Levada do Norte – Walking Tour

Levada do Norte – Walking Tour: A Scenic Stroll Through Madeira’s Verdant Landscape

Starting with a hassle-free pickup in Funchal, the Levada do Norte walking tour offers a chance to experience one of Madeira’s most iconic trails. Priced at around $38.40 per person, this roughly 2-hour and 15-minute guided walk is perfect for those who want a taste of Madeira’s lush countryside without committing to a full-day adventure. The tour takes you from the famous Cabo Girão viewpoint, giving you spectacular vistas of the Quinta Grande valley and the charming rural areas of Campanário.

What we love most about this experience is the expert guidance that takes away the stress of navigation and adds fascinating commentary about the landscape, history, and flora. The scenic views, especially from Cabo Girão, are a highlight, as is the chance to walk past fields, plantations, and viewpoints that paint a picture of the island’s agricultural richness.

On the downside, some travelers might find the trail itself more challenging than expected due to narrow paths and uneven terrain, especially if they have mobility issues or prefer very easy walks. Also, the tour’s duration is relatively short—some may wish for a longer or more strenuous hike. This tour best suits casual walkers and nature lovers who want an authentic experience without the commitment of a full-day trek.

Overall, if you’re after breathtaking scenery, engaging guides, and a manageable walking distance, this tour offers great value. It’s particularly perfect for those who want a guided experience that combines nature, culture, and a touch of adventure while staying accessible.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: From Cabo Girão, you’ll enjoy one of Madeira’s most breathtaking panoramas.
• Guided Experience: No worries about getting lost—your guide shares interesting facts along the way.
• Short and Manageable: Approximately 6 km in about 2 hours, suitable for most fitness levels.
• Comfort & Convenience: Includes air-conditioned transport and all fees.
• Authentic Landscapes: Walk past fields, plantations, and viewpoints, capturing Madeira’s rural charm.
• Limited Food Options: Snacks are not included, so plan to bring some if needed.

Detailed Review of the Levada do Norte Walking Tour

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Levada do Norte trail is renowned for being one of Madeira’s longest and most popular water channels, stretching across lush, terraced landscapes. Starting with a pick-up in Funchal, the tour makes the journey straightforward, leaving you free to focus on the scenery.

Your guide, whose enthusiasm and local knowledge shine through, enriches the experience. One reviewer mentioned taking a tour led by Sara, describing her as “informative, witty, interested and a pleasure to be with.” Having a guide is priceless when navigating narrow paths and understanding the context of what you’re seeing. It also means you can relax and simply enjoy your walk without constantly checking a map or worrying about directions.

Itinerary Breakdown

The tour begins with a pick-up that gets you comfortably to the trailhead, often in the early morning at 8:30 am. The first stop is the Levada Norte, which is celebrated for its length and scenic beauty. As you walk along the levada, you pass through fields and plantations, getting a real sense of Madeira’s agricultural landscape.

Your guide offers insights and details about the local flora, making the walk not just scenic but also educational. Some reviews note the botanic details shared by guides, adding a layer of appreciation for the island’s diverse plant life.

Cabo Girão Viewpoint

The highlight of the tour is the Cabo Girão viewpoint, a dramatic terrace perched high above the valley. The views here are stunning, with sweeping vistas that stretch across valleys and the ocean in the distance. It’s a popular photo spot, so bring your camera.

Walk Length and Terrain

The 6 km walk is roughly 2 hours, which makes it suitable for most visitors, though some reviewers have expressed that the trail can be narrower and more challenging than expected, with sections less than a meter wide. For those with a fear of heights or mobility concerns, this is worth considering. The terrain is uneven, but manageable for most with steady footing.

Weather and Conditions

Madeira’s climate is generally mild, and the tour runs independent of weather conditions, meaning you might find the walk pleasant even on a cloudy day. However, in case of poor weather, the tour can be canceled, with options for rescheduling or full refunds.

Authentic Experience and Authenticity

This tour doesn’t include snacks, so bring water and perhaps a light snack if you get hungry. The focus is on the walk and the scenery, making it a pure and straightforward experience. The reviews mention that the walk is very beautiful and that the landscapes are “amazing,” though some feel it’s a bit short for a half-day tour.

Group Size and Comfort

Limited to 16 travelers, the tour provides a more intimate setting, fostering better interaction with guides and fellow travelers. The air-conditioned transport adds extra comfort, especially in the warm months.

The Value of Guided Walking Tours

We find that guided levada walks like this one are a great way to learn about Madeira’s landscape without the hassle of planning and navigation. Guides provide context, making the scenery more meaningful, and their company often turns a simple walk into a more engaging experience.

While the price of around $38 might seem modest, it’s important to note what’s included: transportation, all fees, and the guide. This convenience and expertise add value, especially if you’re not familiar with the area.

However, the short duration means this is more of a highlight reel than a full-day adventure. If you’re craving a longer or more challenging hike, you might seek other options, but for a manageable introduction to Madeira’s levadas, this ticks all the boxes.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a guided, scenic walk that’s not overly strenuous. It’s perfect for those with a moderate fitness level who enjoy beautiful landscapes, cultural insights, and a relaxed pace. Families, first-timers, or those with limited time will appreciate the easy access and comfortable group size.

If you’re looking for a more challenging hike or a longer excursion, you might find this a little brief. But if your goal is stunning views, a taste of Madeira’s lush countryside, and a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers excellent value.

The Sum Up

The Levada do Norte walking tour stands out as a value-packed experience that offers a glimpse of Madeira’s lush, terraced landscapes and spectacular viewpoints without demanding a full-day commitment. With a friendly guide, manageable distance, and picturesque scenery, it’s a great introduction for first-time visitors or those seeking a relaxed outdoor activity.

While the trail may be more challenging than it appears—with narrow paths and uneven terrain—the overall experience balances scenic beauty and cultural insight. It’s perfect if you’re after authentic landscapes, informative guides, and comfortable pacing.

This tour is a solid choice for those who want to enjoy Madeira’s natural beauty without a strenuous hike or long hours. It’s especially suited for casual walkers, small groups, and anyone curious about the island’s lush agriculture and dramatic vistas.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned transportation from Funchal, making it easy to start your walk without concern for logistics.

How long is the walk?
The walk covers approximately 6 km and lasts around 2 hours and 15 minutes, making it a manageable outing for most.

What should I bring?
Bring water, perhaps a snack, and comfortable walking shoes. Since snacks are not included, plan accordingly.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues or who are uncomfortable on narrow, uneven paths may want to consider their suitability.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. In case of poor weather, the tour might be canceled or rescheduled.

Are there any hidden costs?
All fees and taxes are included. Snacks and extra drinks are not included.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 16 travelers, providing an intimate experience with your guide.

Is the walk difficult?
The trail can be more challenging than some expect, especially due to narrow paths and uneven terrain. It’s not recommended for those with serious mobility issues.

What makes this tour special?
It combines stunning viewpoints like Cabo Girão with a scenic, guided walk through Madeira’s lush landscape—perfect for nature lovers and first-time visitors.

To sum it up, the Levada do Norte walking tour offers a well-balanced taste of Madeira’s natural beauty, guided by knowledgeable hosts, and accessible for most visitors. Whether you’re seeking impressive views, cultural insights, or a gentle outdoor activity, this tour will satisfy your curiosity and provide memorable scenery along the way.