Funchal: Levada Caldeirão Verde Waterfalls and Forests Hike

If you’re dreaming of exploring Madeira’s green heart, this guided hike along the Levada Caldeirão Verde promises a scenic adventure through lush forests and waterfalls. While I haven’t done this particular tour myself, the description gives us a pretty clear picture of what to expect, and it’s a solid option for those who love nature and don’t mind a moderate walk.

What makes this experience stand out? First, we love how it combines UNESCO-protected Laurisilva Forest—a truly special ecosystem—and spectacular waterfalls like Caldeirão Verde. Second, the inclusion of short tunnels carved into the rock adds a bit of adventure and uniqueness to the trail. On the flip side, one thing to keep in mind is the moderate level of fitness required, especially as the trail involves uneven surfaces and steps. This tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts, hikers, and anyone keen on seeing Madeira’s untouched beauty without strenuous climbs.

If you’re the type of traveler who enjoys gentle walks in serene settings and values well-organized tours with knowledgeable guides, this could be a great fit. It’s less about adrenaline and more about appreciating the scenery at a relaxed pace.

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Key Points

• Beautiful landscapes: Walk through a UNESCO-listed forest, with plenty of scenic views of villages and the islands’ greenery.
• Accessible trail: Designed as a gentle walk, yet still engaging with tunnels, waterfalls, and thick forest.
• Guided experience: Led by knowledgeable guides who can enrich your understanding of the local flora and history.
• Includes transportation: Pickup and drop-off from designated locations save hassle and give you more time to enjoy the hike.
• Duration: Around 7 hours in total, with 4.5 hours of walking—manageable for most active travelers.
• Cost: At $66 per person, it offers reasonable value considering the guided nature, transportation, and scenic highlights.

This tour begins early in the morning with pickup from a variety of central spots in Funchal, making it quite convenient whether you’re staying downtown or nearby. The first leg is a bus/coach ride of about an hour, taking you from the city’s bustle into the tranquil, untouched landscape of Madeira’s interior.

Once you arrive at the Queimadas guesthouse, the starting point of the trail, you’ll immediately sense the change of scenery. This charming spot acts as a gateway into the Laurisilva Forest, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site. The forest here is a tropical marvel—an ancient, dense woodland filled with vibrant greenery, towering trees, and a peaceful silence that’s almost meditative.

Walking along the levada, you’ll pass through short tunnels carved into the rock, which lend a slight sense of adventure. These tunnels are relatively short but can be quite cool and damp, adding an element of fun. As you hike, expect sweeping views of distant villages and the lush landscape stretching as far as the eye can see. The trail is well-maintained, but still features uneven surfaces and steps, so sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must.

The highlight of the route is definitely the Caldeirão Verde waterfall. This spectacular cascade drops into a tranquil pool, framed by tall cliffs that give a sense of dramatic scale. It’s a perfect spot to pause, take photos, or just soak in the silence. Several reviews mention how peaceful and awe-inspiring this spot is—an image that stays with many long after the tour.

After spending some time enjoying the waterfall, the hike concludes with a return bus/coach ride of about an hour back to Funchal, with drop-offs at the original pickup points. The whole experience lasts about 7 hours, making it a full but not overly long day.

You can expect a moderate level of fitness to be necessary. The terrain includes uneven surfaces and some steps, so it’s not suited for those with mobility issues or pregnant women. The walk is designed to be accessible, but it still requires a bit of stamina and good walking shoes. The cool mist from the forest and waterfalls adds a refreshing element, making it ideal for a warm day.

Guides are fluent in English, French, German, and Portuguese, offering insights into the local flora, fauna, and history. Many reviews mention the guides’ friendly, informative style, which enhances the experience significantly.

While the tour covers scenic highlights, it’s worth noting that food and drinks are not included—so bring water, snacks, and perhaps a camera to capture the moments.

In terms of positives, travelers love the scenic beauty and peaceful atmosphere. The trail is praised for being “gentle but immersive,” offering a good balance of accessibility and visual splendor. Many reviewers report feeling the cool forest air and enjoying the short tunnels, which add a bit of fun and variety.

However, a few travelers mention that the group size can vary, and some found the pace a bit brisk or the weather unpredictable—so bring layers and be prepared for potential rain. The price of $66 is reasonable, considering the guided aspect and transportation, but if you’re looking for a very quick visit or a more strenuous hike, this might feel a bit slow or easy.

Another point to consider is that not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues, so plan accordingly.

This hike is ideal for those who appreciate natural beauty at a gentle pace. It’s perfect if you want a day immersed in Madeira’s lush greenery and waterfalls without tackling difficult terrain. Families with active older children or teenagers who enjoy nature walks could find it enjoyable, but it’s not suited for very young children or anyone with mobility restrictions.

People looking for a relaxing, scenic day that offers a mix of guided storytelling, stunning views, and peaceful surroundings will find this tour a good choice. If you’re after adrenaline or challenging hikes, you might want to explore other options.

All in all, the Levada Caldeirão Verde Waterfalls and Forests Hike provides a peaceful yet visually stunning experience that highlights Madeira’s untouched landscape. The guided aspect and transportation ease make it accessible, especially for those staying in Funchal. While it’s not the most strenuous activity—making it suitable for most active travelers—it still offers enough variety and scenery to feel like a true escape into nature.

If you love scenic walks, waterfalls, and lush forests, and are okay with a moderate effort, this tour will give you a lovely taste of Madeira’s natural charm without the rush or difficulty of more intense hikes. Just remember to pack good shoes, a camera, and a light jacket for the tunnels.

Is this tour suitable for families? While the hike is generally gentle, it requires a moderate fitness level and involves uneven paths and steps, so it’s best for active older children or teenagers. It’s not recommended for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What should I bring on the hike? Comfortable shoes are essential, along with a camera to capture the scenery, water to stay hydrated, and comfortable clothes suitable for walking in forested, possibly damp conditions.

Are food and drinks included? No, food and drinks are not included, so travelers should bring their own water and snacks.

How long is the total tour? The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including transportation, walking, and stops for sightseeing and photos.

What is the level of difficulty? Moderate. The trail involves uneven surfaces and steps but is designed to be accessible for most people with a reasonable fitness level.

Are there tunnels to go through? Yes, the trail includes short tunnels carved into the rock, which are a fun feature of the hike.

Is this tour accessible for people with mobility issues? No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or who require wheelchair access.

Whether you’re a casual walker or a dedicated hiker, this tour offers a relaxed yet memorable peek into Madeira’s lush interior. It’s a peaceful escape that beautifully showcases the island’s natural wonders, especially if you love waterfalls and forests.