Madeira's levada network is unlike anything else in Europe. Over 2,500km of ancient irrigation channels — built from the 15th century to carry water from the wet northern mountains to the drier south — now form the island's extraordinary hiking system. The paths alongside these channels take you through UNESCO laurel forest, over dramatic cliff faces, through hand-carved mountain tunnels, and to waterfalls that appear out of nowhere in the mist.
This guide covers everything you need: the best levada trails for every level, GPS coordinates, practical tips, and an interactive map of all 30+ official PR routes on Madeira.
🗺️ Quick navigation: Easy trails · Medium trails · Hard trails · Interactive map · What to bring
What is a Levada?
A levada (from the Portuguese "levar" — to carry) is a narrow irrigation channel built to transport water across Madeira's dramatic topography. The island's northern slopes receive abundant rainfall, while the southern agricultural areas are drier. The levadas solved this problem by carrying mountain water across the island through hundreds of kilometres of channels, tunnels, and aqueducts.
The oldest levadas date from the 15th century. The most recent were built in the 20th century to supply hydroelectric power stations. Today, maintenance workers (levadeiros) still walk the channels regularly to clear blockages — and the paths they use have become Madeira's most beloved hiking routes.
📏 By the numbers: 2,500km+ of levada channels · 30+ official PR (Percurso Recomendado) trails · Routes from 2km to 20km+ · Altitude from sea level to 1,800m · All free to walk
Easy Levada Walks — For Beginners & Families
PR6 — Levada das 25 Fontes
EasyThe most popular levada walk on Madeira — and deservedly so. A flat, well-marked path through magnificent laurel forest leads to a stunning lagoon fed by 25 natural springs tumbling down a basalt cliff face. Suitable for children aged 6+. Best visited early morning (8–9am) before tour groups arrive. The path is wide and comfortable — levada walking at its most accessible.
PR11 — Levada dos Balcões
EasyShort, flat and spectacular. Starting from Ribeiro Frio (30 minutes north of Funchal), this gentle levada walk leads to a miradouro (viewpoint) with one of the most dramatic panoramas on the island — the entire central mountain range laid out before you. Often misty, always beautiful. Perfect for a first levada experience or a morning walk before lunch.
PR15 — Levada do Castelejo
EasyA peaceful levada walk in the northwest of the island, through dense vegetation and with occasional views to the Atlantic. Less crowded than the central levadas. Combine with a visit to the Porto Moniz lava pools for a perfect full day on the north coast.
Medium Levada Walks — For Active Hikers
PR14 — Levada dos Cedros (Fanal)
MediumOne of the most beautiful levada walks on the island — threading through the heart of the ancient Fanal laurel forest. Ancient moss-covered trees, frequent fog, dramatic atmosphere. Often walked as a loop starting and ending at Fanal. Best in morning mist. Combines perfectly with time among the ancient "fairy tale" trees of the Fanal plateau.
PR13 — Vereda do Fanal
MediumA point-to-point trail from the Fanal plateau to Assobiadores on the north coast. Passes through pristine Laurisilva, open plateau sections with wide views, and a dramatic descent. One of the most rewarding hikes on the island — arrange transport at both ends or hike out-and-back.
PR18 — Levada do Rei
MediumThe "King's Levada" — one of the most spectacular on the island, running through pristine laurel forest with the channel carved directly into the cliff face. The path is narrow in places but the surroundings are extraordinary. Remote and peaceful — far fewer visitors than the central levadas.
Hard Levada Walks — For Experienced Hikers
PR9 — Levada do Caldeirão Verde
HardThe most dramatic levada walk on Madeira. Four rock tunnels (bring a torch — they are long and dark), narrow paths above sheer drops, and a spectacular finale: a towering waterfall in a green amphitheatre. The path runs through pristine Laurisilva the entire way. Requires good fitness, proper footwear, and a torch. Unforgettable.
PR1 — Vereda do Areeiro (Pico Ruivo Ridge)
HardNot a levada walk — a mountain ridge trail. But no guide to Madeira hiking is complete without it. Starting from Pico do Arieiro (accessible by car), the trail traverses the central mountain ridge to Pico Ruivo (1,862m), Madeira's highest peak. Above the clouds, through tunnels, across knife-edge ridges. One of the most extraordinary walks in Europe. Start at sunrise.
PR9.1 — Levada do Caldeirão do Inferno
HardThe continuation of the Caldeirão Verde trail into even more dramatic territory. Narrow cliff-edge paths, more tunnels, and the "Inferno Cauldron" — a deep volcanic amphitheatre with another spectacular waterfall. Only for confident hikers with no fear of heights.
Levada Trail Map — All PR Routes
Madeira has 30+ official PR (Percurso Recomendado) trails. The interactive map on our main page shows all routes with GPS waypoints. You can also download offline maps via:
- AllTrails: Search "Madeira" — all major levadas are mapped with reviews and photos
- Maps.me: Free offline maps of Madeira with trail markers
- Wikiloc: GPS tracks for all 30 PR routes, downloadable to your phone
- Official park website: visitmadeira.com has PDFs of all official PR trail maps
Interactive Levada Map
All 30 PR trails with overnight camping spots, GPS waypoints and difficulty ratings
Open full levada map →What to Bring on a Levada Walk
| Item | Why | Essential? |
|---|---|---|
| Trail shoes or hiking boots | Paths can be muddy and uneven | Yes |
| Rain jacket | Mountains create their own weather | Yes |
| Torch / headlamp | Tunnels on PR9, PR9.1, PR1 | For tunnel routes |
| Water (1.5–2L) | No shops on most routes | Yes |
| Snacks / lunch | Long routes take 5–6 hours | Yes |
| Offline map download | No signal in forest | Strongly recommended |
| Trekking poles | Helpful on steep descents | Optional |
| Sun protection | Exposed sections above treeline | Summer/clear days |
⚠️ Important safety note: Never walk narrow cliff-edge levadas in wet conditions — the paths become slippery and the drops are severe. Check the weather forecast before setting out. If fog descends on a mountain route, slow down and stay close to the inner wall.
Best Time for Levada Walking
Levada walking is possible year-round on Madeira, but each season offers a different experience:
- Spring (March–May): Best overall. Lush green vegetation, wildflowers, full waterfalls, moderate temperatures. Best for photography.
- Summer (June–August): Most popular. Warmer and drier at lower altitudes, but the mountain levadas can still be misty. Book accommodation in advance.
- Autumn (September–November): Excellent. Fewer visitors, warm enough, dramatic light. The Til trees produce berries — watch for Trocaz Pigeons.
- Winter (December–February): Most dramatic. Full waterfalls, intense fog in the forest, very few visitors. Dress warmly — mountain temperatures drop to 5–10°C.
Stay near the levadas
Base yourself in Funchal — 30 minutes from the best levada trails. Or rent a campervan and wake up at the trailhead.
Apartments in Funchal → Campervan rentals →Frequently Asked Questions
What is a levada in Madeira?
A levada is a narrow irrigation channel built to carry water from the wet northern mountains to the drier southern agricultural areas. Built from the 15th century, over 2,500km of channels now form Madeira's famous hiking network — with paths ranging from easy flat walks to dramatic cliff-edge routes.
What is the best levada walk in Madeira?
For beginners: PR6 Levada das 25 Fontes (easy, spectacular waterfall). For experienced hikers: PR9 Caldeirão Verde (4 tunnels, dramatic waterfall). For the ultimate challenge: PR1 Pico Ruivo ridge walk above the clouds.
Do I need a permit to walk the levadas?
No permit needed for most levadas. Some Parque Natural trails require free online registration. The main trails (PR1, PR6, PR9) are freely accessible — arrive early morning to avoid crowds.
Are the levada walks dangerous?
Most levadas are safe with proper footwear and common sense. Some cliff-edge routes (PR9, PR9.1) have steep drops — avoid in wet conditions. Always bring a torch for tunnel sections and download an offline map before you go.
What should I bring on a levada walk?
Essential: trail shoes, rain jacket, water (1.5–2L), snacks, torch for tunnels, offline map download. Optional: trekking poles, sun protection for exposed sections above the treeline.