 4-6 hours in length, excluding breaks. Roads can sometimes be stony, and walkers will at times traverse hilly or mountainous routes, but they are always well-maintained. Please note that this tour is not recommended for those with a fear of heights.
Do I need a visa to travel to Portugal?
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
Are meals included on the Madeira Walking Tour?
7 breakfasts are included on this tour. For those opting to stay in select hotels, 7 breakfasts and 1 dinner are included on this tour.
Do I need insurance?
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip. Get your Travel Insurance.
How do I get to Machico to start this tour?
Arrive at Funchal Airport (FNC, also known as Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport). A private transfer will pick you up from the airport and take you to your accommodations in Machico.
Where does the Madeira Walking Tour end?
The tour ends in Santana. From here a private transfer will take you to Funchal Airport (FNC) to depart.
Do I need special vaccines to travel to Portugal?
Check with your family doctor.
Are there any travel restrictions for Portugal?
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
When is the best time to travel to Spain for this tour?
The best time to visit Madiera for this tour is between April and October, when whales and dolphins are very common along the coast. The weather stays pleasant and warm throughout these months.
Why book with 10 Adventures?
Self-guided Specialists
Combine the freedom of travelling on your own with the confidence that all of the logistics are taken care of.
Packed with Inclusions
Accommodations, luggage transfers, gear rentals, and more - all taken care of so you can focus on making memories.
World Class Support
Have peace of mind for when travel plans change with our hassle-free booking process and unbeatable support.
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