From Funchal: Madeira Lakes Levada Guided Hike

Exploring Madeira’s famous levadas is high on many travelers’ wish lists, and this guided hike claims to deliver a memorable journey through lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and mountain vistas. While we haven’t personally tried it (yet), the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest this tour offers a genuine taste of Madeira’s natural beauty.

What makes this experience appealing? The chance to walk along historic levadas, marvel at rock pools carved over millions of years, and enjoy a refreshing mountain swim are front and center. The expert guides earn praise for their knowledge and friendliness, making the trek both educational and enjoyable. The scenic views from an ancient mountain summit promise breathtaking panoramas, perfect for photo enthusiasts.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour involves rough terrain and a 10-kilometer hike, which might be challenging for those with mobility issues or heart concerns. It’s not suited for everyone, but if you’re reasonably fit and love outdoor adventures, you’ll likely find this to be a rewarding experience. Ideal for active travelers, nature lovers, and those eager to see Madeira’s wild side beyond the bus tours.

Good To Know

• Stunning scenery of waterfalls, lagoons, and mountain lakes
• Expert guides who share insightful details about flora, fauna, and geology
• Moderate physical challenge with a 10 km hike over uneven terrain
• Includes swimming in mountain lakes during summer months
• Private or group options available, with hotel pickup from Funchal
• Great value for the price of $51 per person, given the full-day adventure

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Madeira Lakes Levada Guided Hike

What’s Included and How It All Comes Together

For $51, this tour offers a solid value considering the length (8 hours), guided experience, and hotel pickup. The tour is organized by Lido Tours, a provider known for their professional approach and knowledgeable guides who speak multiple languages including English, Spanish, French, German, and Portuguese.

The experience begins with hotel pickup in Funchal, saving you the hassle of navigating public transport or renting a car. Once on the bus, you’ll head to the Levada do Alecrim, the starting point of your trek. The journey typically involves a private or shared group, with a preference for smaller groups to keep the experience intimate and personalized.

The Trek: Walking Through Madeira’s Waterways and Forests

As you start your 10-kilometer walk, you’ll be following the levadas—minute canals built centuries ago to transport water across the island. These mini-canals are often lined with lush, towering trees that shelter the trail from direct sun, making large parts of the trek shaded and pleasant even on warmer days. The soundscape of bird calls, rustling leaves, and flowing water creates a peaceful backdrop to your adventure.

Travelers describe the trail as mostly flat at the beginning, making it accessible for most levels, but note that some parts can be quite steep and rugged later on. As one reviewer mentioned, “sturdy shoes are a must,” because the terrain can be uneven and slippery, especially if the weather has been rainy.

Waterfalls and Rock Pools: Close Encounters with Nature

The highlight for many is the chance to see waterfalls up close—some roaring, some trickling gently—and to pause at rock pools carved into the landscape over millions of years. These pools are not just scenic but have been formed by natural water erosion, giving the landscape a sculptural quality.

In summer, a special treat is the opportunity to swim in Lagoa Dona Beha, a crystal-clear mountain lake surrounded by waterfalls. Reviewers consistently mention how invigorating the water is—a perfect way to cool down after a couple of hours of hiking. One guest from Romania shared, “We loved the way the guide encouraged us to swim and enjoy the mountain waters—they’re so pure and refreshing.”

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Climbing to Panoramic Views

Midway through the hike, the group has the chance to climb an ancient mountain for panoramic views that stretch over Madeira’s forests and lakes. The climb is manageable with a good guide, and the vistas are well worth the effort. This ascent provides a sense of accomplishment and a chance for stunning photos.

Wrapping Up with a Return Trek

After soaking in the scenery and perhaps taking a dip in a mountain lagoon, you’ll head back along the levada, retracing your steps or following a slightly different trail to keep things interesting. The entire loop ensures that you’ll encounter a variety of landscapes—from dense forests to open mountain ridges.

Additional Details and Practical Tips

• Duration: 8 hours, including transportation, walking, and breaks
• Distance: 10 kilometers
• Best for: Active travelers comfortable with uneven terrain
• Weather considerations: The tour is best in dry weather; rain can make trails slippery and dangerous
• What to bring: sturdy hiking shoes, sunscreen, water, packed lunch, weather-appropriate clothing, sunglasses, and a daypack
• Not suitable for: those with mobility or heart issues

Authentic Experiences and Personal Touches

From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Sarah and Rubina elevate the experience with their enthusiasm, local knowledge, and attentiveness. One guest praised Sarah as “fantastic, warm, attentive, and very informative,” highlighting the value of a friendly guide who makes everyone feel safe and engaged.

Several travelers appreciated the flexibility of the tour, including the ability to reschedule due to weather—a helpful feature given Madeira’s changeable climate. The tour’s capacity to adapt shows a level of professionalism that adds peace of mind.

The Value of This Tour

While $51 might seem modest for an all-day experience, the true value lies in the unique combination of guided storytelling, exclusive access to natural landmarks, and the ease of transportation from Funchal. You’re paying for not just a walk but for a curated adventure that reveals the island’s secret corners and natural wonders.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This guided hike is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who love nature and physical activity. It’s ideal for those who want to see Madeira beyond the city, exploring waterfalls, mountain lakes, and lush forests. It’s suited for travelers who are comfortable with rough terrain and moderate exertion—but not for those with mobility limitations or heart problems.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For travelers eager to experience Madeira’s wild beauty firsthand, this levada hike offers a satisfying blend of scenery, physical activity, and local insights. The inclusion of swimming opportunities and the chance to climb for panoramic views makes it more than just a walk—it’s an adventure.

The guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude are consistently praised, transforming what might be a simple trek into a memorable journey. The price point is reasonable considering the duration and inclusions, especially when you factor in the convenience of hotel pickup.

This tour offers authentic, scenic, and active exploration for those prepared to embrace a bit of rugged terrain. It’s a great choice for adventurous travelers who want to connect deeply with Madeira’s stunning landscape.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in Funchal are included, making it convenient to start and end the day.

How long is the hike?
The trek covers approximately 10 kilometers and lasts around 8 hours, including breaks and sightseeing.

Do I need special footwear?
Sturdy hiking shoes are a must, as parts of the trail are uneven and may be slippery.

Can I swim during the tour?
Yes, in summer months, you’ll have the opportunity to swim in the mountain lake Lagoa Dona Beha, if you wish.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
Many reviews mention doing the walk with children aged 8 and 11, as long as they are comfortable with walking and uneven terrain.

What should I bring?
Bring water, sunscreen, sunglasses, a packed lunch, weather-appropriate clothing, and a daypack.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak multiple languages including English, Spanish, French, German, and Portuguese.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour can be canceled or rescheduled if weather conditions are unsafe or too slippery, providing flexibility and peace of mind.

Final Words

This Madeira Lakes Levada Guided Hike strikes a wonderful balance between adventure, scenery, and cultural insight. It’s best suited for active travelers who want to see the island’s raw, natural side without fuss. Expect stunning waterfalls, mountain lakes, and lush forests, all brought to life by passionate guides.

If you’re after a day of authentic exploration that energizes both body and mind, this tour is a strong contender. Just pack your hiking shoes, a sense of adventure, and get ready to discover Madeira’s waterfalls and lakes like never before.

You can check if your dates are available here: