PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde
Hike through lush forests and tunnels to a spectacular waterfall on Madeira's iconic PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & secure parking
PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde
Best Time
Beat the crowds & secure parking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike through lush forests and tunnels to a spectacular waterfall on Madeira's iconic PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde.
"An extraordinary place where the work of human hands lives in perfect harmony with the surrounding nature."
🚗 Narrow Road & Parking
The last 2km to the lot are tight. Arrive by 7:30-9 AM for easier parking. CASH ONLY for parking!
🔦 Tunnel Essentials
Bring a headlamp or phone flashlight for the 3-4 dark, wet tunnels.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Caldeirão Verde Waterfall
End of the main trail
A stunning, powerful waterfall cascading into a lush valley. The ultimate reward after a scenic hike.
The Tunnels
Along the Levada
Experience the thrill of walking through dark, wet tunnels carved into the mountainside. Bring a light!
Lush Forest Scenery
Throughout the hike
Immerse yourself in a vibrant, tropical forest with diverse flora and dramatic valley views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Gear Up for Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Narrow Road & Parking
The last 2km to the lot are tight. Arrive by 7:30-9 AM for easier parking. CASH ONLY for parking!
🔦 Tunnel Essentials
Bring a headlamp or phone flashlight for the 3-4 dark, wet tunnels.
👟 Waterproof Footwear
Expect muddy trails and wet feet. Waterproof hiking boots are a must.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water for the 13km round trip hike.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Narrow Road & Parking
The last 2km to the lot are tight. Arrive by 7:30-9 AM for easier parking. CASH ONLY for parking!
🔦 Tunnel Essentials
Bring a headlamp or phone flashlight for the 3-4 dark, wet tunnels.
👟 Waterproof Footwear
Expect muddy trails and wet feet. Waterproof hiking boots are a must.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry plenty of water for the 13km round trip hike.
💰 Cash is King
Parking, cafe, and restrooms are CASH ONLY. Plan accordingly!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the breathtaking scenery, lush forests, and the spectacular waterfall at the end of the PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde hike. The unique experience of walking through tunnels adds to its appeal. However, many note the challenging narrow access road, the potential for crowds, and the inconvenience of cash-only facilities.
"The last 2km to the parking lot is very narrow and not fun at all. Parking lot was close to empty (we arrived at 7:30).
Hike was beautiful with different terrain and scenery. Prepare for mud, take a rain jacket and a headlamp for the 3-4 caves you’ll go through. At the end of the hike is a beautiful waterfall in a valley and the option to walk another 2km. On our way back we came across a lot of people and on the narrow passages it gets annoying. Glad we came early. Parking is CASH ONLY!"
Benjamin Csokasi
"Looking at it purely from a hiking lens, the bike was quite lovely and easily one of the best I experienced on the island. It has rugged trail-like terrain, you got to hike in what felt like a lush and beautiful tropical forest, you got to hink in tunnels, every now and then the trees parted and you were treated to a stunning view of the valley and you reached a stunningly large and beautiful waterfall. The trail really gave you a lovely variey of elements to help you feel like you were getting a full taste of what the island had to offer.
Highly recommend a flashlight of sorts as two of the tunnels you hike through are quite long and dark (not to mention quite wet). I would expect to get your shoes wet and muddy.
Some downfalls of the hike.
It is quite a popular spot and the trail does get narrow in a lot of places along the Levada, this means you'll expect to experience some delays and tight passing conditions as you encounter hikers coming from the opposite direction.
CASH ONLY; the parking, the cafe and the washrooms are all cash only. This feels unnecessary and purposely inconvenient for many people visiting the area when you see other cars options at other hiking points. The parking for 5hrs was roughly 9€ and the cafe, for one beer and a slice of cake, was also 9€ both of which felt like a money grab.
Finally the road leading up to the trailhead is quite tight and narrow for the last 2km so expect some tight car passing situations, take your time on this portion and you'll be fine."
Adam De Biasi
"very beautiful route. you have narrower sections, but where you wait a little and give space. there are 4 tunnels, the third one the most challenging. appropriate footwear would be advisable. the route is superb. it was a very beautiful walk."
Cristina Dinca
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way is by car, but the last 2km to the parking lot are very narrow and can be challenging. If you don't have a car, consider booking an organized tour from Funchal, as public transport options are limited and time-consuming.
Public transport to the Parque das Queimadas (the starting point) is not straightforward and often involves multiple changes, making it impractical for most visitors. Organized tours are a more reliable option for those without a rental car.
The final 2 kilometers leading to the parking area are described as very narrow, winding, and not ideal for larger vehicles. Drive slowly and carefully, and be prepared for tight passing situations.
There are no widely advertised shuttle services directly to the trailhead. Most visitors either drive themselves or join a guided tour that includes transportation.
There is a dedicated parking lot at Parque das Queimadas. However, it fills up quickly, especially during peak season. Arriving early is highly recommended. Remember, parking is CASH ONLY.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance tickets required for the Levada do Caldeirão Verde hike itself. However, there is a fee for parking at the Parque das Queimadas.
The trail is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, it's best to start early to avoid crowds and ensure you have enough daylight to complete the hike.
There is a parking fee at Parque das Queimadas, which is typically around 9 euros for 5 hours. This fee is payable in CASH ONLY.
Yes, numerous tour operators offer guided hikes to Levada do Caldeirão Verde from Funchal. This is a great option if you prefer not to drive or want to learn more about the local flora and fauna.
To avoid the largest crowds, aim to start your hike very early in the morning, ideally before 9 AM. Alternatively, some suggest the afternoon might be better to avoid morning tour buses.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike is generally considered moderate. It's a relatively flat walk along the levada, but the 13km round trip distance and the presence of tunnels add to the challenge.
The hike typically takes around 4 to 6 hours round trip, including time spent at the waterfall and any breaks.
Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes that are waterproof, as the trail can be muddy. Bring layers of clothing, a rain jacket, and consider a hat for sun protection.
Yes, there are facilities at Parque das Queimadas, including restrooms and a cafe. However, be aware that these are CASH ONLY.
The trail is generally suitable for children who are accustomed to hiking. However, the tunnels and the length of the hike might be challenging for very young children. Parental supervision is essential.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire hike offers stunning photo opportunities, from the lush green forest and dramatic valley views to the impressive waterfall at the end. The tunnels also provide unique, atmospheric shots.
A camera with good low-light performance or a smartphone with a strong flash will work well. A headlamp is essential for navigating the tunnels, which can also be used to illuminate your shots.
Drone usage might be restricted in protected natural areas. It's always best to check local regulations before flying a drone. Some creators have used drones in the area, but be mindful of rules.
Early morning light can be beautiful for capturing the misty forest atmosphere. However, the waterfall is impressive throughout the day. Consider the direction of the sun for optimal lighting on the valley views.
The trail itself offers numerous viewpoints as the trees part to reveal the valley. The area around the waterfall is a prime spot for dramatic shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Consider the timing carefully; an early start is crucial to avoid crowds and make the hike more enjoyable for everyone. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and be prepared for potentially muddy conditions. The stunning waterfall at the end is a great motivator for kids to keep going!
💰 Budget Travelers
To save money, consider packing your own lunch and snacks instead of purchasing from the cafe at Parque das Queimadas, which can be pricey. If you're not renting a car, look for affordable group tours from Funchal, which often include transportation and sometimes a guide, potentially offering better value than individual taxi fares.
🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
However, always inform someone of your hiking plans, including your expected return time. Carrying a fully charged phone and a portable charger is advisable. Bringing a headlamp is non-negotiable for the tunnels, and being prepared for varying weather conditions will ensure a more comfortable and secure solo adventure.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Levada System of Madeira
Hiking a levada means following the gentle gradient of the water channel, which often leads you through verdant valleys, past cascading waterfalls, and into the heart of Madeira's Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The experience is characterized by the constant presence of water, the vibrant greenery, and the unique perspective it offers on the island's natural beauty. It's a journey that combines engineering marvel with breathtaking scenery, making it a quintessential Madeiran adventure.
While most levadas are relatively flat, some can be challenging due to their length, narrowness, or the presence of tunnels. It's crucial to be prepared with appropriate gear, including sturdy footwear and a light source for any tunnels. The PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde, in particular, is known for its tunnels and the spectacular waterfall at its end, making it a popular choice for those seeking a rewarding and scenic hike.
+1Navigating the Tunnels
It is absolutely essential to bring a reliable light source for these tunnels. A headlamp is ideal as it keeps your hands free, but a smartphone with a strong flashlight function can also suffice. The tunnels can be dark, damp, and sometimes have uneven footing, so a light is crucial for both safety and navigation.
Be prepared for the tunnels to be wet, and the ground inside may be slippery. The air can also be cooler within the tunnels. While they add an element of excitement, they are generally well-maintained and passable for most hikers. The reward for navigating them is often a glimpse of the stunning natural beauty that lies beyond.
The Importance of Early Arrival
Visitors who arrive later in the day often face difficulties finding parking and may have to contend with significant delays on the narrow passages of the levada itself as they encounter hikers coming from the opposite direction. This can turn a potentially serene nature walk into a frustrating bottleneck.
To maximize your enjoyment and minimize stress, aim to be at the trailhead by 7:30 AM or 8:00 AM at the latest. This will allow you to secure a parking spot and begin your hike before the main influx of tour buses and independent visitors arrive, ensuring a more peaceful and scenic experience.
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