Lakes of Madeira- Alecrim Full day walk

Exploring Madeira’s Lakes of Alecrim: A Guided Full-Day Walk

Our review of the Lakes of Madeira – Alecrim Full Day Walk highlights a popular and well-loved levada experience. Priced at around $50.90 per person, this tour offers a manageable yet immersive way to explore Madeira’s lush landscapes, ancient forests, and dramatic waterfalls. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, hikers can navigate the terrain with confidence, learning about the island’s geology, flora, and history along the route.

What really makes this tour stand out is the combination of nature, storytelling, and convenience. The inclusion of hotel pickup and drop-off removes the stress of finding meeting points, making it accessible for many travelers. We also appreciate the chance to enjoy crystal-clear mountain waters in summer, along with varied terrains that appeal to those who like a little challenge mixed with scenic relaxation.

That said, some might find parts of the walk physically demanding, especially steep ascents or descents. It’s best suited for those with a moderate fitness level who enjoy outdoor activity. This tour is ideal for lovers of nature, photography, and authentic Madeira scenery, offering a well-rounded experience that balances guided insight with free time to soak in the views.

Key Points

• Guided Experience: The tour is led by an expert guide, ensuring you don’t get lost and learn interesting facts along the way.
• Stunning Landscapes: Expect waterfalls, rock pools, lush forests, and views that make every step worth it.
• Varied Terrain: From flat levadas to mountain tracks, the walk offers diverse scenery, appealing to different fitness levels.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off save time and make logistics simpler.
• Cost-Effective: For around $50, you get a comprehensive, scenic adventure with knowledgeable guidance.
• Essential Packing: Bring a packed lunch, as none is included, plus suitable shoes and water.

A Deep Dive Into the Alecrim Full Day Walk

The Overview and Its Appeal

This full-day guided walk is designed to showcase some of Madeira’s most iconic landscapes, focusing on the Levada do Alecrim, a trail that many consider among the best on the island. The tour lasts about 3.5 hours but could extend up to four hours depending on pace and stops. The price, at just under $51, offers fairly good value considering the inclusion of transportation, a guide, and equipment like a hiking wood staff.

The experience starts early at 9:00 am with hotel pickup, a service that appeals greatly to those staying in Funchal or nearby areas. The small group size—capped at 18 travelers—means it remains intimate and flexible, with space for questions and personal attention from the guide.

The Route Breakdown

Stop 1: Levada do Alecrim
This is where the magic begins. Located deep within the western plateau, the trail takes you through an incredibly scenic valley dotted with rock pools carved out over millions of years by rushing waters. Reviewers often mention the “marvelous waterfalls and cascades” as highlights, with one noting a summer possibility of a crisp swim in the mountain waters—an invigorating bonus if you’re visiting during warmer months.

Along the route, you’ll experience a mix of terrains: from the flat, easy sections of the levada to more rugged mountain tracks that require scrambling or careful footing. The guided commentary enriches this walk, with your guide pointing out interesting flora that might otherwise go unnoticed, like endemic plants or unique forest species.

One reviewer praised Margarita, the guide, for her helpfulness and wealth of knowledge, especially in making sure everyone felt safe on steeper parts. Another shared that the walk was challenging in places, but the stunning vistas and natural beauty made it worthwhile.

The Scenic and Natural Highlights

Expect to see crystal-clear waters, lush green forests, and possibly some local wildlife. The rock pools and waterfalls are a major draw, especially in summer when they might invite a quick dip or a photograph-perfect moment. Some travelers stop for lunch by a lagoon, describing it as “so beautiful” and a highlight of the day. Remember, no lunch is provided, so bring your own packed meal and water to stay energized.

The Terrain and Difficulty

While the Levada do Alecrim is often described as a walk unlike any other, the terrain varies significantly. Expect flat levada sections suitable for most hikers, but also steeper ascents and descents that can be physically demanding. As Anne_L mentioned, the walk can be hard in parts, but the views and the connection with nature make it well worth the effort. Proper footwear and a moderate fitness level are recommended.

Practical Details and Logistics

The inclusion of air-conditioned transport is a nice touch, especially after a day of exertion. The guide supplies a hiking wood staff, which can help with balance on uneven ground. The tour lasts approximately 3.5 hours, but with transfers, expect a full day out.

The cost includes everything but lunch, so budget accordingly. Also, the tour is weather-dependent; poor weather can lead to cancellations with a full refund or rescheduling. The maximum group size of 18 helps keep the experience personal and manageable.

Authenticity and Value

This tour offers a good balance between guided expertise and independent exploration. You’ll learn about how Madeira’s landscapes formed over millions of years, gaining insights into the geology and history that shaped the island. The fact that the walk is praised for its stunning views and natural beauty makes it a favorite for those wanting a visual feast.

Pricing-wise, $50.90 is reasonable for a guided tour that includes transportation and equipment, especially considering the small group size and the chance to enjoy the peace and serenity of Madeira’s forests without the hassle of navigation.

The Reviews Say It All

Many guests, like B_C, appreciated the beauty of the scenery and called it “the walk they enjoyed most in Madeira.” Despite a little drizzle, the experience remained memorable, especially the stop for lunch by the lagoon. Conversely, Anne_L acknowledged the physical challenge but was quick to praise Margarita for her helpfulness and safety-conscious attitude.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour suits adventurous travelers with a moderate fitness level looking for an authentic, scenic experience. It’s perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and those eager to learn about Madeira’s geological evolution. Keep in mind that some parts are steep or uneven, so those with vertigo or mobility issues should consider this before booking.

Final Thoughts

The Lakes of Madeira – Alecrim Full Day Walk offers a well-rounded outdoor adventure, combining stunning scenery, expert guidance, and convenient logistics. For a reasonable price, you get to explore one of Madeira’s most beautiful trails, filled with waterfalls, rock pools, and lush forests that look like they belong in a nature magazine.

The experience’s highlights—especially the diverse terrain and the expert commentary—make it a worthwhile choice for active travelers eager to see Madeira beyond its beaches and towns. While some parts may be physically demanding, the overall journey is rewarding, offering a real taste of the island’s wild beauty.

If you love authentic landscapes, don’t mind a bit of a climb, and crave the comfort of guided support, this walk is a fantastic option. Just remember to pack your lunch and good walking shoes, and prepare for a day full of awe-inspiring views and memorable encounters with Madeira’s natural wonders.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for children?
This tour is best for individuals with a moderate fitness level. Children with good mobility and enthusiasm for outdoor activities might enjoy it, but steep sections could be challenging for very young kids.

What should I bring for the walk?
Bring a packed lunch, water, comfortable hiking shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing. A hat and sunscreen are advisable in sunny weather.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it very convenient, especially if you’re staying in Funchal or nearby.

Is this tour suitable if I suffer from vertigo?
No, the tour is not recommended if you have vertigo or are uncomfortable with heights, as some parts involve steep sections and scrambling.

How long does the entire experience last?
The guided walk lasts about 3 hours 30 minutes, but with transportation and any additional stops, expect a full day out.

What is the group size?
The maximum number of travelers per group is 18, ensuring a more personal experience with your guide.

What if the weather is bad?
Tours may be canceled due to poor weather. In that case, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How much does the tour cost?
The tour costs approximately $50.90 per person, offering good value considering the included guide, transportation, and equipment.

Embarking on this guided walk through Madeira’s verdant landscapes promises a day of natural beauty, learning, and memorable moments—perfect for those wanting to connect with the island’s wild side.