From Funchal: São Jorge Valleys Levada Walk

Traveling to Madeira and looking for an authentic, nature-filled adventure? The São Jorge Valleys Levada Walk is a highly-rated, full-day guided trek that promises to bring you face-to-face with Madeira’s vibrant rainforest and stunning waterfalls. With a rating of 4.7 out of 5 from over 60 reviews, this experience is praised for its knowledgeable guides, breathtaking scenery, and accessible trails.

What we especially love about this walk is how it combines physical activity with learning, offering insights into native medicinal plants while wandering through lush landscapes. The highlight? Walking behind a waterfall — a surreal moment that feels straight out of a movie.

One potential consideration is the need to bring your own food, as there are no food stops along the route. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a picnic or snack break amid nature rather than a sit-down restaurant.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy moderate outdoor activity, want to learn about local flora, and appreciate the tranquility of Madeira’s forests. Whether you’re a nature lover, a photography enthusiast, or simply after a peaceful escape, this walk has a lot to offer.

Key Points

• Authentic Madeira experience: Explore lush rainforests, waterfalls, and native plants with a guided expert.
• Unique highlights: Walk behind a waterfall and discover hidden natural beauty.
• Educational value: Learn about the medicinal properties of native herbs and plants.
• Accessibility: The trail is described as easy and flat, suitable for most fitness levels.
• All-inclusive pricing: The tour covers taxes and fuel surcharges, with flexible cancellation.
• Practical tips: Bring water and food, and wear good walking shoes.

An In-Depth Look at the São Jorge Valleys Levada Walk

What Makes This Tour Special?

This guided levada walk is designed to showcase Madeira’s most picturesque valleys and dense rainforests. At 8 hours long, it’s a comprehensive experience that balances walking through pristine nature with opportunities to learn about the island’s native flora. The price of $49 per person offers good value, considering the full-day length, knowledgeable guides, and included transportation.

The tour is operated by Lido Tours, known for their friendly guides and well-organized trips. They offer a pick-up service from selected hotels in Funchal, making logistics straightforward, especially after a long flight or busy day of sightseeing.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day begins with a pick-up from your hotel, usually early in the morning, and a short drive to the starting point of the trail. Once there, you’ll meet your guide, who will lead you through the lush, green landscapes of São Jorge. The trail itself is described as totally flat and easy to walk, which is perfect for those worried about strenuous hikes — reviewers mentioned it’s suitable even for less experienced hikers.

The main attractions include walking behind waterfalls, an experience that many find magical. According to reviews, this part of the walk offers incredible photo opportunities and a sense of connection with nature. One traveler noted, “The vivid colours and the peace is refreshing,” emphasizing the restorative qualities of the landscape.

Learning About Native Plants

A standout feature of this tour is the informative commentary about the native herbs and medicinal plants that grow along the levada. The guides, who speak multiple languages including English, Portuguese, French, German, and Spanish, are praised for their knowledgeable insights. You might find yourself tasting or smelling different herbs, learning about their traditional uses, and gaining a deeper appreciation for Madeira’s botanical diversity.

Exploring the Waterfalls

The highlight for many travelers is walking behind a waterfall — an experience described as ‘paradise on earth.’ The sound of cascading water, combined with the lush greenery surrounding you, creates an atmosphere of pure serenity. Some reviewers, like Kenneth, praised the “exceptional help from the guide,” which made the experience even more enjoyable.

The Scenic Beauty and Peace

Throughout the walk, you’ll enjoy vivid colours, from moss-covered rocks to vibrant wildflowers. The peaceful environment is often described as almost meditative, especially since the trail is not crowded, even on a Sunday. The trail’s flat nature means that you can soak in the scenery without worrying about steep inclines or hard terrain.

Practical Considerations

• Timing: The tour lasts about 8 hours, with starting times varying by availability.
• What to bring: Pack water and your own lunch or snacks, as there are no food vendors along the route.
• Clothing: Wear sturdy, waterproof shoes (good shoes are recommended due to muddy patches). Light, breathable clothing suitable for walking is ideal.
• Group size: The tour is available as a private option, which some travelers prefer for a more personalized experience.

What’s Not Included

• Lunch: Since there are no food stops along the trail, bringing your own is essential. Many reviewers appreciated this, as it allows flexibility to enjoy a picnic amid nature.

Why Travelers Love This Experience

According to reviews, the guides truly make a difference — their friendly, knowledgeable manner turns a simple walk into an educational and memorable experience. Shohreh commented, “The guide is very nice and knowledgeable about the plants and nature in Madeira,” which highlights the value of a good guide.

Another reviewer, Edit, praised the flat, easy trail, mentioning how the vivid colors and peaceful environment made for a “lovely day.” The fact that the walk is relatively easy doesn’t detract from its beauty; instead, it makes it accessible to a broad range of travelers, including families and older visitors.

Authenticity and Value

For only $49, this tour offers a thorough exploration of Madeira’s natural landscapes, with the added bonus of expert insights. The full-day duration means you truly get to disconnect from the hustle and enjoy a restorative day immersed in nature.

Drawbacks to Consider

While the walk itself is described as easy and flat, some travelers might find carrying food and water a minor inconvenience. Also, as with many outdoor activities, weather can impact the experience — rain could make the trail muddier and more challenging, although this is part of the adventure.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This experience is perfect for nature enthusiasts, beginners, and families looking for a gentle yet rewarding outdoor activity. If you enjoy learning about local plants, waterfalls, and scenic landscapes, you will find this walk both inspiring and relaxing.

It’s also an excellent choice for travelers who prefer guided tours with informative commentary, as the guides provide insights into both the history and botany of Madeira.

Final Thoughts

The São Jorge Valleys Levada Walk offers a well-rounded, authentic taste of Madeira’s natural beauty. It combines stunning scenery with educational insights, all within a manageable, flat trail that caters to a variety of fitness levels. The inclusion of waterfalls, native flora, and peaceful landscapes make it a memorable day out.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic walk that balances adventure with learning, this tour will serve you well. Its affordability, combined with positive reviews and knowledgeable guides, makes it a strong choice for anyone wanting to see Madeira’s lush rainforests without strenuous climbs.

FAQ

Is the trail suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Yes, the trail is described as totally flat and easy to walk, making it suitable for children and older adults. Just ensure comfortable shoes and enough water.

What should I bring with me?
You should bring your own food and water, as there are no food vendors along the route. Waterproof shoes are recommended due to muddy patches.

Are the guides multilingual?
Yes, guides speak English, Spanish, French, German, and Portuguese, ensuring clear communication for diverse groups.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts approximately 8 hours, including transportation, walking, and stops for sightseeing and learning.

What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers all taxes and fuel surcharges. Food and personal expenses are not included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour private?
Yes, private group options are available, providing a more personalized experience.

Will I get to see waterfalls?
Absolutely. One of the main highlights is walking behind a waterfall, which many find breathtaking.

How physically demanding is this walk?
It’s considered easy and flat, suitable for most fitness levels, but comfortable walking shoes are advised.

Is there an age limit?
There isn’t a specific age limit mentioned, but the trail’s simplicity makes it accessible for most ages.

In sum, the São Jorge Valleys Levada Walk offers a blend of natural beauty, educational insights, and relaxed hiking at a very reasonable price point. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a peaceful escape into Madeira’s lush wilderness, guided by experts who share their love for the island’s flora and waterfalls.