Nestled within Madeira’s lush Laurissilva forest, the Kings Levada, or Ribeiro Bonito trail, offers adventurers a captivating 4-hour hike through a UNESCO World Heritage site. Led by certified mountain guides, this small-group excursion provides visitors a chance to enjoy the island’s remarkable natural heritage. From exploring the rich biodiversity of unique flora and fauna to uncovering the medicinal secrets of the local plants, the Kings Levada promises an unforgettable journey into Madeira’s stunning natural wonders. With hotel pick-up and drop-off included, it’s an experience not to be missed.
Key Points
- Kings Levada, also known as Ribeiro Bonito trail, offers a 4-hour hiking experience in Madeira’s lush rain forest, the Laurissilva, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
- The activity is priced from $38.97 per person and features indigenous flora and fauna, with a maximum group size of 14 participants for a personalized experience.
- The booking process offers flexibility, free cancellation, and customizable starting times, ensuring convenience and participant satisfaction.
- The tour is led by certified mountain guides fluent in multiple languages, providing insights into the rain forest’s biodiversity, including its unique medicinal plants.
- The Laurissilva forest showcases Madeira’s remarkable natural heritage, with opportunities to spot endemic species and appreciate the island’s priceless ecological wonders.
Activity Overview
The Kings Levada, also known as the Ribeiro Bonito trail, is a 4-hour hiking experience that takes visitors through Madeira’s lush rain forest.
Priced from $38.97 per person, this activity offers the opportunity to explore the indigenous flora and fauna, including medicinal plants, within the Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Highlights of the tour include encountering the unique biodiversity of the region and immersing oneself in the verdant valleys of São Jorge.
With a maximum group size of 14 participants, the experience is led by certified mountain guides available in English, German, and Spanish, providing a personalized and informative journey through this subtropical paradise.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Sao Jorge.
Booking Information
Reservation flexibility and convenience are hallmarks of the Kings Levada experience. Visitors can reserve their spots without payment, allowing them to secure their preferred dates and times with ease.
On top of that, the tour offers a free cancellation policy, enabling guests to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility ensures that travelers can plan their Madeira itinerary with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if necessary.
Availability for starting times is also provided, allowing guests to choose the schedule that best suits their needs. The booking process for the Kings Levada tour is designed to prioritize the convenience and satisfaction of its participants.
Tour Details
With a small group size limited to 14 participants, the Kings Levada tour offers an intimate and personalized experience.
Led by a certified mountain guide, the tour is available in English, German, and Spanish, ensuring that visitors from various backgrounds can fully enjoy the experience.
The tour also includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, making it convenient for participants.
Throughout the journey, the guide will provide valuable insights into the unique biodiversity of the Madeira rain forest, including the indigenous flora and fauna, as well as the medicinal plants found within the Laurissilva, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Included Experiences
Certified mountain guides lead visitors through the lush rainforest, sharing their vast knowledge of the region’s unique biodiversity.
Guests can expect comprehensive insurance coverage, ensuring their safety and peace of mind throughout the adventure.
The tour also includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, making it easy to access the trailhead and return to your accommodation.
This included experience allows visitors to fully enjoy the captivating Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, without worrying about logistics.
With small group sizes, travelers can enjoy a personalized and unforgettable exploration of Madeira’s natural wonders.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyUnique Biodiversity
Trekking through the lush Laurissilva forest, visitors discover a captivating world of unique biodiversity. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to an array of endemic plant and animal species found nowhere else on Earth.
The verdant Laurissilva is a testament to Madeira’s extraordinary ecological diversity, with towering trees, vibrant ferns, and a dazzling variety of medicinal plants. Hikers along the Kings Levada trail will encounter the distinctive Madeiran wall lizard, the Madeiran long-toed pigeon, and the endemic Madeiran firecrest – all adapted to thrive in this tropical paradise.
Exploring the rain forest’s wonders, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the island’s priceless natural heritage.
Laurissilva Exploration
Journeying through the Laurissilva, visitors are immersed in a world of ancient wonders. This UNESCO-protected, primeval laurel forest offers a glimpse into Madeira’s remarkable biodiversity.
Towering trees, draped in mosses and ferns, create a lush, verdant canopy overhead. Meandering streams and waterfalls cascade through the valleys, nourishing a vibrant array of endemic plant and animal species.
Underfoot, a carpet of delicate flora thrives, including rare medicinal plants. Hikers delight in spotting indigenous birds and insects, each uniquely adapted to this specialized ecosystem.
The Laurissilva’s timeless beauty and ecological significance make it a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts exploring the Kings Levada trail.
- Primeval laurel forest
- Verdant canopy of mossy trees
- Cascading streams and waterfalls
- Endemic flora and fauna
- Medicinal plants and wildlife
Medicinal Plants
The verdant trails of the Kings Levada wind through a botanical wonderland, where the forest floor teems with a treasure trove of medicinal plants.
Hikers can spot a variety of endemic species, each with its own remarkable properties. From the soothing chamomile to the revitalizing ginger, these natural remedies have been used by locals for generations.
As you explore the Laurissilva, keep an eye out for plants like the arnica, prized for its pain-relieving abilities, and the calming lemon balm.
This deep dive into Madeira’s rich biodiversity offers a truly immersive experience, showcasing the island’s remarkable natural pharmacy.
Visitor Must-Do
For visitors to Madeira, a trek along the Kings Levada is a must-do experience.
This 4-hour adventure through the Madeira rainforest offers a captivating glimpse into the island’s natural wonders.
Highlights include:
- Exploring the lush valleys of São Jorge
- Discovering the unique biodiversity of the Laurissilva, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Spotting indigenous flora and fauna, including medicinal plants
- Immersing oneself in the serene atmosphere of the subtropical rainforest
- Appreciating the exceptional geological features and landscapes of the region
With a certified guide leading the way, this small-group tour provides an unforgettable opportunity to connect with Madeira’s remarkable natural heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Difficulty Level of the Hike?
The difficulty level of the hike is moderate. It’s suitable for active hikers with some experience, as it involves navigating through lush valleys and forests, but doesn’t require advanced hiking skills.
Are There Any Physical Requirements to Participate?
There are no physical requirements to participate in this activity, but hikers should be prepared for moderate walking on uneven terrain and able to navigate steep inclines and descents. The tour is suitable for most fitness levels.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Participants are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the tour, though the tour provider may have specific guidelines or restrictions. It’s best to check with the company beforehand to confirm the policy.
Is the Trail Wheelchair/Stroller Accessible?
The trail is not wheelchair or stroller accessible as it involves uneven terrain, steps, and narrow paths through the Madeira rainforest. The tour is designed for active participants who can navigate the natural environment.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?
The activity doesn’t have any age restrictions, and participants of all ages are welcome. However, it’s recommended that young children be accompanied by an adult due to the nature of the hiking trail.
Recap
The Kings Levada hike offers an immersive exploration of Madeira’s UNESCO-protected Laurissilva forest. Led by expert guides, this small-group adventure provides a captivating 4-hour journey through the island’s rich biodiversity, including unique flora, fauna, and medicinal plants. With hotel pick-up and drop-off, it’s an ideal way to discover Madeira’s remarkable natural heritage.
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