The King’s Levada – Levada do Rei

Exploring Madeira’s Levada do Rei: An Honest Look at the King’s Levada Tour

If you’re eyeing a day of walking through Madeira’s verdant landscapes, the King’s Levada – Levada do Rei is a popular choice—and for good reason. This guided hike promises a full day of gorgeous scenery, from terraced farmland to native forests, all along one of the island’s most famous irrigation channels. While it’s a solid option for nature lovers, it also offers enough structure and guidance to keep things manageable, even if you’re not an experienced hiker.

What really makes this tour stand out are a couple of features. First, the small group size—with a cap of 15 travelers—you’ll generally get a more personal feel, along with a chance to chat with your guide about Madeira’s landscapes. Second, the scenic variety: you’ll pass through farmland, lush forests, and mountain views, ending at the Ribeiro Bonito stream, which is just as picturesque as it sounds.

However, it’s worth mentioning that this isn’t a short, casual stroll. Expect 6 to 7 hours of walking, so some level of stamina helps. If you’re not used to long hikes or have mobility concerns, this might be a bit demanding. Also, note that lunch and bottled water aren’t included, so you’ll want to bring snacks and hydration.

This tour seems best suited for those who want a well-organized, immersive experience to soak up Madeira’s natural beauty—especially if you’re comfortable walking for several hours and enjoy guided explanations. It’s a rewarding choice for active travelers wanting to see the island’s countryside up close, without the hassle of navigating trails on your own.

Key Points

• Guided walk keeps you on track and provides interesting commentary.
• Small group size fosters a more relaxed and personalized experience.
• Scenic views encompass farmland, native forests, and mountain landscapes.
• Duration of around 6-7 hours suits travelers prepared for a full-day outing.
• Includes insurance and live commentary, but no lunch or bottled water.
• Close to public transportation, making it accessible from Funchal.

What You Can Expect from the Levada do Rei Experience

The Starting Point and Initial Trail

The adventure kicks off at the Water Treatment Plant in Quebradas, São Jorge. From here, you’ll begin following the Levada do Rei, a centuries-old irrigation channel built by previous landowners to water their terraced farms. We loved the way the trail begins in a peaceful, natural setting, with a gentle hike along the levada that’s easy to follow, especially with a guide to point out landmarks and answer questions.

Diverse Scenery and Native Forests

As you move along, you’ll pass through farmland that offers charming views of São Jorge and Santana. This farmland is dotted with traditional houses and lush greenery—perfect for photos. The trail then transitions into dense native forests, where the canopy offers shade and a sense of being far from the modern world. According to reviews, the guide’s commentary enhances this experience, elaborating on the local flora and fauna, adding a layer of understanding to the natural beauty.

The Highlights: Ribeiro Bonito and the Source of the Levada

One of the most exciting parts of the hike is reaching the source of the levada at Ribeiro Bonito, a stream that feeds the entire system. This spot is often described as “spectacular,” offering a peaceful ending to a day full of walking. It’s a lovely place to take a breather, snap photos, and appreciate the mountain scenery.

The Guide’s Role and Group Dynamic

With live commentary, the guide becomes an essential part of the experience, sharing insights about Madeira’s landscape and history. Reviewers like Imma appreciated the guide’s kindness, patience, and friendliness. The small group size helps ensure everyone feels comfortable asking questions and stopping for photos or breaks.

Timing, Pace, and What to Bring

The tour starts at 8:30 am, giving you a full day of exploration. Since it lasts around 6 to 7 hours, you’ll want to wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring water (not included), and perhaps some snacks. The tour is mostly suitable for most travelers, and service animals are allowed, which is considerate for those with special needs.

The Value of the Tour: Is It Worth It?

At a price point of $52.09 per person, this tour offers good value, especially considering the guided nature, insurance, and small group size. The guided element means you won’t have to worry about navigation or missing interesting sights, which is a big plus if you prefer to relax and enjoy the scenery without stress.

The fact that the tour is booked about 30 days in advance indicates it’s quite popular, and the consistent 5-star reviews (rated 4.8/5) suggest most travelers find it rewarding. One reviewer even called it “muy bien estructurada,” highlighting the organization and pacing.

That said, the long duration may not suit everyone, especially if you prefer shorter or less intense outings. Also, since lunch and bottled water are not included, you’ll want to plan ahead. Nonetheless, many find the experience deeply satisfying, especially if you’re eager to see Madeira’s lush interior.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day guided hike is perfect for active travelers who enjoy walking and want to explore Madeira’s countryside without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s suitable for those comfortable with a 6-7 hour trek, and the small group setting makes it ideal for anyone wanting a more personal and relaxed atmosphere. Nature enthusiasts and photography lovers will also appreciate the chance to capture stunning vistas along the way.

If you’re traveling with someone who appreciates easy access to well-marked trails combined with insightful commentary, this is a strong choice. However, if you’re after a quick, leisurely walk or have mobility concerns, consider a shorter or less demanding option.

FAQs

Is transportation provided for this tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, and the meeting point is conveniently located in Funchal. The tour is designed to be accessible, with proximity to public transport options.

What should I bring?
Bring bottled water, since it’s not included, along with snacks, comfortable hiking shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing. A camera or smartphone for photos is also recommended.

How strenuous is the hike?
While it’s a full-day activity, the trail is generally suitable for most travelers, especially with a guide pacing the group. Expect walking for about 6-7 hours, with plenty of breaks.

Can children join this tour?
While not explicitly stated, most travelers can participate, and the guide’s friendly approach should make it family-friendly if children are used to walking.

What happens if the weather turns bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring your own or buy something locally at the end or during the hike.

Final Thoughts

The King’s Levada – Levada do Rei tour offers a genuine way to see Madeira’s lush interior, combining scenic views, native forests, and historical irrigation channels. It’s well-suited for active travelers who want a guided, intimate experience that highlights the island’s natural charm. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides make it more engaging than a self-guided walk, and the stunning landscapes won’t disappoint.

If you enjoy walking through lush scenery, are comfortable with a full-day outing, and want a guided experience that balances structure with plenty of time to enjoy the views and take photos, this tour is definitely worth considering. Just come prepared and ready for a memorable day in Madeira’s beautiful countryside.

Remember, booking ahead is recommended, and always check the weather forecast before heading out. Happy hiking!