✈️ Air Travel: Prepare for Strikes in Early October
Travel to Madeira in early October will be affected by two strikes. The first involves easyJet cabin crew (October 2–6), and the second will impact public administration employees, including air traffic controllers and meteorologists, on Friday, October 2.
- Who is affected? Passengers flying with easyJet from October 2 to 6, and anyone flying with any airline on Friday, October 2.
- What does this mean in practice? Despite guaranteed minimum services (e.g., 2 daily return easyJet flights on the Lisbon-Funchal and Porto-Funchal routes), there is a high risk of significant delays, rescheduling, and cancellations for many other flights.
- What do we recommend? Contact your airline immediately to verify your flight status. Regularly check your emails and the carrier’s website, and be prepared for potential disruptions.
🚗 Driving on the Island: First Rains and Parking Changes
With the arrival of the first autumn rains, the Civil Protection authority has issued a warning to drivers. After a long dry spell, road surfaces are extremely slippery due to accumulated dust and oil. A rockslide last night, which temporarily blocked the road to the Eira do Serrado viewpoint, confirms this risk. Be cautious when parking as well—a tree fell on a car in Funchal yesterday, serving as a warning.
- Who is affected? All drivers, especially those in rental cars heading into the mountains.
- What does this mean in practice? There is an increased risk of skidding, falling rocks on mountain roads, and falling trees or branches during high winds.
- What do we recommend? Slow down, maintain a greater following distance, and drive with extreme caution. Avoid stopping or parking directly under rock overhangs or large trees.
End of Free Parking for Electric Vehicles in Funchal
If you have rented an electric vehicle, please note that the benefit of free parking in Funchal no longer applies. The city has abolished the zero-rate tariff, and drivers of electric cars will now pay 50% of the standard rate in public parking areas. Don’t forget to purchase a ticket from the meter.
🥾 For Hikers and Trail Lovers: Mountain Weather and Fees
Today’s Conditions: Postpone High-Altitude Hikes
Today’s forecast predicts rain, stronger winds, and a drop in temperature, especially on the north coast and in the mountains. For the highest peaks like Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo, this means cold, rain, and near-zero visibility.
- Who is affected? Anyone who planned a high-altitude hike for today.
- What does this mean in practice? Conditions in the mountains are dangerous, and paths will be muddy and very slippery. Additionally, the north coast will be hit by waves up to 3 meters high.
- What do we recommend? Choose an alternative activity. Trails on the sunnier south side of the island, walks around Funchal, or a visit to an indoor attraction are ideal options.
Reminder: Fees and Closures on PR Trails
Madeira’s Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) reminds visitors that online registration and payment of a fee are mandatory for non-residents to access most official trails (PR routes). Standard entry costs €4.50, while a full-day permit for the PR1 trail (Pico do Areeiro – Pico Ruivo) is €10.50. It is also important to respect the long-term safety closure of a section of the PR 1.3 Vereda da Encumeada trail.
📍 Funchal News and Event Tip
Funchal Plans to Double Tourist Tax
Funchal’s city council is proposing an increase in the tourist tax from the current €2 to €4 per person per night. This will apply to guests in hotels and apartments, as well as cruise ship passengers. If you are planning a trip to Funchal, check with your booking provider to see if the tax is already included in the price or if you will need to pay it upon arrival.
Don’t Miss the Nature Festival (October 6–11)
Great news for all outdoor enthusiasts! The program for the popular Nature Festival is being unveiled today. During the festival, you can participate in organized activities like canyoning, paragliding, and guided hikes for free. Don’t delay your registration, as spots for the most popular activities are often filled within hours.