Kings Levada

A gentle trek through Madeira’s lush landscape—perfect for families and nature enthusiasts

The Kings Levada walks are often praised for their straightforward, scenic routes, and this particular tour from Funchal offers a wonderful taste of Madeira’s verdant charm. With a focus on ease and natural beauty, this experience is ideal if you’re looking for a day filled with waterfalls, flat trails, and a touch of adventure without the steep climbs or technical difficulty. The guided tour, priced at just over $37 per person, includes pickup, drop-off, and local guides, making it a fuss-free way to explore.

What I love about this walk is how accessible it makes experiencing Madeira’s famed levada networks. It’s a trip that feels intimate and relaxed, yet rich in sights. The route is perfectly suited for families – especially children aged 6 and up – and those who prefer a gentle, flat walk rather than a strenuous hike. I also appreciate the well-maintained route, with fences securing sheer drops, which adds peace of mind for those with a slight vertigo tendency.

One thing to keep in mind is the weather—since the walk is mostly outdoor and exposed, a rainy day could make the path slippery or force a cancellation. Also, be prepared with water, a small picnic, comfortable shoes, and a hat. If you’re after a more challenging hike, this might not satisfy your craving for rugged terrain, but for a peaceful nature experience, it’s hard to beat.

Key points / Takeaways

• Flat and accessible: The walk is entirely flat, making it suitable for almost anyone with moderate physical fitness, including families with children.
• Waterfalls galore: Expect stunning waterfalls along the route, adding a refreshing and dramatic touch to the scenery.
• Well-maintained route: The trail is kept in good condition, with fences at key points, ensuring safety and confidence for all walkers.
• Authentic Madeira nature: You’ll encounter native plants and medicinal herbs, offering a glimpse into the island’s lush flora.
• Guided support: The tour includes both a driver/guide and a local guide, enriching your experience with local insights.
• Flexible timing: Starting at 9:10 am from Funchal, the walk takes about 7 hours round-trip, including transportation and breaks.

An In-Depth Look at the Kings Levada Experience

What makes the Kings Levada so appealing?

This walk covers approximately 5.4 km each way, totaling around 10.8 km, with an estimated duration of 4 to 6 hours including breaks and transportation. The route begins in Funchal and heads to São Jorge, a scenic village perched above the coast. The drive itself takes about 45 minutes, offering a chance to enjoy the island’s landscape before the walk begins.

Once at São Jorge, the walk starts around 9:10 am, depending on your hotel pickup schedule. The trail is a gentle, flat path following the levada—Canary Island-style irrigation channels—lined with lush greenery and dotted with waterfalls bursting from the cliffs above. The route is well-maintained, with fences at points where the terrain drops away sharply, which offers reassurance for those a bit wary of heights.

The walk: waterfalls, nature, and a touch of vertigo

Many reviews highlight the waterfalls as the highlight of this trek. The water cascades down mossy rocks, creating a symphony of sound and a cool mist that refreshes. One traveler recounted managing to get through the waterfalls without getting too wet, implying that some splashes are inevitable but manageable.

The trail is completely flat, which makes it accessible and easy to follow. However, some parts involve sheer drops, protected by fences, which can cause a bit of vertigo—something to consider if you’re uncomfortable with heights. For most, though, the thrill is minimal thanks to the safety measures in place.

What to bring for a comfortable walk

Given the sunny exposure and the distance, packing water, a small picnic, comfortable walking shoes, and a wide-brimmed hat is recommended. The tour’s inclusion of lunch is not provided, so bringing your own snacks ensures you stay energized. The natural environment, coupled with the mild climate, makes this a very pleasant outdoor activity.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This experience is perfect for families with children from age 6 and up, nature lovers, and those looking for a relaxing, scenic walk. It’s not designed for those with limited mobility or pregnant women—especially later in pregnancy—due to the length and outdoor conditions.

Insights from travelers

One reviewer shared they were not fully prepared for the waterfalls but still managed to enjoy the walk, suggesting a bit of spontaneity is possible. Another praised it as a “lovely walk” with well-maintained paths and scenic views. Guides like those from Pride of Madeira are generally praised for their professionalism and local knowledge, adding another layer of value to the experience.

The logistics: what to expect

The tour departs from Funchal at 9 am, with hotel pickup included. The entire day runs until approximately 4 pm, giving plenty of time to enjoy the walk and the scenic drive back. The small group setting, with a maximum of 16 travelers, ensures a more personalized experience, often with friendly guides who are eager to share insights about the island’s flora and geology.

Cost and value

At $37.09 per person, the experience offers good value when you consider transportation, guiding, and the unique scenery. It’s a cost-effective way to see a significant part of Madeira’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning logistics yourself. The tour’s flexible cancellation policy—free up to 24 hours in advance—adds peace of mind.

Who Should Book This Experience?

If you’re after a relaxed, scenic walk that showcases Madeira’s waterfalls and lush landscapes without a strenuous climb, this tour is a solid choice. It’s especially suitable for families, older travelers, or anyone who enjoys easy walks in nature. Those wanting a more rugged or challenging hike should look elsewhere, but for a peaceful day immersed in natural beauty, this walk hits the spot.

The inclusion of knowledgeable guides and convenient hotel pickup makes it a hassle-free option for visitors staying in Funchal. And at a reasonable price, it offers a memorable, authentic experience of Madeira’s iconic levadas.

The Sum Up

The Kings Levada walk provides a wonderful balance of simplicity and scenic grandeur. It’s a chance to witness Madeira’s waterfalls, native plants, and lush terrain without the challenges of steep slopes or technical paths. The well-maintained trail, combined with guided support and convenient logistics, makes this a great choice for families and nature lovers alike.

If you’re looking to spend a day outdoors, enjoying Madeira’s natural colors and sounds, this tour is a smart pick. It’s not just a walk—it’s a gentle adventure that leaves you feeling refreshed and connected to the island’s vibrant landscape.

For travelers who want a straightforward, beautiful, and well-supported nature experience, the Kings Levada tour offers outstanding value and an authentic taste of Madeira’s green heart.

FAQ

What is the starting time of the tour?
The tour departs from Funchal at around 9:00 am, with pickups arranged from your hotel.

How long does the entire experience last?
The walk takes about 4 hours, with additional time for transportation and breaks, making it a full day activity from 9 am to around 4 pm.

Is this walk suitable for children?
Yes, it is recommended for children from age 6 and older, given the flat terrain and safety fences along the route.

What should I bring on the walk?
Bring water, a small picnic, comfortable shoes, a hat, and weather-appropriate clothing. The tour does not include lunch, so packing snacks is advised.

Are there any safety concerns?
The route is well-maintained, with fences at risky points to prevent falls. However, some parts have sheer drops, so a bit of vertigo might be experienced—most find it manageable thanks to safety measures.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers driver/guide, local guide, professional guide, and hotel pickup and drop-off.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing for full refunds if needed.