Queimadas Caldeirao Verde Full day hike

Queimadas Caldeirao Verde Full Day Hike: An Immersive Journey Through Madeira’s Green Paradise

For those eager to explore Madeira’s most captivating landscapes, the Queimadas Caldeirão Verde Full Day Hike offers a beautifully structured walk that covers around 4 hours of walking through lush native forests and impressive levada trails. Starting at the Queimadas guesthouse, this tour takes you along the famous Levada of Caldeirão Verde, revealing some of the island’s most remote and scenic spots.

This tour is a particularly good choice for travelers who enjoy nature, waterfalls, and moderate hiking. The guide’s expertise ensures a smooth experience, though the route’s narrow, sometimes challenging paths require good grip shoes and a degree of focus. It’s not suited for very young children or those with limited mobility, but for those who enjoy active outdoor adventures, it’s a rewarding experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Duration: 4 hours of guided hiking from Queimadas guesthouse
• Distance: The hike covers scenic levada trails through the Laurissilva forest
• Main highlights: Caldeirão Verde waterfall, native Laurissilva forest, centuries-old ceders (criptomeria japonica)
• Physical requirements: Moderate hiking with narrow paths, tunnels, and uneven terrain
• What to bring: Packed lunch, hiking shoes with good grip
• Limitations: Not suitable for children under 5, pregnant women, or those with vertigo or mobility issues

Starting Point at Queimadas Guesthouse and the Transport to the Trails

The tour begins at the Queimadas guesthouse, a popular access point for this trail. From there, a bus or coach takes you on a roughly one-hour drive to the starting location. The transport arrangements make it easier to access the remote trailhead without the hassle of driving yourself.

Once at the starting point, the guides lead the group along the Levada of Caldeirão Verde. This approach ensures a relaxed pace while allowing ample time for sightseeing and photography along the way. The initial ascent offers magnificent views over the village of São Jorge and the surrounding mountains, setting the scene for the natural beauty ahead.

Exploring the Native Laurissilva Forest and Ancient Cedars

The trail winds through the Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site that displays an abundance of native flora. Centuries-old ceders, known as criptomeria japonica, are visible along the route, adding a sense of timelessness to the landscape. The dense greenery and high humidity create a lush atmosphere that makes every step feel like walking through a fairy tale.

The forest landscape is captivating, with tall trees and thick foliage. The guides share insights into the local plant species, making the walk both scenic and educational. As the trail progresses, the natural scenery becomes even more spectacular, leading up to the highlight of the tour—the Caldeirão Verde waterfall.

The Path to Caldeirão Verde Waterfall and Tunnel Crossings

The trail features several short tunnels that travelers pass through, adding an element of adventure. These tunnels are part of the levada system and can be quite narrow, so good waterproof shoes are essential. A torch or flashlight is recommended, especially during wetter months, to navigate the darker sections comfortably.

A key feature of this hike is the majestic Caldeirão Verde waterfall, which pours down into a deep basin. After reaching the waterfall, the group takes a short rest, during which a picnic is typically enjoyed. The view of the cascading water and surrounding cliffs provides a perfect moment for photos and reflection.

More Great Tours Nearby

Return Journey and Scenic Views Over the Village of São Jorge

Following the rest, the return trail retraces part of the route back through the tunnel crossings and lush forest. The walk offers spectacular vistas over the village of São Jorge and the mountain ranges, giving a sense of the island’s remote beauty. The trail’s narrow paths and occasional steep sections make it a moderate challenge, but the guides ensure safety and pacing.

The route is well-known for being free of crowds in the early mornings, but during peak times, some sections may feel busy, especially near the waterfall. The group size can influence the experience, with smaller groups offering a more intimate connection with nature.

Practical Info: Logistics, Safety, and What to Pack

The tour includes pickup options from 37 different locations in Funchal, arranged via private bus or coach, roughly one hour each way. Pickup times are flexible, with a tolerance of 20 minutes, and guests are advised to wait at their hotel reception or designated pickup point.

To ensure safety, hikers should bring a packed lunch and hiking shoes with good grip. The humid environment along the levadas makes waterproof footwear necessary, and the tunnels demand some attention to footing. The tour explicitly excludes baby strollers, alcohol, pets, and food or drinks in the vehicle, emphasizing the importance of proper preparation.

Who Should Consider This Tour: Strengths and Limitations

This full-day hike suits those comfortable with moderate terrain and narrow paths. It offers a chance to see some of the most pristine and remote parts of Madeira, especially its Laurissilva forest and waterfalls. The expert guides enhance the experience by providing local insights and ensuring safety through the tunnels and uneven terrain.

However, the hike is challenging in parts, especially in wet conditions or if participants have mobility restrictions. The narrow tunnels and steep sections mean it’s not suitable for young children under 5, pregnant women, or anyone with vertigo or mobility impairments. Crowds can also be an issue during peak times, impacting the overall tranquility.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out Among Madeira Hikes

The combination of native Laurissilva forest, centuries-old ceders, and the spectacular Caldeirão Verde waterfall creates a remarkable landscape. The route’s short tunnels and narrow paths add a touch of adventure, while the guides’ knowledge helps visitors appreciate the natural beauty and history of the area.

This tour’s well-organized logistics and scenic highlights make it a solid choice for those wanting to explore remote Madeira without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. The 4-hour guided format balances physical activity with opportunities to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

Limitations and What to Consider Before Booking

While highly rewarding, the hike is not suited for children under 5, pregnant women, or those with mobility challenges. The narrow tunnels and uneven, sometimes slippery paths demand good hiking shoes and a focused mindset. Some reviews note that the trail can get crowded, especially near the waterfall, which might detract from the feeling of solitude.

The tour’s duration and physical demands mean it’s best suited for those with a moderate level of fitness who enjoy outdoor exploration. Weather conditions, particularly during the rainy season, could impact the experience, making waterproof gear essential.

Final Thoughts: A Nature Lover’s Treasure in Madeira

The Queimadas Caldeirão Verde Full Day Hike offers a rewarding route through Madeira’s lush native forests and along scenic levada trails. The magnificent waterfall, ancient ceders, and spectacular mountain views make it an unforgettable experience for those with a taste for outdoor adventures and natural beauty.

While the route requires moderate fitness, the guides’ expertise and the beautiful scenery compensate for the physical effort. It’s an excellent way to experience the remote, untouched parts of Madeira, especially for travelers who appreciate flora, waterfalls, and narrow-path hiking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
This hike is not suitable for children under 5 due to the narrow tunnels and uneven terrain.

What should I bring for the hike?
Guests should pack a lunch and wear hiking shoes with good grip, as the environment is humid and the route includes tunnels requiring good footing.

How long does the hike take?
The guided walk lasts approximately 4 hours, not including transportation time.

Are there any restrictions on group size?
While specific group size limits aren’t stated, the tour is organized and guided, which helps manage safety and experience quality.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
The Caldeirão Verde waterfall is the key spectacle, along with the chance to walk through native Laurissilva forest and see ancient ceders.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility to travelers.

This detailed review shows that the Queimadas Caldeirão Verde Full Day Hike is a well-organized, scenic adventure perfect for nature enthusiasts, provided they are prepared for a moderate, sometimes challenging outdoor walk in Madeira’s beautiful landscapes.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby