Levada Walk from Ribeiro Frio to Portela

If you’re eyeing a scenic, manageable hike in Madeira, the Levada Walk from Ribeiro Frio to Portela is a popular choice—and for good reason. This tour offers a chance to stroll through some of the island’s most iconic landscapes without having to be an experienced hiker. It’s perfect for those who want a blend of gentle walking, natural beauty, and local insights, all wrapped into a well-organized day out.

What we particularly love about this experience is the expert guidance you get, making the walk accessible and engaging, even for those unfamiliar with the terrain. Plus, the inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off takes so much of the hassle out of logistics, letting you focus on soaking in the views. That said, it’s worth noting that you’ll need to bring your own picnic lunch, as there are no food stops along the route. The tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy light to moderate physical activity and want to explore Madeira’s lush forests at a relaxed pace.

This tour would suit nature lovers, photographers, or anyone interested in Madeira’s famous levadas—especially if you’re after a guided experience with a friendly group. It’s not a strenuous adventure but offers enough walking to feel satisfying without being exhausting. If you’re traveling with children or have specific dietary needs, keep in mind the picnic requirement and the moderate fitness level suggested.

Key Points

• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides add valuable insights and make the walk more enjoyable.
• All-Inclusive Price: The fee covers taxes, fuel surcharges, and service fees, giving you transparent pricing.
• Comfortable Logistics: Free hotel pickup and drop-off make the day hassle-free.
• Moderate Length & Difficulty: Perfect for most travelers with a basic level of fitness.
• Beautiful Scenery: Expect lush forests, panoramic views, and iconic Madeira landscapes.
• Bring Your Own Picnic: No food options along the route, so pack accordingly.

Discovering Madeira’s Levada Walk: What You Can Expect

This 8-hour tour is a well-paced way to experience Madeira’s natural beauty without rushing. Starting at Ribeiro Frio, you’ll meet your guide, board a comfortable vehicle, and head to the trailhead. The tour is designed for small groups—limited to 15 people—so there’s plenty of space for questions and personal interaction, which many guests appreciate.

The Itinerary: Step by Step

Start at Ribeiro Frio: The day kicks off around 9am with hotel pickup from select Funchal hotels. Arriving at Ribeiro Frio, you’ll immediately sense the lushness of the area. This spot is known for its trout farms and the beautiful surrounding forests. Your guide will give a quick briefing on what to expect, emphasizing the importance of good footwear—think sturdy shoes or hiking boots—and a small picnic to carry along, as there are no food vendors on the trail.

Walking through the Laurel Forest: As you set out, the trail winds along the levada, a traditional irrigation channel that Madeira is famous for. The walk covers approximately 11 km, which is manageable for most, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take photos. The light filtering through the trees creates a magical atmosphere—dappled sunlight casting shadows on the trail. The guide will point out local flora and fauna, including the trout swimming in the levada, which often dash away at the slightest disturbance.

Panoramic Views & Landmarks: As you approach Lamaceiros, you get a taste of the views Madeira is famous for—overlooking Porto da Cruz and the rugged coastline. One of the highlights is the view of Penha d’Aguia (Eagle Rock), a prominent landmark that’s visible from certain points on the walk. Throughout, your guide will share stories and insights that bring the landscape to life, making each stop more meaningful.

End at Portela: The walk concludes back in the Portela area, with options to relax and enjoy the scenery before your transport takes you back to Funchal. The entire experience balances immersion in nature with manageable physical exertion, making it accessible for most people with a moderate fitness level.

Authentic Experiences and Guest Insights

Several reviewers have highlighted how much they appreciated the guidance and friendly atmosphere. One guest raved about their guide Ruby, calling her “excellent,” noting her friendly and passionate approach, which made the entire day more enjoyable. Others mentioned how the walk is mostly easy and offers stunning views—a perfect choice if you’re looking for a relaxed yet beautiful outdoor activity.

A traveler who was part of a mid-sized group (around 12 people) shared that the walk felt gentle and included breathtaking vistas, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy Madeira’s natural landscapes without strenuous effort. The guides’ knowledge, combined with the scenic beauty, consistently received praise, elevating the overall experience.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

Price & Value: At just over $50, the tour hits a sweet spot for what’s included—guided expertise, transportation, and a full day of scenic walking. While you’ll need to pack your own picnic, this gives you the flexibility to choose what suits your taste and dietary needs.

Timing & Duration: Starting at 8:30 am with pickup, the tour lasts around 8 hours, including transportation and breaks. It’s a full day, but the pacing makes it comfortable rather than exhausting.

Group Size & Atmosphere: Limited to 15 people, the small group size fosters a friendly, relaxed vibe and plenty of interaction with your guide. Many reviews note the guides’ friendliness, knowledge, and ability to keep everyone engaged.

Weather & Clothing: Madeira’s weather can change quickly, so packing layers, waterproofs, and sturdy shoes is advisable. If the weather turns poor, the tour offers flexible rebooking or refunds.

Accessibility: The walk is considered moderate, suitable for most travelers with a decent fitness level. It’s not overly challenging but does require some physical comfort on uneven terrain.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This levada walk is especially suited for those who want an accessible, guided introduction to Madeira’s lush landscapes. It’s a good pick for travelers who enjoy light hiking and are interested in learning about Madeira’s flora, fauna, and landscape from a friendly guide. If you’re after a quiet, scenic day with manageable walking and panoramic views, this tour hits the mark.

However, if you’re looking for a more intense hiking adventure or a food-focused experience, you might want to explore other options. Also, travelers with dietary restrictions should plan to bring their own food, since the tour doesn’t include meals.

FAQ

Do I need to bring my own food?
Yes, you should bring a small picnic, as there are no places to buy food during the walk.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, select hotels in Funchal are included for pickup and drop-off, making the day more convenient.

How long is the walk?
It’s approximately 11 km and takes about 8 hours total, including transportation and breaks.

What should I wear?
Comfortable sports shoes or hiking boots are essential. Weather can change, so layered clothing and waterproofs are recommended.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour offers options for rescheduling or full refunds if canceled due to poor weather.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the moderate difficulty suggests it’s suitable for most with a decent fitness level, but very young children might find it challenging.

Can I join if I have mobility issues?
Since the walk is moderate and involves uneven terrain, it might not be suitable for those with mobility limitations.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of professional guides, small group size, scenic landscapes, and included hotel transport makes it a popular and reliable option.

Are there any additional costs?
No, all taxes, fuel surcharges, and service fees are included. Food and drinks are not included.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a day of gentle hiking through Madeira’s lush forests, with expert insights and hassle-free logistics, the Levada Walk from Ribeiro Frio to Portela is a solid choice. It strikes a good balance between scenic beauty and simplicity, making it accessible for most travelers who love nature but don’t want to tackle a strenuous trek. The guide’s friendly attitude and the small group setting create a welcoming atmosphere that enhances the experience.

While it’s not a culinary tour or an intense adventure, it’s a wonderful way to see Madeira’s iconic landscapes up close and enjoy the tranquility of the island’s famous levadas. For those who can pack a picnic and enjoy a relaxed, scenic walk, this tour offers genuine value and a memorable day out.

Feel free to ask if you want more details or tips about planning your Madeira trip. Happy hiking!