Levada do Norte – Walking Tour

If you’re after a chance to see some of Madeira’s most iconic landscapes without the hassle of navigation or planning, the Levada do Norte walking tour might catch your eye. This tour, offered by Lido Tours, promises a scenic trek along one of the island’s longest and most cherished watercourses, with plenty of stunning views and interesting commentary along the way.

What really makes this experience appealing is its convenience—a hassle-free pickup from Funchal and a guided walk means you can focus on enjoying the scenery rather than stressing over directions. Plus, you’ll get to pass some of Madeira’s most famous viewpoints, like Cabo Girão and the lush Quinta Grande valley. On the flip side, this tour is not for those expecting a leisurely stroll—some reviews hint it’s more challenging than it sounds, especially on narrow paths.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, those curious about Madeira’s landscape, or anyone wanting a short, well-organized outdoor activity. It’s not a full-day hike, but a solid way to connect with the island’s impressive scenery without overexerting yourself.

Key Points

• Scenic and Guided: Expert commentary enriches your walk, making it more engaging.
• Convenient Start: Pickup in Funchal makes logistics simple and stress-free.
• Short but Stunning: Around 2 hours of walking covers 6 km of beautiful landscape.
• Pass Key Landmarks: Includes views of Cabo Girão and Quinta Grande valley.
• Expect Narrow Paths: Some parts are less than a meter wide, requiring caution.
• Good for Most Travelers: Most people can participate, but be prepared for some physical effort.

What to Expect From the Levada do Norte Tour

This tour offers an accessible but scenic peek into Madeira’s famous levadas—irrigation channels that wind through the island’s mountains and valleys. Starting at 8:30 am, the tour kicks off with a pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle, taking you to the trailhead near Cabo Girão, one of Madeira’s most dramatic viewpoints. From there, you’ll walk roughly 6 kilometers along the Levada do Norte, a route beloved for its panoramic vistas and botanical details.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Levada Norte
This is the core of the experience. As one of the longest water trails on the island, Levada do Norte showcases Madeira’s lush, cultivated landscapes. The walk itself lasts about 2 hours, covering a comfortable distance, but it’s not a quick stroll. It’s more of a steady walk, with some reviews pointing out that it’s “not an easy hike,” due to narrow, sometimes less than 1-meter wide paths.

The trail is a wonderful opportunity to see fields, plantations, and viewpoints while listening to your guide’s commentary about Madeira’s history and landscape. The guide’s insights often include botanical details, which many visitors find adds a lot of value to the experience.

The Highlights Along the Route

You’ll pass or view landmarks like Cabo Girão, famed for its towering cliffs and glass skywalk, and the Quinta Grande valley, where the greenery and terraced land create incredible photo opportunities. The tour ensures you’re kept informed about these sights, making it more than just a walk—it’s an educational experience too.

What You’ll Need to Know

The tour is priced at $38.40 per person, covering all fees and taxes. It’s a half-day activity, but don’t expect a full morning of hiking—most of the time is spent on transportation, a coffee break, and the walk itself. It’s good value, considering the scenic vistas and guided commentary you receive. However, note that snacks are not included, so bring a water bottle and perhaps a quick snack if you like.

Honest Thoughts Based on Reviews

From the feedback, it’s clear that the views really are amazing—many travelers describe the landscape as “beautiful,” and the guide’s botanical insights are appreciated. One reviewer noted that the landcapes are “amazing,” and the walk is “independent of weather conditions,” which is true; it tends to be a reliable outdoor activity.

However, some reviews remind us that it’s not a leisurely or easy stroll. A Tripadvisor reviewer pointed out that the hike involves narrow paths and is more challenging than expected, especially for those not used to walking on tight, uneven trails. If you’re an experienced hiker, this wouldn’t be a concern, but less confident walkers should approach with caution.

Another review mentioned that the tour’s duration is shorter than the “half-day” label suggests—most walking is around 2 hours, with additional time for pickups, drops, and breaks. If you’re expecting a full day of adventure, this might feel a little brief.

Despite its length, the scenic diversity and quality of the guided commentary make it worthwhile. The tour also seems to attract a quiet, calm crowd, with one reviewer noting they encountered very few other people on the trail, adding to the sense of peaceful exploration.

Practicalities and What to Wear

Since the trail involves narrow paths and uneven terrain, comfortable, sturdy footwear is a must. Dress in breathable layers suitable for outdoor walking, and don’t forget sun protection if it’s a sunny day. The tour includes pickup, which is a big plus for hassle-free logistics, especially if you’re staying in Funchal.

The max group size of 16 helps keep the experience intimate and manageable, ensuring everyone can enjoy the scenery and listen to the guide.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour suits travelers who enjoy outdoor activities and scenic walks, especially if you’re keen on learning about Madeira’s landscape and botany. It’s not a strenuous trek, but some physical effort is involved, and narrow paths require careful footing. So, if you’re comfortable walking on uneven terrain for a couple of hours, you’ll likely love it.

It’s also a good pick for those wanting a guided experience, with someone knowledgeable about the local landscape. If you’re after a quick, scenic outing that offers impressive views and cultural insights without a full-day commitment, this is a fitting choice.

The Sum Up

The Levada do Norte walking tour offers a charming, guided glimpse into Madeira’s beautiful landscape. It’s especially suited to travelers who value convenience, expert commentary, and stunning viewpoints. While it’s not a leisurely walk—some sections can be narrow and challenging—the views and botanical insights make it worthwhile for most outdoor enthusiasts.

If you’re looking for a short, scenic outing that balances practicality with natural beauty, this tour delivers plenty of value. Just be prepared for a bit of physical effort, and bring appropriate footwear and attire. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or someone who enjoys a gentle walk surrounded by lush greenery, this experience can be a highlight of your Madeira trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed for most travelers and involves walking on narrow and sometimes uneven paths. While not explicitly family-focused, kids comfortable with outdoor walking could enjoy it, but watch out for narrow sections.

What is the duration of the walk?
The walk itself lasts about 2 hours covering roughly 6 km. Including transportation and breaks, the total activity lasts slightly longer but is still considered a half-day experience.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
The tour is generally suitable for various weather conditions, but poor weather might affect visibility. The guide will notify you if the activity is canceled due to weather.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers all fees, taxes, transportation (pickup and drop-off), and the guided walk. Snacks are not included, so plan accordingly.

Do I need to bring anything?
Bring sturdy walking shoes, water, sun protection, and a small snack if desired. The trail can be narrow and uneven, so proper footwear is essential.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Less notice may mean no refund.

How many people are in each group?
Groups are limited to a maximum of 16 travelers, making for a more personal experience.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Likely not, as parts of the trail involve narrow, uneven paths. Check your mobility and comfort level before booking.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, but those with certain health concerns or mobility issues should consider the trail’s physical demands.

What if the weather is bad on the day?
If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund, ensuring you won’t lose out due to Mother Nature.

If you’re after a scenic, guided walk with memorable views and insightful commentary, the Levada do Norte tour offers a solid way to experience Madeira’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.