Madeira is a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. The island operates under Portugal's "right to roam" laws, but with a twist. It has a levada (irrigation canal) system that creates a network of walking trails; these are legally protected from public access.

Madeira offers something truly unique: it's the only place on Earth where you can witness the rare Zino's Petrel, an endemic seabird that nests exclusively in our laurel forests. This ancient Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, survived the last Ice Age and represents one of Europe's largest surviving areas of this prehistoric ecosystem.

Travel Tips

This Madeira, Portugal travel guide scratches the surface of our island's soul. Come with curiosity, leave with understanding. Madeira doesn't just offer experiences; it offers transformation through cultural immersion.

Extra tip

Rent a car - our mountain roads tell stories. Each curve reveals terraced vineyards (poios) built by hand over centuries. Don't rush; stop at miradouros (viewpoints) where locals pause daily to appreciate their island.

Welcome to your cultural journey

Zona Velha

This is where Madeirans gather every evening. Start your Madeira, Portugal travel guide adventure in Funchal's Zona Velha (Old Town). The first settlement in the city of Funchal emerged in the area that is currently known as Zona Velha.

The area is known for its narrow, cobblestone streets decorated with urban art on the facades of old houses. Zona Velha is, in fact, an open-air museum. Rua de Santa Maria is where local artists have transformed the neighborhood with painted doors. Each one tells a story of Madeiran history; this isn't just street art; it's a way of preserving cultural memory.

Câmara de Lobos

South of Madeira is Câmara de Lobos, so named because of the large number of sea lions that lived there several centuries ago. This was the first town inhabited by the navigator João Gonçalves Zarco. He called it "the pearl of the Atlantic" and settled there for four years—from 1420 to 1424.

Several monuments take you back to that time, such as the 15th-century chapel of Nossa Senhora da Conceição and the former convent of São Bernardino, dating from 1425.

SPANISH SECTION:

¿Qué necesito para ir a Estados Unidos desde México? (nuevos requisitos)

Para quienes no sepan o quieran estar 100% seguros sobre qué necesito para ir a Estados Unidos desde México. Hice esta guía con los requisitos, trámites, restricciones, novedades y, algunas, observaciones.

Los tiempos han cambiado y los requisitos también, la visa y el pasaporte siguen siendo obligatorios, pero… ¿qué más hay que cumplir para entrar al país?

Hiking and Nature

Levada do Caldeirão Verde

Starts in Queimadas Forest Park. The distance to be covered is 8.7 km, takes approximately six and a half hours, and is of medium difficulty.

On this trail, you explore the history of the forest. You begin by seeing the triangular houses with thatched roofs of Santana and advance toward the historic levada, built in the 18th century, that brings water to agricultural lands.

Levada das 25 Fontes

A popular route among locals and visitors alike. It's 4.3 km long and approximately three hours long. This trail is for those who love nature and want to be amazed by observing and exploring it. The panoramic view of the Ribeira da Janela Valley is just the beginning of the trail.

The most impressive stop is the Lagoa das 25 Fontes (Lake of the 25 Fountains), which is fed by the water that flows down from Paúl da Serra. There are 25 waterfalls that you can admire from 25 different points.

Levada do Rei

A trail that leads you to a natural sanctuary. It's called "The King's Levada" for a reason. Its difficulty is medium, measuring 5.3 km round trip and taking approximately three and a half hours to complete.

The density of the forest is the beauty of this trail; thanks to the high humidity in this area, the trees are lush. The São Jorge mill is the only one of its kind still in operation. It is fed by the waters of the King's Levada, and grains grown and harvested in the area are ground there.