Walking in Madeira - Explore

Day 1  Funchal
On arrival into Funchal, transfer to the hotel in Santana, a beautiful village on the north coast for a welcome meeting.

Day 2  Santana to Porto da Cruz
This morning drive through a peaceful agricultural area to the starting point of today's walk in Machico. Follow the path to Boca do Risco, one of the most beautiful natural viewpoints on the east side of the island. From here you’ll walk along the cliff tops, with fine panoramic views and wildlife spotting opportunities including the Madeira Firecrest, an endemic bird species on the islands and a vast array of beautiful plants. The walk finishes at Porto da Cruz returning back to Santana.

Day 3  Faja de Penedo
This morning we drive up to Boaventure, a hamlet of houses perched on the hillside at the top of the valley. The trail begins with almost two hundred meters of incline, the rest is relatively flat, taking you from the top of the valley and winding down towards the coast. Walk to a hidden waterfall before entering the thick, lush UNESCO protected laurel forest and follow the Levada dos Tornos.

Day 4  Risco Waterfall
Today’s walk starts at Rabaçal from where you follow the Levada do Alecrim (rosemary), one of the most beautiful levadas of Madeira. Along the trail, enjoy the variety of endemic flora and take in amazing views down into the Rabaçal and Ribeira da Janela valleys. After lunch, follow the Levada do Risco to the waterfall that feeds it. After enjoying this magnificent viewpoint, continue to the 800 metre Tunel dos Cavaleiros through which the beautiful valley of Calheta and the sea is visible.

Day 5  Levada Nova
Drive to the south coast of the island, making a stop at Ponta do Vigia, the westernmost tip of the island. The lighthouse here stands on the cliffs 300 metres above the waves. Built in 1922, it houses a small museum containing exhibits on the lighthouses of Madeira. Today’s walk begins from Lombada, just inland from Ponta de Sol. Follow the Levada Nova round the hillside offering views over the coastline and villages of Ribeira Brava. The landscape here gives a great insight into local livelihoods and traditions, passing banana plantations, cultivated fields and colourful endemic flora, which the tour leader will point out along the route.

Day 6  Funchal      
Take an orientation walk of Funchal with your Explore tour leader. Walk through the narrow, cobbled lanes passing fishermen’s cottages, art and crafts shops and restaurants. This afternoon there is a choice of activities including a half day cruise searching for whales and dolphins, or perhaps spend some more time exploring Funchal – the Botanical Gardens and the cable car up to the tropical gardens at Monte are a must.      

Day 7  Funchal      
Today’s walk starts at Pico Arieiro. From here follow the trail to the summit of Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s highest point (1,862m). Descend down to Achada de Texeira, before returning to the capital by minibus. Perhaps spend the afternoon in the old town where there are many restaurants, or head down to the harbour front to sample a glass of the famous Madeira wine.

Day 8  Funchal      
Your tour ends after breakfast, transfer to the airport at any time.