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Beautiful PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde: A Madeira must-do
When I first saw images of the Queimadas Forestry Park, I knew I wanted to visit! It’s also the starting point of the PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde, one of the best hikes we did in Madeira, Portugal! You’re constantly surrounded by the ancient laurel forest, the views are incredible, and you reach the Caldeirão Verde waterfall at the end of the hike.
In this guide, I will tell you more about where to park, what to see, and what to expect on the trail. You will also need to book a time slot and there is a fee to hike this trail. There are some tunnels, so a headlamp or torch would be a good starting point.
The Levada do Caldeirão Verde trail is much loved by nature lovers, but we also saw many children at the start of the PR 9 trail. There are some geese you visit at Parque Florestal das Queimadas, and the cute tea house offers everything you need after a stunning hike!
You can enjoy the Levada do Caldeirão Verde hike easily on your own if you have a rental car, but there are also many tours available from Funchal, so you can discover the stunning views and greenery with an experienced guide. If you want to go hiking in Madeira, keep reading!
What to expect at PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde Madeira
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What are the Levadas da Madeira?
The levadas of Madeira Island, now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, form an extensive water transportation system stretching over 2,200 kilometres. These public and private waterways, or aqueducts, are typically no more than one meter wide and about 50 to 60 centimetres deep.
Madeira is home to around 200 levadas, with approximately 40 kilometres of tunnels running alongside them.
The earliest levadas were constructed in 1515, showcasing impressive engineering and craftsmanship. Today, many of these levadas serve as hiking trails, offering stunning settings for scenic walks across the island.
The Levada do Caldeirão Verde was built in the 18th century. This levada trail begins around Madeira’s highest mountains and channels water through the irrigation system down to the town of Faial.
Madeira hiking update: mandatory trail reservations
From January 1st, 2026, some popular hiking routes in Madeira, including parts of the Laurissilva Forest, require a mandatory time-slot reservation. Learn how to make Madeira trail reservations (step-by-step guide).
Why this matters
The system helps reduce overcrowding and protect nature, while keeping Madeira’s levadas and viewpoints enjoyable for everyone.
What hikers need to know:
- You must reserve a time slot before entering selected trails
- Capacity is limited per time slot
- Booking is done via the official SIMplifica platform
- Tourists and non-residents do not need to create an account
- A payment is required at the time of booking
- If a slot is full, you can choose another time the same day
- Only Madeira residents qualify for resident tickets
🥾 Starting January 1st, 2025, Madeira will implement an access fee for non-residents aged 12 and over on all PR (recommended routes) hiking trails. This initiative aims to preserve the island’s natural beauty and support trail maintenance. Hikers can pay the fee in advance through the Simplifica portal or via QR codes available at the start of applicable trails. It’s important to carry proof of payment during your hike, as authorised staff may request it. Residents of Madeira and children under 12 are exempt from this fee.
The PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde hike
Levada do Caldeirão Verde is known as the PR9 Madeira hike, and it’s a perfect trail for beginners. The surface is pretty flat, but good walking shoes are definitely recommended. The trail is, however, pretty long.
The length is 8.7 kilometres, plus 8.7 kilometres to return. It’s a point-to-point trail, but there is plenty to see along the way, and returning on the same route certainly isn’t dull.
The walk will take, on average, between 4 and 5 hours, depending on your speed and the time you’ll spend at the trail’s end. The height difference is only 93 meters, and you’ll barely notice the difference.
Madeira hiking apps
We used two apps for hiking around Madeira Island! The WalkMe Madeira App is perfect, but only provides access to trails on the island. The other app we use is AllTrails, which can be used worldwide. Both apps provide access to all trails on the island for a small fee.
The maps work offline, so you never get lost! Besides, you’ll find tips, more information and GPS points on the maps. It’s a trusted way to discover the green trails in Madeira! Check these apps to ensure the tracks on the island are open and if you should take any precautions.
What do you need for the Levada do Caldeirão Verde waterfall hike?
Besides good hiking boots with a firm grip, you’ll need a few more things for this trail. During your walk, you’ll come across four tunnels. For that reason, you should bring a flashlight or a headlamp.
Your phone torch might also do the trick, but keeping your hands free is recommended. Some of these tunnels are narrow and not very high, and accidents can quickly happen on these parts of the trail. Bring some plasters also, just in case.
Bring a picnic, snacks and plenty of water, as the hike is pretty long. The endpoint is a popular spot to eat and drink. Please remember not to leave any trash behind. There are no trashcans on this trail, but there are plenty of bins to dispose of rubbish at the starting point.
A rain jacket always comes in handy in Madeira! And especially if it rained recently, the waterfalls along the trail might drench you! Prepare to get wet!
Layers are the best way to stay warm during hikes on Madeira. On hot days, it’s wise to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Also, prepare for colder parts of the trail. We did not bring hiking poles, but if you like walking with them, you can, of course, bring them.
Remember to take out health insurance!
Hiking is all fun and game, but accidents can happen! Whenever I travel, I take out health insurance with HeyMondo. Not only for injuries, but also my equipment, transport, and luggage are covered. As a Discover Portugal reader, you’ll receive a 5% discount on a policy!
The starting point of Levada do Caldeirão Verde hike
The path begins at Queimadas Forest Park, a stunning place that’s already worth the journey! Here, you’ll discover Casa de Abrigo das Queimadas, a typical Madeira house. The thatched roof makes this fairy tale scenery complete. Look inside as there is a museum where you can learn about these typical A-framed houses.
Besides, there is a little house that offers delicious cakes, hot drinks like coffee and tea, and refreshments! Now, that’s something to look forward to when you return from your hike! There are plenty of picnic areas, and the birds and cats roam around freely.
Queimadas Forest Park is also an excellent place for children as there is a little goose farm, a pond, and a bird-watching spot.
What will you see along the trail of Levada do Caldeirão Verde Portugal?
The PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde trail will start just behind Parque Florestal das Queimadas, and it’s super easy to follow. The track can be pretty wet all year round, and you’ll quickly notice water gushing from the rocks. Thanks to the water, this trail is sooooo green!
You’ll often walk along an irrigation canal, the so-called Levadas. Look closely, as you might spot some trout swimming in the canals! Follow the winding roads and discover all shades of green you can imagine!
You’ll be walking through the Laurissilva forest, and the trees often make space for some stunning views over the mountains in the valley. You see plenty of waterfalls, and after going through a series of tunnels (watch your head!), you’ll reach what you came for, the Caldeirão Verde.
Caldeirão Verde translates to Green Cauldron, and by looking at the shape, you can see where the name comes from. Look up and around you, and it seems like you’re inside a cauldron! From the middle of the Caldeirão, you see a waterfall which drops from an altitude of about 100 meters!
The water falls into a lagoon (ice cold), and it’s a paradise to enjoy your lunch. This is the halfway point before taking the same route back.
Please note: This area was previously closed off due to landslides, and in 2019, people were injured. Always be aware of your surroundings and follow the path, and going off trail is at your own risk.
Caldeirão do Inferno
You can then choose to return to Queimadas Forest Park, or if you have enough energy, add another hike to your day! Caldeirão do Inferno is an extension of Levada do Caldeirão Verde waterfall hike. After just 2,4 kilometres, you’ll reach Caldeirão do Inferno.
Enjoy the view of the canyon and the huge waterfall! If you add Caldeirão do Inferno to your hike, the total journey will be around 20 kilometres with approximately 300 meters of incline. See? That cake mentioned earlier is a well-deserved treat!
Please note at the time of writing, Caldeirão do Inferno is closed. Before heading out, please check if you can extend your hike or if you should return to Queimadas Forest Park. This path is often under construction due to landslides and rockfall.
💡Tip! Click here to check the current status of the trails, as some might be closed.
How to get to the Levada do Caldeirão Verde hike trailhead?
Levada do Caldeirão Verde by car
From Funchal, follow the ER101 road to Levada do Caldeirão Verde. You can enter Parque Florestal das Queimadas into your GPS, and the route will be easy to follow. The drive will take you around 45 to 50 minutes. Santana is the closest town. You’ll get to the car park in about 15 minutes from here. The GPS location is 32°47’00.6″N 16°54’25.4″W.
Renting a car is the easiest way to discover Madeira. With a rental car, you can explore the island and visit places off the beaten track! Check out the car rental offers below and book your transportation during your trip! Need help with car rental in Portugal? Read the complete guide!
Levada do Caldeirão Verde parking
The Queimadas parking lot is next to where the trail starts. You can park your car here for only a few euros an hour. It does get busy, so an early start (before 10 AM) will be worth it! You can pay for the parking ticket after hiking the Levada do Caldeirão Verde trail at the Queimadas Forestry Park house.
How to get to Levada do Caldeirão Verde by bus?
If you rely on public transport, it will be harder to get to Caldeirão Verde. From Funchal, you can take a bus to Santana. So far, so good. But from there you’ll either have to walk or take a taxi. It would take around 1,5 hours to walk, and it’s only 8 minutes by car. As you’re already going to hike, a taxi might be your best bet.
Book a guided tour for the Levada do Caldeirão Verde hike
Luckily, some guided tours are also available to hike Levada do Caldeirão Verde. Transport is included, and the tour will last around 8 to 9 hours. By booking a tour, you can relax and enjoy your day. Well, that is, until you start hiking! But everything is taken care of, and a professional guide will join you on the walk. They can point to specific trees, birds, and other natural places in the valley.
Here are some fabulous options:
- 🚌 Madeira: PR 9 – Levada do Caldeirão Verde Hike Transfer
- 🥾 From Funchal: A private hiking tour with a guide (choose the hike you want)
- 🥾 Madeira Island: Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk (with a guide)
What else can you see around Levada do Caldeirão Verde?
Levada do Caldeirão Verde is not far from Santana. This town is known for its a-framed traditional houses, and you can view them from the inside! It’s the perfect spot to try a poncha (an alcoholic Madeira speciality) and buy some souvenirs. Or visit Parque Temático da Madeira and learn more about the traditions in Madeira.
Driving further inland, you’ll discover the highest peaks of Madeira. If you have energy left, you can take a short walk to the top of Pico Ruivo (around 5.4 kilometres return, or 1 to 2 hours of walking). But you can, of course, leave that for another day as well! You can extend this hike from Pico Ruivo all the way to Pico do Arieiro, and the PR 1 is a favourite hike for many.
Hotels near the Levada do Caldeirão Verde waterfall hike
Santana is a fabulous place to stay during your holiday in Madeira. It’s pretty close to many levadas, and the town is surrounded by nature. A beautiful luxury stay close to the trail is Villa Achada da Mouca, a stunning place in nature.
Another great spot is the Flowers’ House in Santana. If you prefer to stay in Funchal, more hotels and accommodations are available. Check out your favourite spot on the map below and book your place in Madeira.
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FAQ
How do I get to Caldeirão Verde Levada walk?
There is a car park next to the Queimadas Forestry Park, and from Funchal, it takes around one hour to drive to the trailhead. If you come by bus, you can take a bus to Santana, the nearest town. From there, it’s easiest and fastest to take a taxi to the start of the path.
How to get to PR9 from Funchal?
The fastest route from Funchal to Levada do Caldeirão Verde is the ER101 road. The ride will be less than one hour from the capital. Put Parque Florestal das Queimadas in your GPS to find the way to the car park.
Where do you park for Caldeirao Verde?
The Levada Calderão parking is located near Parque Florestal das Queimadas. Add this name to your GPS and follow the road, and you will automatically find the car parking area. It gets busy, so arriving early in the day will help you find a parking spot.
Curious to hike this trail?
The PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde waterfall hike is perfect for beginners, and the trail is not too tedious. The many tunnels might be the only downside to the route, but the stunning views make up for that in seconds! The lush green surroundings, the waterfalls and the viewpoints make Levada do Caldeirão Verde one of the best hikes in Madeira.
The start point at Parque Florestal das Queimadas is also unique, as you can visit the typical Madeira house before or after the hike. There is also a cafe at the Queimadas Forestry Park where you can grab a snack and a drink. It was one of our favourite hikes in Madeira, and this post is based on our experiences in March.
Other things to do in Madeira, Portugal:
- 30 best things to do in Madeira Island Portugal
- 30 Amazing things to do in Funchal Portugal
- Discover the beautiful Monte Palace Madeira gardens
- Ride the toboggan in Madeira, one of the coolest commutes in the world
- Visit Santana in Madeira and discover beautiful Santana Madeira houses
- How to make Madeira trail reservations (step-by-step guide)
- Beautiful Vereda do Pico Ruivo hike to Madeira’s highest peak
- Enjoy beautiful views at PR11 Levada dos Balcões in Madeira
- Beautiful PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde: A Madeira must-do
- The stunning PR6 Levada Das 25 Fontes and Risco Waterfall
- Beautiful Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço Hike in Madeira
- Discover Walks Madeira – hike some fabulous trails
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