Heatwave and Extreme Fire Risk
The entire island of Madeira and the neighboring island of Porto Santo are currently experiencing very high temperatures. Meteorologists have extended the yellow weather warning until Wednesday, August 12th. The dry, hot weather dramatically increases the risk of forest fires, as demonstrated by recent firefighter responses near Garachico and Funchal, which were caused by human carelessness.
- Who is affected: All visitors to the island, especially hikers and families with children.
- What this means in practice: There is a risk of heatstroke, dehydration, and the extremely easy ignition of dry vegetation.
- Our recommendations: Plan hikes for the early morning hours. Avoid direct sun around midday. Wear a hat, use sunscreen, and carry plenty of water (at least 2-3 liters per person). It is strictly forbidden to start fires in nature, even in designated picnic areas with grills.
Overview of Hiking Trails (PR): Closures and Restrictions
The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) has updated the status of the recommended hiking trails. Please check the current situation before every trip.
Key Changes and Trail Status:
- PR 1 Vereda do Areeiro (Pico do Areeiro – Pico Ruivo): The trail is open. However, a one-way system is in place on the section from the Pedra Rija viewpoint to Pico Ruivo. The eastern, more challenging route via Pico das Torres is completely closed. Only the western route through the tunnels is accessible.
- Completely closed trails: For safety reasons, do not enter PR 3 (Porto Santo), PR 7 (Levada do Moinho), PR 20 (Vereda do Jardim do Mar), PR 27 (Glaciar de Planalto), and PR 28 (Levada da Rocha Vermelha).
- Newly opened trails: The good news is that PR 10 (Levada do Furado) and a section of the PR 1.3 (Vereda da Encumeada) trail are now fully open.
- Please note: Remember that for non-residents, access to the recommended trails (PR) requires online registration and payment of a fee through the SIMplifica portal.
Transport: Extra Ferries and Scooter Safety
More Connections to Porto Santo
Planning a trip to the golden beaches of Porto Santo island? The ferry company Porto Santo Line is responding to huge demand by adding extra sailings on Wednesdays, August 12th and 26th. If you want to take advantage of this, we recommend buying tickets online as soon as possible, as capacity is selling out quickly.
Safety on Two Wheels in Funchal
Tourists in Funchal often rent scooters. A recent morning accident in the Almirante Reis area, where a driver overlooked a safety chain, serves as a warning. Be aware of the specifics of city traffic – slippery cobblestones (calçada), narrow streets, and unexpected physical barriers like posts or chains used to block access to pedestrian zones.
Encounters with Marine Life
A deceased dolphin was found on the beach in Santa Cruz. The area has since been cleared. This incident is a reminder of the rich marine life surrounding Madeira. If you encounter an injured or stranded dolphin, seal, or sea turtle, never approach the animal and immediately contact the rescue network, Rede SOS Vida Selvagem.