Discover the enchanting Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk, a stunning journey through Madeira Island’s lush landscapes and a must-do for any nature lover.
Embark on a trek through the emerald green Laurissilva Forest and marvel at the majestic Caldeirão Verde waterfall.
Throughout this blog post, we will share our insider knowledge and tips to help you make the most of your Caldeirão Verde levada walk experience.
Table of Contents
WHAT IS A LEVADA WALK?
A Levada Walk refers to the hiking trails that follow the path of the “levadas”, an intricate network of irrigation channels originally created in the 16th century to distribute water from the rainfall heavy regions of Madeira Island to the drier, southern parts.
These narrow watercourses stretch for more than 2,170 kilometers across the island, and their maintenance paths have been transformed into a unique hiking experience.
Walking these routes, hikers are treated to breathtaking landscapes, lush vegetation, and remote areas of the island that would otherwise be inaccessible.
ABOUT CALDEIRÃO VERDE
Madeira Island’s renowned Caldeirão Verde levada is located on the east side, more specifically, in Santana.
The walk showcases an array of lush greenery and tunnels along with a spectacular 100-meter tall waterfall.
The trail plunges you into the verdant landscape typical to Madeira, replete with ferns and other foliage for a dense jungle feel.
WHEN WAS CALDEIRÃO VERDE LEVADA WALK CREATED?
Constructed in the 18th century, Madeira’s Caldeirão Verde levada is an engineering marvel that was created to supply water from its northern section to drier parts of the island.
Initially, these levadas were only used for irrigation and water supply. It was not until the late 20th century, specifically in the 1980s, that they were officially recognized as hiking trails.
Nowadays this incredible trail has become popular among hikers wanting a chance at discovering and admiring alluring surroundings.
WHERE IS THE LEVADA WALK CALDEIRÃO VERDE?
Located in close proximity to the charming town of Santana, the Queimadas Forestry Park serves as the tranquil and attractive starting point for this remarkable journey – widely known as the Levada Walk Caldeirão Verde.
This experience provides hikers with a chance to immerse themselves in Madeira’s captivating environment.
Queimadas Forestry Park, with its abundant greenery and peaceful atmosphere, is the perfect location to begin this adventure.
Here, amidst the rustling leaves and the refreshing scent of nature, one can truly appreciate the serene beauty of Madeira.
This is not just a walk, but an indulgent excursion into the heart of Madeira’s enchanting landscapes.
The trail offers a unique opportunity to witness the island’s diverse flora and fauna, making it a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
QUEIMADAS PARK
Queimadas Park, with its traditional Santana house featuring a distinctive hay roof, is the perfect place to start your journey of exploration on the famed Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk.
Surrounded by tranquil, vibrant greenery and an array of natural scenery, it sets a marvelous stage for what’s ahead on this remarkable Madeira experience.
As you step into the park, you are immediately welcomed by the soothing sounds of rustling leaves and chirping birds.
The fresh scent of the forest fills the air, hinting at the natural wonders that lie ahead.
The park itself is a testament to Madeira’s rich history and culture, with the traditional Santana house serving as a fascinating glimpse into the island’s past.
As you prepare to embark on the Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk, take a moment to appreciate the serene beauty of Queimadas Park – it truly is the perfect starting point for this unforgettable journey.
LAURISSILVA FOREST
As you embark on the Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk, exploring the ancient and awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage site – Laurissilva Forest, will be your privilege.
This forest, is a living testament to the resilience of nature. It is a habitat of various unique plants and wildlife that illustrates Madeira’s flourishing biodiversity.
Take delight in seeing fascinating species like: The madeiran long toed pigeon, a bird that has adapted to the island’s unique environment, the wall lizard, a creature that scurries along the forest floor, as well as large white butterflies, their wings a stark contrast to the rich greenery of the forest.
These species are part of the intricate web of life that makes up the Laurissilva Forest.
As you walk through this lavish forest, take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the ecosystem and the intricate balance that allows these diverse species to coexist.
HOW TO GET TO CALDEIRÃO VERDE LEVADA WALK? (WITH PROS AND CONS!)
The enchanting Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk can be reached by taking advantage of a few transportation options, each with their own set of pros and cons.
This article will review the available options – such as us: Pico Transfers, guided tours, and car rentals. While also considering combining bus and taxi rides or just opting for a sole cab journey.
PICO TRANSFERS
Using Pico Transfers to get you to the beginning of a Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk is both easy and pleasant.
We specialize in taking hikers who wish to explore Madeira Island up popular tracks in their own tempo instead of in big groups, making sure they have a smooth journey towards their target location.
From the moment you step into one of our comfortable and well-maintained vans, you will be treated with utmost care and professionalism.
Our drivers are not only experienced and knowledgeable about the routes, but also friendly and accommodating, ensuring that your journey is enjoyable from start to finish.
For those people valuing convenience and value for money, utilizing our service it’s definately worth considering.
Since our transfers are shared, the price becomes really affordable.
With Pico Transfers, you don’t have to worry about navigating unfamiliar roads or complicated bus schedules.
Instead, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic drive to your hiking destination. This is allowing you to conserve your energy for the adventure that awaits.
Our drivers will provide an excellent explanation about the map of the trail.
This service is designed to ensure you feel confident and prepared to embark on your journey, and make the most of your Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk experience.
GUIDED TOUR
A guided tour is a great way to experience the Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk in an engaging and insightful manner.
Such tours provide you with a professional mountain guide, transportation to the hike site itself, as well as getting to share your journey with others.
However, being part of a large group can sometimes limit your freedom to explore at your own pace or take breaks when needed.
RENTED CAR
Renting a car in Madeira Island gives you the opportunity to go on your own adventures, including hiking along the Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk.
This way of traveling allows for autonomy and flexibility since you can stop whenever or wherever with no restrictions.
Plus, it’s a roundtrip hike which starts and ends at the same point, allowing you to park your car at the start of the trail in Queimadas and find it waiting for you upon your return.
On one hand, this might not be an ideal situation for those who are unfamiliar with navigating narrow and steep local roads that may prove to be difficult at times.
BUS + TAXI
For budget-minded travelers looking to reach the Caldeirã Verde Levada Walk, a combination of bus and taxi transportation may initially seem an attractive choice.
The bus takes you to Santana, and from there, a taxi is required for the remaining journey. However, the taxi ride could cost around 20 € each way, plus the bus fare.
When you calculate the total cost and the time spent figuring out the logistics, it becomes clear that this option may not be as effective as it first appears.
Besides, the time expended becomes quite long, when each bus ride takes around 2 hours plus the taxi ride’s time of around 20 minutes per ride.
In comparison, the service offered by us: Pico Transfers, for 32 € per person, saves you half the time and all the logistical hassle.
We offer pick-up and drop-off at your door in Funchal or Caniço, and also in Gaula, Santa Cruz, Machico and Porto da Cruz when pre-arranged.
So, when you consider the overall convenience and time saved, Pico Transfers is a more economical and stress-free choice.
ONLY TAXI
For people wanting to take the Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk, hiring a taxi may be an efficient and speedy option as it will directly bring you to the start of this hike.
However, this comfort comes with a cost, especially if travelling from far away places like Funchal, which could cost around 80 € per way.
Not everyone is able or willing to make use of such means for their trip due to the cost.
WHAT DOES “CALDEIRÃO VERDE” MEANS?
The verdant landscape and vast waterfall basin of the Caldeirão Verde levada walk are best captured by its name, “Green Cauldron”.
All along this captivating trail, one can witness a stunning display of nature’s beauty.
HOW LONG IS CALDEIRÃO VERDE?
The Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk is 13 kilometers long, consisting of 6.5 kilometers each way, and provides hikers with an invigorating journey through the mesmerizing Madeira scenery.
The trail is a roundtrip hike with the waterfall located at the end of the first 6.5 kilometers.
Every step taken on this moderately yet satisfying levada walk will surely be appreciated for its lush surroundings and picturesque waterfall views.
It is well worth every step of the hike!
HIKE DIFFICULTY, DURATION AND ALTITUDE
The Caldeirão Verde levada walk is considered to have a moderate difficulty level and should be suitable for beginner hikers with good fitness level.
It could pose an issue for those with vertigo or tunnel phobia.
The hike typically takes 4-5 hours while gaining 100 meters in altitude, but there are only manageable ascents/descents through lush jungle views along the way.
Along this levada walk one must prepare themselves as there will be numerous narrow paths leading into four tunnels which require illumination via either headlamp or flashlight for safe passage within these potentially slippery areas.
AVERAGE TEMPERATURE AND WEATHER CONDITIONS
The hike along the Caldeirão Verde Levada is set in a unique climate which creates a refreshing and stimulating ambiance.
Madeira Island’s forested sections are typically cooler, wetter and more humid than other parts of the island, all enhancing your experience with this beautiful verdant levada around Madeira!
It’s important to note that during the winter time, temperatures can drop significantly and light drizzles are also a possibility.
CALDEIRÃO VERDE WATERFALL AND LAGOON
The exquisite spectacle of the Caldeirão Verde Waterfall, towering at a 100 meters high with its crystal-clear waters creating an awe inspiring lagoon below, makes for a mesmerizing sight on the Levada Walk.
The soothing oasis surrounded by greenery is perfect to take in this extraordinary experience and relax after trekking through the lush forest during your journey along Caldeirão Verde.
This majestic combination of breathtaking waterfall and pristine pool will leave you captivated as you make your way across the levada walk – making it unquestionably one of its most prized features!
CAN I SWIM IN THE END OF THE WALK?
At the end of the trek through the Caldeirão Verde lagoon, it is not recommended to take a dip in its cool water.
There may be risks of a landslide around the lagoon and the access has been closed by the authorities years ago.
It’s best to admire and appreciate this verdant spot from far, reserving swimming for another place with better safety conditions instead.
HOW TALL IS THE CALDEIRÃO VERDE WATERFALL?
The Caldeirão Verde waterfall is truly breathtaking, standing at around 100 meters high.
Madeira Island provides a stunning setting for this cascading body of water which can be accessed from the walking trail.
This wonderful natural attraction makes it an absolute must-see while visiting Madeira Island.
WHAT EQUIPMENT SHOULD I BRING TO CALDEIRÃO VERDE?
When embarking on the Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk, it is essential to be properly equipped for a safe and enjoyable hike.
Waterproof clothing should always be worn as sudden rain drizzle are likely when going through forested areas. Hiking boots with good grip must also not be forgotten.
These will help keep hikers steady along sometimes slippery or bumpy pathways, especially while navigating the four tunnels of this trail.
A head torch or flashlight would come in handy during tunnel traversal too!
Besides that, don’t forget your backpack filled with refreshments like water and snacks – bearing all those things can make sure you have an unforgettable experience at the Caldeirão Verde trail.
TIPS FOR THE LEVADA DO CALDEIRÃO VERDE HIKE
When embarking on the Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk, it’s important to keep a few tips in mind.
It’s wise to check weather conditions for that specific area beforehand since they can drastically impact your journey along the trail.
Be sure to carry spare change with you too – for the facilities such as parking and restrooms requiring payment, prior or after completing your hike through the eye-catching landscapes of Caldeirão Verde!
By following these simple yet essential suggestions, one should be fully prepared ahead of their unforgettable experience along the levada walk.
TUNNELS ALONG THE LEVADA CALDEIRÃO VERDE
On the Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk, hikers will come across four tunnels that add a special element to their hike.
Navigating through these passages which have been etched out in the mountainside necessitates flashlights or headlamps as they are likely dark and slippery.
When traveling this scenic trail, it is essential to take care when going through those caves.
Paying attention attentively is key for a pleasurable and safe expedition along your journey.
TIPS FOR SAFE HIKING IN MADEIRA
When planning a hike in Madeira, safety should be the top priority. Be mindful of any potential risks and stay aware along the trail.
Given its microclimate, there could easily be sudden weather changes that weren’t previously anticipated.
HIKING WITH KIDS
Hiking the Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk with kids can be an enriching and educational experience.
The lush landscapes and variety of flora and fauna provide a natural playground for exploration and discovery.
However, it’s important to keep safety as the top priority when hiking with children.
And it is absolutely a must that children are old enough to understand about safety, and that they have previous hiking experience, good fitness level, and interest in the activity.
Firstly, ensure your children are dressed appropriately for the hike with sturdy shoes. Pack a backpack with plenty of water and snacks.
Secondly, educate your children about the importance of staying on the marked trail to protect the environment and for their safety.
Lastly, make the hike fun and educational.
Remember, the goal is to enjoy the journey and create lasting memories with your children.
Summary
Visiting the Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk on Madeira Island is a must-see excursion.
From its green Laurissilva Forest to the awe-inspiring waterfall and lagoon, this hike will make sure hikers are immersed in nature’s beauty as they create lasting memories from their time there.
By following our tips, you’ll be able to gain full advantage of such an unforgettable experience that includes scenic views, picturesque landscapes and cascading waterfalls at every step of your journey.
