Madeira: Canyoning Ribeira do Cidrão

Canyoning in Madeira offers an exhilarating way to see this island’s striking landscapes. This particular tour, Ribeira do Cidrão, has earned high praise, with a rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 52 reviews. It’s a well-loved experience that combines adrenaline, stunning scenery, and expert guidance—all for around $91 per person. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply eager to explore Madeira’s natural side in a safe, organized way, this adventure might just be your perfect fit.

What makes this canyoning tour stand out? First, the qualified, experienced guides make safety and fun go hand-in-hand. Second, the beautiful mountain views and natural pools promise picture-worthy moments. Third, the activity’s approachability for beginners makes it accessible without sacrificing excitement. One possible consideration is the 5-hour duration, which is packed but might feel long for those wanting a quick thrill. Overall, if you enjoy outdoor activities, love being in nature, and want an authentic Madeira experience, this tour is a fantastic choice.

Good To Know

• Suitable for Beginners: No prior climbing experience needed, just a good level of fitness.
• Authentic Madeira Nature: Discover untouched valleys, lush trees, and stunning mountain vistas.
• Safety & Comfort: Certified guides, modern equipment, and safety briefings ensure peace of mind.
• Flexible Scheduling & Small Groups: Limited to 12 participants for a personalized experience.
• Value for Money: Includes gear, insurance, transportation, and a guide—making it a comprehensive package.
• Reviews Highlight Guides & Views: Guides Sergio, Ben, and Fabio are praised for their expertise and humor.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What to Expect from the Madeira Canyoning Tour

Starting Point & Transportation

The adventure kicks off at Rua Dom Francisco Santana, a convenient and central location. After a quick briefing, you’ll hop into a van for about 25 minutes, heading toward Madeira’s rugged interior. This transportation component is key because it gets you into the heart of nature, away from urban noise, where the canyoning begins.

Guided Tour & Curral das Freiras

The core of the experience is a 2.5-hour guided exploration around Curral das Freiras, the famous village nestled in a mountain valley. The guides—Sergio and Ben, as reported by participants—are known for their professionalism, humor, and attentiveness, making everyone feel safe and comfortable. Expect detailed safety instructions and helpful tips, especially for those new to canyoning.

Canyoning Itself: Rappels, Jumps & Slides

The main activity involves rappelling down cliffs up to 15 meters, jumping into natural pools, and sliding along natural water channels. These features are designed to showcase Madeira’s wild beauty without requiring advanced climber skills. Reviewers like Theresia mentioned feeling confident thanks to the thorough briefings, and that the guides’ expertise was evident throughout.

The natural slides even include some free-fall elements, adding a dash of thrill for those comfortable with a splash. The canyoning routes are tailored to fit the group’s skill level, and the guides pay close attention to individual comfort and safety.

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Scenic Mountain Views & Natural Pools

Throughout the tour, you’ll marvel at views over Madeira’s rugged mountains and lush valleys. Several reviewers highlighted how breathtaking the scenery was, with Emile praising how welcoming and friendly the guides made the experience, making even the most adrenaline-filled moments feel relaxed and fun.

Returning & Final Stop

After completing the canyoning, participants are transferred back to the starting point. The entire tour lasts about five hours, offering a solid balance of adventure, sightseeing, and downtime. The experience concludes back at Rua Dom Francisco Santana, leaving plenty of time to explore more of Madeira or enjoy a relaxed evening.

What’s Included & What to Bring

Your ticket covers special canyoning shoes and socks, water, an energy bar, insurance, transportation, and a certified guide. The inclusion of gear and safety measures emphasizes the value and professionalism of the tour.

You should bring swimwear, a change of clothes, and a towel to stay comfortable after getting wet. No climbing experience is necessary, but a good level of fitness helps you enjoy the physical aspects comfortably.

Optional Extras

Transport to and from the activity site can be arranged for a small fee, which is convenient if you’re staying outside the central area. The small group sizes—limited to 12—ensure a more intimate experience, with plenty of personal attention from guides.

The Experience Provider: Lokoloko Madeira

Lokoloko Madeira is known for their well-organized, safety-conscious tours, with guides who speak multiple languages including Dutch, English, German, Portuguese, and Spanish. Their reputation is backed by numerous positive reviews describing how guides Sergio, Ben, and Fabio make participants feel safe and entertained—adding a personal touch to the adventure.

Deep Dive into the Itinerary

First Stop: Rua Dom Francisco Santana

This is the meeting point and where the adventure begins. The ease of access and central location make it straightforward to join the tour, whether you’re coming from Funchal or nearby accommodations.

Van Ride to Curral das Freiras

The 25-minute drive into Madeira’s interior takes you from the bustling coast into the tranquil, mountain-draped landscape. This scenic transfer sets the tone for the upcoming adventure, offering glimpses of the island’s lush terrain.

Guided Tour in Curral das Freiras

The highlight here is a 2.5-hour trek, where guides share insights about Madeira’s geology and flora—though it’s mostly about the fun of canyoning itself. Reviewers like Theresia appreciated the guides’ humor and professionalism, emphasizing how safe they felt throughout. The guides’ ability to keep the group cohesive and motivated during the physical parts makes a big difference.

Canyoning Experience

Expect a mix of rappels, jumps, and slides—no two routes are exactly the same, thanks to Madeira’s diverse canyons. The feature that most reviewers loved was the natural beauty—crystal-clear pools, lush greenery, and high cliffs. Reviews highlight the guides’ patience and clear instructions, which reassures those new to canyoning and ensures a smooth, enjoyable time.

Return & Reflection

The tour wraps up after the canyoning, with transport back to the starting point. Participants often mention how the combination of adrenaline and awe-inspiring views makes this a memorable activity, perfect for sharing stories afterward.

Why This Canyoning Tour Offers Great Value

At $91 per person, the tour delivers a comprehensive experience. Everything from gear, safety, transportation, and expert guidance is included, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs or logistics. Many reviewers, like Andy, praised the guides’ thorough instruction, which added to the overall enjoyment. The small group size means more personalized attention, which enhances safety and fun.

The activity’s design makes it accessible to all, especially since no prior climbing skills are required. The mix of physical activity and breathtaking scenery provides a balanced adventure that suits active travelers and nature lovers alike.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This canyoning experience is ideal for those who want to explore Madeira’s wild side without requiring advanced skills. It suits beginners who are comfortable with moderate physical activity and are eager to try something new in nature. It’s also perfect for groups or families with teenagers, thanks to the friendly guides and safe environment.

However, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those under 140 cm in height. The activity demands a good level of fitness, so if you’re generally active and enjoy outdoor adventures, you’ll fit right in.

Final Thoughts

Madeira’s Ribeira do Cidrão canyoning tour offers a fantastic blend of adrenaline, scenic beauty, and expert guidance. The well-organized nature of the trip, combined with warm, knowledgeable guides and stunning natural pools, makes it one of the best ways to get to know the island’s rugged interior.

Whether you’re an adventure junkie or a traveler looking to add some excitement to your Madeira holiday, this tour delivers genuine value. It’s a wonderful introduction to Madeira’s lesser-seen landscapes, all while feeling safe and supported.

If you’re keen to combine physical activity with awe-inspiring scenery, and enjoy the camaraderie of small-group tours, this canyoning experience is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is this canyoning activity suitable for beginners?
Yes, no prior climbing experience is needed. It’s designed for all skill levels, and guides provide thorough safety briefings.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 5 hours, including transportation, the guided tour, and the canyoning itself.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a change of clothes, and a towel. The tour provides canyoning shoes, socks, and safety gear.

Is transportation included?
Transportation is included in the price, but there is an option to arrange pickup and drop-off for a small extra fee.

What language are the guides?
Guides speak multiple languages, including Dutch, English, German, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Are there age or height restrictions?
Yes, it’s not suitable for children under 4 ft 6 in (140 cm), and not wheelchair accessible.

What safety measures are in place?
Guides are certified, use updated equipment, and give comprehensive safety instructions to ensure a secure experience.

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

Is the tour good for groups?
Absolutely, small groups limited to 12 participants allow for personalized attention and a more enjoyable experience.

This Madeira canyoning tour offers a safe, fun, and scenic way to experience the island’s wild beauty. With excellent guides, comfortable gear, and breathtaking views, it’s an activity that’s hard to forget—and one that’s suitable for many travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here: