Madeira: Intermediate (Level 2) Canyoning Experience

If you’re considering adding a splash of adrenaline to your Madeira trip, the Intermediate Level 2 Canyoning tour from Funchal might just be the adventure you’re after. While I haven’t done this particular excursion myself, I’ve read through tons of reviews and details, and it looks like a well-organized, exciting option for those who enjoy water-based adventures with a dash of challenge.

What I find appealing about this experience is how it combines stunning natural scenery with professional guidance. The fact that it’s rated 4.9 out of 5 from over 165 reviews suggests it’s consistently delivering memorable moments. The tour’s highlights—like descending waterfalls and optional jumps—are perfect for those who want to push their limits a little and enjoy Madeira’s incredible mountain landscapes.

However, a consideration worth noting is that this tour isn’t suitable for everyone. It’s designed for moderate canyoners, and those with limited mobility or certain health conditions might want to think twice. Also, the price point of $97 per person seems reasonable given the length and quality of the activity, but it’s important to remember it’s an active experience requiring some physical effort and a willingness to get wet.

If you’re someone who loves adventure, enjoys exploring nature, and doesn’t mind a bit of a splash, this canyoning trip could be just the ticket. It’s especially fitting for travelers seeking a mix of adrenaline, beautiful scenery, and guided expertise in Madeira’s rugged mountains.

Key Points

• Stunning Landscapes: The tour explores Ribeira do Cidrão, offering spectacular mountain views.
• Professional Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides prioritize safety while keeping the fun high.
• Waterfalls & Jumps: Descending multiple waterfalls with optional jumps, including a 15-meter slide.
• All Equipment Provided: Everything needed is included; just bring your swimwear and good mood.
• Flexible Booking & Cancellation: Reserve now, pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
• Great for Moderate Canyoners: Suitable for those with some experience or decent fitness levels.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

When you sign up for this Level 2 canyoning adventure, you’re signing up for a full day of exploring Madeira’s rugged mountain waters. The tour usually starts with a pickup in Funchal, with other collection points available for an extra €15. This makes it fairly accessible, especially if you’re already based in or near the city.

Once you’re picked up, a roughly 30-minute van ride transports you to the base of Ribeira do Cidrão, a gorge famous for its waterfalls and lush surroundings. During this journey, you’ll get a glimpse of Madeira’s mountainous terrain, building anticipation for what’s ahead.

The first part of the activity is a scenic 20-minute walk to the canyon’s entrance—a great chance to soak in the organic beauty. The guides will give a safety briefing and ensure everyone has properly fitted gear before you start descending.

The Waterfalls & Descents

The core of this experience is navigating eight waterfalls, with the largest being a jaw-dropping 15 meters. If you’re a thrill-seeker, the optional jumps and toboggan ride at the end will be the highlights. These are not just adrenaline-pumping but also perfectly safe thanks to the expert guides and top-quality equipment.

Travelers consistently rave about the beautiful scenery and expert guidance. One reviewer noted, “Our guides, Beto and Mauro, were absolutely the best—funny, friendly, and incredibly responsible.” This highlights how important good guides are in making such adventures safe and enjoyable.

The Finale: Toboggan or Jump

The spectacular toboggan ride or a 6-meter jump at the end of the canyoning route offers a memorable finale. The best part? You can repeat this final part if you want more thrills—an unusual but appreciated feature. The ability to do this multiple times adds to the feeling of getting a truly personalized adventure.

Duration and Pacing

The tour lasts about 3 to 4 hours, which includes transportation, safety briefings, and the canyoning itself. The activity duration is roughly 5 to 6 hours when factoring in pickup and drop-off. If you’re pressed for time or prefer shorter adventures, this might be a bit on the longer side, but the comprehensive experience and safety standards make it worthwhile.

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What to Bring & What’s Included

All the gear, safety equipment, water, and photos are included—an excellent value for the price. You only need to bring a bathing suit and a positive attitude. Guides will handle the rest, including safety, equipment, and providing a professional, fun environment.

Group Size & Safety

Reviews underline how much travelers appreciate the friendly, attentive guides who prioritize safety without sacrificing the fun. The guides are certified and well-trained, which should help even nervous first-timers feel more comfortable.

Transportation & Logistics

Transportation is straightforward, with pickups from five locations around Funchal and nearby areas. If your accommodation is outside these zones, an extra €15 is required for pickup. The journey to the canyon is about 30 minutes, giving you some scenic views along the way.

Guides will wait 15 minutes after the scheduled pickup time, so punctuality is advised. During the tour, group sizes are manageable, typically allowing for a more personalized experience.

Pricing and Value

At $97 per person, the tour offers a lot of value. You get a full day’s adventure, all safety gear, professional guides, photos, and insurance. Considering the length and quality, this isn’t a cheap thrill, but it’s certainly in line with what you’d expect for a curated, guided canyoning trip.

Some reviews mention transportation issues—like not all pickup locations being included—but overall, most travelers find the experience well worth the price. The inclusion of free photos and water, along with the safety standards, helps justify the cost.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure lovers who are comfortable in water and looking for a challenging but manageable canyoning route. It’s also suitable for those with some previous canyoning or outdoor activity experience—it’s not recommended for complete beginners or those with limited mobility.

Travelers who enjoy stunning mountain scenery, waterfalls, and optional jumps will find this particularly rewarding. It’s also a great choice if you want a guided, safe environment to try canyoning for the first time.

Who Might Want to Skip It?

If you’re pregnant, have mobility issues, or are under 7 years old, this trip isn’t suitable. Also, if you’re not comfortable with heights or jumping into water, the optional jumps might be too much for you. The activity requires a good level of physical fitness and a positive outlook.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Madeira Intermediate Canyoning Experience offers a well-rounded, exciting, and well-reviewed adventure. The combination of beautiful scenery, waterfalls, jumps, and guided professionalism makes it a top contender for travelers wanting to add a splash of thrill to their Madeira itinerary.

It’s especially suited for those who like a balance between challenge and safety, and who want to see Madeira from a different perspective—one filled with rushing water, lush canyons, and mountain vistas.

If you’re after a memorable outdoor activity and feel confident in your water skills, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. Just remember to pack your sense of adventure—and a bathing suit!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 7 years old, mainly due to the physical nature of canyoning and safety considerations.

Do I need to bring my own equipment?
No, everything you need—including gear, safety equipment, and photos—is included in the price. Just bring a bathing suit and a good mood.

Can I do the jumps multiple times?
Yes, the final toboggan ride or 6-meter jump can be repeated, allowing you to maximize your adrenaline rush if you want.

How long does the entire tour last?
The canyoning activity itself lasts about 3 to 4 hours, but with transportation and other logistics, expect the full experience to be around 5 to 6 hours.

Are the guides experienced and certified?
Absolutely. The guides are certified and highly praised in reviews for their friendliness, responsibility, and professionalism.

Is it safe to do this activity?
Yes. The tour provider emphasizes safety with certified guides, well-maintained equipment, and insurance according to Portuguese law. Still, it’s important that you meet the physical requirements and follow safety instructions.

If you’re looking for a way to see Madeira’s stunning natural beauty while getting your adrenaline fix, this canyoning tour could be a fantastic choice. It’s a friendly, well-reviewed activity that balances adventure and safety, making it suitable for most moderate canyoners.

You can check availability for your dates here: