Madeira: PR 9 – Levada do Caldeirão Verde Hike Transfer

If you’re dreaming of walking through lush forests, passing waterfalls, and navigating tunnels in Madeira, this self-guided hike along the Levada do Caldeirão Verde might just be your perfect day. Offered by Levadas In and Out, this package combines the freedom of exploring at your own pace with the convenience of a reliable transfer service.

What we appreciate most about this experience is its flexibility — you get to wander at your own speed, soaking in the incredible scenery without the pressure of a guide constantly at your side. Plus, the pickup service from Funchal, Caniço, or Garajau makes logistics simple, especially if you’re new to the island. However, be aware that the trail involves tunnels and muddy paths, so sturdy shoes and a headlamp are essentials.

This tour is well-suited for travelers who enjoy independent exploration, are comfortable with a moderate level of walking, and want an authentic experience in Madeira’s Laurissilva forest. It’s not designed for young children under 12 or those with mobility issues, but if you’re prepared, you’ll find it well worth the effort.

Key Points

• Convenient pickup service from multiple locations in Madeira simplifies your day.
• Self-guided hike offers freedom to explore at your own pace with detailed instructions.
• Stunning scenery including waterfalls, tunnels, and lush forests make every step memorable.
• Expert local drivers provide helpful insights and ensure timely logistics.
• Long walk with varied terrain; proper footwear and rain gear are highly recommended.
• Excellent value at $38, especially considering transportation, guidance prep, and the spectacular views.

This self-guided Levada hike is a great way to enjoy Madeira’s famously verdant landscape without the constraints of a guided tour. For just $38 per person, you’ll be picked up from your accommodation or a designated pickup point, whisked away to the trailhead, and then left free to roam through the Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Transportation

Your journey begins with a pickup from a choice of 56 locations around Funchal, Caniço, or Garajau. The driver, who speaks English and Portuguese, arrives on time — a detail highly praised in reviews — and shares a bit of local insight during the roughly 45-minute transfer. Many reviews highlight how smoothly this process runs, with drivers like Cristiano and Fabio going above and beyond, providing helpful tips and showing photos of their cars for easier identification.

Once at Pico das Pedras in Santana, your driver leaves you with instructions and a brief overview of the trail ahead. The transfer service is especially valuable in Madeira, where parking at popular trailheads can be tricky. Plus, if you’re traveling solo or in a small group, this door-to-door service saves time and hassle.

The Trail Itself

The PR9 route begins at Pico das Pedras, passing through an ancient levada built in the 18th century to irrigate farmland. As you follow the trail, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the mountains and escarpments, with lush greenery on all sides.

The walk is approximately 6.5 km each way to Caldeirão Verde — about 13 km in total — with an extra 1.9 km each way if you choose to do the PR9.1 extension, which adds to the total mileage. Expect to spend around 4.5 to 5.5 hours walking, depending on your pace and how long you linger at viewpoints or take photos.

What makes this trail stand out are the four tunnels carved into the rock. You will walk through these dark, sometimes damp passages, which require a headlamp or torch. Several reviews mention how tunnels add an element of fun and adventure but also a need for proper lighting — a small but crucial detail.

The Highlight: Caldeirão Verde Lake and Waterfalls

The trail concludes with the Caldeirão Verde lake, formed by the water cascading vertically from the Ribeiro do Caldeirão Verde brook, plunging about 100 meters. This stunning waterfall and the surrounding scenery make the effort worthwhile, with reviews describing it as feeling like walking through a scene from Avatar.

After exploring the area, you retrace your steps back to the starting point, passing through the tunnels again. The return hike offers a different perspective, with some reviews mentioning a mix of muddy paths, slippery sections, and narrow trails. Proper footwear is crucial, especially after rain, when the trail can get quite muddy.

The Final Leg and Return

Once back at Pico das Pedras, your driver transfers you back to your original pickup location, with many reviews emphasizing how punctual and friendly the service is. Some travelers mention that their driver checked in to make sure everything was going smoothly, adding a personal touch to the experience.

The whole trip, including transportation, walking, and scenic stops, lasts around 7 hours—an ideal full day if you’re craving an authentic, nature-filled adventure.

Many travelers praise the local drivers’ knowledge and friendliness, noting how they added context and personal touches to the trip. While the hike is self-guided, the support from the transportation team enhances the experience, especially for those unfamiliar with Madeira.

Reviews describe the trail as not overly challenging, but warn about muddy patches, tunnels, and narrow paths. “The trail combines tunnels, slippery paths, and waterfalls, making it a varied and interesting walk,” one review notes. Another mentions that “parts of the trail, like levada walls, are somewhat challenging for those afraid of heights,” so a basic level of fitness and comfort with heights is recommended.

Many also appreciate the value for money. For $38, you’re not just paying for transportation but for a well-organized day in impressive scenery, with the flexibility to explore at your own pace. This is considerably more cost-effective than guided tours that might not offer the same freedom.

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What to Bring

Preparation is key. Expect to encounter muddy sections and tunnels, so sturdy waterproof shoes are a must. A headlamp or torch is essential for navigating the dark tunnels. Bring water, snacks, and rain gear — the weather can change quickly in Madeira’s mountains. Many reviews recommend taking extra time to enjoy the waterfalls and panoramic views, so a camera or phone for photos is a good idea.

Considerations

While the experience is quite flexible and well-supported, be punctual for your pickup and aware that children under 12 years or those under 1.35 meters tall are not suitable for this trek. The trail isn’t wheelchair accessible or suitable for those with vertigo, owing to narrow, elevated sections.

This experience is perfect for independent travelers who want the freedom to explore at their own pace, but also value reliable transportation and local insights. It’s appealing for nature lovers eager to see Madeira’s lush landscapes, waterfalls, and tunnels without the hassle of organizing transport.

It’s ideal for those comfortable with a moderate level of walking and navigating tunnels, and who don’t mind getting a little muddy or dealing with occasional narrow paths. The self-guided aspect means you can linger at viewpoints or skip parts if you prefer a shorter walk.

If you’re traveling with a family or a group of friends who enjoy scenic hikes, this offers an excellent balance of adventure, comfort, and value. However, younger children or those with mobility issues might find the trail challenging.

This Madeira Levada do Caldeirão Verde experience offers a fantastic way to see one of the island’s most beautiful landscapes without the constraints of a guided tour. The combination of self-guided freedom, reliable transportation, and stunning scenery makes it a compelling choice for travelers seeking authentic experiences on Madeira.

The value for money — considering the transport, logistical support, and breathtaking views — is exceptional. The reviews consistently praise the friendly drivers, the cleanliness of the service, and the spectacular scenery.

While some parts of the trail require good footwear and a little preparation, most travelers agree that the effort pays off. If you love walking through forests, exploring tunnels, and standing in awe before waterfalls, this hike will leave you with memories to cherish.

In short, this tour is best suited for independent explorers, nature enthusiasts, and those looking for a hassle-free way to enjoy Madeira’s natural beauty. It’s a good balance of adventure, comfort, and value — a day well spent in Madeira’s lush embrace.

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes local pickup and return transfer from your chosen location in Funchal, Caniço, or Garajau.

What is the trail length?
The main trail is approximately 6.5 km each way, totaling around 13 km, with an optional extension adding about 3.8 km.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, rain gear, water, snacks, and a flashlight or headlamp for the tunnels are recommended.

Is the hike suitable for children?
Children under 12 years or shorter than 1.35 meters are not allowed due to trail difficulty and safety considerations.

How long does the hike take?
Expect around 4.5 to 5.5 hours of walking, depending on your pace and stops for photos or rest.

Are guides provided during the hike?
No, this is a self-guided walk; however, the driver provides detailed instructions and support before the hike begins.

Can I change or cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

This reliable, scenic, and flexible hike offers an authentic taste of Madeira’s lush landscapes, waterfalls, and tunnels — an experience that rewards careful planning and a spirit of adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: