A Quiet Day on the Island, Big Changes in the Mountains
While the coast and towns are experiencing a normal day without any traffic or other complications, today brings significant news for all hiking enthusiasts. The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) has announced several key changes to the most popular routes, which will affect the plans of many visitors. Let’s take a look at what you need to know before you set out.
New for 2026: Mandatory Reservations and Fees on PR Trails
The most important change, effective from the beginning of 2026 and affecting virtually everyone, is the introduction of an entrance fee for classified hiking trails (Percursos Recomendados).
- Who is affected? Anyone planning to hike one of the official PR trails.
- What does this mean in practice? You must book your spot in advance and pay a fee online via the government’s SIMplifica portal. The price is €10.50 for independent hikers, or €7 per person if you are with a certified guide. At the trailhead, rangers will ask you to present a QR code.
- Our recommendation: Plan your trips in advance. Before every hike, check the conditions and make your reservation on the SIMplifica portal. You will not be allowed on the trail without it.
PR 1 Vereda do Areeiro: The Famous Ridge Trail is Partially Closed
If you were planning to tackle Madeira’s most famous trek between its highest peaks today, you will need to adjust your plans.
- Who is affected? Hikers heading from Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo.
- What does this mean in practice? The trail is undergoing extensive safety reconstruction. From Pico do Areeiro, only the first 1.2 km section to the Miradouro da Pedra Rija viewpoint is accessible. The path beyond that point is closed. It is expected to reopen in April 2026.
- Our recommendation: Enjoy the breathtaking views from the initial part of the trail and the viewpoint. You can reach Pico Ruivo via the alternative, easier route from Achada do Teixeira (PR 1.2).
PR 6 Levada das 25 Fontes: No More Crowds Thanks to a One-Way System
We also have great news! One of the busiest levada walks on the island has received an upgrade that significantly improves both comfort and safety.
- Who is affected? All visitors to the Rabaçal area and the trail to the 25 Springs.
- What does this mean in practice? An alternative return path (a ‘bypass’) has been completed. The route now operates as a one-way loop. You walk to the waterfall along the original levada and return via the new, more comfortable path. This puts an end to dangerous passing on narrow ledges.
- Our recommendation: Follow the new signs and enjoy a much smoother and safer experience.
Warning: These Trails Are Completely Closed
The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation strongly warns against entering the following trails due to an acute risk of landslides and path damage.
- PR 10 Levada do Furado (in the section between Ribeiro Frio – Lamaceiros)
- PR 18 Levada do Rei
- PR 3 Levada do Pico do Castelo (Porto Santo island, due to construction work)
Our recommendation: Please respect the entry bans. The barriers are not for decoration; they are there to protect your health and your life. Madeira has plenty of other beautiful and safe trails for you to explore.