The Levada & Waterfalls Hike in Madeira’s Rabacal area is no ordinary trek. This 10.5-mile journey promises an exhilarating experience, showcasing an astounding 25 waterfalls along the way. Led by a certified mountain guide, adventurers will explore the enchanting Laurisilva Forest and the island’s unique levada system, navigating diverse weather conditions. While the hike requires a moderate fitness level, the rewards are unparalleled – a chance to witness nature’s raw beauty and uncover the hidden gems that make Madeira a true gem of the Mediterranean.
Key Points
- The hike traverses the Rabacal area in Madeira, Portugal, showcasing 25 stunning waterfalls along a challenging 10.5-mile (17 km) route.
- The hike duration is 6-7 hours, requiring a moderate level of physical fitness from participants.
- The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as a certified mountain guide to lead the group.
- Travelers are responsible for bringing their own food, drinks, and water/snacks, as these are not provided.
- The minimum age for the hike is 10 years, and the tour experience is designed to be safe and enjoyable for all participants.
Tour Details
The tour offers a challenging 10.5-mile (17 km) hike through the Rabacal area in Levada, Madeira, Portugal, lasting 6-7 hours and showcasing 25 stunning waterfalls.
With 21 reviews, this hike isn’t offered by other companies, making it a unique experience.
A certified mountain guide accompanies travelers, providing hotel and port pickup and drop-off services.
While food and drinks aren’t included, the tour caters to those aged 10 and above with a moderate fitness level.
Operating in all weather conditions, the tour limits group sizes to a maximum of 8 travelers per booking, ensuring a personalized and intimate adventure.
Inclusions
This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Câmara de Lobos and Funchal, along with the services of a certified mountain guide.
Plus, port pickup and drop-off are available for an additional fee, and the tour is a private experience.
The inclusions for this hike are:
- Hotel pickup and drop-off from Câmara de Lobos and Funchal
- Certified mountain guide to lead the tour
- Private tour experience
While the tour doesn’t include food, drinks, water, or snacks, it provides an opportunity to explore the Rabacal area in Levada, Madeira, Portugal, and witness the stunning 25 waterfalls along the way.
Exclusions
While the tour includes hotel pickup, guide services, and a private experience, it does not cover food, drinks, water, or snacks for participants. Travelers will need to bring their own sustenance to keep energized during the challenging 10.5-mile hike.
| Exclusions | |
|---|---|
| Food | Not provided |
| Drinks | Not provided |
| Water/Snacks | Not included |
Guests are responsible for ensuring they have adequate provisions to stay hydrated and nourished throughout the 6-7 hour duration of the trek. This allows the tour to maintain its reasonable price point while still providing a top-notch guided experience in the stunning Rabacal area of Madeira, Portugal.
Requirements
To participate in this Levada and Waterfalls Hike, travelers must meet certain requirements.
Hikers must be at least 10 years old and possess a moderate level of physical fitness, as the 10.5-mile trek is considered challenging. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so participants should be prepared for diverse environmental factors during their journey through the Rabacal area of Madeira, Portugal.
The key requirements for this tour include:
- Minimum age of 10 years
- Moderate physical fitness level
- Willingness to hike in all weather conditions
With these criteria in place, the tour ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants on the 6-7 hour hike through the stunning Rabacal region and its 25 captivating waterfalls.
Location
The Levada and Waterfalls Hike takes travelers to the Rabacal area in Madeira, Portugal, where they can explore a stunning landscape dotted with 25 captivating waterfalls. This region offers a unique opportunity to witness the natural beauty of Madeira’s famous levada system, a network of irrigation channels that have carved intricate pathways through the lush vegetation. The hike allows participants to enjoy this picturesque setting, surrounded by the serene sounds of cascading water and the verdant foliage of the Laurisilva forest.
| Location | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Rabacal, Madeira, Portugal | – 25 Waterfalls – Laurisilva Forest – Levada System |
Challenging Hike
This hike is considered a more challenging walk, as it covers a significant distance of 10.5 miles (17 km) and takes 6-7 hours to complete. Participants should have a moderate level of physical fitness to undertake this trail, which navigates through the rugged terrain of the Rabacal area in Madeira.
The trail’s difficulty is further amplified by the following factors:
- Steep inclines and uneven paths that require agility and endurance.
- Exposure to varying weather conditions, including rain and wind, which can make the hike more arduous.
- The need to navigate narrow ledges and rocky outcroppings, requiring a good sense of balance and coordination.
Despite the challenges, the hike rewards adventurous trekkers with breathtaking views of 25 waterfalls and the stunning Rabacal landscape.
Waterfalls and Levada
One of the highlights of this challenging hike is the opportunity to witness the stunning display of 25 waterfalls cascading through the Rabacal area in Madeira. This hike follows the Levada, an intricate network of irrigation channels that crisscross the island, allowing hikers to enjoy the lush, verdant landscapes. Along the way, guests will marvel at the power and beauty of these natural wonders, each waterfall with its own unique character and charm. The Levada itself is an engineering marvel, a testament to the ingenuity and hard work of the Madeiran people. Exploring this captivating region is a truly unforgettable experience.
| Waterfall Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Height | Ranging from modest cascades to towering plunges |
| Flow Rate | Varying with seasonal rainfall and snowmelt |
| Accessibility | Some easily viewed from the trail, others require minor detours |
| Sound | The soothing, rhythmic sounds of falling water |
| Backdrop | Framed by lush vegetation and dramatic cliffs |
Booking and Pickup
Travelers can book the Levada & Waterfalls Hike 25 Fountains, Rabacal, Risco More Challenging Walk directly through the tour operator, which offers hotel pickup and drop-off from Câmara de Lobos and Funchal, as well as port pickup and drop-off for an additional fee.
The tour includes:
- A certified mountain guide to lead the way.
- A private tour experience.
- Exploration of the stunning Rabacal area in Levada, Madeira, Portugal.
This challenging 10.5-mile hike through waterfalls and levadas isn’t offered by other companies and lasts 6-7 hours, making it a must-do for adventurous travelers. Guests must be at least 10 years old and in moderate physical shape to participate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Dog on the Hike?
Dogs are not permitted on this tour. The tour operator’s policies prohibit bringing pets due to the challenging nature of the hike and the need to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.
Do You Offer Any Discounts for Large Groups?
The tour company offers discounts for large groups of 4 or more travelers. The exact discount amount varies, so it’s best to inquire directly with the company about their current group pricing options.
Can I Leave My Luggage at the Pickup Location?
Yes, travelers can leave their luggage at the pickup location. The tour operator offers hotel pickup and drop-off service, so you can safely store your bags while exploring the area.
Is There a Minimum Group Size Requirement?
Yes, there is a maximum group size of 8 travelers per booking. The tour doesn’t have a minimum group size requirement, so you can book it even if you’re the only participant.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?
Hikers should bring sturdy hiking boots, lightweight layers, sunscreen, a hat, water, and snacks. The tour operator recommends bringing trekking poles for the challenging terrain. No specialized equipment is required.
Recap
This captivating Levada and Waterfalls Hike in Madeira, Portugal, offers an exhilarating 10.5-mile journey through the stunning Rabacal area.
Guided by a certified mountain expert, you will explore the Laurisilva Forest, marvel at 25 enchanting waterfalls, and navigate the Levada system.
The moderate fitness level required makes this tour suitable for travelers aged 10 and above, providing a unique experience that’s not to be missed.
