Key Information for Tourists as of April 28, 2026
The weather in Madeira is calm, and the island is preparing for the spectacular Flower Festival. This means ideal conditions for excursions, but it’s important to be aware of several crucial updates to mountain trail organization that will affect your plans. Here is a summary of the most important changes.
Current Status of Hiking Trails
PR1 Vereda do Areeiro: Warning, Now One-Way Only!
- Who does this affect? All hikers planning to traverse the ridge between the island’s highest peaks, Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo.
- What does this mean in practice? The trail is now officially passable ONLY in one direction: from the Pico do Areeiro car park to the summit of Pico Ruivo. After reaching the destination, you can no longer return to your car via the same route. The measure aims to increase safety and improve the flow of hikers on the narrow rock ledges. The return journey is only permitted on the short initial section to the Ninho da Manta viewpoint (approx. 1.2 km).
- What do we recommend? After conquering Pico Ruivo, descend via the PR1.2 trail to the Achada do Teixeira car park. From there, you must arrange your transportation in advance – whether with a tour operator, by coordinating with other hikers, or by booking a taxi. You will not be able to get back from the endpoint without pre-arranged transport.
PR6 Levada das 25 Fontes: No More Crowds, the Bypass is Open
- Who does this affect? Visitors to the popular levadas in the Rabaçal area.
- What does this mean in practice? The trail management has reopened the repaired alternative route for the return from the 25 Fontes waterfall. This fully restores the one-way circuit on the trail. You walk to the waterfall along the levada and return via a second, separate path. This significantly reduces congestion and the danger of passing on the narrow trail. Your hike will be smoother and more pleasant.
- What do we recommend? Please respect the marked one-way direction and enjoy a much more relaxed and safer hike.
Don’t Forget: Trail Entry Fees
Entry to Marked PR Trails is Now Fee-Based
- Who does this affect? All non-resident tourists over the age of 12 who plan to hike any officially marked trail (PR).
- What does this mean in practice? Before entering a trail, you must pay a fee and obtain an online ticket. Payment is made through the government’s Simplifica portal. Park rangers (vigilantes da natureza) may conduct checks on the trails, and a fine can be issued for not having proof of payment.
- What do we recommend? Buy your ticket online in advance, for example, at your hotel using Wi-Fi. Mobile signal in the mountains is often poor or non-existent, so purchasing on-site may not be possible. Have your confirmation (e.g., on your phone) ready for inspection.
What’s Happening in Funchal?
In the center of Funchal, especially on the main avenue Avenida Arriaga, preparations are in full swing for the Flower Festival (Festa da Flor), which begins on Thursday, April 30th. You may come across the construction of stalls and the creation of flower carpets. The atmosphere is filled with anticipation for one of the biggest events of the year.