When it comes to exploring Madeira’s incredible scenery, this Queimadas and Caldeirão Verde Levada walk is often a top recommendation. It’s a day-long adventure designed to show you some of the island’s most iconic views—think waterfalls, lush greenery, and tiny villages straight out of a postcard. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just after a manageable outdoor experience, this tour offers a little bit of everything.

One thing we really appreciate about this experience is its balance — it’s not overly strenuous, yet you get a good dose of nature’s beauty. Plus, with local guides who speak multiple languages, you’ll find it easy to stay engaged and learn about Madeira’s flora, fauna, and landscape. On the flip side, the tour doesn’t include lunch, so you’ll want to prepare for that if you’re hungry after all those scenic pauses. It’s best suited for those who love a comfortable walk with plenty of breathtaking sights along the way.

If you’re after a well-organized day in nature with knowledgeable guides and stellar views, this tour is likely to tick those boxes. It’s perfect for anyone eager to get outdoors and see Madeira’s countryside without the hassle of planning every step themselves.

Key Points

Stunning scenery: Expect impressive waterfalls, lush greenery, and captivating village views.
Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enrich your experience with insights about the area’s plants and history.
Easy to moderate hike: Suitable for most fitness levels, with manageable terrain and some tunnels.
Good value: At $49, it offers a full day of exploration, including transportation, with no hidden costs.
Flexible cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a low-risk choice.
No lunch included: Bring your own snacks or plan to eat afterward since food isn’t available on the trail.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting at the Queimadas Guest House, your day begins with a pickup (if booked with included transport) or a meeting point before heading into the lush eastern part of Madeira. From here, your guide will lead you along the Levada da Serra de São Jorge, one of the island’s most popular walking paths. This trail is renowned for its scenic vistas, lush vegetation, and the chance to see traditional Madeira houses dotting the landscape.

The walk takes you through a variety of terrains, passing small tunnels and a series of cascades, culminating in the breathtaking Caldeirão Verde waterfall. The waterfall is the highlight—its powerful cascade plunges into a lush basin, creating a spectacular photo opportunity. One reviewer described it as “pretty amazing,” emphasizing how the guide’s knowledge made the experience even more enriching.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of the tiny villages below, with their terraced fields and charming houses. The scenery is so vibrant that many say it makes you feel like you’re walking through a living postcard. The route is slow-paced enough to take plenty of photos or simply soak in the peaceful surroundings.

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The Guide and Group Experience

The guides are a major plus here. As one reviewer pointed out, “Charlotte, the guide, was so nice and had lots of knowledge about the plants and the history of Madeira.” Multiple reviews mention guides speaking several languages, which makes the experience more accessible and engaging for international visitors. They’re also good at making everyone feel comfortable, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just here for a relaxed walk.

The group size typically remains intimate, especially if you opt for the private group option, which is ideal if you prefer a more personalized experience. The tour is designed to be flexible and accommodating, with pick-up included from key hotels in Funchal, saving you some logistical hassle.

Duration, Price, and Value

This is an eight-hour experience, which includes transportation, guide services, and all taxes and surcharges—at $49, it’s quite reasonable. When you consider how much scenery and insight you get in a full day, it’s a good bang for your buck. Remember, there’s no lunch included, so plan accordingly, whether you pack snacks or plan to eat afterward.

For those who love a leisurely pace, the walk provides enough time to enjoy the views, take photos, and even have a relaxed break. The route is designed to be accessible, but do bring appropriate footwear and be mindful of tunnels or uneven paths.

The Pros and Cons

Pros:
– Gorgeous scenery and waterfalls that truly live up to the hype.
– Expert, multilingual guides who make the experience informative and fun.
– Good value for a full day of guided nature walking.
– Convenient pickup and transportation options.
– The walk is suitable for most fitness levels, with manageable terrain.

Cons:
– No food is available along the route, so you’ll need to bring your own snacks or plan for after the walk.
– Pick-up from the harbor costs extra, so if you’re arriving by cruise, that’s something to consider.
– Weather can impact the experience — it’s best to check the forecast and dress accordingly.

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Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal if you love outdoor activities but want something accessible rather than overly challenging. It’s perfect for those who enjoy scenic walks, waterfalls, and picturesque villages, and who appreciate a knowledgeable guide to bring the landscape to life. It’s also a good fit if you want a hassle-free experience, with transportation and a small group setting.

While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the moderate pace and manageable terrain mean families with older children who enjoy walking should find it enjoyable. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes and be prepared for some tunnels and uneven paths.

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FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, free pick-up from selected hotels in Funchal and the surrounding area is included. Pickup from the harbor is available with a small surcharge.

How long is the walk?
The entire tour lasts about 8 hours, including transportation, walking, and breaks.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is lunch provided?
No, lunch isn’t included, so bring your own snacks or plan to eat after the walk.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak Spanish, English, French, German, and Portuguese, making the tour accessible for many travelers.

How difficult is the hike?
It’s considered an easy to moderate walk, suitable for most people with average fitness levels.

Are there tunnels along the route?
Yes, the trail passes through some small tunnels, so a flashlight might be helpful.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, water, snacks, sun protection, and a camera.

Is it suitable for children?
While not specifically designed for kids, older children who enjoy walking and nature will likely enjoy it. Always consider the terrain and tunnel passages.

How much does it cost?
The tour costs $49 per person, which includes all taxes and surcharges.

Ready to Book?

Madeira: Queimadas, Caldeirão Verde and Levada Walk

4.4

(55)

“This levada walk was pretty amazing, and the guide Charlote, was so nice and had lots of knowledge about the plants in the area and the history of …”

— Laura, May 21, 2023

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a memorable day in Madeira that combines stunning scenery, expert guidance, and manageable walking, this Queimadas and Caldeirão Verde tour hits the mark. It’s a solid choice if you want to see the best of Madeira’s lush landscapes without a strenuous climb or complicated logistics.

The highlights—the waterfalls, the picturesque villages, the lush vegetation—are well worth the price. Plus, knowing you’re with guides who can speak multiple languages and share their knowledge makes the experience richer. Just remember to bring some snacks and be prepared for a few tunnels, and you’ll be good to go.

All in all, this walk offers a genuine and beautiful glimpse into Madeira’s natural beauty and local charm, making it a worthwhile addition to your travel plans.