Fire in Madeira, August 2024: Impact on Hiking Trails and Alternatives

Containing the fire proved to be a formidable challenge, driven by high temperatures, strong winds, and low humidity. Despite these daunting conditions, relentless efforts from firefighters, a helicopter and supported by two EU Canadair aircraft, eventually brought the situation under control. After several intense days, the fire was fully extinguished. Thankfully, there were no serious injuries, no homes were lost, and the island's essential infrastructure remained intact.

While the fire has been extinguished, its impact on Madeira’s natural beauty, especially its beloved hiking trails, is profound. The central regions, hardest hit by the fire, have suffered significant damage, leading to the closure of several trails for safety and recovery.

Closed Hiking Trails

As a result of the wildfire, several popular hiking trails in Madeira have been closed to ensure the safety of visitors and to allow the affected areas to recover. The island's unique basalt rock formations, which become unstable and prone to crumbling under intense heat, pose ongoing risks even weeks or months after the fires are extinguished. This means that trails impacted by the fire will likely remain closed for an extended period.

Closed Trails that have been affected where we typically offer transfers:

• Pico do Areeiro - Pico Ruivo (PR1): This trail, one of the most renowned in Madeira, offers breathtaking scenery and high peaks. It is currently closed due to extensive fire damage.
• Vereda do Pico Ruivo (PR1.2): This trail, starting at Achada do Teixeira and leading to the island's highest peak, Pico Ruivo, is also temporarily closed.

Additional Closed Trails:

• Vereda da Ilha (PR1.1)
• Vereda da Encumeada (PR1.3)
• Vereda do Urzal (PR2)
• Levada do Barreiro (PR4)
• Levada do Moinho (PR7)
• Levada do Furado (PR10): Closed from kilometer marker PK 7+200 (counting from the start in Ribeiro Frio). However, an alternative route exists via the old path to Pico do Suna and then along a forest road until rejoining the levada at Lamaceiros, from where hikers can follow the original route to Portela.
• Caminho Real da Encumeada (PR12)
• Caminho do Pináculo e Folhadal (PR17)
• Vereda do Jardim do Mar (PR20)
• Levada da Azenha (PR23)
• Levada do Moinho - Levada Nova 

Alternative Hiking Trails

At Get to Hikes, we understand the disappointment of not being able to visit some of Madeira’s most famous hiking trails. To ensure you can still experience the island's breathtaking beauty, we are currently offering transfers to these three stunning and engaging alternative trails:

1. Sunrise at Pico do Areeiro + Vereda do Larano

Begin your day with a breathtaking sunrise at Pico do Areeiro, where the first rays of sunlight illuminate Madeira’s rugged peaks. After this awe-inspiring start, continue your adventure on the Vereda do Larano trail, which offers a perfect blend of levada, and coastal hiking.

• Hike Distance: 13 kilometers (Vereda do Larano)
• Hike Duration: 4 to 5 hours
• Hike Difficulty: Moderate, with an elevation gain of 274 meters.
• Extra Gear: A headlamp or flashlight is necessary for the early morning hike to catch the sunrise.
• Highlights: This route provides a memorable mix of serene levada paths, and dramatic coastal views, making it an excellent alternative while PR1 remains closed.

This hike starts with the Levada do Caniçal, leading you through local rural buildings with gardens and offering stunning views over Machico. The trail then connects to Boca do Risco, where you'll begin an epic coastal hike along the cliffs, providing panoramic views of the ocean and the North Coast. The adventure concludes in the picturesque village of Porto da Cruz, known for its beautiful landscapes and charming ambiance. This route offers a perfect blend of mountain, levada, and coastal hiking, ensuring a memorable experience while PR1 remains closed.

2. Sunrise Hike at Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço (PR8)

Experience the raw beauty of Madeira’s eastern tip on this spectacular trail, known for its striking volcanic landscape and rich biodiversity. The Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço is perfect for those seeking a moderately challenging hike with sweeping panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.

• Hike Distance: 7 kilometers (round trip)
• Hike Duration: Approximately 3 to 4 hours, depending on how much time you spend soaking in the views at the many scenic spots along the way. Starting at sunrise allows you to avoid both crowds and the heat.
• Hike Difficulty: This is one of the most popular trails on Madeira, suitable for most hikers. The path is well-defined, though rocky, and requires good footwear. There are some drop-offs, but safety railings or wide tracks are present throughout.
• Hike Incline: The total incline is 472 meters, spread out across the trail, making it manageable for most.
• Highlights: The early morning light creates stunning contrasts on the rugged landscape, making this a photographer's dream.

This trail takes you through a striking landscape of volcanic rock formations and unique plant species, with panoramic views of the ocean on both sides of the peninsula. As you hike, you'll encounter dramatic cliffs, secluded coves, and the vibrant colors of the local flora. The hike culminates at the farthest point of the peninsula, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views and the tranquility of the surrounding natural beauty.

3. Um Caminho Para Todos (PR9.1) + Levada do Caldeirão Verde (PR9)

For those looking for a tranquil yet rewarding hike, the Levada do Caldeirão Verde is an ideal choice. This magnificent trail meanders through lush subtropical forests, following ancient irrigation channels to the majestic Caldeirão Verde waterfall, hidden deep within the UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forest.

• Hike Distance: Approximately 16 kilometers (round trip), with the option to shorten if needed.
• Hike Duration: 5 to 6 hours, including breaks.
• Hike Difficulty: The beauty of this trail lies in its gentle incline, with only around 100 meters of elevation gain. The trail is mostly flat, making it accessible and comfortable for most hikers. It is well-maintained, with railings along the sections that have drop-offs. Be prepared to navigate a few tunnels, so bring a headlamp or phone light.
• Break Spot: There is a lovely café at Queimadas, between the two trails (PR9.1 and PR9), where you can rest and refuel. Don’t forget to pack water and snacks for the hike, and enjoy a well-deserved lunch break at the main waterfall, which marks the halfway point before you turn back.
• Highlights: This trail’s combination of lush forests, tranquil levadas, and the stunning Caldeirão Verde waterfall makes it one of the most beautiful hikes on the island, offering a peaceful escape from the more rugged terrains.

This hike offers a unique journey through Madeira’s ancient Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site. You'll follow well-maintained levada paths that wind through the dense greenery, offering glimpses of local wildlife and the sound of flowing water as you approach the stunning Caldeirão Verde waterfall. The calm and serene environment of this trail makes it a perfect alternative for those seeking a more tranquil hiking experience.

Additional Transfer Options to Safe and Open Areas

Of course, you can also choose from our other transfer options to safe and open areas:

• Transfer to Fanal Forest:

1. Fanal: Vereda do Fanal (PR13): Choose an adventure along the well-maintained and marked Vereda do Fanal trails, surrounded by iconic and ancient laurel trees. Whether you opt for a longer or shorter hike, be prepared for potentially slippery conditions and misty weather that adds to the ethereal beauty of this area.
2. Fanal: Levada dos Cedros (PR14): The Levada dos Cedros trail offers a serene experience along Madeira’s traditional irrigation channels, set amidst stunning natural surroundings. 
3. Fanal: No Hike Option - Free Time in the Forest: For those who wish to experience the tranquility of Fanal Forest without hiking, we offer a no-hike option. Enjoy four hours of free time in Fanal Forest, perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, or simply soaking in the serene atmosphere of this magical place.

• Transfer to Rabaçal:

1. Rabaçal: Risco Waterfall & Levada 25 Fontes (PR6.1 + PR6): The main attractions include the Casa do Rabaçal café, the stunning 25 Fontes waterfall, and the lagoon.
2. Rabaçal: Levada do Alecrim & Lagoa do Vento & Risco Waterfall (PR6.2 + PR6.3 + PR6.1): Discover spots like Dona Beja waterfall and Lagoa do Vento for an unforgettable journey.
3. Rabaçal: Comprehensive Trail (PR6.2 + PR6.3 + PR6.1 + PR6): This trail combines the beauty of Levada do Alecrim, Lagoa do Vento, Risco Waterfall, and Levada 25 Fontes for experienced hikers seeking a challenge.

Conclusion

Despite the challenges brought by the recent wildfire, Madeira remains a world-renowned destination for hikers. At Get to Hikes, we are committed to ensuring that you can continue exploring the island’s natural beauty safely and comfortably. We believe these alternatives will provide you with unforgettable experiences while we await the reopening of the affected trails. For more information on our transfer services and the latest updates on hiking trails, please visit our website or contact us.