Push your canyoning skills on steep rappels, narrow gorges and cold plunge pools in Madeira. This intermediate route combines technical ropework with wild volcanic canyons and experienced guides.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
A basalt wall cuts the sky and a gullied stream dares you to move faster—Madeira’s canyons are active landscapes that push and reward. On an intermediate canyoning route participants step into water-worn corridors, clip into anchors, and lower themselves beside plunging curtains of water; cold pools flash below and native laurel slopes watch from above.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate to good cardiovascular fitness; comfortable with heights, repeated rappels, and short swims.
Wildlife
History
Madeira’s stream-carved gorges owe their form to volcanic origins and centuries of high rainfall; levada irrigation channels nearby illustrate how locals harnessed these water routes.
Conservation
Follow guides to avoid trampling sensitive laurel forest vegetation; avoid leaving gear in-stream and stick to established access points to reduce erosion.
Reserve your spot on the Canyoning Madeira Intermediate today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Hydrate before you start
Drink water and have a light carbohydrate snack—cold water and exertion in canyons drain energy faster than you think.
Wear closed-toe canyon shoes
Choose shoes with sticky soles and good drainage; flip-flops or smooth-soled trainers are unsafe on wet basalt.
Trust the guide, practice commands
Pay attention to rope briefings and hand signals—controlled, slow rappels are the safest and most efficient in narrow gorges.
Protect electronics
Use a waterproof case or leave phones in the vehicle; even splash-proof gear can fail around falls and pools.
Swimwear and quick-dry base layer
Wear moisture-wicking layers under a wetsuit or harness for warmth and mobility.
Closed-toe canyon or approach shoes
Sticky soles and ankle support reduce slipping on wet basalt and in shallow streams.
Light neoprene socks or thin thermal layer
Adds warmth in cooler water without restricting movement.
spring
Small dry bag or waterproof phone case
Keeps essentials dry during swims and rappels; seals out spray and brief submersion.