Important Warnings and Restrictions
Fire in the Camacha Area: Change Your Plans
Who is affected?
All tourists and drivers who were planning a trip to the southeastern part of the island near Camacha.
What does this mean in practice?
Firefighters are responding to a forest fire in the area. We strongly advise avoiding this location completely, including the popular levadas in the Paraíso Valley. Expect traffic restrictions on the ER102 road and increased movement of emergency vehicles. Smoke may locally reduce air quality and visibility.
Our Recommendation:
- Immediately change your plans for today if you were heading to the Camacha area.
- Choose a different part of the island for your trip, such as the north coast or the western area around Porto Moniz.
Increased Caution Necessary: Falls on Levadas and by the Sea
Who is affected?
Every visitor to the island, whether heading to the mountains for a levada walk or for a stroll along the coast.
What does this mean in practice?
Today’s rescue operations on the Levada das 25 Fontes (PR6) and on the coastal promenade of Reis Magos in Caniçu are a stark reminder that the terrain in Madeira can be treacherous. Wet stones and steps on the levadas are extremely slippery. The same applies to wet surfaces on oceanfront promenades.
Our Recommendation:
- For any hiking trip, wear sturdy hiking boots with good grip.
- Do not underestimate even seemingly easy routes.
- At viewpoints and cliffs, never climb over safety railings or walls, especially for taking photos.
Practical Tips for Today
Trails: Check Conditions and Pay the Fee
Who is affected?
Anyone planning a hike on the marked tourist routes (PR).
What does this mean in practice?
The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) reminds visitors that on the most popular routes (including PR1 Pico do Arieiro – Pico Ruivo, PR6 Levada das 25 Fontes, and others), an online fee of €3 per person must be paid. It is also crucial to check the current status of the trail on the official website before every hike.
Our Recommendation:
- Before your hike, visit the website ifcn.madeira.gov.pt and make sure your trail has the status “Aberto” (Open).
- Pay the fee in advance through the SIMplifica portal to avoid complications.
Stop Wild Camping
Who is affected?
Primarily backpackers and travelers looking to spend the night in nature.
What does this mean in practice?
The case of tourists camping on Praia Formosa beach in Funchal serves as a reminder that camping and bivouacking outside of officially designated areas is strictly forbidden in Madeira and is subject to heavy fines. Protect nature and your wallet.
Our Recommendation:
- For overnight stays in nature, use only the campsites approved by the IFCN. A list of them can be found on their official website.
Evening Tip: Taste Madeira at the Rum Festival
What, Where, and When?
If you want to reward yourself after a full day of hiking, we have a great tip for you. Today, the five-day Madeira Rum Festival 2026 kicks off in the center of Funchal at Praça do Povo. It’s the perfect opportunity to taste top-quality local agricultural rum (Aguardente de Cana) and soak up the relaxed atmosphere.
Our Recommendation:
- Entry to the festival area is free; you only pay for a tasting glass and individual samples.
- Expect difficult parking in the center of Funchal; it’s better to use public transport or a taxi.
- In addition to tastings, you can look forward to masterclasses and a cultural program.