Canyoning Madeira Island – Level One

If you’re looking for a way to see Madeira that’s as exciting as it is unique, canyoning with EPIC MADEIRA could be just what you need. This tour promises hours of action-packed fun, including abseiling waterfalls, sliding down natural water slides, and swimming in pristine pools—all set deep within the island’s spectacular mountain interior. It’s a hands-on way to access parts of Madeira that are virtually unreachable by car or foot, which makes it especially appealing to those who crave a real adventure.

What really caught our attention about this tour? First, the small group size—limited to just 12 people—which means you get personalized attention and safety is a priority. Second, the high praise from past participants—a perfect 5-star rating from over 1,300 reviews—indicates this is a well-organized, consistently fun experience. A potential consideration is that participants should have a good level of fitness since the activity involves physical effort, including walking, jumping, and rappelling.

This tour suits those who love a bit of adrenaline, enjoy being active outdoors, and are comfortable with physical challenges. It’s not ideal if you’re looking for a relaxed sightseeing day, but if you’re eager to get your heart pumping while exploring Madeira’s hidden corners, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Exclusive access to remote parts of Madeira only reachable via canyoning
• Expert guides ensure safety and fun, with positive reviews highlighting their professionalism
• All technical gear provided, so no need to bring your own equipment
• Includes insurance and photos of your adventure for lasting memories
• Limited group size enhances safety and personal attention
• Good for active travelers with a decent fitness level, not recommended for those with mobility issues

We loved how this experience offers a different perspective on Madeira’s stunning scenery. Instead of traditional hikes or boat trips, canyoning immerses you directly in nature, often in places you’d never see otherwise. You’ll trek along streams, rappel down waterfalls, and slide down natural water slides—all in a setting that looks straight out of an adventure movie.

Most reviews emphasize how safe and well-organized the whole operation is. From the moment you’re picked up at the meeting point in Funchal, everything runs smoothly. The guides, like Martha, Luigi, and Honorio, are praised for their friendliness, patience, and professionalism. They clearly know their stuff, making even first-timers feel at ease.

The equipment is described as in great condition, and the inclusion of helmets, wetsuits, and shoes means you won’t need to worry about your gear. Plus, the tour has insurance included, which adds peace of mind when you’re harnessed up and jumping into pools or sliding down rocks.

Most participants found the activity to be just the right level of challenging. “If you just want a bit of fun! This is the thing to do,” said one reviewer. The combination of jumps, slides, and descents keeps the experience exciting without feeling overwhelming—though, again, a decent level of fitness is recommended.

The tour kicks off at 9:30 am at the CR7 Museum in Funchal, where you’ll meet your guides and fellow adventurers. After a short briefing and gear fitting, you’ll hop into a vehicle that takes you to the starting point. From there, it’s about a 10-15 minute hike down to the riverbed, setting the stage for the next four hours of adrenaline.

You’ll traverse streams, walking alongside rushing water, and reach waterfalls where you’ll be rappelling down in controlled, safe conditions. The guides give clear instructions, so even if you’ve never done anything like this before, you’re in good hands. As one review pointed out, “everything will be explained to you and you will be able to put theory into practice in a beautiful natural setting.”

Expect to go down around five waterfalls, each offering different challenges—some with jumps, some with slides, and others with a straightforward rappel. The natural water slides are a highlight, offering a fun way to glide into pools below. Participants have described these as “awesome” and “really good fun,” which matches the overall tone of the reviews.

The tour also involves a few short walks between stops, so comfortable shoes and a good attitude are helpful. The activity ends back at the meeting point around noon, giving you plenty of time to relax and process your experience.

One of the most consistent themes in reviews is how fantastic the guides are—knowledgeable, friendly, and safety-conscious. Past participants mention guides like Ronaldo, Honorio, and others by name, praising their patience, humor, and professionalism. This personal touch makes the experience feel safe and inclusive, even for those who might be nervous or unsure.

All technical equipment, including wetsuits, shoes, and helmets, is provided. The gear is said to be in excellent condition, which is reassuring when you’re stepping into something physically demanding. You don’t need to bring your own wetsuit or shoes, just a swimsuit and towel for after. Sunscreen isn’t included, so if you’ll be out in the sun, it’s wise to bring some along.

The tour price is around $80.69 per person, which many reviews suggest offers good value given the quality of guides, gear, and the unforgettable scenery. Plus, the fact that photos are included without extra charge is a sweet bonus—perfect for sharing your adventure afterward.

While this activity is designed for most active individuals, it’s worth noting that participants should have a good level of fitness. The tour involves hiking, climbing, jumping, and swimming, which can be tiring. If you’re used to outdoor activities or regular exercise, you’ll likely be fine.

Safety is clearly a priority. Guides are described as attentive and skilled, and the small group size minimizes risks. One reviewer pointed out that even those who can’t swim are accommodated, with shallow water and close supervision, making it accessible for a broader range of adventurers.

It’s also worth considering the weather—since the activity is weather-dependent, poor conditions could lead to cancellations with full refunds offered. So, keeping an eye on the forecast is a good idea.

Most bookings are made about a month in advance, which is a good idea given the popularity. The tour lasts roughly 4.5 hours, including transportation, gear fitting, and the actual canyoning. Starting at 9:30 am, it’s a morning commitment but leaves plenty of the day open afterward.

At $80.69 per person, the price reflects the small-group experience, professional guides, gear, insurance, and photos. Considering how many reviews call it “one of their best memories” and “absolutely worth it,” many travelers find this to be an excellent value for the adventure and access it provides.

This canyoning trip is perfect for active travelers who crave something beyond typical sightseeing. If you’re comfortable with physical activity and eager to try something daring, you’ll love the adrenaline rush combined with Madeira’s spectacular natural beauty.

It’s especially suited for those who enjoy guided outdoor adventures, as the guides are highly praised for their expertise and friendly demeanor. Families with older children or teens, who are physically capable, also seem to enjoy this experience, based on reviews mentioning children and beginners.

However, if you’re looking for a very relaxed, less physically demanding activity, this might not be the right fit. Also, those with mobility limitations or who dislike getting wet might want to consider other options.

To sum up, this canyoning tour on Madeira with EPIC MADEIRA offers a unique way to explore the island’s wild interior. With expert guides, top-notch equipment, and stunning scenery, it’s an activity that delivers both adrenaline and beautiful memories. The consistent high ratings reflect how well it’s run and how much fun travelers have.

If you’re looking for an active, memorable experience that takes you off the beaten path, this tour hits the mark. It’s best suited for those with a decent fitness level, a sense of adventure, and a love for nature. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just want to tick something truly unique off your Madeira list, this canyoning trip is worth considering.

Just remember, book early to secure your spot, and be prepared for a physically demanding but incredibly rewarding day. It’s an experience you’ll likely talk about long after you’ve returned home.