Discover Madeira’s lush landscapes on the Levada do Alecrim, where historic irrigation channels meet breathtaking scenery. Perfect for water-loving hikers, this trail offers both natural beauty and cultural insights.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Average fitness level; capable of sustained walking on uneven surfaces
Wildlife
History
The levadas date back to the 16th century when they were engineered by local farmers to irrigate the island’s terraced vineyards and crops.
Conservation
Madeira’s levada network is maintained with a focus on sustainability, ensuring the preservation of the island’s delicate ecosystems.
Nature Meetings
Discover Madeira’s lush landscapes on the Levada do Alecrim, where historic irrigation channels meet breathtaking scenery. Perfect for water-loving hikers, this trail offers both natural beauty and cultural insights.
Nature Meetings is a guided tour operator based in Funchal, Madeira. The company offers guided levada walks, coastal hikes and whale and dolphin watching trips that showcase Madeira’s natural landscapes and marine life. Tours include short 2.5-hour walks such as Paradise Valley (Levada da Serra) and Pride of Madeira (Levada dos Maroços), moderate 4-hour hikes such as Laurissilva Landscapes (Ribeiro Frio) and Peaceful Panorama (Levada do Caniçal - Larano), and marine excursions including a 2.5-hour Whale & Dolphin Watching trip led by a marine biologist.
Walks focus on Levadas (Madeira’s irrigation channels) and protected areas such as the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest. Routes vary in length and difficulty, with many classified as easy to moderate and suitable for a broad range of visitors seeking nature, photography and local scenery. Guides provide route information, safety guidance and natural history context during outings. For sea trips, a marine biologist accompanies guests on whale and dolphin watching excursions to improve sighting opportunities and share species information.
Nature Meetings operates from Funchal and designs itineraries that connect visitors to Madeira’s flora, fauna and rural traditions. Booking information, trip durations and detailed route descriptions are provided for each offering. The company’s public programme includes levada walks, coastal hikes and boat-based marine wildlife experiences, giving visitors multiple ways to explore the island’s landscapes and seascapes. Additional routes listed include Levada do Alecrim and Levada do Rei; full itineraries, meeting points and equipment recommendations are supplied with each tour description. Prazeres, Rabaçal and Santana are among the options.
Tours Offered
15
Guided levadas, hikes, marine trips
Base
Funchal, Madeira
Operating from Funchal
Typical Duration
2.5–4 hrs
Short and half-day options
Laurissilva Access
UNESCO trails
Walks in protected forest
Reserve a guided levada walk or whale watching trip from Funchal today — availability fills quickly during peak season.
Stay on the marked path
Levada trails are narrow and technical; keep to designated routes for safety.
Carry water and snacks
Bring plenty of hydration and energy-rich snacks for the journey.
Watch your step on bridges
Some bridges are small and can be slippery; proceed with caution.
Wear comfortable footwear
Proper hiking shoes will help you navigate uneven terrain easily.
Hiking shoes
Provides traction and ankle support on rocky paths.
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during your hike along the levadas.
Sun protection
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen protect against Madeira’s strong sun.
summer
Light backpack
Carrying your essentials comfortably on the trail.