Explore Madeira: Hiking Adventure

Day By Day Itinerary

1. Day 1 Saturday: Arrival in Madeira Island

   

   Welcome to Madeira Island! We'll handle your airport transfers on arrival and departure, ensuring your adventure's seamless start and finish.

   Suggestion for the day: Explore Downtown Funchal

   Step back in time and explore the vibrant tapestry of Funchal, the heart of Madeira Island! Nestled amidst lush hills and overlooking the vast Atlantic, this city boasts a rich history dating back to the early 15th century. Founded by Portuguese explorers, Funchal quickly blossomed into a cosmopolitan center, a vital stop on trade routes between Europe and the New World. Today, Funchal exudes Portuguese charm, offering a captivating blend of its historical legacy and lively modern spirit.

   Don't Miss:

   • Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers' Market): Immerse yourself in the sights and smells of the bustling Mercado dos Lavradores (and taste delicious exotic fruit!)
   • Sé Cathedral (Funchal Cathedral): Step into the magnificent Sé Cathedral, a landmark showcasing Gothic and Romanesque architectural styles.
   • Santa Clara Convent: Admire the beautiful cloisters and learn about the convent's fascinating history.
   • Museu de Arte Sacra (Museum of Sacred Art): Uncover a collection of religious art and artifacts at the Museu de Arte Sacra.
   • Blandy's Wine Lodge: Embark on a journey through Madeira's renowned wine culture with a visit to Blandy's Wine Lodge. Sample the island's famous fortified wines and learn about the traditional production methods.
   • Zona Velha (Old Town): Wander through the charming cobbled streets of Zona Velha, Funchal's historic center. Admire the colorful houses and discover hidden squares and fountains.
   • Praça do Município (Municipal Square): Relax in the heart of Funchal at the Praça do Município, the main square. People watch, soak in the atmosphere and enjoy the lively street performers.
   • Fortaleza de São Tiago (São Tiago Fort): Cap off your day with a visit to the Fortaleza de São Tiago, a 17th-century fort offering stunning ocean views. Explore the ramparts and learn about Funchal's maritime history.

   *Want to maximize your time in paradise? Consider pre-booking an early check-in during the booking process. This way, you can hit the ground running and start exploring sooner! Don't hesitate to contact our booking agents if you have any questions or need assistance setting this up.

2. Day 2 Sunday: Rabaçal / 25 Fontes Levada Walk (Included)

   

    Rabaçal / 25 Fontes Levada Walk (8:30 AM - 4 PM)

   Begin your adventure at Paul da Serra with the Rabaçal Levada Walk, descending into the stunning Rabaçal Valley. Immerse yourself in the lush Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at the breathtaking Risco waterfall. As you continue, the vibrant greenery and soothing sounds of nature envelop you. Discover diverse plant species like Tree Heather, Besom Heath, and Madeira Bilberry, and keep an eye out for the rare Trocaz Pigeon. The hike culminates at the enchanting 25 Fontes, a verdant pool surrounded by vines and giant ferns, before retracing your steps back through this natural wonderland.

   More Details:

   • Distance: 13 km (8.1 miles)
   • Highest point: 1290m (4,232 ft)
   • Lowest point: 900m (2,953 ft)
   • Difficulty: Moderate.
   • Duration: In total, including transport, this tour lasts about 7 hours, with walking time of around 4 hours and 30 minutes.
3. Day 3 Monday: Food & Wine Walking Tour in Funchal (Included)

   

   Food & Wine Walking Tour in Funchal (09:45 AM - 1:00 PM)

   Embark on a captivating exploration of Funchal, where history, culture, and flavor intertwine. Immerse yourself in the city's vibrant atmosphere as you wander through bustling markets, charming streets, and historic landmarks. Indulge your taste buds with a delightful culinary journey, sampling local delicacies and discovering the secrets of Madeira's renowned wines and chocolates. From traditional bakeries to innovative restaurants, this tour offers a comprehensive experience of the island's rich gastronomic heritage.

   Highlights:

   • Visit a traditional market and experience the vibrant local life
   • Discover the art of chocolate making and indulge in decadent treats
   • Explore the history of Madeira wine and savor its unique flavors
   • Savor a delicious meal featuring local specialties
   • Immerse yourself in the charming atmosphere of Funchal's old town

    

   For your free afternoon, we suggest a whale & dolphin-watching excursion (optional)

    

   Madeira's beauty goes beyond stunning landscapes! Just offshore, deep ocean trenches create a haven for marine life. Sitting near the vast North Atlantic whale sanctuary, teeming with over 28 species, you're almost guaranteed to encounter dolphins or whales. Expect to see giants like Sperm Whales, Humpbacks, and Fins, or playful Bottlenose Dolphins and Spotted Dolphins. Madeira is even a sanctuary for the rarest seal in the world, the Monk Seal! Keep an eye out for Manta Rays, Sea Turtles, and unique seabirds too!
4. Day 4 Tuesday: Ponta de São Lourenço Hike (Included)

   

   Ponta de São Lourenço (8:30 AM - 4 PM)

   Explore the eastern peninsula of Madeira Island on a scenic hike showcasing unique vegetation such as the Everlasting and Ice Flower. Ponta de São Lourenço, part of the Natura 2000 network and a partial natural reserve, hosts protected seabirds like the Cory's Shearwater and Madeiran Storm-Petrel, alongside species like Berthelot's Pipit and Goldfinch. Marvel at panoramic views of the Deserted Islands to the south and Porto Santo to the north (weather permitting), with views of both the northern and southern coasts of Madeira Island throughout the hike. The endpoint features "Casa do Sardinha," a support facility for the Madeira Natural Park vigilantes, before retracing the path.

   More Details:

   • Distance: 8 km (approximately 5 miles)
   • Highest point: 110 meters (361 feet)
   • Lowest point: 5 meters (16 feet)
   • Difficulty: Moderate
   • Duration: Approximately 4 hours
5. Day 5 Wednesday: Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo Hike (Included)

   

   Pico do Areeiro / Pico Ruivo (8h30 AM- 4 PM)

   Embark on a challenging yet rewarding 6.2-mile hike from Pico do Areeiro (approximately 5965 feet) to Pico Ruivo (approximately 6109 feet), the highest peak in Madeira. Marvel at breathtaking panoramic views over the central mountain range, including Fajã da Nogueira Valley and Nun’s Valley. Traverse through the Natura 2000 Network, home to the endangered Freira da Madeira bird and ancient endemic Urzes trees. This difficult trek includes steep ascents and descents, culminating in a 360° view from Pico Ruivo. Enjoy a snack before descending to Achadas do Teixeira (approximately 5961 feet) to conclude this unforgettable adventure.

   More Details:

   • Distance: 10 km (approximately 6.2 miles)
   • Highest point: 1862 meters (6109 feet)
   • Lowest point: 1542 meters (5059 feet)
   • Difficulty: Difficult
   • Duration: Approximately 4 hours 30 minutes
6. Day 6 Thursday: Levada do Caldeirão Verde (Included)

   

   Levada do Caldeirão Verde (08:30 AM - 4:00 PM)

   Embark on the enchanting Levada do Caldeirão Verde hike, starting at Queimadas Forest Park (approximately 3215 feet) in Santana. This trail winds through the lush Laurissilva Forest, showcasing diverse plant species including Stinklaurel, Laurel, Lily-of-the-Valley Tree, and Common European Elder. Spot bird species like the Chaffinch, Firecrest, Grey Wagtail, Buzzard, and the elusive Long-toed Wood Pigeon amidst the green and pleasant landscape. Pass through 4 natural tunnels along the way before reaching the stunning Caldeirão Verde, where cascading waterfalls into an emerald-green lake create a breathtaking scene. After soaking in the natural beauty, return along the same path to Queimadas Forest Park.

   More Details:

   • Distance: 13 km (approximately 8.1 miles)
   • Highest point: 980 meters (3215 feet)
   • Lowest point: 890 meters (2920 feet)
   • Difficulty: Moderate
   • Duration: Approximately 4 hours 30 minutes
   • Note: Includes tunnels and sections with vertigo
7. Day 7 Friday: Farewell Typical Dinner (Included)

   

   Here is our suggestion for the first part of your day: Uncover Madeira’s Gardens & Must-Do Activity

    

   Embark on a journey through the lush gardens and cultural influences of Madeira, where botanical marvels blend with Oriental aesthetics to create a truly unique experience.

   • Madeira Botanical Garden: Start your exploration at the Madeira Botanical Garden, nestled in the hills above Funchal.Marvel at panoramic views of Funchal and the Atlantic Ocean while discovering the island's botanical diversity and conservation efforts.
   • Monte Palace Tropical: Garden Next, venture to the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, renowned for its fusion of Oriental design elements. Admire decorative tile panels depicting scenes from Chinese mythology and Portuguese maritime history, offering insights into Madeira's cultural connections with the East.
   • Carrinhos do Monte (Monte Toboggan): For a thrilling conclusion to your day, experience the iconic Carrinhos do Monte. Experience a one-of-a-kind adventure in Madeira with the wicker basket toboggan ride! This thrilling descent, dating back to the 19th century, takes you down city streets from Monte Village to Funchal. This isn't just an adrenaline rush; it's a cultural immersion. Skilled "carreiros" dressed in white steer handcrafted wicker sleds, offering a glimpse into Madeira's heritage. Safety is paramount, making the toboggan ride suitable for all ages. It's a perfect family activity that combines excitement, history, and a touch of Madeiran charm. Don't miss this iconic experience on your Madeira adventure!

   Then, Enjoy a Typical Night Dinner Included in Your Trip (7:30 PM - 10:30 PM)

   Experience a delightful evening with a traditional dinner at a local restaurant featuring a 3-course menu, complemented by a captivating folklore show where you can immerse yourself in the local dancing culture. Additionally, take a moment to admire the scenic cityscape of Funchal from a picturesque viewpoint, offering breathtaking views illuminated by the city lights.

8. Day 8 Saturday: Return Flight Home

   

   We've arranged your hotel transfer to ensure a smooth journey to the airport.

   Thank you for choosing us to be your travel companions on this adventure! It's been a pleasure assisting you in creating unforgettable memories. We wish you happy travels and until next time!