Superb walking through botanical paradise in the Atlantic
Walk through the wild and varied scenery of Madeira, from gentle strolls along levadas to more demanding forays amongst the jagged ridges and peaks of the rugged volcanic interior. We discover one of the most beautiful views of Madeira on our walk from Machico to Porto da Cruz, where the mountains meet the sea.
Walking along the spectacular north coast footpath, above steeply terraced hillsides and isolated cottages, we enjoy views over the Atlantic to the island of Porto Santo. Many consider the climb of Pico Ruivo (1862m), the island's highest peak, to be the highlight of the week, yet the dramatic traverse to Encumeada over the Torrinhas Pass is a ‘must’ on all walking holidays in Madeira. There is plenty of time to relax by the sea in the picturesque and historic fishing village of Machico and discover the weathy importance of Funchal, which was famous centuries ago for exporting sugar and wine to the Indies and the New World.
MADEIRA PRIVATE TRANSFERS
We are pleased to offer free of charge private transfers from and to Funchal airport on the arrival and departure days on our Walking in Madeira tours arriving in Madeira for our 2012 departures. Contact our sales team to find out the best flight for you!
Please note, this only applies to clients who have provided their flight details to Exodus before departure and transfers are offered only for the start and end dates of the tour.
What makes this trip responsible?
Just over 3 hours flying time from the UK and with temperatures that rarely drop below 55 degrees throughout the year and average at 70 degrees during the walking months, Madeira is an ideal short haul winter walking destination. On February 2009, parts of Madeira were devastated by floods and 32 people sadly lost their lives with some still missing to this day. The islands’ authorities have done and amazing job rebuilding the infrastructure and whilst some flood damage is still visible, the island is fully functional and welcoming visitors, with 20% of the islands GDP derived from tourism, this is vital. We pride ourselves on using locally owned accommodation throughout the trip, with meals taken in locally owned restaurants. Clients get the opportunity to sample Madeira wine, whilst the services of Madeiran guides are used throughout the trip and they have been trained on our RT policies.
Local transport and minibuses are also used to get to the start of walks. Vast areas of the island, over 60%, are dedicated national parks which have been vital in the conservation of Zino's Petrel of which on 45 breeding pairs still exist on Madeira, best visited in the spring when the islands flowers are in full bloom and the island is at its glorious best.
Countries visited: Portugal
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Images from WALKING IN MADEIRA
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Trekkers on coastal walk, Madeira
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