Funchal: Levada Caldeirão Verde Waterfalls and Forests Hike

If you’re seeking a scenic escape into Madeira’s famous greenery, this guided hike along the Levada Caldeirão Verde offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and gentle adventure. The roughly 7-hour tour takes you through the island’s UNESCO-protected Laurisilva Forest, showcasing waterfalls, tunnels, and panoramic views that will leave you feeling refreshed and inspired.

What we love about this experience is how accessible and immersive it is—ideal for those who want a taste of Madeira’s untouched landscapes without intense trekking. Plus, passing through the carved tunnels and reaching the Caldeirão Verde waterfall is genuinely satisfying. The only thing to consider is the moderate level of fitness required, as the trail features uneven surfaces and some steps. Still, most hikers find the effort well worth it. This tour suits nature enthusiasts, photography fans, and anyone eager to see Madeira’s lush interior up close and personal.

Good To Know

• UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Laurisilva Forest is a highlight, offering vibrant greenery and ancient trees.
• Spectacular Waterfalls: The Caldeirão Verde waterfall provides a peaceful spot for photos and relaxation.
• Tunnels and Scenic Views: Short rock tunnels and sweeping vistas of distant villages add to the adventure.
• Comfortable Group Size: Guided with a live multilingual guide, ensuring personalized attention.
• Value for Money: At $66 per person, it’s an affordable way to explore Madeira’s interior.
• All-Inclusive Transportation: Pickup and drop-off included from various Funchal locations.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

This tour kicks off with hotel pickup from around 59 locations in Funchal, which is a big plus for convenience. The journey to the trailhead takes approximately an hour by bus or coach, giving you time to relax and enjoy the scenic drive. The pickup arrangements are flexible, with detailed instructions sent via email within 24 hours of booking. Be sure to be ready at your designated spot at least 10 minutes early to avoid missing the bus.

The transportation aspect is straightforward, especially since it’s included in the tour price. This saves you the hassle of organizing your own transfer and ensures a smoother start to your day.

The Trail: What to Expect

Once at Queimadas, the charming guesthouse marks the beginning of your journey. The trail leading into the Laurisilva Forest is gentle but offers enough variety to keep it interesting—think lush greenery, towering trees, and the occasional bird call. The trail travels approximately 4.5 hours of walking, with opportunities to pause and soak in the surroundings or take photos.

A unique feature of this route is the short tunnels carved into the rock. These tunnels add an element of fun and adventure, especially when passing through the cool, shaded passages. Reviewers mention that some tunnels are quite short, but they still contribute to the sense of discovery.

The Forest and the Waterfalls

As you walk deeper into the forest, you’ll feel a refreshing coolness in the air—an escape from the Madeira sun. The vibrant greenery and the dense canopy create a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for nature lovers. One reviewer shared, “The forest feels like a living museum, with giant trees and the sound of water everywhere.” The trail is well-maintained but does include uneven surfaces and steps, so a moderate level of fitness is recommended.

The highlight of the hike is reaching the Caldeirão Verde waterfall, a stunning cascade that plunges into a tranquil pool below. The cliffs surrounding the falls are towering, providing a dramatic backdrop perfect for photos. It’s a quiet, contemplative spot—ideal for a picnic or just enjoying the peace.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Return Journey

After soaking in the scenery, the bus takes you back to Funchal, arriving around 7 hours after departure. The drop-off points are widespread across the city, making it easy to continue exploring or return to your hotel.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many reviewers highlight the guidance provided by the tour leaders, noting that the guides, such as José and Maria, are knowledgeable and friendly, sharing interesting facts about Madeira’s flora and history. Some mention that the guides are attentive to safety, especially when passing through tunnels or navigating uneven terrain.

One reviewer pointed out that “the walk is manageable for most, but good shoes are essential”—a reminder to come prepared. Another appreciated the small group size, which fosters a more personalized experience—reviewers mentioned groups of about 10-15 people, giving everyone space to enjoy the trail comfortably.

What’s Included & What’s Not

For $66, you get the full guided hike, transportation, and hotel pickup/drop-off, which adds incredible value considering the scenic payoff and the convenience factor. However, food and drinks are not included, so packing a water bottle, some snacks, and perhaps a light picnic is a good idea. The cool mist and forest air are invigorating, so staying hydrated is key.

What to Bring

• Comfortable shoes with good grip (trail is uneven)
• Camera for capturing waterfalls and vistas
• Water to stay hydrated
• Light, comfortable clothing suitable for a day in the woods

Avoid smoking or littering—these are explicitly discouraged to preserve Madeira’s natural beauty.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for nature lovers and casual hikers who want to enjoy Madeira’s lush interior without undertaking strenuous treks. It’s also ideal for travelers interested in UNESCO sites and scenic photography. Those with mobility issues or pregnant women should note that the trail involves uneven surfaces and steps, making it less suitable for them.

The tour offers a balance of guided storytelling and free time at the waterfall, making it a relaxing yet engaging day out. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this hike offers a peaceful escape into the island’s natural wonderland.

The Sum Up

The Funchal: Levada Caldeirão Verde Waterfalls and Forests Hike offers a well-rounded experience that combines natural beauty, manageable hiking, and the comfort of organized transportation. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a meaningful way to explore Madeira’s forests, waterfalls, and scenic landscapes without the stress of planning every detail.

The tour is priced fairly for what it delivers—the chance to walk through a UNESCO-protected forest, pass through carved tunnels, and end at a stunning waterfall. It caters to a broad audience, especially those looking for an accessible, scenic day in nature.

If you’re after a peaceful, visually stunning adventure with expert guides and good value, this hike is a smart pick. Just remember to wear proper shoes, bring your camera, and be ready for some light walking that truly pays off with spectacular views.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, pickup from around 59 locations in Funchal and return to the same places are included.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including transport, hiking, and breaks.

What’s the difficulty level? Moderate—some uneven surfaces and steps require a reasonable level of fitness.

Are guides bilingual? Guides speak English, French, German, and Portuguese, ensuring clear explanations.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, water, camera, and light clothing are recommended.

Can I hike if I have mobility issues? No, this hike involves uneven terrain and steps, making it unsuitable for those with mobility impairments.

Is food provided? No, food and drinks are not included, so bring your own snacks and water.

Are tunnels long? The tunnels are short but add a fun element of discovery to the trail.

Will I see waterfalls? Yes, the highlight is reaching the Caldeirão Verde waterfall, a peaceful and scenic spot.

Is this suitable for pregnant women? No, due to uneven terrain and steps, it isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here: