Madeira Trekking

Madeira – The Island of Eternal Spring

This program has no limits. If you love being active and want to combine your holiday with outdoor adventures, this trip is perfect for you. Whether you’re new to hiking or an experienced mountaineer, you’ll find the right balance of activity and relaxation. We won’t be racing to the finish line, but instead enjoying every step of the way. Madeira with Lifetrek offers the perfect blend of what you love and what your body needs. The Atlantic island of Madeira has long been a popular tourist destination, yet it still hides secret spots waiting to be discovered. Our “Madeira for Hikers” program is designed to explore these hidden gems.

Active Madeira

The Portuguese settled the island, the English were the first tourists, and today, the Germans are the most frequent visitors. Madeira is a volcanic archipelago with a dramatic landscape, shaped by steep cliffs and deep valleys. Thanks to its geographic features and mild climate, Madeira is a year-round destination. The island is home to mimosa, laurel, and eucalyptus forests, as well as banana and sugarcane plantations. In recent years, many old transport routes, levadas, and aqueducts have been restored, offering hikers and explorers access to Madeira’s stunning nature. We will experience a significant part of the island’s natural and cultural treasures.

Madeira – A Destination for Every Taste

Madeira’s pleasant climate brings a touch of summer even in the winter months, with temperatures reaching up to 20°C. The island remains green all year round and boasts a well-developed tourist infrastructure, enhanced by the warmth and hospitality of the locals. Visitors are drawn to Madeira’s vineyards, banana plantations, botanical gardens, picturesque villages, and iconic levadas, which channel water to fields and orchards. The capital, Funchal, is a cultural and culinary hotspot that delights even the most demanding travelers. Our 8-day “Madeira for Hikers” program offers a well-rounded experience with something for everyone in the group.

Hiking Above the Clouds

Climb to the highest peak of Madeira – Pico Ruivo (1,861 m). Are you ready for the challenge? Join us as we hike to the summit, starting from Pico do Arieiro. The well-marked trail takes about five hours, leading through dramatic mountainous terrain covered in moss, ferns, and heather. Along the way, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop, admire the views, and capture photos of birds and colorful lizards. From the top, you’ll enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Madeira’s green mountains and the vast Atlantic Ocean.

Hiking in Madeira

Participants should be in reasonable physical condition. The hikes are not overly demanding, and an experienced Lifetrek guide will accompany the group to set a comfortable pace. We hike at a speed that suits everyone, prioritizing enjoyment of the scenery. If you prefer a rest day, you are welcome to stay at the accommodation, relax in the sun, swim, or take a stroll through town. This is your vacation, and you deserve to enjoy it!
Each day, we will hike between 7 and 15 kilometers. The trails are well-maintained and mostly gentle, with occasional steeper sections. This trip offers a perfect escape from the fast pace of everyday life, allowing you to disconnect and enjoy great company in a stunning location.

Accommodation

Throughout our journey, we will be staying in a city villa on the outskirts of Funchal. The accommodation is just a few minutes’ walk from the historic city center, with restaurants, a bakery, a café, and a small grocery store nearby.

The villa will be exclusively for our group, allowing for evening socializing after the day’s activities. The spacious rooms each have their own private bathroom. The house features:
✔ Shared kitchen
✔ Living room & dining area
✔ Outdoor terrace

This setup ensures comfort, privacy, and a homely atmosphere during our stay.