From Funchal: Wet your hair in the amazing Moinhos Levada

Travelers seeking a gentle yet visually rewarding experience in Madeira will find this tour a perfect fit. Focused on one of the island’s most captivating levadas—the Moinhos Levada—it offers a relaxed pace, beautiful scenery, and the chance to get up close to waterfalls. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking to enjoy nature at your leisure, this tour provides a taste of Madeira’s lush landscape without the physical strain of a strenuous trek.

It’s especially appealing if you appreciate personalized attention and local insights, thanks to friendly guides and small groups. The highlight for many is the opportunity to wet your hair at a waterfall, adding a splash of fun to the day.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the walk is mostly flat but involves being on the side of mountains, so those with a fear of heights might want to evaluate if this fits their comfort level.

This tour tends to suit travelers who enjoy scenic, unhurried walks, breathtaking views, and a touch of authentic Madeira charm. It’s perfect for those wanting a gentle outing with plenty of photo opportunities, local conversation, and nature’s splendor.

Key Points

• Relaxed Pace: Walk at your own speed along the levada, making it accessible for most fitness levels.
• Stunning Views: Expect picturesque vistas, waterfalls, and lush greenery.
• Authentic Experience: Guides are knowledgeable and helpful, enhancing the walk with local insights.
• Flexible Schedule: The day includes optional stops and free time, especially at Ponta do Sol.
• Value for Money: At $38, it offers a comprehensive, scenic half-day adventure with transport included.
• Photo Opportunities: Guides often take pictures during the walk, capturing memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour Experience

This 7-hour guided tour from Funchal offers a great introduction to Madeira’s verdant landscape. It combines a scenic levada hike with local cultural stops and plenty of time to relax and soak in the views. The tour starts with a convenient pickup from Caniço, Funchal, or Ribeira Brava — a real plus if you’re staying outside the city center.

The first stop is a local supermarket-cafe, a friendly spot where you can mingle with fellow travelers, grab a coffee, and stock up on water or snacks. This sets a casual tone, making the entire experience feel more personal and relaxed. Afterward, a short drive takes you to the trailhead of the Moinhos Levada, one of the most beautiful and accessible levadas in Madeira.

The walk itself is a 3-4 hour journey through lush landscapes, crossing old stone bridges, passing vibrant floral displays, and marveling at waterfalls cascading down rocky cliffs. The highlight, as many reviews confirm, is the chance to wet your hair in a waterfall, which adds a delightful splash of adventure. You’ll love the way the icy water contrasts with the warm Madeira sun, creating a refreshing break from the walk.

Throughout the walk, your guide — often described as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive — enriches the experience with insights into the island’s water system and natural history. Several travelers have praised guides like Nelio and Emilio for their helpfulness, clear instructions, and willingness to accommodate questions or small schedule changes.

Once the levada walk concludes, you’ll be greeted by your driver and whisked away to Ponta do Sol, a charming seaside village. Here, you have time to relax, explore, or have a leisurely lunch, which many find to be the perfect way to end the day. Afterward, the return trip includes scenic stops for photos and viewpoints, making the full 7-hour experience feel well-rounded and immersive.

The Itinerary Details

Pickup and initial stop:
Starting from chosen locations—Câmara De Lobos, Ribeira Brava, or Funchal—you’ll be picked up comfortably and driven to a local café. Travelers mention that this initial stop is a great chance to chat with guides and fellow travelers, setting a friendly tone for the day.

Travel to the levada:
A short 30-minute drive transports you to the trailhead. Many reviews highlight the professionalism of the drivers and the ease of the transfer, which adds to the overall stress-free nature of the tour.

The levada walk:
Spanning 3-4 hours, this flat, scenic walk along the Moinhos Levada features old stone bridges, waterfalls, and lush flora. The journey is more about enjoying the landscape than physical exertion. Reviewers comment on the “beautiful landscape everywhere” and the “really helpful” guidance.

Waterfall interaction:
The unexpected highlight is the chance to wet your hair in the waterfall — a playful and refreshing moment that many travelers cherish and quote as a favorite part of the day.

Post-hike exploration:
After the walk, the driver takes you to Ponta do Sol, where you can relax by the sea, explore the town, or have lunch. This flexible free time is often appreciated, with one reviewer noting they enjoyed spending 2 hours there.

Return journey:
The day ends with a scenic drive back along the coast, stopping at viewpoints and other scenic spots if time allows. Drop-offs are available at the initial pickup points, making logistics straightforward.

Transport, Timing, and Group Size

The tour includes transfers from various locations in Madeira, making it accessible regardless of where you stay. The group size is small enough for personalized attention, and guides are fluent in English and Portuguese, ensuring clear communication.

Starting times vary by day, so checking availability is essential. The 7-hour duration balances exploration and relaxation, making it suitable for those who prefer a leisurely pace. The price of $38 per person is quite reasonable, especially given the included transport and guided expertise.

What Travelers Say

The reviews paint a clear picture: travelers love the knowledgeable guides and the stunning vistas. One said, “Nelio explained where to go & gave us advice” and “took some pictures of us & sent them,” emphasizing the personal touch. Another praised Emilio for his friendly attitude and the “fabulous walk along the levada with far-reaching views and waterfalls.”

Several reviewers also appreciated how not physically demanding the walk is, making it accessible to many, except those with mobility issues or fear of heights. Several comments mention how the guides are flexible, helpful, and eager to enhance the experience.

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Practical Tips for Participants

Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain, but note that the terrain is mostly flat. Bring a waterproof jacket or a light raincoat — rain is unpredictable in Madeira. If you’re prone to vertigo or afraid of heights, weigh that against the fact that some parts are right on mountain edges without sturdy railings, as noted in reviews.

The tour doesn’t include lunch, so consider packing some snacks or planning to eat in Ponta do Sol afterward. The small group size and personal attention make it worthwhile for travelers who enjoy intimate, guided experiences with plenty of photo opportunities and scenic stops.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This is an ideal choice for nature lovers who want a relaxed, scenic walk without the need for intense physical activity. It’s perfect for those who enjoy photography, tranquil landscapes, and small-group interactions. If you’re traveling with family members over 10 years old or are comfortable with mild heights, it’ll be a memorable highlight.

However, it’s less suitable for individuals with mobility issues, back problems, or a fear of heights. It’s also important to note that the activity isn’t suited for those over 287 lbs/130 kg or anyone with specific health conditions that limit physical activity.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour fee?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from your hotel or specified locations and transfer to and from the trailhead.

How long does the walk last?
The levada walk takes about 3-4 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend enjoying the scenery.

Can I participate if I am not very fit?
Absolutely. The walk is mostly flat and relaxed, making it accessible for most fitness levels, but it’s not suitable for those with low mobility or certain health issues.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, rain gear if rain is forecasted, water, snacks, and a camera for the stunning views.

Will I get wet?
You might — the highlight of the tour is the chance to wet your hair in a waterfall, which many find fun and refreshing.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch isn’t included, but you’ll have free time in Ponta do Sol to find a cafe or enjoy a picnic.

What if I don’t want to walk the entire levada?
The tour is flexible, and guides are friendly — you can take it at your own pace or spend extra time at scenic spots.

Are children allowed?
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 10 years old, mainly because of safety considerations on mountain edges.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak both English and Portuguese, ensuring clear communication and helpful explanations.

Final Thoughts

This Madeira levada tour offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty, local charm, and relaxed pacing. It’s perfect for travelers who want to enjoy Madeira’s lush landscapes without the intensity of difficult hikes. Small groups and attentive guides make the experience more personable, while the stunning views and waterfalls promise plenty of memorable moments.

The tour’s value lies in its combination of easy access to beautiful scenery, insightful guidance, and flexible scheduling, all at a very reasonable price. It’s a wonderful way to spend a day connecting with Madeira’s natural side, especially if you’re seeking a gentle adventure that leaves plenty of space for photos, relaxation, and genuine awe.

If you love lush landscapes, waterfalls, and easy walking in a peaceful setting, this tour is well worth considering. Just keep in mind your comfort with heights and terrain, and you’ll be rewarded with some of the island’s most photogenic and tranquil sights.

You can check availability for your dates here: