Priceless Tips for Hiking in Madeira, Portugal

Welcome to Madeira! Whether you’re a first-time hiker or a seasoned trail enthusiast, Madeira offers some of the most breathtaking hikes in the world. To make your experience safe and enjoyable, here are some priceless tips to keep in mind before hitting the trails:

Don’t Rely Too Much on Safety Rails

Madeira’s trails often feature protective barriers, but these may be old or loose. Don’t lean on them for safety. Instead, use them lightly for balance and stay aware of your footing.

Stay Calm and Collected: “Be Cool”

Avoid sudden movements or panic. Take your time and pay attention to your surroundings—weather, trail conditions, and obstacles. If the trail looks unsafe (muddy, slippery, or overflowing levadas), turn back.

Be Ready for Vertigo

Some trails can be steep or narrow, and may trigger vertigo. If you’re not comfortable, try a different route or consider doing a guided tour first.

Steps Galore: Be in Good Shape

Hiking in Madeira means lots of steps—up and down. Make sure you're in decent physical shape or opt for shorter hikes to get acclimated.

Guided Tours: A Great Way to Explore Safely

If you’re unsure about handling the more difficult trails (such as vertigo-inducing hikes), guided tours are highly recommended. Here at The Big Walk Madeira, we provide excellent, knowledgeable guides who can help you assess your hiking ability and make your experience safe and enjoyable.

Essential Hiking Gear for Madeira

Packing the right gear is crucial to enjoying your hiking adventures. Here’s what you should bring:

• Hiking boots: Make sure they’re full-length and waterproof.

• Hiking socks: Comfortable and moisture-wicking.

• Waterproof clothing: Weather can change quickly, so pack a jacket, pants, and a cover for your backpack.

• First aid kit: Essential for emergencies.

• Water: Always stay hydrated.

• Walking sticks: These help with balance on tricky trails.

• Thermal wear: Even in warmer months, it can get cold in the mountains.

• Headlamp: Some hikes require crossing tunnels.

• Waste bags: Carry your trash, including fruit skins and tissues.

• Sunscreen: You'll be exposed to many hours of glorious sun in Madeira, best be preparred!

  
  

Additional Safety Tips

1. Don’t drink water from the levadas: It might look clean, but contamination from wildlife is a serious risk.

2. Watch the weather: Check webcams to get the latest weather updates for specific locations. We like to use the windy.com app for local weather information.

3. Avoid hiking alone: Most accidents happen to solo hikers, especially at night. Always let someone know your route.

4. Charge your phone: Bring a power bank so you can use your GPS if needed.

5. Respect trail closures: Always follow local advisories from the IFCN (Forestry Institute) about trail safety and closures. you can check this information with this link

6. Beware of camping restrictions: Permits are required for camping in certain areas, and it can get extremely cold in higher elevations during the winter.

Planning Your Hikes

Use official sources like the Visit Madeira website for reliable hiking information. Other websites or travel blogs may offer outdated or incorrect advice, so always double-check before setting off.

For more advanced hikes, check out the Journey Era blog by Jackson Groves, or browse our own blog for local insights.

Transport Tips

Many hikes in Madeira are not circular, meaning you’ll start and finish at different locations. Renting a car might not always be convenient. Consider using a taxi service or booking a guided hike with transport included. Here at The Big Walk Madeira we can help you book your hike with professionals.

Explore the Island with a Jeep Tour

If hiking isn’t your thing or you want a mix of activities, consider booking a Jeep tour. At Hit the Road Madeira, we offer scenic drives with short hikes in between, allowing you to experience the best of the island with minimal effort. Check our website for more details and current discounts.

By following these tips, you’ll ensure a safe and unforgettable hiking experience in Madeira. Whether you’re exploring the famous Levada trails or venturing into lesser-known paths, preparation is key.

Happy hiking!