Key Benefits
- Walk along Levada do Norte, one of Madeira’s longest and most important irrigation channels.
- Enjoy panoramic views of Serra d’Água, Campanário, and the Atlantic Ocean.
- See Madeira’s traditional terraced farmlands, still cultivated today.
- Explore sections of Laurisilva Forest, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- An easy and flat path, suitable for different fitness levels.
- Convenient hotel pickup and drop-off from Funchal and Caniço.
Overview
Discover Levada do Norte, one of the most iconic Madeira Levada Walks, renowned for its historical significance and stunning landscapes. This easy 6 km hike takes approximately 2 hours, making it ideal for travellers of all experience levels.
As you embark on this scenic journey, you’ll walk along a well-maintained Madeira Hiking Trail, following an ancient irrigation system that has transported water from the lush northern regions to the drier southern agricultural lands for centuries. Along the way, take in sweeping views of Campanário, Ponta do Sol, Serra d’Água, and the vast blue expanse of the Atlantic Ocean.
This route passes through cultivated land where locals grow vegetables, fruits, and other crops on poios—stone-walled terraces built into the slopes. These terraced fields highlight the island’s long-standing agricultural traditions and the ingenuity of its farmers in adapting to Madeira’s rugged terrain and unique climate.
The trail also leads through sections of the Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to a diverse range of endemic species, including ancient laurel trees that have stood for centuries. This tranquil environment immerses you in the island’s natural heritage, making it one of the most rewarding Madeira Walking Tours for those seeking both breathtaking scenery and cultural insight.
This tour offers a unique perspective on Madeira’s landscapes and traditions, making it a fantastic option for those who appreciate a gentle walk with picturesque views and a glimpse into local life.
Included & Excluded
- Certified guide ensuring a safe and informative experience
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Funchal and Caniço
- Comfortable, air-conditioned transport
- Insurance coverage (as required by Portuguese law)
- First aid kit for safety
- Applicable taxes and fees
- Drinks and meals
- Our pick-up and drop-off services outside Funchal and Caniço are not included by default. However, if you require this service, mention it in the booking notes. Depending on availability, we will send you a proposal. Alternatively, you can meet us at the designated meeting point at the Funchal Cable Car stop. We will email you the exact time and location, ensuring a smooth and convenient start to your tour.
Additional Notes
The Serra D’Água Valley Walk offers three ways to enjoy the experience, catering to different preferences and budgets:
- Standard Group Tour – Join a scheduled walk and enjoy Madeira’s landscapes in a relaxed group setting.
- Private Tour Upgrade – Opt for a more personalised experience with flexible start and stop times.
- Fully Customised Itinerary – Create a tailor-made journey from scratch, designed around your interests. Click here to learn more about our Personalised Madeira Itinerary service. If you book the walk, the design fee will be deducted from the total cost, making the process seamless.
Experience the beauty of Madeira’s levadas with a hassle-free, expertly guided Levada do Norte Madeira Walking Tour. Marvel at the stunning views of Serra d’Água and beyond—book now and discover why this is one of the best-rated Madeira Hiking Tours!
Other Information
Hotel Pick-upFunchal: 08h45-09h00 | Caniço: 08h20-08h30
A staff member will pick you up at the indicated place and confirm your voucher identification. You can present either a paper or an electronic ticket for this activity. The tour will begin as soon as we finish collecting tour members.
WhenSunday Morning
Year-round, except on December 25 and January 1.
Duration4 hours (including approximately 2 hours of walking)
The tour begins at 9:00 and concludes around 13:00, allowing ample time to enjoy the scenery and experience the surroundings at a relaxed pace.
Trip SpecificationsDistance & Altitude
Distance: 6 km (3 miles)
Difficulty: Easy
Max. Altitude: 560 m (1,837 ft.)
Min. Altitude: 550 m (1,804 ft.)
Departure Point and TimeConfirmed by email
RequirementsPunctuality & be fit to walk
What do you need to bring?Don't forget
Non-slip walking boots or sports footwear, a camera, and a coat or a jumper if it gets cooler.
We also suggest taking a hat and sunscreen as most Levada is exposed to the sun. As nothing is available on the route, take a bag to carry your litter away.
A raincoat or poncho if rain is in the forecast.
Water.
Children:
Parents must bring a hiking child carrier backpack to carry their children under 4.
Good to KnowActivity level
The walk is not challenging, and the trail itself is flat. There are two small passages without a safety bar, but once you are past them, it is an easy walk just until the finish. We do the walk reasonably, including stopping to take photos. There are bathrooms at the coffee bar at the end of the trail.
Children:
Not recommended for children under 8 years old.
SecurityDon't take risks
Better to go with a guide and relax, instead of getting lost in the mountains of Madeira. If you fall or feel unwell, knowing that the mountain guide activates the emergency system is reassuring. He/she sends a warning and the group’s location to the local authorities, enabling a quick rescue. All well worth the money for the hike.
Our ExpertiseWhy us?
We pick you up from the place you are staying at and drop you off when finished. It is an easy and comfortable way to get to the walk. There are comfort breaks before and after the walk. It’s easy to book. Our staff are qualified. We take you to various sites we know you will want to explore. Our fundamental principles are the comfort, safety, and flexibility of both our guests and personnel.