From CAD 2,850
Guarantee
Small Group
Average
Rating
(6 reviews)
Experience Overview
Volcanic, wild, diverse − Madeira is a heaven for walkers. On this small-group adventure, we experience the most beautiful routes on this Portuguese island, from gentle strolls along flower-lined levadas (centuries-old waterways) and spectacular coastal footpaths to more demanding forays among the jagged ridges and peaks of the mountainous interior. There’s also time to relax by the sea in Machico village, see waves crash close to shore in Porto Moniz and discover the historic importance of Funchal, an old trade hub for sugar and wine.
Profile
— Accommodation: 5 Superior nights (hotels), 2 Classic nights (hotels) — Five days walking; one free day — Group normally 5 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 18 — Altitude maximum: 6,109ft (1,862m); average: 2,460ft (750m) — Not suitable for vertigo sufferers — Transport by private minivan — We may need to amend the itinerary depending on local weather conditions, which can change quickly
At a Glance
— Accommodation: 5 Superior nights (hotels), 2 Classic nights (hotels) — Five days walking; one free day — Group normally 5 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 18 — Altitude maximum: 6,109ft (1,862m); average: 2,460ft (750m) — Not suitable for vertigo sufferers — Transport by private minivan — We may need to amend the itinerary depending on local weather conditions, which can change quickly
Trip For You
This trip is rated Activity Level 3 (Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings please visit our Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip please do not hesitate to contact us.
Walking profile: This trip consists of five daywalks and one free day. The walks are fairly easy, medium-duration walks, or more challenging, shorter walks. Reasonable fitness is required. On several occasions, where the path narrows and has a steep drop to one side, walkers need a head for heights. Handrails sometimes protect these sections, but these are not in place in all parts; therefore, we do not recommend this holiday for vertigo sufferers. A few of the levada paths enter short tunnels through the rock but these are easily navigated with the aid of a torch/flashlight.
Terrain: The paths we use are generally flat and well maintained but some routes cross rougher terrain with longer ascents and descents, and some trails involve walking up or down steps. Some of the paths are quite narrow and stony underfoot and require walking in single file.
Itinerary: We may be forced to amend the itinerary depending on local weather conditions, which can change quickly.
Eating Drinking
Breakfast: All breakfasts are included and usually consist of coffee/tea, fruit juice, rolls or bread, butter and jam, cereal, ham and cheese.
Lunch (not included): The ingredients for lunch are usually bought at a nearby shop or supermarket each morning before taking the transfer to the start point of the walk. Premade sandwiches and snacks are available, or you may prefer to purchase bread rolls and freshly cut cheese/meat to create your own lunch. It is also possible to pre-order a picnic from the hotel the night before and the cost ranges from €13-€16.
Dinner: Three dinners are included while in Porto Moniz. For dinners not included, we aim to eat in a different restaurant each night. Typically, the tour leader eats with the group for at least two nights of the trip and recommends/arranges places to eat on the others. Typical Madeiran cuisine incorporates a lot of meat and fish with rather plainly cooked vegetables and boiled potatoes. There will generally be at least one vegetarian option on the menu, but vegetarians should be prepared to request an alternative dish if required.
Transportation
Transport from and to the airport is by taxi or minibus and is included. Other transport mentioned in the itinerary as an integral part of the guided walks is also included, as is the transfer of luggage between hotels.
Transport on optional excursions, or where you have voluntarily curtailed a group walk, is not included.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Hotel Dom Pedro, Caminho de São Roque, 9200-126 Machico
Phone: +351 291 969 505
Recommended arrival time: The welcome meeting and main briefing will be held at 6pm in the reception of the start hotel.
Airport: Funchal Airport (FNC)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 15 minutes’ drive from the airport. Exodus provides free arrival transfers to the start hotel from the airport for all customers.
If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
Exodus provides free departure transfers for all customers to Funchal Airport (FNC) from the end hotel.
Please note, unless specified otherwise, the transfers will be to the start (or pre-tour) hotel and from the end (or post-tour) hotel and will be on the date on which the tour starts/ends; transfers to other hotels in the same city and/or on different dates may attract an extra charge. Transfers should be booked with your sales representative at least two weeks before the tour starts.
Weather Information
The climate in Madeira is like that found around the Mediterranean and is renowned for its year-round mildness; however, there is always the possibility of inclement weather. The island has several micro-climates, so expect temperatures and weather to vary from day to day as we visit different areas of the island, from chilly and foggy in the mountains to warm and dry in Funchal.
From April to June, and October to November, temperatures are pleasant and with some rainfall. From July to September, daytime is a little warmer, typically dry with an average of seven to eight hours of sunshine a day, but the odd shower is still possible. Winter is generally wetter, particularly at high levels with rain falling between periods of fine, settled weather (so waterproofs are essential).
Spending Money
Allow €5-€10 for lunch, purchased in the supermarket each morning and eaten at a scenic spot during the walk or between €13-€16 for pre-ordering a picnic from the hotel. Allow €15-€20 for dinner (taken in restaurants), excluding alcoholic beverages. A reasonable bottle of wine in a restaurant will cost about €15. You will also need some extra cash for drinks or ice creams in cafes or bars during the daywalks or in the hotel bar in the evening. Typically, a beer or coffee will cost around €1.50.
Please note there is a local tourist tax in the areas of Machico and Funchal (both €2pppn), which is paid locally at the hotel.
Tipping
Our local staff are paid well and fairly for their work. Most of our clients wish to tip their guides in appreciation of their help and friendliness. This is, of course, not compulsory and depends on the service received. For this trip, we recommend a starting point of €20 per person for the leader.
Highlights
— Walk through the botanical paradise of Madeira, taking the most scenic trails on the island — Stroll alongside flower-lined levadas with stunning views over the Atlantic — Marvel at spectacular mountain scenery, including Pico Ruivo, the island’s highest peak — Watch sunrise from Pico Arieiro, one of the highest mountains on the island — Uncover the cultural side of Madeira with an exploration of the capital, Funchal — Hike through the mystical Fanal Forest, where twisted trees create a fairytale setting
Trip Details
Product Code: 4118
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: included.
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: TSD2
Starts: Machico, Madeira
Finishes: Machico, Madeira
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Average
Includes
— All breakfasts and three dinners — All accommodation — All transport and listed activities — Tour leader throughout — Arrival and departure transfers for everyoneAccommodation
Four-star hotelsThroughout the trek, we stay in good quality hotels, some right on the coast with amazing views. Below are the hotels we normally use: Machico: Hotel Dom Pedro (nights 1-2) The hotel has sweeping views over Machico Bay and offers a range of leisure amenities, including table tennis, a pool table, and an outdoor pool (open in good weather). There is a piano bar with occasional live music and coffee/cake is served throughout the day in the lounge area. Porto Moniz: Hotel Aqua Natura Bay (nights 3-5) The Hotel Agua Natura Bay has an enviable location with views over the natural swimming pools in town. Hotel amenities include a hot tub and sauna where you can rest your tired limbs, and we dine in the excellent hotel restaurants during our stay. Funchal: Pestana Casino Studios (nights 6-7) Pestana Casino Studios is ideally placed for exploring, just a five-minute walk to the centre of Funchal. It also has an outdoor pool and access to the indoor pool and spa facilities of the neighbouring Pestana Casino Park Resort.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD 2850 (CAD 356 /day)
Itinerary
We start at our hotel in Machico, which overlooks the beach of Machico Bay. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening, in which we can discuss the adventures to come and you can ask any questions you may have. Alternatively, if you'd like to settle into the adventure, speak to us about booking an extra night or two before the trip begins.
Today we walk the classic route along the Ponta de São Lourenço. Although challenging in parts, this path takes us through fantastic scenery as we admire wallflowers, stalwarts and many other tiny plants that resist the windy environment and grow in soils with high salinity levels. Rocks, sculptured by nature, have a great diversity of colours ranging from black to red, and are in stark contrast to the blue of the ocean. Park rangers watch over the plants and animals that belong to this eastern extremity of the island, around Casa do Sardinha. We return to our hotel in Machico in the afternoon, and there is free time to explore the village or relax at the beach.
This morning, we take a transfer and walk a scenic route along a cliff trail on the north coast. We set off along the little Levada do Caniçal, more modest and quieter than yesterday’s path, then begin a gradual climb to the crest of the cliffs at Boca do Risco, where we enjoy amazing views along the north coast. We then head west along the coastal path: a spectacular route, in many places cut right into the cliff. We finally descend to Porto da Cruz, once a bustling port but now a sleepy, picturesque village. Time permitting (and if open), we have a short look around a factory that has been producing Madeira rum for several centuries. Later, we transfer to Porto Moniz for the night.
Transfer to Queimadas Natural Park, where we walk along the Levada do Caldeirão Verde. This route has many waterfalls and we may need to pass under some to continue the path. We use our torches/flashlights to walk through tunnels carved into the mountains. We finish the walk with a descent into the village of Ilha before returning to Porto Moniz.
Our walk today starts on the Paul da Serra plateau and ends at the Unesco World Natural Heritage site of Fanal Forest. We walk via open landscapes with fabulous views over the Ribeira da Janela and Chão da Ribeira valleys, and through the largest surviving area of laurisilva forest on the planet (believed to be 90 percent primary forest). We end the hike at the fairytale Fanal Forest, a small volcanic crater filled with twisted trees and often shrouded in mist. Many of the ocotea foetens trees here predate the founding of Madeira in 1419, and we take time to absorb the unique energy of the forest before returning to Porto Moniz.
After a morning transfer (approximately one hour) via the mountainous interior, today is free for you to explore Funchal, the island capital and our base for the final two nights of the trip. The city is easily explored on foot and sites of interest include Sé Cathedral, built between 1493 and 1514, and the imposing statue of Madeira founder, João Gonçalves Zarco, on Avenida Arriaga. Alternatively, take the cable car to Monte Palace and Tropical Gardens to enjoy fascinating installations and magnificent views over the city, learn about the production of Madeira's ever-popular wine at Blandy's Wine Lodge, or join a whale-watching tour to spot some of the 28 whale and dolphin species that grace Madeira's waters throughout the year.
Today we embark on the most strenuous walk of the trip. We depart early to reach the third highest mountain on the island, Pico Arieiro (5,965ft/1,818m), in time for sunrise, then continue to Pico Ruivo (6,109ft/1,862m), the highest peak, for more fantastic views. We finish by taking the 1.9mi (3km) path to Achado do Teixeira. The path has lots of ascents and descents along the way, but the memorable scenery is ample reward. At the end of the walk, we transfer back to Funchal. Please note: On occasion, the route to Pico Ruivo may be closed due to mudslides or inclement weather. Our guide will always try to offer another route up to Pico Ruivo, but if this is not possible, an alternative walk from Ribeiro Frio to Portela will be available. This route traverses native forest and offers wonderful coastal views. *Due to forest fires in August 2024 the route to the Pico's is closed and is expected to be closed for a few months. Until we receive confirmation from the local authorities to be able to trek this route again we will operate an alternative walk in the southwest of the island following a Levada walk between Fajã da Ovelha to Paúl do Mar, providing panoramic views of the region.
The trip ends in Funchal after breakfast. Hop into your free transfer to the airport. Or, if you’d like a little longer on the island, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
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Tour Operator
Exodus Travel
It’s all about adventure That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on. At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved. This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday. Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years. Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.
In Business Since 1974
Reviews
jenny pulman - Traveled, January 2024
walking in madiera Many changes to trip notes – including days walking and lack of public transport Thoughts on Group Leader Got better as week went on. First night was dreadful. we had to chase hotel to find out time to meet. Then we were waiting in a separate place and we had to then go and find leader. No group meets in evening arranged until we suggested. I think he didn't know how Exodus operates generally as his first one and I felt sorry for the many lone travellers in our group as they were on their own for 3 evenings I think. Advice for Potential Travellers Take own snacks from UK for lunches. Local shops poor and unhealthy selections (no M&S Salads!) and often closed when had time to shop Suggestions could have been a lot better
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/24/2024
Val Wallace - Traveled, February 2024
not sure what you mean? review the name of the trip? Fine! A varied selection of walks around the island. 3 out of 4 hotels were excellent – the second one was a bit dark and cold. Length of walks were good – about 7 miles. Pace for me was a bit slow. One of the walks (high up near the tops) was frustrating as there was no view over the hedges. The replacement walk as the highest peak was closed was in fact my favourite (on the Friday) Most Inspirational Moment For me, swimming in the natural sea pool after the walk on the third day (Porto Moniz) Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent. Very friendly and knowledgeable Advice for Potential Travellers Mainly walks in a line on the flat, with steps (many) at beginning and end of walks Suggestions I understand that as a single person there needs to be a supplement for accommodation, but an additional £400 is a steep price to pay. When young(er) the concept of sharing is fine, but as you get older it becomes much less appealing. I would take more trips if there was more leniency towards solo travellers.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/27/2024
Karen Maynard - Traveled, January 2024
Great trip. Amazing views. This walking trip was a great way to spend a week. There’s a great variety of walks which meant each walking day was different and interesting. Staying at four different hotels across the week, we covered a lot of the island. We went at New Year and the weather was really mild, t-shirt weather during the day. The views were fantastic and it’s a lovely island. Highly recommended. Local food was great. A good balance of walking and some time to relax. Most Inspirational Moment On our last walking day we saw a spectacular sunrise from the mountain, Pico Arieiro. We then did a walk to two other mountains - challenging but worth it. The ancient Funal Forest was also quite magical. Thoughts on Group Leader Our guide, Bruno, was very good - enthusiastic and knowledgeable. Advice for Potential Travellers The weather is better than the UK but we did have some rain and it was quite cloudy at times. We did travel in January though! We were there for New Year and the fireworks in Funchal were brilliant. Suggestions On our rest day in Funchal we went whale watching and saw a large group of pilot whales. The hotel in Porto Moniz was beautiful. However a couple of the other hotels were fairly basic.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/25/2024
Susan Somner - Traveled, October 2023
Spectacular walking and scenery Excellent trip. We saw so much of the island. Most Inspirational Moment Reaching the top of the highest mountain in Madeira above the clouds and swimming in the natural pools at Porto Moniz. Thoughts on Group Leader The group leader was excellent - very enthusiastic about his homeland and very knowledgeable. Very considerate of all members of the group and various abilities. He did tend to repeat himself a little though. Advice for Potential Travellers Be mindful that there are quite a few very high paths - albeit mostly with handrails - definitely think twice about this trip if you are not great with heights! Some of the walks were quite challenging. Suggestions The first meal that was included in Porto Moniz was not very good - the second one in the hotel was much better.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 11/26/2023
Jane Henderson - Traveled, February 2023
Trekking in Madeira Lovely island, great guide and group. Really nice hotels, lucky with the weather! However, the most interesting walks to the Eastern peninsula and the central mountains were very busy. Also, for me, the overall pace was rather slow and the distances covered could have been greater. Thoughts on Group Leader Excellent. Advice for Potential Travellers Take 50 cent coins for toilets.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/23/2023
Tracey Hudson - Traveled, February 2023
Thank you, Andre! This was a great trip. Madeira is a stunning island, with an abundance of natural beauty. We were very lucky to have sunny clear weather for the Pico Ruivo, and the views were well worth the at times tricky climb. The food and wine were lovely in Madeira! Most Inspirational Moment Taking in the 360 degree view from the Summit of the Pico Ruivo - amazing! Thoughts on Group Leader Andre Ponte, our guide, was fantastic fun, a very experienced and knowledgeable trip leader. He showed us his island with enthusiasm and pride, and is very conscious and protective of its environment; he adapted the walks according to the (sometimes very changeable) weather conditions. He knows the nature and plant life on the island very well. A huge thank you again, Andre! Advice for Potential Travellers I would very much recommend this trip if you are of moderate fitness, and you don't have bad knees! Pack for varied weather conditions if you are going in March; we were lucky most days, but the wind means that weather changes quite rapidly. Wear shoes with good ankle support if you are susceptible in that area. And take a few 50 cent coins for the public toilets - you need them. Suggestions Some of the walks were very busy in March, which I didn't expect; take a good camera, a bit of extra patience, and enjoy those stunning views!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/22/2023
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