Funchal Overwhelmed: Thousands of Cruise Passengers in the Streets
Three large cruise ships have arrived in Funchal’s port today, bringing over 7,000 passengers into the capital’s streets. Expect an exceptionally busy day throughout the city center.
- Who is affected? Anyone planning to visit Funchal’s city center, the Mercado dos Lavradores, the Monte cable car (Teleférico), or nearby viewpoints like Cabo Girão.
- What does this mean in practice? Expect crowded streets, cafes, and restaurants. Long queues will form at major attractions. Traffic will be heavier on the roads around the city and on the VR1 highway due to tour buses and taxis.
- What do we recommend? If possible, postpone your visit to Funchal’s center. Today is an ideal opportunity to explore the quieter northern or western coasts of the island.
Situation on Mountain Trails and Roads
The surge of tourists is also noticeable in the mountains, where important operational and safety restrictions are in effect. Check the current status before you set out.
PR1 Vereda do Areeiro: Partial Closure and New Fees
Madeira’s most famous ridge trail between Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo is currently only partially open.
- Who is affected? Hikers planning to traverse between Madeira’s highest peaks.
- What does this mean in practice? The eastern section of the PR1 trail via Pico das Torres is completely closed. Only the first 1.2 km section from Pico do Areeiro to the Ninho da Manta / Pedra Rija viewpoint is accessible. You cannot proceed further. The surrounding routes PR1.1 (to Ilha) and PR1.2 (to Achada do Teixeira) remain open.
- What do we recommend? Adjust your hiking plans. A direct traverse between the peaks is not possible. Remember that as of this year, all non-residents over the age of 12 must book and pay for access to recommended PR trails in advance online via the Simplifica portal.
Traffic Collapse at Pico Ruivo (Achada do Teixeira)
The car park at Achada do Teixeira, the most popular starting point for the hike to Pico Ruivo, cannot handle the current volume of vehicles.
- Who is affected? All drivers and tourists heading to Pico Ruivo by car.
- What does this mean in practice? The car park is completely full, and cars parked along the narrow access road are causing traffic jams and obstructing passage. You could be stuck here for a long time.
- What do we recommend? To avoid problems, head out extremely early in the morning (ideally for sunrise). Alternatively, use organized transfers or a taxi from Santana.
Ocean Safety: Don’t Underestimate the Power of the Waves
A report about the rescue of a tourist off the coast of the neighboring island of Porto Santo is a reminder that the ocean must always be respected.
- Who is affected? Swimmers and fans of water sports like paddleboarding.
- What does this mean in practice? Even in sunny weather, there can be strong and unpredictable undercurrents near the coast.
- What do we recommend? Do not overestimate your strength and swimming abilities. Always pay attention to the flags on the beaches and exercise extra caution.