Madeira PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde Self Guided Santana

Overview

8 hours

Mobile ticket

Step into a world of misty mountains, moss-covered paths, and ancient greenery on the unforgettable Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk. Beginning in the lush Queimadas Forest Park in Santana, this 13-kilometer hike winds through one of Madeira’s most magical landscapes — the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva Forest. This is a journey deep into nature, where every turn reveals a new surprise: birdsong echoing through the trees, trickling streams beside the levada, and tunnels carved into the volcanic rock.

The trail leads you to the stunning Caldeirão Verde lagoon, fed by a towering waterfall that cascades into a deep emerald basin — a moment of stillness and beauty you won’t soon forget. On clear days, you’ll also enjoy glimpses of the picturesque villages of Santana, Ilha, and São Jorge, scattered across the valleys below.

Whether you’re an enthusiastic hiker or a curious explorer, this experience is a peaceful, awe-inspiring way to discover the wild heart of Madeira.

Additional Info

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Not recommended for travelers with vertigo

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

What To Expect

Step into the wild heart of Madeira on the Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk. Starting in the lush Queimadas Forest Park, this 13 km trail winds through the UNESCO Laurissilva Forest, with mossy paths, volcanic rock tunnels, and endless shades of green. Follow the levada past streams and birdsong until you reach the breathtaking Caldeirão Verde waterfall, plunging into an emerald lagoon. On clear days, glimpse the charming villages of Santana and São Jorge below. With roundtrip transport and all the information you need for a self-guided adventure, you’re free to hike at your own pace and immerse yourself fully in Madeira’s natural beauty.

What‘s Included

Pick up and Drop off at your acommodation

Briefing before the hike

Local driver

Bottled water

Meals

IFCN Forest Department - You can paid on the moment of the hike or use the official website

Pickup points

Select a pickup point

Options

Madeira PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde Self Guided Santana

Pickup included

Reviews

5.00

21 reviews

Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor

Rainy day magical levada hike
Virginia H,Mar 20, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
Fantastic hike through magical forest. It was a chilly and rainy day but still 100% worth it! Don’t cancel on a rainy day, pack warmer clothes!!!
Fabulous service - highly recommend
Colette G,Mar 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Fantastic service, contacted via WhatsApp the day before and pick up arrangements made. Luis arrived early and collected us from our hotel and dropped/collected us from the beginning/end of hike, dropping us back to our hotel later. It's an out and back walk that took about 4.5 hours, it's really easy, flat all the way. Busy on the trail at times but manageable and a fabulous experience and views. Luis was great, really nice, easy going and took the whole stress out of getting there/back. I'd highly recommend! The roads around the island are steep and often single track, I wouldn't have liked to have hired a car!
Great guide!
marthau559,Mar 11, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
For two young women, it was a really enjoyable and safe experience, route well explained and also sent lots of other useful information about walks and other activities in Madeira. Adapted timings to suit our plans and very friendly :)
Great driver/guide and hike! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Amalietss,Mar 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Great experience, we were given good information before the trip, the pick up were on time and the driver/guide (Luís) did a great job!!
Madeira PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde Self Guided
Escape66261459102,Mar 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
We did a transfer for PR9 with Luís, we had a great time. Very funny guy and gave us loads of information about our hike but also for our future stay in Funchal. It was an intimate group so a lot of opportunity to talk personally. During the hike he texted me to ask if everything was okay, in case we needed help. On the way back Luís offered to stop at a viewpoint to take some nice pictures. Highly recommend!!
Organised Reliable Guide
Michaela C,Feb 11, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00
I had a good experience with Luís, organisation was smooth, picking up close to my location was a great help, I got all necessary information and tips about the trail. I felt safe and supported. 🧭
Unforgettable experience
pablomI5622MJ,Feb 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
The experience was amazing, the place is dreamy and Luis was very attentive explained very well the way forward and even though it was not scheduled he made an additional stop in Santana. We would certainly do it again.
Friendly guide with lots of local knowledge
yuho9798,Feb 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
I was quite pleased with Luis who ensured everything was alright before, during, and after the tour. He provided us all the information we need for the hike and made sure I feel safe all throughout. Punctual and also a good driver. He was kind enough to take us to a viewing point on the way back to Funchal and gave us a bunch of good recommendations of restaurants to try during my stay in Madeira. I highly recommend this tour and Luis for anybody interested in doing hikes in Madeira.
Stunning views, great company and an unforgettable experience
694sindyg,Jan 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Luis has been absolutely amazing! He’s funny and really makes an effort to connect with his guests. The hike and the experience itself was breathtakingly beautiful! I’d highly recommend their service to anyone!
one of the most beautiful hikes in Madeira
Voyage17331493264,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00
Great guide and beautiful walk! Highly recommend this company and this fantastic hike. One of the most beautiful hikes in Madeira.