Full-Day Self Guided Hike in Caldeirão Verde Levada

Embark on an unforgettable full-day self-guided hike through the breathtaking Caldeirão Verde Levada. This 12 km round-trip trail takes approximately 5.5 hours to complete, showcasing stunning views of waterfalls, lush greenery, and historic water channels within the UNESCO-protected Laurissilva Forest. With detailed instructions and a map provided, adventurers can explore the area’s natural beauty at their own pace. Convenient pickup services from various locations make this hike accessible, but the real allure lies in the opportunity to take in the serene surroundings and uncover the secrets of this enchanting landscape.

Key Points

• 12 km round-trip hike through the Laurissilva Forest with a duration of 5.5 hours and a moderate fitness level required.
• Pickup and transfer service included from designated locations in Funchal, Caniço, Santa Cruz, Machico, Porto da Cruz, and Santana.
• Detailed instructions and map provided upon arrival at Queimadas Park, which serves as the start and end point.
• Stunning views of the Caldeirão Verde waterfall and tranquil pools and streams along the trail.
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours before the hike, with a 4.5-star average rating from 16 reviews.

Overview and Experience

The full-day self-guided hike in Caldeirão Verde Levada offers travelers a chance to enjoy Funchal’s stunning Laurissilva Forest.

Spanning 12 km, the round-trip trail takes hikers on a 5.5-hour journey through lush greenery and past mesmerizing waterfalls. Proudly recommended by 100% of travelers, this excursion has earned a Badge of Excellence for its exceptional quality.

The hike begins and ends at Queimadas Park, where hikers will find a cafe, museum, and gardens. While not wheelchair accessible, the trail is suitable for moderately fit travelers, with a maximum elevation of 1062 m and minimum of 872 m.

Detailed instructions and a map are provided upon arrival to ensure a seamless self-guided experience.

Hike Details

Where does the self-guided hike in Caldeirão Verde Levada begin and end?

The trail starts and ends at Queimadas Park. Along the way, hikers will reach a maximum elevation of 1062 meters and a minimum of 872 meters.

This 12-kilometer round trip route features a water channel, green views, and stunning waterfalls. The Queimadas area offers a cafe house, museum, and gardens for visitors.

Upon arrival, travelers receive detailed instructions and a map to guide them through the self-guided experience.

The moderate physical fitness level required reflects the terrain and distance covered during this 5.5-hour hike through the Laurissilva Forest.

Pickup and Transfer

Pickup and transfer services are included in the package, with designated locations across Funchal, Caniço, Santa Cruz, Machico, Porto da Cruz, and Santana.

The tour provider offers air-conditioned vehicles to transport guests to the starting point at Queimadas Park. However, Camara de Lobos is excluded from the pickup and drop-off options.

The transfer service ensures a convenient and comfortable journey, allowing travelers to focus on the upcoming hike without the hassle of navigating themselves.

Participants are advised to be at the designated pickup location on time to ensure a smooth start to the self-guided adventure in the Caldeirão Verde Levada.

Physical Requirements

Moderate physical fitness is required for this self-guided hike in the Caldeirão Verde Levada. The 12 km round trip trail features a maximum elevation of 1062 m and a minimum of 872 m, with water channels, green views, and stunning waterfalls along the way. Hikers should be prepared for a 5.5-hour journey through the Laurissilva Forest. Those with back problems or serious medical conditions are not recommended to attempt this hike. The level of fitness required is summarized in the table below:

Difficulty Level	Time Duration	Distance	Elevation Gain
Moderate	5.5 hours	12 km	190 m

Cancellation Policy

The self-guided hike in the Caldeirão Verde Levada offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This flexibility allows travelers to adjust their plans if needed without incurring any penalties.

Some key points about the cancellation policy include:

1. Travelers can cancel their booking up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled hike start time and receive a full refund.
2. Cancellations made within 24 hours of the hike may not be eligible for a refund, subject to the tour operator’s discretion.
3. It’s recommended to review the full cancellation and refund terms when booking the hike to understand the policies.

This cancellation policy provides peace of mind for travelers, enabling them to plan their Madeira adventure with confidence.

Traveler Ratings

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the self-guided hike in Caldeirão Verde Levada, with an impressive average rating of 4.5 out of 5 from 16 reviews.

Of those, a whopping 11 reviews awarded the hike 5 stars, while the remaining 5 gave it 4 stars. Reviewers commonly highlighted the hike’s beautiful views, friendly drivers, and good communication from the organizers.

While a few noted insufficient time to fully enjoy the experience and the need for good hiking shoes due to crowded paths, the positive feedback far outweighs any critiques.

The hike’s Badge of Excellence further attests to its quality and the satisfaction it provides travelers.

Scenic Highlights

On this self-guided hike through the Laurissilva Forest, travelers are treated to a tapestry of captivating scenery.

The trail winds along a historic water channel, offering breathtaking vistas of lush greenery, towering cliffs, and cascading waterfalls.

The key scenic highlights include:

1. Stunning panoramic views of the Caldeirão Verde, a magnificent waterfall that plunges over 100 meters.
2. Vibrant laurel trees and other endemic flora that make up the UNESCO-protected Laurissilva Forest.
3. Tranquil pools and streams that reflect the surrounding natural beauty, providing a serene and peaceful setting.

The combination of these awe-inspiring sights creates an unforgettable experience for hikers exploring the enchanting Caldeirão Verde Levada.

Getting There

Reaching the starting point at Queimadas Park is a straightforward endeavor. The package includes air-conditioned vehicle pickup and drop-off from various locations across Funchal, Caniço, Santa Cruz, Machico, Porto da Cruz, and Santana. Notably, Camara de Lobos is excluded from the pickup options.

Upon arrival at Queimadas Park, visitors will find a cafe house, museum, and gardens, providing ample facilities to prepare for the hike. The instructions and a detailed map are provided, ensuring a seamless start to the self-guided adventure through the stunning Laurissilva Forest.

With the transportation and logistical details taken care of, hikers can fully enjoy the natural beauty that awaits along the 12 km round-trip trail.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Do This Hike?

The best time to do this hike is during the spring and fall months. The weather is mild, the crowds are smaller, and the laurissilva forest is lush and vibrant with blooming flora.

Can I Bring My Dog on the Hike?

Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted on the hike. The tour company doesn’t allow pets due to the moderate difficulty of the trail and to preserve the natural environment. Hikers should leave their furry companions at home for this self-guided excursion.

Is There Any Place to Buy Snacks or Water During the Hike?

The hike does not provide any stops or facilities along the trail to purchase snacks or water. Hikers should come prepared with their own food and hydration for the full 5.5-hour duration of the self-guided hike.

Are There Any Toilet Facilities Along the Trail?

According to the information provided, there are toilet facilities available at the starting/ending point of the hike, the Queimadas Park. However, there are no dedicated restrooms along the 12 km trail itself.

Can I Extend the Hike Duration if I Want to Explore More?

Yes, you can extend the hike duration if you want to explore more. The hike includes a detailed map and instructions upon arrival, allowing hikers to customize their experience and spend more time in the Laurissilva Forest as desired.

Recap

The Caldeirão Verde Levada hike offers an unforgettable full-day adventure through the UNESCO-protected Laurissilva Forest. With stunning views of waterfalls, lush greenery, and historic water channels, this moderate 12 km round-trip trail is a must-do for nature enthusiasts. Convenient pickup services and detailed instructions make it easy for adventurers to explore this breathtaking destination and enjoy the area’s natural beauty.