Whale and Dolphin Watching: Chances Are Exceptionally High Right Now
Great news for all marine life enthusiasts. The waters around Madeira are currently teeming with cetaceans, and the chance of spotting whales or pods of dolphins during a boat trip is incredibly high. Local operators are reporting unusually frequent sightings.
- Who is this for? Anyone planning a boat trip.
- What does this mean in practice? Your sailing experience is likely to be even more intense. However, due to high demand, the best time slots may be booked up quickly.
- What do we recommend? Book your trip well in advance. Choose only licensed companies that maintain safe distances and do not disturb the animals.
Hiking Trail and Levada Status: PR 10 Open, PR 1 One-Way
The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) brings great news for hikers. After a long reconstruction, one of the island’s most popular routes is once again accessible in its entirety.
Key Trail Updates
- PR 10 Levada do Furado (Ribeiro Frio – Portela): Following repairs to a damaged footbridge, the trail is fully open and safe.
- PR 1 Vereda do Areeiro (Pico do Areeiro – Pico Ruivo): This iconic ridge trail is now open daily, but there is a strict one-way system in place from Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo. Do not attempt to walk in the opposite direction!
- PR 1.3 Vereda da Encumeada: This trail is only open on the section from Pico Ruivo to the Boca das Torrinhas junction.
Registration and Fees
Remember that for all official PR trails, you must register and pay a fee in advance on the SIMplifica portal. The fee for non-residents is €4.50 (or €10.50 for PR 1).
Trails That Remain Closed
Some trails remain closed long-term due to maintenance or hazardous conditions. Please avoid these paths: PR 7 Levada do Moinho, PR 16 Levada Fajã do Rodrigues, PR 20 Vereda do Jardim do Mar, PR 27 Glaciar de Planalto, and PR 28 Levada da Rocha Vermelha.
Practical Tips for Your Holiday
Planning a Trip to Funchal Harbour Tomorrow Morning?
If you are heading to the fish market or the adjacent harbour in Funchal on Tuesday, July 21st, please be aware. An official visit by a European Commissioner is scheduled to take place around 8:15 AM. Increased movement of politicians, journalists, and security personnel is expected.
- Who is this for? Tourists planning to visit the Mercado dos Lavradores and Lota do Funchal harbour area on Tuesday morning.
- What do we recommend? Plan your visit to this part of the city for a later time, ideally after 9:30 AM, when the situation will have calmed down and movement along the waterfront will be smooth again.
Health on the Go: Food and Water in the Summer Heat
In warm weather, it’s important to practice good hygiene to enjoy your holiday without digestive issues. Local authorities are warning of an increase in intestinal infections from contaminated food or water.
- Who is this for? All travellers on the island.
- What do we recommend? Drink bottled water, especially in more remote areas outside of Funchal. In restaurants, ensure that meat and seafood are always thoroughly cooked. It goes without saying that you should wash your hands frequently and rinse fruit with safe drinking water.