Caldeirão Verde: Queimadas PR9 Transfer Hike

The Caldeirão Verde: Queimadas PR9 Transfer Hike offers a wonderful way to explore Madeira’s famed Laurissilva Forest without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. For $39 per person, you get a self-guided 15 km hike starting at Queimadas Natural Park, with round-trip transportation from Funchal, Caniço, Santa Cruz, or Machico—conveniently arranged so you don’t have to worry about navigating or parking. The hike takes roughly 5.5 hours, winding through lush greenery, waterfalls, and tunnels, with the chance to enjoy some of the island’s most iconic landscapes.

What makes this experience stand out for us are the seamless transfer service—which saves you the stress of getting to the trailhead—and the detailed instructions and maps provided. The trails are relatively flat, making this a good option for those looking for a long but manageable walk. Our favorite aspect? The opportunity to walk among ancient endemic trees and alongside water channels, giving a real sense of Madeira’s untouched beauty. Plus, stopping for a coffee or cake at the quaint café at the end adds a sweet finish.

The only caveat? Since this is a self-guided experience, you need to be comfortable navigating with a map and staying on track. The route involves walking through four tunnels up to 200 meters long, which requires some attention and proper footwear. Also, weather in Madeira can be unpredictable, so you might find your plans altered if rain sets in—something worth considering if you’re sensitive to slippery or muddy trails.

This hike suits adventurous travelers who enjoy exploring at their own pace and are prepared for a physically active day. It’s ideal for those who value authentic nature experiences but don’t need a guide to tell them what they’re seeing. Families with older children, outdoor enthusiasts, and solo travelers looking for a flexible, well-organized day will find this tour hits the right notes.

Key Points

Convenience: Hotel pickup and round-trip transfer simplify travel logistics.
Authentic Experience: Self-guided route lets you explore at your preferred pace.
Stunning Scenery: Expect lush greenery, waterfalls, tunnels, and ancient trees.
Value for Money: For $39, it’s a comprehensive trek with maps, instructions, and transportation included.
Physical Challenge: About 15 km, mostly flat, but involves tunnels and a long walk—ideal for active travelers.
Weather Dependence: Rain can make the trail muddy and more challenging, so check forecasts.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Caldeirão Verde Hike

Making your way into the Laurissilva Forest—a UNESCO World Heritage site—feels like stepping into a fantasy landscape. The trail begins at Queimadas Park, a charming starting point where the lush surroundings immediately set the tone. You’ll receive hike instructions and a digital map on the day, helping you navigate one of Madeira’s most iconic levada routes.

What’s special here? The water channels called levadas snake through the forest, offering views of dense greenery on one side and cascading waterfalls on the other. The trail’s flat terrain makes it accessible for most, but be prepared for tunnels that stretch up to 200 meters. Several reviews mention the tunnels as a highlight or potential concern—so bringing a flashlight or mobile torch is a good idea.

The route concludes at the end of PR JOEL trail, adding an extra 1.9 km of peaceful walking through the forest’s quieter sections. It’s a round trip, so you’ll return through the same stunning landscape. Expect to encounter four tunnels along the way—some users found them exciting, others needing a bit of extra caution, especially if they’re nervous about dark, enclosed spaces.

We loved the way the guided instructions are delivered on the day, making the experience flexible for those who prefer to set their own pace. It also allows for spontaneous stops—whether to photograph a waterfall, admire a particularly tall tree, or simply enjoy a moment in tranquility. The 5.5-hour duration is ample for a leisurely exploration, with plenty of time for breaks.

The tour’s price includes a forest fee of 3 EUR, payable at the start or online, which helps maintain these protected areas. The transfer service is highly praised; as one reviewer noted, “Our driver Nuno was super funny and down to earth,” making the journey all the more enjoyable. Many comment on the friendly drivers and their willingness to share local insights.

The self-guided format is perfect for confident hikers or seasoned travelers who enjoy discovering on their own terms. However, it’s not recommended for children under 10, those with mobility issues, or anyone needing assistance navigating tunnels or uneven terrain. A few reviews mention the trail being busy after mid-morning, so arriving early is advisable if you want a quieter experience.

What To Expect on the Day

Your adventure begins with a shared transfer from your hotel, with up to 8 guests per van, ensuring a personal feel. Drivers are punctual—many reviewers highlight their friendliness and knowledge, often sharing fun facts about Madeira’s landscape and history. When you arrive at Queimadas Park, you’ll receive clear instructions and a map to guide your self-guided exploration.

The 15 km route winds through Madeira’s lush, ancient forest, with highlights like waterfalls, tunnels, and endemic trees. Expect to pass multiple waterfalls, some quite tall, and walk along levadas that have been carved into the landscape for centuries. These levadas are narrow watercourses, and walking beside them offers a sense of being part of the landscape rather than just observing it.

The tunnels are an exhilarating part of the experience. Some reviews mention they are up to 200 meters long, requiring a flashlight or phone torch. While the route is mostly flat, be sure to have sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes—especially if it’s been raining, as the paths could be slippery.

The end of the trail features a cozy café, where many reviewers enjoy a coffee or local pastry, making for a perfect break. The return involves a shorter 20-25 minute walk along the PR JOEL trail, which is a peaceful way to wrap up your day of adventure.

Throughout the hike, you’ll have opportunities to capture incredible photos, especially of waterfalls, lush greenery, and the panoramic vistas from lookout points. Several users appreciated the early start, which helped them beat the crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience.

The Authenticity and Practicalities

One of the most appreciated aspects of this tour is the self-guided approach, which allows you to set your own pace and explore as much or as little as you like. Many reviews, including those praising the “well-organized” process, highlight how the instructions and digital maps make navigation straightforward.

The price point of $39 offers excellent value, considering the transportation, trail access, and instructions—all of which could add up if you organized them separately. Plus, the additional forest fee (3 EUR) supports conservation efforts, ensuring the forest remains pristine for future visitors.

Weather conditions can impact the hike—some reviewers mention walking through waterfalls or getting wet, which they considered part of the fun. Others advise bringing waterproof gear, especially in rainy seasons. The unpredictable weather is worth noting; if rain is forecasted, you might find parts of the trail muddy or slippery.

The tour is not suitable for those with limited fitness, back problems, or mobility issues. We noticed that the majority of praise centered around the ease of the walk, rather than strenuous climbs or tricky terrain. Still, it’s a long trek for some, and you should return rested and prepared.

Final Thoughts

This self-guided Caldeirão Verde hike offers a fantastic balance of convenience, natural beauty, and authentic adventure. The combination of private maps, friendly drivers, and a stunning green landscape makes it a memorable day for those who love walking in nature and discovering hidden waterfalls. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy having control over your pace and want to avoid guided tour groups.

For travelers who prefer a flexible schedule, do not mind walking independently, and are ready for a moderately strenuous walk, this tour delivers genuine value. The beauty of the Laurissilva Forest and the chance to see waterfalls, tunnels, and ancient trees make it a highlight of any Madeira trip.

If you’re after a long, scenic walk that combines physical activity with breathtaking scenery, and you appreciate well-organized transfers and clear instructions, this experience will suit you well. Just remember to pack good shoes, waterproof clothing, and a sense of adventure.

More Great Tours Nearby

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
This hike is generally not recommended for children under 10, as it’s a long walk with tunnels and uneven terrain.

What should I bring?
Comfortable hiking shoes, rain gear, sunscreen, water, hats, and sunglasses are essential. Bringing a flashlight or phone torch for tunnels is advised.

Can I do this hike if I am not very fit?
The trail is mostly flat and about 15 km, making it manageable for active travelers, but those with low fitness levels or mobility issues should consider their comfort before booking.

What if the weather is bad?
Weather in Madeira can be unpredictable; rain might cause slippery paths and mud. The tour can be canceled or postponed in bad weather, so check forecasts and be prepared for a wet experience.

Do I need a guide?
No, this is a self-guided experience, but detailed instructions and a map are provided to help you enjoy the trail independently.

How busy is the trail?
It can get crowded after about 12 pm, so arriving early can help you enjoy a more peaceful walk.

Is the price worth it?
Considering transportation, instructions, and the beautiful landscape, many reviewers find the price very reasonable—especially compared to organizing these elements on your own.

Can I book last minute?
Yes, last-minute bookings are accepted daily until midnight, giving flexible planning options for spontaneous travelers.