Hiking Madeira: Levada do Rei and the Majestic Laurissilva
27 Reviews
Outdoor sports
Nature & adventure
Outdoor activities
Tours
National parks
Hiking
Explore the lush Laurissilva Forest where you'll encounter native plants, waterfalls, and serene birdlife on a journey through Madeira's purest nature. An unforgettable adventure awaits
Highlights
- Unwind in the heart of Madeira's pristine natural landscape.
- Discover rare flora and fauna in a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Experience the untouched beauty of Madeira's Laurissilva Forest
- Capture iconic views of Penha d’Aguia and Porto Santo (if weather permits)
- Experience a historic trail with a mix of nature and culture
Description
Your adventure begins with a pickup from your accommodation. As we drive towards the São Jorge area, we might pause at a quaint local spot for a brief refreshment break, though this stop is not guaranteed.
Levada do Rei starts at the Water Treatment Station in Quebradas, São Jorge, guiding you along the stunning São Jorge valley. This trail offers a unique chance to discover a variety of herbs and medicinal plants, accompanied by informative insights. The journey begins in an exotic forest featuring introduced flora, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the agricultural landscapes in São Jorge and Santana. This hike is around 10km, with an elevation gain of around 50 meters, moderate difficulty and typically takes around 4 hours to complete.
As the trail continues, you'll venture into one of the most pristine sections of the Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. Here, a diverse array of native plants and bird species, including the 'Firecrest' and the friendly Chaffinch, await your discovery.
The path also takes you through a waterfall before reaching Ribeiro Bonito, a secluded and serene endpoint where you can immerse yourself in the peaceful sounds of nature. After a short rest, the return journey retraces the same path, allowing you to once again take in the enchanting beauty of the forest. This levada walk is a truly memorable experience, offering a window into Madeira's most unspoiled natural wonders.
Includes
Nature walk: Enjoy a guided walk through the beautiful landscapes of Madeira.
Mountain guide: A professional guide will lead you, ensuring a safe and informative experience.
Insurance: Coverage (according with the Portuguese law) is provided to ensure peace of mind during your adventure.
Transportation: Includes pickup and drop-off from your accommodation.
Important Information
- Health and Fitness: This tour envolves a 4h30 hike (approximately) and it requires a moderate level of fitness and is not suitable for individuals with severe health issues or limited mobility.
Rain or Shine: This tour will take place regardless of weather conditions (if it's possible to do it safely)
Pickup Locations: We only offer pickup services in the hotels in the itinerary.
Cancellation Policy: No refunds are provided for cancellations made within 24 hours of the activity's start time.
Age Restrictions: The hike is not ideal for very young children due to its length and difficulty.
Breakfast: Ensure you have a hearty breakfast before embarking on the activity to keep your energy levels high throughout the hike.
Multilingual Guide: Your tour may be led by a guide fluent in multiple languages. While we do our best to provide a guide who speaks your preferred language, this is not always guaranteed. In such cases, the tour will be conducted in English.
Easy cancellation
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund