Included: An experienced English-speaking hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area 8-day hiking tour Madeira (6 days of hiking) Accommodation for 7 nights in 3-star hotels (double occupancy) 7 breakfasts, 6 picnics, and 7 dinners All transfers indicated in the itinerary Hotel and hiking taxes Luggage transfers 24/7 emergency phone assistance Add-ons (pricing shown at checkout): Single occupancy room Not included: Flights to Madeira Drinks Personal expenses Insurance — available to add at checkout Guide and other gratuities — optional

How fit do I need to be?

In order to join this hiking tour, great fitness is required, along with prior multi-day hiking experience. The most you’ll hike within a day is up to 18 km (11 mi) , with up to 960 m (3,150 ft) of elevation gain. Keep in mind that some days bring long, steep descents—one drops as much as 1,600 m (5,249 ft)—so sturdy hiking boots and trekking poles are strongly recommended. Weather on the island can shift quickly at higher elevations, which can add to the difficulty. This is a physically demanding week, best suited to hikers already comfortable spending five to six hours a day on the trail for six days running. For more hiking adventures in Portugal , click here !

What do I need to bring?

Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring: Luggage Duffle bag or suitcase (transported between accommodations) Small backpack (20-40L) for daily essentials and picnic Clothing and footwear Breathable, quick-drying underwear T-shirts (short and long sleeve) Fleece or sweater Comfortable walking pants (no jeans) Windbreaker & waterproof jacket Hiking shoes/boots (good ankle support and grip) Hat, cap, or scarf Sunglasses Warm fleece (for spring, fall, and winter) Insulated coat (for spring, fall, and winter) Essential gear Water bottle (2L minimum) Walking poles (highly recommended) Headlamp (mandatory for tunnels) Other essentials Swimsuit Water sandals (for rocky pools) Toiletries and towel Sunscreen Toilet paper and tissues Airtight box and cutlery Waterproof bags (for gear and picnic) First aid kit (blister care, disinfectant, pain relievers, antidiarrheal, tweezers, mosquito repellent, personal meds) Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and pricing For this hiking tour in Madeira , the usual client-to-guide ratio is 10 :1. It takes a minimum of 3 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 10 participants. Solo travelers are welcome to join, but securing a single occupancy room for themselves is mandatory —you’ll be able to add it to your booking at checkout. A hiking tour in Madeira can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors aged 15 to 18 may be permitted to join the hiking tour Madeira on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has participants under the age of 18 , contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Is a single occupancy room available?

The price for this Madeira hiking tour is based on twin-share rooms , but a single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional fee . You can add it to your booking at checkout. Solo travelers are welcome to join, but securing a single occupancy room for themselves is required—you’ll be able to add it to your booking at checkout. Also, if your group has an odd number of people (e.g., 3 or 5 people) , adding the single occupancy option is mandatory as well.

Getting there and meeting location

The starting point of your hiking tour in Madeira is Madeira Airport (FNC) . Once you arrive, you’ll meet your guide at the airport for an arranged transfer to your accommodation in Boaventura.

Safety measures and insurance

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout. Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

2026 is sold out — book 2027, or find a last minute deal.

Hiking Tour Madeira: 8-Day Guided Island Adventure

MADEIRA | PORTUGAL

Hiking Tour in Madeira: Mountains, Cliffs & Ocean Views

Name: Hiking Tour Madeira: 8-Day Guided Island Adventure
Brand: 57hours
Availability: InStock

8 days | Challenging

From $3,079 ()

Book a call

Some islands are for sunbathing. Madeira is for exploring. Floating off the coast of Portugal, this volcanic gem is a hiker’s paradise—a playground of soaring peaks, emerald valleys, and dramatic coastal cliffs. For eight days, we’ll follow centuries-old levadas (small irrigation channels) through ancient laurel forests, stand on rocky summits with jaw-dropping views, and hike down zigzag paths to tiny villages tucked into the hills. Along the way, we’ll swim in volcanic pools, refuel with fresh island food in cozy hotels, and take in more natural beauty than seems fair for one place. It’s not the easiest hiking trip, but that’s the point—the best places never are.

Adventure Highlights

The PR1 to Pico Ruivo: Madeira’s legendary “Stairway to Heaven” trail, climbing from Pico Arieiro to the island’s highest peak
Comfortable stays across the island: Nights split between mountain hotels with pools and jacuzzis and a centrally located stay in Funchal, all at a relaxed 3-star comfort level
Levadas through ancient laurel forest: Centuries-old irrigation channels winding through primary forest and past hidden waterfalls

Duration

8 days

Season

Year-round

Group size

Up to 10 people

The adventure, day by day

Download itineraries

Discover the wild side of Madeira on an 8-day hiking tour through this unique Portuguese island! We’ll follow historic levadas through lush valleys and forests, climb rugged mountain ridges, and descend zigzagging trails to remote villages. Along the way, we’ll discover UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forests, swim in volcanic pools, and take in sweeping Atlantic views from paths carved into cliffs. Off the trail, cozy 3-star hotels, fresh island cuisine, and hassle-free transfers are all taken care of. With an expert guide leading the way, we’ll experience the very best of Madeira’s landscapes—on foot, up close, and at the perfect pace.

Day 1: Arrival in Madeira and transfer to Boaventura

Arrive at Madeira Airport, where your local hiking guide will be waiting to meet you. From there, we transfer to Boaventura on the island’s north coast, where you’ll settle into your first hotel—complete with a swimming pool and jacuzzi to ease into island time. The rest of the day is free before we regroup for dinner and go over the days ahead.

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Solar Boaventura or Hotel Pestana Quinta do Arco, Boaventura/Arco de São Jorge

Day 2: Stairway to heaven to Pico das Pedras

From Boaventura, we drive to Pico Arieiro (1,810 m/5,938 ft), the starting point of one of Madeira’s most spectacular trails. The PR1 winds through tunnels and stone staircases—some of them steep—delivering sweeping views over peaks, valleys, and the ocean all the way to Pico Ruivo, the island’s highest point at 1,861 m (6,105 ft). Your guide finds a scenic spot for a picnic lunch along the way. From Achada do Teixeira, we begin a long descent through primary forest down to Pico das Pedras, where transport is waiting to take us back to the hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
Hiking: 13 km (8 mi)
Elevation: +630 m (+2,067 ft) / -1,485 m (-4,872 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel Solar Boaventura or Hotel Pestana Quinta do Arco, Boaventura/Arco de São Jorge

Day 3: North coast hike, between forest and ocean

View from the Eagle Peak on the hiking tour Madeira

After a short transfer, we start today’s hike with a climb that opens up wide views over the Boaventura valley, one of the wildest corners of Madeira. From there, we descend through primary forest—thick with ferns and endemic trees—down to Levada de Cima and its terraced vegetable gardens. The coastline gradually comes into view as we follow a zigzagging path down to the cliffs, then a paved trail along the ocean’s edge. Transfer back to the hotel, with time to enjoy the pool and jacuzzi before dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
Hiking: 15 km (9 mi)
Elevation: +600 m (+1,969 ft) / -900 m (-2,953 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel Solar Boaventura or Hotel Pestana Quinta do Arco, Boaventura/Arco de São Jorge

Day 4: Paul da Serra plateau to Seixal

Black sand Seixal beach on the hiking tour Madeira

We return to the Paul da Serra plateau (1,500 m/4,921 ft) for the start of a long descent down Madeira’s north side. Along the way, we pass an old cable system once used to transport wood and ferns down to the Seixal valley, then continue into the Chão da Ribeira valley, dotted with basalt stone huts and cultivated terraces. We arrive in Seixal, a small farming village known for its volcanic coves and one of Madeira’s largest black sand beaches, with time for a well-earned swim. Transfer to Encumeada for two nights in the mountains.

Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
Hiking: 16 km (10 mi)
Elevation: +200 m (+656 ft) / -1,600 m (-5,249 ft)
Accommodation: Valley View Hotel, Encumeada, or Mediterraneo in São Jorge, or Sol Mar in Seixal

Day 5: Paul da Serra

A signpost towards Paul de Serra with hills in the background in Madeira

From our hotel on the slopes of the Paul da Serra plateau, we set off along the Levada do Norte, one of the island’s most important water channels. A winding forest path leads us down to the Levada dos Rodrigues, which takes us through tunnels and past a few pretty waterfalls on the way to the village of Ginjas. We return along a forest trail near Chão dos Louros park, home to laurissilva species like the Canary laurel.

Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
Hiking: 18 km (11 mi)
Elevation: +960 m (+3,150 ft) / -980 m (-3,215 ft)
Accommodation: Valley View Hotel, Encumeada, or Mediterraneo in São Jorge, or Sol Mar in Seixal

Day 6: Paul do Mar and its hills

We climb through volcanic rock faces—home to clinging houseleeks—up to the village of Prazeres, where we stop at the Quinta Pedagógica de Prazeres for a cup of chá de limão, tea flavored with lemon peel. From there, the Levada Nova carries us north through pine and eucalyptus groves to the remote village of Fajã da Ovelha, past flowering agapanthus, amaryllis, and montbretia, banana plantations, and scattered hamlets. We finish with a spectacular descent along an old royal trail down to the fishing village of Paul do Mar, before transferring to Funchal and checking into simple, centrally located accommodations for two nights.

Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
Hiking: 15 km (9 mi)
Elevation: +860 m (+2,822 ft) / -860 m (-2,822 ft)
Accommodation: França Mar or Quinta Penha França, or Hotel Caju, Funchal

Day 7: Levada do Moinho, Levada Nova, and Funchal

A short taxi ride takes us to the hills above Ponta do Sol for a hike full of surprises. We follow the Levada do Moinho down into the valley, with views over the ocean and countryside, then climb to join the Levada Nova and come upon a striking waterfall—walking right behind it before ducking through a roughly 100-meter tunnel (bring your headlamp). We return to our taxi along the Levada Nova, with a few exposed, vertigo-inducing sections along the way. Back in Funchal, the rest of the day is free to explore the capital, and guide services end after dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch, dinner
Hiking: 8 km (5 mi)
Elevation: +870 m (+2,854 ft) / -870 m (-2,854 ft)
Accommodation: França Mar or Quinta Penha França, or Hotel Caju, Funchal

Day 8: Departure

Transfer to Madeira Airport by taxi, timed 2.5 hours before your flight.

Meals: Breakfast

Meet Scout, your adventure agent

Tell it what you’re after. You’ll have a day-by-day trip in a minute, quoted by a certified local guide.

Let’s build your itinerary. What are you into?

Talk to Scout

Photo gallery

Accommodation and food

Cozy 3-star hotels

Over eight days, we move through three distinct settings, each with its own character. The first three nights are spent at Hotel Solar Boaventura or Hotel Pestana Quinta do Arco, tucked into the north coast with a pool and jacuzzi to unwind in after a day on the trail. From there, two nights are spent at Valley View Hotel, Encumeada, or one of its alternates in São Jorge or Seixal, set deep in the mountains. The final two nights bring us to Funchal, Madeira’s capital, where we stay at França Mar, Quinta Penha da França, or Hotel Caju—simple, well-located hotels right in the heart of downtown. All accommodations are 3-star, and note that exact accommodations may vary depending on availability, but will always be of the same standard and comfort.

Hearty Portuguese food

Espada fillet in batter and baked banana

Throughout our adventure, we’ll indulge in Portuguese delicacies for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Breakfast in Madeira usually includes a spread of fresh fruits, local cheeses, and pastries like custard tarts. Our picnic lunch might feature espetadas (skewers of tender beef grilled to perfection), prego (a hearty steak sandwich served on crusty bolo de caco bread) or fresh seafood. Dinner brings a chance to savor carne de vinha d’alhos (pork marinated in garlic and wine) or espada com banana (black scabbard fish paired with sweet bananas). Don’t forget to try some of the island’s renowned desserts, such as passion fruit pudding!

Adventure, packed to go

Hiking Tour in Madeira: Mountains, Cliffs & Ocean Views

Adventure Brochure

Brochure and video trailer

Download the trip brochure and cinematic trailer—everything you need to plan, share, or start dreaming.

Download now

Meet your guides

Seasoned pros, local legends, and passionate adventurers—your trip is in the best hands.

5.00

Benny

Benny has over 12 years of guiding experience and a true passion for showing adventurers the true essence of Madeirad. After trading office life for guiding on the island he calls home, he’s never looked back. Fluent in English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish, he’s all about giving guests an authentic, local experience. Whether it’s food, hidden spots, or local culture, Benny’s goal is simple: show you Madeira like a true Madeiran would!

5.00

Fábio

Fábio is a native mountain guide who’s found his true calling in Madeira’s majestic mountains and quiet forests. Passionate about showing off the island’s secret corners, he’ll take you on trails he knows inside and out, sharing stories, local traditions, and the stunning fauna and flora. Fábio’s also dedicated to training the island’s official mountain guides, so don’t be surprised if he knows more people in the mountains than in the city!

Things to know

Included:
- - An experienced English-speaking hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 8-day hiking tour Madeira (6 days of hiking)
  - Accommodation for 7 nights in 3-star hotels (double occupancy)
  - 7 breakfasts, 6 picnics, and 7 dinners
  - All transfers indicated in the itinerary
  - Hotel and hiking taxes
  - Luggage transfers
  - 24/7 emergency phone assistance
Add-ons (pricing shown at checkout):
- - Single occupancy room
Not included:
- - Flights to Madeira
  - Drinks
  - Personal expenses
  - Insurance — available to add at checkout
  - Guide and other gratuities — optional
In order to join this hiking tour, great fitness is required, along with prior multi-day hiking experience. The most you’ll hike within a day is up to 18 km (11 mi), with up to 960 m (3,150 ft) of elevation gain.

Keep in mind that some days bring long, steep descents—one drops as much as 1,600 m (5,249 ft)—so sturdy hiking boots and trekking poles are strongly recommended. Weather on the island can shift quickly at higher elevations, which can add to the difficulty. This is a physically demanding week, best suited to hikers already comfortable spending five to six hours a day on the trail for six days running.

For more hiking adventures in Portugal, click here!
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:

Luggage
- - Duffle bag or suitcase (transported between accommodations)
  - Small backpack (20-40L) for daily essentials and picnic
Clothing and footwear
- - Breathable, quick-drying underwear
  - T-shirts (short and long sleeve)
  - Fleece or sweater
  - Comfortable walking pants (no jeans)
  - Windbreaker & waterproof jacket
  - Hiking shoes/boots (good ankle support and grip)
  - Hat, cap, or scarf
  - Sunglasses
  - Warm fleece (for spring, fall, and winter)
  - Insulated coat (for spring, fall, and winter)
Essential gear
- - Water bottle (2L minimum)
  - Walking poles (highly recommended)
  - Headlamp (mandatory for tunnels)
Other essentials
- - Swimsuit
  - Water sandals (for rocky pools)
  - Toiletries and towel
  - Sunscreen
  - Toilet paper and tissues
  - Airtight box and cutlery
  - Waterproof bags (for gear and picnic)
  - First aid kit (blister care, disinfectant, pain relievers, antidiarrheal, tweezers, mosquito repellent, personal meds)
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Got everything you need? Grab your gear through Active Junky and earn cash back on top outdoor brands — plus a $10 bonus on your first $25+ purchase. Shop now at Active Junky!
Group sizes and pricing
- - For this hiking tour in Madeira, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 10:1.
  - It takes a minimum of 3 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 10 participants.
  - Solo travelers are welcome to join, but securing a single occupancy room for themselves is mandatory—you’ll be able to add it to your booking at checkout.
A hiking tour in Madeira can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors aged 15 to 18 may be permitted to join the hiking tour Madeira on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The price for this Madeira hiking tour is based on twin-share rooms, but a single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional fee. You can add it to your booking at checkout.

Solo travelers are welcome to join, but securing a single occupancy room for themselves is required—you’ll be able to add it to your booking at checkout. Also, if your group has an odd number of people (e.g., 3 or 5 people), adding the single occupancy option is mandatory as well.
The starting point of your hiking tour in Madeira is Madeira Airport (FNC). Once you arrive, you’ll meet your guide at the airport for an arranged transfer to your accommodation in Boaventura.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with insurance. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.

Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations! Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.
- If canceled within 48 hours of booking, a full refund will be issued.
- If canceled 60 or more days before departure, a 70% refund of the total trip price will be issued.
- If canceled within 59 days of departure, no refund will be issued.
- Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48 hours grace period.

Have more questions?

Our team is here to answer your questions and plan with you.

Book a call

Book This Adventure for a Private Group

Book a fully private 57hours adventure for your group. We customize dates, group sizes, terrain, guides and accommodations — so your adventure fits your people and your goals.

Talk to an Adventure Planner