Hiking Madeira: Levada do Rei and the Majestic Laurissilva

If you’re looking to explore Madeira’s most untouched natural landscapes, the Levada do Rei guided hike is a top contender. This 7-hour adventure offers a chance to walk through the lush Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with an experienced guide leading the way. From native flora to waterfalls and scenic vistas, this tour promises an authentic look at the island’s natural beauty.

What makes this experience particularly appealing? We love the opportunity to encounter rare plants and birdlife, the chance for stunning panoramic views, and the fact that it combines nature, culture, and history all in one trail. That said, since the hike is around 10km with moderate difficulty, it’s best suited for those with a reasonable level of fitness. If you’re not comfortable walking for around 4 to 5 hours or have mobility issues, this might not be the right fit. Overall, it’s ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone eager to see Madeira’s pristine wilderness up close.

Good To Know

• Authentic natural experience: Walk through a UNESCO-listed forest with native plants and waterfalls.
• Expert guidance: Led by knowledgeable guides who share insights about local flora, fauna, and history.
• Scenic vistas: Capture iconic views of Penha d’Aguia and Porto Santo if weather permits.
• All-inclusive transportation: Pickup and drop-off from your hotel simplifies logistics.
• Moderate difficulty: Suitable for most travelers with a reasonable fitness level.
• Community and culture: Discover local herbs, medicinal plants, and historical trail insights.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

This Madeira hike is carefully designed to balance nature, education, and physical activity. Starting with pickup from your hotel — which could be from a variety of popular locations such as the Hotel Vila Galé Santa Cruz or The Cliff Bay — you’ll enjoy a scenic drive towards the São Jorge area. The guides, like Ruben and Jenny, receive glowing reviews for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to keep the group engaged without feeling rushed.

The Journey Begins

After a brief stop at a local spot (not guaranteed), you’ll head to the Water Treatment Station in Quebradas, São Jorge, where the trail begins. This starting point offers a great introduction to the diverse plant life and the agricultural landscape of São Jorge and Santana. As Ruben explains, the trail showcases a mix of introduced flora and native species, with opportunities to spot medicinal herbs and aromatic plants.

Walking Through Madeira’s Forest

The walk is approximately 10km long, with only about a 50-meter elevation gain, making it a moderate level hike. We loved the way the trail smoothly transitions from exotic forests to more pristine sections of the Laurissilva, a UNESCO site since 1999. Walking through the lush canopy, it’s easy to forget the outside world, especially with the soothing sounds of waterfalls and bird calls.

Spotting Flora and Fauna

Guides like Jenny are praised for their enthusiasm and depth of knowledge. One reviewer mentions how Jenny’s passion about Madeira’s environment shines through, making the hike both educational and engaging. The forest is home to native birds such as the Firecrest and Chaffinch, which bird-watchers will appreciate. Plus, you’ll pass by a waterfall, which makes for some fantastic photo opportunities.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Secluded Ribeiro Bonito

The endpoint at Ribeiro Bonito offers a serene spot for rest and taking in the peaceful sounds of nature. Here, you’re surrounded by towering trees and lush greenery, experiencing the forest’s untouched beauty. After a short break, the route retraces back through the same trail, giving you a second chance to soak in the views and perhaps spot something you missed on the way out.

Waterfalls and Scenic Vistas

The waterfall stop is brief but well worth the 5-minute stop — a perfect moment for photos or just a quick moment to appreciate the natural spectacle. If the weather is clear, you’ll also get a view of Penha d’Aguia and Porto Santo, adding a memorable panoramic element to the experience.

The Return and Refreshments

Post-hike, there’s usually a stop at a local café for a well-deserved drink, with reviews noting good tips from guides like Jenny, including trying Madeira’s traditional Poncha. The drive back offers a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights and enjoy the landscape from a different perspective.

The Practicalities and What’s Included

For $52 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the length and quality of the experience. It includes transportation (pickup and drop-off), a guided walk led by a mountain guide, and insurance. The guides are multilingual, speaking English, German, French, Spanish, and Portuguese, which broadens accessibility.

The tour lasts around 7 hours with flexible start times depending on availability, so planning fits most schedules. The walk itself takes approximately 4.5 hours, including stops, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

What to Bring

Comfortable walking shoes (hiking shoes recommended), sunscreen, rain gear (weather can change quickly), and plenty of water and snacks. Since food isn’t included, bringing your own refreshments is advised, especially because the guide mentions a small, nearby café for breaks.

Important Notes

• The hike is not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or those with mobility or health issues.
• Participants should be prepared for outdoor conditions, rain or shine, as the walk proceeds regardless of weather.
• There’s a mandatory €3 maintenance fee payable in cash on the day, which supports trail upkeep.
• The tour is best suited for those with moderate fitness, as it’s around 4.5 hours of walking.

The Authentic Experience

One of the most praised aspects by past travelers is the interaction with expert guides like Ruben and Jenny. Comments describe Ruben as an “excellent guide and driver,” and Jenny as a “wonderful knowledgeable guide passionate about Madeira’s environment.” This adds a lot to the experience, transforming a simple hike into a story-rich journey.

Many reviewers also appreciated the small details — such as the willingness of guides to share insights about local plants, the friendly atmosphere, and the scenic stops that make the walk more memorable. It’s clear that the team’s enthusiasm elevates the tour beyond just a walk in the woods.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This guided hike is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and those eager to learn about Madeira’s endemic flora and fauna. It’s ideal if you want a moderate, well-organized outdoor experience that combines physical activity with cultural insights.

However, it’s not suited for very young children, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility restrictions. If you’re after a relaxed, less physically demanding activity, or a more leisure-focused experience, you might prefer a less intense tour.

Final Thoughts

The Levada do Rei hike offers a fantastic way to see Madeira’s most pristine landscapes. With knowledgeable guides, scenic vistas, waterfalls, and native plant life, it’s a well-rounded experience for those who enjoy walking and nature photography. The tour’s moderate difficulty makes it accessible for many, providing a good balance between adventure and comfort.

At a reasonable price of $52, the tour offers excellent value, especially considering the included transportation, insurance, and expert guidance. The chance to walk through a UNESCO World Heritage site and learn about local herbs and wildlife is a rare find that adds real depth to your Madeira visit.

For travelers wanting an authentic and visually stunning walk that combines nature, culture, and expert insights, this tour is a strong choice. It’s especially perfect if you appreciate a well-organized outing led by passionate guides.

FAQ

Is this hike suitable for children?
The hike is not recommended for children under 8 due to its length and moderate difficulty.

How long does the hike take?
The walk itself lasts around 4.5 hours, with additional time for stops and breaks, making the full day about 7 hours.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, hiking shoes recommended, sunscreen, rain gear, food, water, and weather-appropriate clothes.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from selected Madeira hotels are included in the price.

What is the difficulty level?
Moderate — suitable for most travelers with reasonable fitness, but it’s not ideal for those with mobility issues.

Are guides multilingual?
Yes, guides speak English, German, French, Spanish, and Portuguese, though availability of specific languages isn’t always guaranteed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is food available along the trail?
Food isn’t included, though there are stops at local cafes. It’s best to bring your own refreshments.

What’s the weather like?
The hike goes ahead rain or shine, so prepare accordingly for potential weather changes.

Are there any additional fees?
Yes, a €3 nature maintenance fee payable in cash on the day supports trail upkeep.

If you crave a true sense of Madeira’s wilderness, this guided Levada do Rei walk hits all the right notes. It’s a well-paced, scenic, and educational journey through one of the island’s most treasured natural areas. Led by guides who care about their environment and visitors, you’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Madeira’s unique landscape, along with plenty of breathtaking photos. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply eager to see Madeira’s lush forests, this tour offers a memorable day out in nature that’s both manageable and meaningful.

You can check if your dates are available here: