Levada do Rei Hike Transfer with Levadas In & Out

Guided Tour · Caniço

Madeira: PR 18 - Levada do Rei Hike Transfer

Navigate Madeira’s lush Levada do Rei trail with Levadas In & Out’s convenient hike transfer. Follow a scenic route through UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest to the tranquil Ribeiro Bonito.

View experience
Duration4–6 hours including transport
LocationCaniço, Madeira
OperatorLevadas In & Out

Adventure brief

Madeira: PR 18 - Levada do Rei Hike Transfer

Navigate Madeira’s lush Levada do Rei trail with Levadas In & Out’s convenient hike transfer. Follow a scenic route through UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest to the tranquil Ribeiro Bonito.

Madeira, a volcanic island in the Atlantic Ocean off the coast of Portugal, is renowned for its rugged terrain and lush, subtropical vegetation. Among its unique outdoor pursuits, the network of levadas—irrigation channels carved into the landscape—offers one of the most captivating ways to engage with the island’s natural world. Levadas In & Out specializes in providing seamless access to these trails, and their PR 18 Levada do Rei hike transfer stands out as a prime option for hikers eager to experience Madeira’s famed Laurissilva forest.

The Levada do Rei trail winds roughly four hours through a landscape defined by dense laurel trees, vibrant mosses, and the occasional spray of hidden waterfalls. This corridor of greenery is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, sheltering flora and fauna found nowhere else. Starting near the agricultural village of São Jorge, the trail climbs gently, steering hikers beneath overhanging ferns and through tunnels sculpted by natural growth.

Guidance and transport from Levadas In & Out include a knowledgeable local driver who ensures travelers arrive smoothly and depart comfortably. What makes this hike exceptional is the chance to disconnect amid pristine surroundings like the Ribeiro Bonito—a secluded stream that marks the hike’s finish and invites a reflective moment beside clear waters. The trail’s moderate difficulty makes it accessible to those with reasonable fitness and a spirit for off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Levadas In & Out’s service removes the logistical challenge of reaching trailheads scattered across the island, allowing visitors to focus fully on the immersive experience. This hiking option perfectly complements a visit to Madeira by combining nature, culture, and convenience. It highlights Levadas In & Out’s commitment to connecting people with the island’s remarkable natural heritage while supporting sustainable tourism practices that honor the land’s delicate balance.

Adventure tips

Plan your experience.

Curated tips for an optimal adventure.

  1. 01
    Wear sturdy shoes

    The trail has uneven and occasionally slippery sections through tunnels and forest paths, so proper footwear is essential.

    essential
  2. 02
    Bring water and snacks

    The hike lasts about four hours with limited facilities along the way, so carry hydration and energy replenishment.

    essential
  3. 03
    Check entrance fee availability

    A €3 entry fee per person is required for access to the Levada do Rei trail; inform Levadas In & Out if you want help securing tickets.

    info
  4. 04
    Prepare for variable weather

    Weather can shift quickly in Madeira; layers and a raincoat help ensure comfort throughout the hike.

    warning
DifficultyModerate
Duration4–6 hours including transport
FitnessSuitable for hikers with moderate fitness comfortable walking on uneven terrain for several hours.
Technical skillsNone

Recommended gear

What to bring.

01

Hiking shoes with grip

Crucial for stability on wet, uneven trail surfaces and tunnel passages.

Essential
02

Water bottle

Stay hydrated during the multi-hour hike where water stops are limited.

Essential
03

Light rain jacket

Protects against sudden Atlantic showers common in Madeira’s mountain microclimates.

spring|fall|winterEssential
04

Sun hat and sunscreen

Useful for protecting skin on the exposed sections of the trail during hot summer days.

summer

Local insights

Context for the journey.

Hidden gems

Nearby secrets

The Quebradas Water Treatment Station area’s agricultural landscapes, Secluded streams along the trail just before Ribeiro Bonito

Wildlife

Local fauna

Madeira firecrest (a small bird endemic to the island), Atlantic woodcock

History

Historic heritage

The levadas were engineered from the 16th century onward to channel water across Madeira’s steep terrain, supporting agriculture and settlement.

Conservation

Mindful exploration

The Laurissilva forest is protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site, with ongoing efforts to limit human impact and preserve endemic species.

Photography tips

Capture the moments

Viewpoints
Start near São Jorge for broad agricultural landscape shots, Tunnel entrances along the levada trail, Ribeiro Bonito stream with its lush forest backdrop
Subjects
Dense laurel forest, Waterfalls, Natural tunnel formations
Best times
Morning light, Golden hour before sunset, Overcast for diffused light

Frequently asked questions

Before you go.

What is PR18?

PR18 refers to the Levada do Rei trail, a popular 4-hour hiking route in Madeira crossing lush forests and offering spectacular views.

Where does the trail start and end?

The hike begins near São Jorge at the Quebradas Water Treatment Station and ends at Ribeiro Bonito.

Is transportation included?

Yes, Levadas In & Out provide pick-up and return transport to designated locations ensuring hassle-free access.

What difficulty is the hike?

It’s moderately challenging with some uneven terrain but manageable for those in reasonable physical condition.

Are children allowed on this hike?

Children under 12 are not permitted for safety reasons on the trail.

Is there an entrance fee?

Yes, there is a €3 fee per person for trail access, which Levadas In & Out can help you arrange.

Levadas In & Out

Levada do Rei Hike Transfer with Levadas In & Out