Madeira’s stunning Laurissilva Forest is a natural wonder worth exploring. The private guided Levada Do Rei Walk PR18 offers visitors a chance to enjoy this UNESCO-protected landscape. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this moderate hike promises enchanting viewpoints, cascading waterfalls, and mysterious tunnels. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking an intimate adventure, this tour provides an opportunity to discover Madeira’s lush biodiversity. But there’s more to this experience than meets the eye. Prepare to be captivated as you embark on a journey through one of the world’s last remaining primeval forests.
Key Points
- The Levada Do Rei Walk PR18 is a private guided tour through the UNESCO-protected Laurissilva Forest in Madeira, offering stunning views and an intimate group experience.
- The 10-kilometer hike ranges in altitude from 538-578 meters, requiring a moderate level of physical fitness but accessible to many hikers.
- The private tour includes a knowledgeable local guide, private transportation, and amenities like Wi-Fi, ensuring a personalized and comfortable experience.
- Visitors can enjoy the captivating wonders of the Laurissilva Forest, home to diverse flora, fauna, waterfalls, and unique geological formations.
- The tour adheres to rules and guidelines to preserve the natural environment, such as prohibiting smoking, alcohol, and open-toed footwear.
Overview of the Levada Do Rei Walk
The Levada Do Rei Walk PR18 is a private guided tour that takes visitors through the beautiful Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Madeira.
This 5-hour excursion offers an intimate group experience, with a private driver and local guide leading the way.
Hikers will enjoy stunning views of the forest and surrounding landscape, as well as the chance to see local birds, fauna, waterfalls, and tunnels along the 10-kilometer trail.
The tour covers an altitude range of 538-578 meters, making it a moderate hike that requires a reasonable level of physical fitness.
Comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, and sun protection are recommended for this unforgettable journey through Madeira’s natural wonders.
Highlights of the Laurissilva Forest
Along the Levada Do Rei Walk, hikers can enjoy the captivating wonders of the Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its diverse flora and fauna.
As they traverse the natural green trail, they’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the lush, verdant landscape.
The forest is home to an array of local birds, unique viewpoints, fascinating fauna, cascading waterfalls, and mysterious tunnels, all of which contribute to the enchanting atmosphere.
This intimate private tour experience allows visitors to fully appreciate the beauty and tranquility of this exceptional natural wonder, creating lasting memories of their time in the heart of Madeira’s stunning wilderness.
Private Tour Experience
Embarking on this private tour, visitors are welcomed by a knowledgeable local guide who brings the Laurissilva Forest to life with insightful commentary and a personalized experience.
The small group size ensures an intimate atmosphere, allowing for ample opportunities to ask questions and interact with the guide.
With private transportation, guests can sit back and enjoy the scenic drive, while the guide provides Wi-Fi access and a flashlight when needed.
This private tour offers a unique chance to explore the UNESCO-protected Laurissilva Forest at a leisurely pace, savoring the natural beauty and hidden gems without the crowds.
It’s an immersive experience tailored to individual interests, creating lasting memories of Madeira’s natural wonders.
Physical Fitness Requirements
Madeira: Private Guided Levada Do Rei Walk PR18
Physical Fitness Requirements
A moderate level of physical fitness is required to fully enjoy the Levada do Rei Walk PR18 experience. The tour covers a distance of 10 kilometers and ranges in altitude from 538-578 meters, so hikers should be prepared for a moderately challenging hike.
However, with the right preparation and mindset, even those with a basic fitness level can conquer this stunning Laurissilva Forest trail.
To make the most of your journey, be sure to:
- Wear comfortable, supportive footwear
- Bring a supply of water and healthy snacks
- Pace yourself and take breaks when needed
Recommended Attire and Gear
Along With the physical fitness requirements, hikers should also consider the appropriate attire and gear for the Levada do Rei Walk PR18.
Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are a must, as the terrain can be uneven and slippery in places. Layering with warm clothing is recommended, as the temperatures can fluctuate along the trail.
Sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen are essential to protect against the island’s bright sunlight. Bringing a small backpack or fanny pack to carry any personal items, snacks, or water is also a good idea.
The tour operator provides a flashlight when needed, but hikers may want to bring their own for added convenience. Overall, dressing for comfort and versatility is key for an enjoyable Levada do Rei experience.
Prohibited Items
Hikers shouldn’t bring certain items on the Levada do Rei Walk PR18 for safety and environmental reasons. High-heeled shoes, sandals, and open-toed footwear are prohibited, as they can be unsafe on the uneven terrain. Likewise, smoking, vaping, alcohol, and food/drinks (aside from water) aren’t allowed inside the vehicle or on the trail to preserve the natural surroundings.
The focus should be on:
- Staying safe and comfortable on the hike
- Respecting the delicate ecosystem of the Laurissilva Forest
- Enjoying the natural beauty without disrupting the environment
Adhering to these rules ensures a smooth and environmentally-conscious experience for everyone on the private guided tour.
Tour Duration and Distance
The private guided Levada do Rei Walk PR18 lasts approximately 5 hours and covers a distance of 10 kilometers through the Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Hikers will enjoy breathtaking views of the lush, green forest and the surrounding landscape. Along the way, they’ll encounter local birds, viewpoints, waterfalls, and tunnels.
The tour ranges in altitude from 538-578 meters, providing a moderate level of physical activity.
Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and clothing and to bring essentials like sunglasses, sun hats, and sunscreen to ensure an enjoyable and safe experience on this private, intimate tour.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The private guided Levada do Rei Walk PR18 includes a driver/local guide, private pickup and drop-off, transportation by private vehicle, Wi-Fi onboard, and insurance, but excludes food, drinks, and clothing. This means travelers won’t have to worry about transportation or navigation, and can simply focus on taking in the stunning views and natural wonders along the way.
To make the most of the hike, guests should:
- Bring comfortable, closed-toe shoes to navigate the uneven terrain
- Pack layers of warm clothing, as the weather can be cool in the forested areas
- Remember sun protection like sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen for the open sections
Recap
The Levada Do Rei Walk PR18 offers visitors an immersive experience in Madeira’s UNESCO-protected Laurissilva Forest.
With a knowledgeable local guide, private transportation, and a moderate 10-kilometer hike, this tour allows guests to explore the lush landscape, discover enchanting viewpoints, and witness the forest’s diverse flora and fauna.
Proper preparation is essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable exploration of this stunning natural wonder.
