Current Status of Hiking Trails and Mountain Safety
Today’s news focuses primarily on safety and regulations on Madeira’s trails. Before you head into the mountains, please pay close attention to the following restrictions, which are in place to protect both nature and, most importantly, you.
PR1 Pico do Areeiro – Pico Ruivo: Respect the Partial Closure
The day’s most important update concerns the iconic ridge trail between the island’s highest mountains.
- Who is affected? All hikers planning to traverse between Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo.
- What this means in practice: Approximately 1.2 km from the start at Pico do Areeiro (beyond the Miradouro da Pedra Rija viewpoint), the PR1 trail is officially closed due to unstable terrain and ongoing repairs. Unfortunately, many visitors are ignoring the prohibition and climbing over the safety gate.
- What we recommend: Do not take the risk. In addition to a hefty fine, you face a real danger of falling on the damaged sections. Enjoy the safe views from the first part of the trail or plan your ascent to Pico Ruivo from the alternative starting point, Achada do Teixeira.
Overview of Closed and Modified Trails (according to IFCN)
The official Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) reports several other major changes that will affect your plans.
- Who is affected? Hikers planning trips on the most popular levadas and trails.
- What this means in practice:
- Fully closed trails: PR9 (Levada do Caldeirão Verde), PR7 (Levada do Moinho), PR1.3 (Vereda da Encumeada), and part of PR10 (Levada do Furado). These trails are currently completely inaccessible.
- Organizational change on PR6 (25 Fontes): The trail is open but operates in a one-way system using a detour route to prevent congestion in narrow passages.
- Fees and reservations: Remember that online reservations and a paid fee are required for entry to the busiest trails.
- Good news: The PR16 levada (Fajã do Rodrigues) is fully operational again after repairs.
- What we recommend: Check the current status on the official IFCN website before every hike. If your dream trail is closed, have a backup plan. Madeira offers hundreds of kilometers of other, equally beautiful trails.
Weather and Other Island Travel Tips
Weather: Sun in the South, Showers in the Mountains
- Who is affected? Anyone planning a trip outside of Funchal.
- What this means in practice: The weather in Madeira is once again showing its variable nature. While the coast and Funchal are sunny, local rain showers may appear in the mountains and in the north during the day.
- What we recommend: Don’t be fooled by the blue sky in the city. Always pack a light waterproof jacket or raincoat in your backpack.
Tip for a Walk: Luxury Yachts in Funchal Marina
- Who is affected? Visitors to Funchal looking for a relaxing activity.
- What this means in practice: Several interesting vessels are moored in the city’s marina. The superyacht “Home” is attracting the most attention and will remain here until May 25th.
- What we recommend: Combine a pleasant stroll along the marina promenade with admiring and photographing the luxury boats.
Transportation: New Flights to Porto Santo
- Who is affected? Travelers planning a trip to the neighboring island of Porto Santo.
- What this means in practice: Direct charter flights from Italy have begun. This means a gradual increase in the number of tourists heading to the “golden island”.
- What we recommend: If you are planning a ferry trip from Funchal to Porto Santo, expect higher occupancy and consider booking your tickets in advance, especially on weekends.