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A 7-day hiking adventure through the island's stunning wilderness and breathtaking landscapes.

6 nights
Starting from
€759

Madeira Trail

Explore the beautiful island of Madeira from West to East on an unforgettable 7-day hike. Discover the hidden treasures of this “Flower Island” as you hike stunning trails, straight through some unique colourful landscapes.

Solo traveler friendly

This trip is also perfect for solo travelers. Explore extraordinary places at your own pace and embrace your own adventure!

Difficulty Level: 🥾🥾

Good fitness level required. Mostly well-maintained trails. Daily distances range from 12 to 18 km, with a maximum elevation gain of 1,500 meters.

Our mission is to explore the world through spectacular hikes in every corner of the planet. The Travelbase Trails team is made up of outdoor specialists who passionately map out the most beautiful routes and, with years of experience, arrange the most unique places to stay.

In just 5 years, our trail family has grown into a collection of 12 diverse trails. It all started in Iceland, and now we’re also hiking through Jordan, Madeira, Sweden, Italy, Morocco, Lapland, France, Scotland, the Netherlands, Norway, and the Balkans. The stunning landscapes and warm local cultures make every adventure a truly unique experience.

New hiking adventures are on the way, but we can’t reveal anything just yet!

Meet the experts

Jimmy

Loic

Amber

Inès

Eva

Want to join the team?

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Madeira Trail

Embark on an unforgettable adventure: our 5-day hike through the hidden treasures of Madeira. From majestic peaks to spectacular coastlines, discover the true essence of the island with every step.

Inclusive
  • Detailed itinerary and complete organization of the trip
  • 3 nights in a comfortable hotel in unique locations*
  • 1 night in a cozy cottage in the middle of nature*
  • 1 unique night in a refuge at Pico Ruivo (summit of Madeira)**
  • Tourist taxes in hotels
5 breakfasts
Transport and shuttle to the start of the trek (day 1)
Transfer by shuttle from Santana to Porto da Cruz (day 5)
Welcome and briefing by an experienced ranger.
Complete equipment list to make sure you don't forget anything
Application for the Madeira Trail with all the necessary information
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Hiking in Madeira

Situated in a tropical archipelago, Madeira is a Portuguese island known as the "Pearl of the Atlantic" or the "Island of Flowers" due to its exceptional flora. With a subtropical climate and breathtaking landscapes, this destination offers a unique paradise-like experience.

 

This hiking tour takes you through the island, which is renowned for its diverse landscapes. You will discover lush green valleys, towering peaks, picturesque levadas (irrigation channels), and secluded beaches, all in one week.

The itinerary

As the name suggests, the Madeira Trail takes place in Madeira, a remote island in the middle of the Atlantic belonging to Portugal.

Our carefully crafted itinerary will have you crossing the island and exploring its most beautiful spots. It's a challenging hike that definitely belongs on the bucket list of any adventurer who loves the outdoors. We'll travel from the west to the east of the island, from the sea to the most majestic peaks, following the levadas and exploring the stunning pristine forests, including the Fanal forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site!

You’ll spend five days hiking in the heart of this flower-filled island, where you’ll not only take on a physical challenge but also have the chance to witness some of the most breathtaking panoramas on the planet.

Weekly schedule

It's not easy to plan a well-organized hike in Madeira on your own. That's why we've created a program so you can see the highlights during a week-long stay with five full days of walking. The program can be adjusted based on weather conditions.

Hiking days

Day 1
Ribeira da Janela/Fanal Rabaçal
17 km or 12 km 840 m or 540 m 630 or 540 m
Day 2
Rabaçal Encumeada
21.7 km 500 m 700 m
Day 3
Encumeada Pico Ruivo
12 km 1200 m 260 m
Day 4
Pico Ruivo Santana
14 km 140 m 1380 m
Day 5
Porto da Cruz Machico
15.5 km 620 m 620 m

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

When?

The spring edition will take place from April 1 to June 2, 2026. You can check all the specific dates via the calendar at the bottom of the page or by clicking here.

We invite you to pre-register now so you can book early on September 17 (one day before the official opening) and enjoy the lowest prices along with ultra-flexible booking conditions offered.

Note, the hike starts the next day. For example, if you choose the departure date of April 1, you will start hiking on April 2. The hotel option in Funchal will therefore be for April 1, your arrival day.

What is the price?

The Early Bird price for this trip starts at €769 per person.

Options
  • Hotel in Funchal for the first night* (Enotel Magnolia): from €89
  • Local food package** (5 packed lunches & 5 local dinners): €139
  • Walking poles: €12
  • Cancellation insurance: €69, see our cancellation conditions

*For solo travelers, you will be placed in a double room with another participant, with separate beds. We do our best to group people of the same gender, although this isn't always possible. If you're traveling in an odd-numbered group, you'll be assigned to different rooms.

**You won't have the opportunity to easily buy food during the hike, which is why we offer this economical option. This includes the packed lunch you'll receive each morning, as well as dinner at the hotel restaurant. Plus, it helps lighten your backpack since you won't need to carry your food for the week.

Shuttle

A shuttle will take you from Funchal to the starting point of the trail.

This shuttle departs at 8:30 AM, so please be on time at the meeting point if you're not booking your first night with us.

Self-guided

This trek is self-guided. This means you are completely free to explore the trail on your own. The advantage? You can hike with peace of mind, as everything has been arranged for you: from a beautiful hiking itinerary to unique places to sleep. A ranger will be on site to assist you if needed and provide all the necessary information.

On the first day of hiking, you will receive a detailed briefing from our ranger. You will find the itinerary and useful information in the Madeira Trail app, carefully prepared for you. After that, you'll start hiking independently. The ranger will, of course, be available by phone to help you if needed.

Superflex booking conditions

These conditions are temporarily available for everyone who books early. They allow you to move your trek to another date within the same season (subject to availability) or to cancel for free before January 2, 2026.

Note: this is not cancellation insurance. If you wish to cancel your trip after January 2, the normal cancellation conditions apply.

Application Travelbase

After your booking, you will have access to the Travelbase app. There, you'll find all the practical information before, during, and after your trip: tips, tricks, and everything you’ll need along the way. The app is both your digital guide and your preparation tool. Install it before you leave so you have all the info at your fingertips.

FAQ

Want to know more about this trip? Check out the frequently asked questions.

JOIN US!

Are you dreaming of going on an adventure with us next spring? Pre-register now to:

  • get access to reservations 24 hours earlier,
  • enjoy the Early Bird rate,
  • book with complete flexibility thanks to our ultra-flexible conditions.

Prefer to travel this fall instead? Then check out our fall 2025 offer for all the information.

See the autumn 2025 offer
  • Amalfi
    Monday 20 Jan 2025
    Sunday 26 Jan 2025
    Available
    € 1450
    Available
    More info Less info
  • Amalfi
    Monday 20 Jan 2025
    Sunday 26 Jan 2025
    Available
    € 1450
    Available
    More info Less info
  • Amalfi
    Monday 20 Jan 2025
    Sunday 26 Jan 2025
    Available
    € 1450
    Available
    More info Less info
  • Amalfi
    Monday 20 Jan 2025
    Sunday 26 Jan 2025
    Available
    € 1450
    Available
    More info Less info
  • Amalfi
    Monday 20 Jan 2025
    Sunday 26 Jan 2025
    Available
    € 1450
    Available
    More info Less info
  • Amalfi
    Monday 20 Jan 2025
    Sunday 26 Jan 2025
    Available
    € 1450
    Available
    More info Less info

FAQ's

We invite you to consult the FAQ below before sending us an email. The FAQ provides comprehensive answers to the most frequently asked questions!

Where will we be staying?

You will sleep for 2 nights in a carefully chosen comfortable hotel in a double room, 1 night in a comfortable cottage, 1 night in a comfortable hostel on the coast, and 1 night in a refuge on Madeira's highest peak.(*)

It's not easy to find places to sleep in a tent in Madeira, as most pitches are very small. That's why we've opted for hotel & refuge accommodation. This way, you'll have plenty of opportunity to rest and recharge your batteries for the hike.

(*) Solo participants will sleep in the same room as another participant, in separate beds. We always do our best to put participants of the same sex in the same room.

What will we be eating?

During the hike, you will very rarely pass by a refuge or restaurant. That's why we offer a food package option for more convenience and to let everyone experience the local cuisine.

This includes a packed lunch for the day, as well as a nice local meal at the hotel restaurant for the five days of hiking.

We still recommend bringing some snacks to take on the hike, to enjoy during breaks.

Meal overview (subject to change):

  • Breakfast (included in the base price): bread, jam, cheese or ham, a coffee (or tea), and a juice. It may also be served as a buffet, depending on the location.
  • Packed lunch: Ham/cheese, chicken, or roast beef sandwich, accompanied by fruit, a small dessert, and a juice.
  • Dinner: Local fish or meat at the hotel restaurant, or served as a buffet depending on the location.

We also offer a vegetarian option, but unfortunately, not a vegan one.

How are the hikes organized?

The Madeira Trail is a self-guided hike. This means you'll be hiking completely independently. We make sure you have everything you need for a successful trek. Everything is organized for you, so you don't have to think about a thing.

Hike and enjoy, that's all you need to do.

Overview of the week:

  • An experienced ranger will give you a complete briefing on the first day of the hike. He will then send you a daily briefing via message.
  • You will then start hiking independently on the accessible and balanced route we have laid out for you.
  • In our app, you'll find an overview of all the routes and important information for each day. This will allow you to hike completely on your own.
  • Your hotel and shelter nights are reserved for you.
  • You will enjoy prepared meals in the morning, at noon, and in the evening without having to worry about cooking (if you've chosen that option).
  • Additionally, our ranger is available to help you if needed. You can contact him throughout the trip to ask questions.
What’s included?
  • Detailed itinerary and complete organization of the trip
  • 3 nights in a comfortable hotel in unique locations
  • 1 night in a cozy cottage
  • 1 unique night in a refuge at Pico Ruivo (the highest point of Madeira)
  • 5 breakfasts
  • Hotel tourist taxes
  • Shuttle transport to the start of the trek
  • Shuttle transport from the hotel in Santana to Porto da Cruz (day 5)
  • Welcome and briefing by an experienced ranger
  • Complete gear list so you don't forget anything
  • Madeira Trail app with all the necessary information
What should I bring?

ID Card

Madeira is an island of Portugal, so you don't need a passport, just a valid ID card.

Hiking Gear

It's important to bring good walking shoes that you feel comfortable enough in for a long trek. Hiking boots of type A/B – B/C with ankle support are essential for navigating the trails of Madeira.

We will also send you a more detailed list of what you need to bring before your departure.

How many kilometers do I have to walk?

Throughout the week, you'll cover a total of about 85 km, with daily stages ranging from 12 to 22 km. The days are well distributed and balanced to ensure a good mix between the number of kilometers traveled and the elevation gained.

Do I have to carry my backpack all week?

Yes, you will need to carry your backpack for the entire hike. We recommend traveling as light as possible. To make sure you don't forget anything while avoiding excess, rely on our gear list: it's designed specifically to help you make the right choices!

And what if you extend your stay?

If you want to stay a few extra days after the hike and bring some additional belongings, you can drop off a bag at the airport for €4.50 per day, or use a platform like Luggage Hero to find a place to store it easily.

Do I need to pay the tourist tax?

Since January 1, 2025, the regional government of Madeira has implemented entry fees for all official routes on the island. The fee is fixed: €3 per trail, per person.

Payment is made only online via the official site: simplifica.madeira.gov.pt. Once your booking is made, you will receive a personal code to present in case of inspection.

Each participant must book their entries in advance. During the peak season, it is recommended to book them at least 1 week before your departure.

No worries! A detailed communication will be sent to guide you and help you book the right trails on the right dates.

Who is this hike intended for?

For all people aged 16 to 65, in good physical condition and who have previously done multi-day hikes with a backpack. The trek involves long distances and a lot of elevation gain, so good health and physical fitness are necessary. Therefore, we emphasize that this hike is not suitable for beginners.

Are you unsure about your ability to do this trek?

The following questions will help clarify things:

  • How many times have I been physically active in the last three months?
  • What types of physical activities do I regularly engage in and for how long?
  • Have I had any recent injuries that could affect my ability to enjoy this adventure?
  • Can I walk comfortably for 15 kilometers on hilly terrain for several days with a weight on my back?
  • Can I train over the next few months to best prepare for this adventure?

If your answers give you full confidence to embark on this adventure, then this trek is definitely for you! You will receive a training program a week after your booking that will help you be ready to tackle the trail with ease.

Still have doubts and want to test yourself before going hiking?

Try one of our micro-adventures like The Packraft Trail.

Is this hike suitable for people with fear of heights?

This hike is not recommended for those with severe vertigo. The trails in Madeira often run along the mountain, with narrow paths close to cliffs.
If you are traveling alone and suffer from vertigo, we strongly advise against participating for safety and comfort reasons.
However, if you know you can manage this difficulty with the support of a companion, it may be possible.
Please note that we cannot be held responsible if your vertigo prevents you from continuing the hike.

What is the size of the group?

This is a self-guided hike, so you won't be walking in a group, but you can certainly walk with other participants if you wish. There is a maximum of 10 participants per departure date.

Can I bring my dog with me?

Unfortunately, for safety reasons, we do not allow dogs on the hike. The Madeira Trail is a challenging hike with a lot of elevation changes and is not suitable for a dog.

Give back to nature through Greentripper.

The planet offers us so many incredible things to admire, especially through our travels. But if we want to enjoy it for a long time, we must protect it at all costs. That's why we're making extra efforts to reduce the impact of our trips, and you can also reliably contribute to a Greentripper climate project through the booking form, which offsets the CO2 emissions from your mode of transport. By contributing to their certified project “Wildlife Cambodia,” you help protect the beautiful forests and the wildlife they harbor, support local communities, and reduce the CO2 emissions from your trip. If you decide to participate in the project, Travelbase will take on the additional responsibility of reducing your carbon footprint during the trip itself. Upon your return, you will also receive an official carbon credit certificate.

To learn more about the efforts and actions implemented by Travelbase, check out the following page.

Can we meet the participants before the trip?

Two weeks before departure, we will send you an invitation link to a WhatsApp group. The rangers will share important information there, and you will be free to ask any practical questions.

Can I also book this trip solo?

Yes, it is absolutely possible to book this trip solo. Depending on the departure date, there are several solo travelers who join the hike.

How does the payment work? Do I have to pay everything at once?

Payment is made in two installments. You have 5 days after registration to confirm and pay a deposit of 30% of your total amount. Beyond these 5 days, your registration will be automatically canceled. You then have until 60 days before your departure to pay the remaining balance. All payment information can be found in your profile. Each payment has its specific information. Be sure to provide the correct details (reference, account number), so your transfer isn't returned to you.

 

Puis-je ajouter ou retirer une option après ma réservation ?

Yes, you can still add an option later, up to 3 weeks before your departure, subject to availability. You can also remove an option up to 2 months before departure. However, the cancellation insurance cannot be modified after your booking.

 

What insurance options can I add?

When booking, you can choose to add two types of insurance to your reservation.

Cancellation Insurance

Did you book early? If so, you might benefit from our super flexible booking conditions. This allows you to modify or cancel your reservation free of charge until January 2, 2026, without needing to provide a reason. You will then receive a full refund for your trip.

Of course, last-minute cancellations can also happen. Want to be fully covered up until departure? Then choose our cancellation insurance when booking (€69).

You can find all the terms of our cancellation insurance here.

Travel Assistance Insurance

Want to travel with peace of mind? Don't forget to add travel assistance insurance to your reservation. In case of a problem or accident on-site, our travel insurance will help you (€49).

You can check the policy conditions here.

 

Qu’est ce que les conditions superflex ?

If you book your trip in the first few days, you can enjoy super flexible conditions for free when making your reservation. With these conditions, you can move your trip (subject to availability) for free or completely cancel it and receive a refund until January 2, 2026.

 

Quel est le climat à Madère ?

Madeira enjoys a mild climate all year round. On the south coast, the sun is often shining, and temperatures range between 17 °C in winter and 26 °C in summer. The sea remains pleasant, with water temperatures between 18 °C and 24 °C.

In the mountains, the atmosphere changes quickly: it can be much cooler, windy, and sometimes foggy. Nights are significantly colder than by the sea. That's why it's essential to bring a fleece, a technical rain jacket, and rain pants.

Madeira is also known for its microclimates: in a single day, you can go from a blue sky on the coast to fog or rain in the higher altitudes.

👉 In summary: expect everything, from bright sunshine to persistent clouds. Well-prepared, you'll enjoy the best of every side of the island!

 

Keep up to date with our trails!

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Footprint score

To be as transparant as possible about our impact, a footprint score has been calculated for each of our trips. There are six badges, each representing a criterion of environmental or social sustainability.

Footprint level

How to calculate this?

Based on this criterion, we assess the impact of a trip in terms of environmental and social sustainability.

Carbon footprint limited to less than 0.04 tCO2 during the trip

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