Madeira: Walking Tour – Queimadas / Caldeirão Verde

Planning a trip to Madeira and looking for an experience that combines natural beauty, greenery, and a bit of adventure? If so, the Queimadas / Caldeirão Verde walking tour might just be what you’re after. This tour, which is one of the oldest levadas in Madeira, promises a full day immersed in lush vegetation, impressive landscapes, and the tranquil sounds of waterfalls. It’s a popular choice for those wanting to explore the island’s famed Laurissilva forest in a way that’s both accessible and rewarding.

While it’s not a hike for complete beginners, it’s also not an extreme trek. We really appreciate the balance it offers—moderate difficulty, scenic variety, and engaging guides. That said, it’s worth mentioning that the route involves passing through some tunnels and walking across uneven terrain, so appropriate footwear and a bit of preparation are recommended.

This tour is well-suited for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, or anyone eager to see Madeira’s verdant heart. If you enjoy walking with a guide who knows the area well, and if the idea of wandering through ancient forests and spotting local bird species sounds appealing, then this experience is likely to resonate with you. It’s not ideal for those with mobility challenges or respiratory issues, but for most active travelers, it offers a memorable day out.

Key Points

• Stunning sceneries: Expect breathtaking views of mountains, valleys, waterfalls, and the village of São Jorge.
• Rich vegetation: The route takes you through centuries-old laurels and lush greenery typical of Madeira’s Laurissilva forest.
• Wildlife spotting: Along the way, you might see some of Madeira’s native bird species.
• Active but manageable: The walk covers 12 km in about 4 hours, rated as a moderate level of difficulty.
• Practical tips: Bring sturdy shoes, water, snacks, sunscreen, and an impermeable jacket for tunnels and potential rain.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with insights about the forest and landscape.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Experience — What You Can Expect

Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour begins in Queimadas, a charming spot in Santana village. When you book, you’ll need to provide your hotel name in Funchal, and the provider will confirm the exact pickup point. The coordinates place you near the starting point, making it straightforward to meet your guide.

The tour lasts a full day, with transportation included, and you’ll be picked up from your hotel, though the exact timing can vary, so it’s good to confirm beforehand. This smooth pickup is a plus since it saves you the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads.

The Path and Scenery

From the start, you’ll feel immersed in a cool, green environment, with towering laurels and thick foliage creating a canopy overhead. The walk is designed to introduce you to Madeira’s Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, famous for its ancient trees and moss-covered undergrowth.

We loved the way the guide kept the group engaged with interesting facts about the flora and fauna. The route is dotted with views of the mountains and valleys, giving great opportunities for photos. Along the way, you’ll pass through some tunnels—so a flashlight and waterproof jacket are strongly recommended. The tunnels add a bit of adventure to the walk, making it more than just a straightforward hike.

The Showstopper: Caldeirão Verde Waterfall

The highlight of the tour is the Caldeirão Verde waterfall—an iconic Madeira sight. The waterfall plunges into a cool, crystal-clear lagoon that invites a moment of peace and reflection. The spray from the waterfall and the lush surroundings make it incredibly relaxing. Many reviewers mention how this spot exceeds expectations, with one describing it as “a spectacular view” that’s worth every effort.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Walk’s Challenges

While the walk is classified as moderate, it does include uneven terrain and tunnels—so good shoes are a must. The distance is about 12 km, which should be manageable for most with a reasonable level of fitness. It’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or certain health issues, including respiratory problems or high blood pressure.

What Travelers Say

One recent reviewer from Norway shared, “Lived up to expectations.” They appreciated the stunning landscapes and the knowledgeable guides who made the experience both informative and enjoyable. The small group setting was also praised for providing a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.

The Practical Side

Cost-wise, this tour offers good value for the experience. You’re paying for a full day of guided walking, transportation, and expert insights, making it a convenient way to explore Madeira’s natural interior without the stress of self-planning. Just remember to bring some snacks, water, sunscreen, and an impermeable jacket—these small preparations make a big difference.

Why Choose This Tour?

If you love walking in nature, want to see one of Madeira’s oldest levadas, and enjoy picturesque landscapes, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly recommended for active travelers who don’t mind a few tunnels and uneven paths. Guides are knowledgeable, and the scenery is definitely worth the effort.

However, if you’re looking for a very easy stroll or have mobility limitations, this might not be the best fit. The 4-hour walk covers a fair distance and includes some challenging parts, so a decent level of fitness helps.

Final Thoughts

The Queimadas / Caldeirão Verde walking tour offers a genuinely memorable peek into Madeira’s lush interior. You’ll come away with photos of waterfalls, mountain vistas, and centuries-old forests that are hard to forget. It’s an experience that balances adventure and relaxation, with guides who enhance the journey with interesting stories and local insights.

For those eager to explore Madeira’s natural beauty in a manageable way, this tour delivers on both scenery and value. It’s perfect if you want a full-day activity that combines gentle physical effort with spectacular sights, all wrapped in an authentic Madeira experience.

Who Is It Best For?

This tour is ideally suited for active travelers who enjoy walking and want to see Madeira’s famed Laurissilva forest up close. It’s a great pick for nature lovers, photography buffs, or anyone wanting to escape the more touristy areas. Not suited for those with mobility issues, respiratory concerns, or low fitness levels, but perfect for most other reasonably active visitors.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed as a moderate walk, so children comfortable with walking for several hours should enjoy it. However, tunnels and uneven terrain might be challenging for very young kids or those with mobility issues.

How long is the walking distance?
The total walking distance is about 12 km, which takes around 4 hours. It’s a steady pace with plenty of scenic breaks.

What should I bring?
Comfortable footwear, water, snacks, sunscreen, and an impermeable jacket for tunnels and possible rain. A hiking stick might also be helpful.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, though the exact location will be confirmed after booking.

What kind of guide will I have?
A live tour guide speaking Portuguese, English, French, German, or Spanish. They’re knowledgeable about the landscape, flora, fauna, and history.

Are there any restrictions I should know?
Yes, the tour isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments, respiratory issues, high blood pressure, or low fitness levels.

What is the best time of year to do this tour?
While not explicitly stated, Madeira’s climate makes this a year-round option, but dry days in spring or early summer might offer the best conditions.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, making it flexible for your travel plans.

If you’re after a day exploring Madeira’s lush forests, waterfalls, and mountain views with a knowledgeable guide, this walk offers the perfect blend of scenery and activity. Just prepare well, and you’ll likely find it a highlight of your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: