Madeira: Queimadas, Caldeirão Verde and Levada Walk

If you’re dreaming of walking through lush, green landscapes with spectacular waterfalls and panoramic views of traditional villages, the Madeira Levada walk offered by Lido Tours is a fantastic choice. This 8-hour excursion takes you along the famous Levada da Serra de São Jorge, starting from the charming Queimadas Guest House, and promises a day filled with natural wonders and photogenic scenery.

One thing we particularly love about this tour is the expert guidance. The reviews highlight guides like Charlotte, who not only speak multiple languages but also enrich the experience with their plant knowledge and local insights. However, the full-day nature of the walk means you’ll want to be prepared for a good amount of hiking and some tunnels along the route.

A possible consideration is the lack of food options during the walk — you’ll need to bring your own lunch or snacks, as no food is available en route. This makes it ideal for travelers who enjoy bringing a picnic and savoring the peaceful surroundings at their own pace.

This experience is best suited for those who love outdoor adventures, nature photography, or simply want a peaceful escape into Madeira’s lush landscape. It’s perfect for active travelers who enjoy gentle hikes with plenty of stunning views and interesting stops.

Key Points

• Stunning waterfalls: The Caldeirão Verde waterfall is a highlight, offering breathtaking photo opportunities.
• Beautiful scenery: Expect panoramic views of lush valleys, small villages, and endless greenery.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides like Charlotte provide valuable insights, making the experience more enriching.
• Comfortable duration: At 8 hours, it’s a full but manageable day, including transportation and walking.
• Bring your own food: No food stops along the trail, so pack a picnic or snacks.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and reserve now with the option to pay later.

The Itinerary in Detail

The tour begins with a pickup from selected hotels in Funchal or the surrounding area. If you’re staying nearby, the free pickup makes this a convenient start. The journey takes you to the Queimadas Guest House, which is the starting point for the hike. As you step onto the trail, you’re immediately greeted by spectacular views of the landscape unfolding before you.

The hike along the Levada da Serra de São Jorge is one of the top-rated walks in eastern Madeira — a trail renowned for its photogenic scenery. We loved the way the route combines magnificent vistas with a sense of adventure, as you pass small tunnels and a waterfall en route to the Caldeirão Verde waterfall. Several reviewers note that the walk is manageable but still offers enough variety to keep things interesting.

Most travelers are struck by the lush greenery—the vibrant mosses and ferns covering the levada walls, and the dramatic drops overlooking the valleys below. You’ll pass through typical Madeira villages, with picturesque houses and narrow paths that give a real taste of local life.

The highlight is undoubtedly the Caldeirão Verde waterfall, which cascades into a deep green basin. The vivid description from visitors like Laura: “This levada walk was pretty amazing, and the guide Charlotte, was so nice and had lots of knowledge about the plants in the area and the history of Madeira.” Charlotte’s multilingual skills and friendly nature are frequently praised, making the experience both educational and personal.

There are some small tunnels along the trail — fun for the adventurous, but nothing too daunting. The tour ends back at the starting point, allowing time for photos, relaxing, or a quick snack before heading back.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The guides are clearly a significant part of the experience. Multiple reviews praise guides like Charlotte for their knowledge, friendliness, and language skills. This makes a huge difference in creating a welcoming atmosphere and helping you appreciate the flora, fauna, and history of Madeira.

The scenery is another major draw. As Elizabeth noted, “Stunning views and a fantastic waterfall at the end,” this walk delivers on both frontiers — nature lovers and photographers will find plenty to marvel at.

The value for money at $49 per person is quite reasonable considering the day-long duration, transportation, and guided service. It’s a well-rounded experience for those wanting a guided hike that covers key highlights without feeling rushed.

One of the best aspects is the relaxed pace. With plenty of time to soak in the views, take photos, and enjoy the scenery, this tour caters well to travelers who prefer a leisurely walk rather than a strenuous trek.

The Practicalities

Transport & Pickup: The tour includes free pickup from selected hotels in Funchal and surrounding areas, making logistics simple. If you’re arriving from the harbor, there’s a small surcharge of €4 per person, so keep that in mind if your accommodation isn’t in the main pickup zones.

Duration & Timing: The full day lasts about 8 hours, with the start times depending on availability. Be prepared for a mix of walking, sightseeing, and some tunnel navigation.

What to Bring: Since there are no stops for food, bringing your own snacks or lunch is essential. Water and comfortable walking shoes are also a must. Rain gear might be helpful depending on the weather.

Group Size & Language: The tours are available for private groups, and guides speak multiple languages including English, Spanish, French, German, and Portuguese, ensuring clear communication.

About the Experience

Based on reviews, the guides truly elevate this tour. Laura’s comment about Charlotte’s multilingual abilities and her plant knowledge shows how much added value a good guide can bring. Elizabeth’s praise of the stunning views and waterfall underlines the natural spectacle awaiting you.

The walk itself is designed to be accessible yet immersive. We loved the way the trail combines nature, culture, and adventure, making it ideal for a broad range of travelers—from avid hikers to nature photography enthusiasts. A reviewer named Niki appreciated having enough time to relax and enjoy the scenery, which is a hallmark of a well-planned tour.

The Sum Up

For those seeking an authentic slice of Madeira’s lush landscape, the Queimadas, Caldeirão Verde, and Levada walk offers an excellent way to explore the island’s natural beauty at a comfortable pace. The combination of stunning waterfalls, panoramic vistas, and expert guides makes this tour a rewarding experience for outdoor lovers and curious travelers alike.

While you’ll need to bring your own food and prepare for some walking, the overall value, accessibility, and engaging guides make it a standout option. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a guided nature walk that balances scenic views with local insights, all within a manageable day’s outing.

If you’re after a genuine Madeira adventure that showcases the island’s iconic landscapes, this tour ticks all the boxes.

FAQs

What is the duration of this tour?
The tour lasts approximately 8 hours, including transportation, walking, and sightseeing.

Is transportation included?
Yes, free pickup from selected hotels in Funchal and surrounding areas is included. Pickup from the harbor incurs a €4 per person surcharge.

What language do guides speak?
Guides speak multiple languages — including English, Spanish, French, German, and Portuguese — ensuring clear communication.

Do I need to bring my own food?
Yes, there are no food stops along the trail, so packing snacks or lunch is recommended.

Is this walk suitable for children or elderly?
The trail is manageable for most healthy adults. The reviews suggest a leisurely pace, but some tunnels and uneven terrain might require caution with young children or older travelers.

Are there tunnels along the route?
Yes, a few small tunnels are part of the trail, adding an element of fun and adventure.

How steep is the walk?
The walk is generally manageable, with plenty of stunning views, but some sections may involve gentle inclines.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and rain gear if needed.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour private or group?
Both options are available, with private groups also offered for a more tailored experience.

This Madeira tour remains a top choice for travelers wanting to combine natural beauty with expert guidance. With breathtaking waterfalls, lush levada scenery, and the chance to learn about Madeira’s flora and local culture, it’s a walk that promises memorable moments — and plenty of Instagram-worthy shots.