Canyoning Experience Level I Beginners in Ribeira das Cales

If you’re seeking an activity that combines adrenaline with breathtaking scenery, then the Canyoning Level 1 in Ribeira das Cales might just be your perfect match. While I haven’t personally tried this tour, the glowing 5-star reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it offers an accessible yet exhilarating way to explore Madeira’s rugged landscapes. It’s especially well-suited for beginners or those new to canyoning but craving a taste of adventure in nature’s own playground.

What attracts us most about this experience? Firstly, the stunning location in Ribeira das Cales (or Ribeiro Frio) promises views that are as dramatic as they are beautiful. Secondly, the variety of features—from waterfalls and natural pools to jumps and a 15-meter abseil—offer just enough thrill without overwhelming. Lastly, the friendly, professional guides seem to make all the difference, balancing safety with fun. A potential consideration? It’s a half-day activity, so if you’re after a full-day adventure, you’ll need to plan accordingly. This tour fits best for those wanting a safe, guided introduction to canyoning, mixed with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and good laughs.

Key Points

• Ideal for beginners: The route covers an easy descent with manageable waterfalls and jumps.
• Stunning scenery: You’ll navigate through crystal-clear pools and striking waterfalls in a lush setting.
• Expert guides: Guides like Sandro and Filipe are praised for their humor and professionalism.
• All-inclusive gear: Full body suits, harnesses, helmets, and GoPro photos add value and safety.
• Short but sweet: Approximately 4.5 hours of adventure, ideal for a half-day activity.
• Affordable value: At around $75, you gain access to an authentic canyoning experience with added perks like snacks and water.

A Brief Overview of the Experience

This canyoning trip spans roughly 850 meters of Madeira’s rugged terrain, typically taking about 3.5 hours. The route is designed to be straightforward, with a descent of 120 meters that beginners can handle comfortably. The canyon features six waterfalls, each offering a different landscape—some short, some with a bit more height—that make it perfect for those new to canyoning yet eager for some thrill.

You’ll start your journey near Pico do Areeiro, one of the island’s highest peaks, within the Funchal Ecological Park. This park is a highlight in itself, covering about 10 km² of lush terrain that shows off Madeira’s natural beauty beyond just the canyoning routes. The natural pools created by the waterfalls are filled with clear, refreshing water—ideal spots to pause, take photos, and enjoy the surroundings.

What’s Included in the Tour

The company, Discovery Island Madeira, provides all the necessary safety and comfort equipment: full body suits, harnesses, helmets, rappel gear, gloves, and boots. They also offer water and snacks, which are perfect for recharging after the activity. Plus, you get free GoPro footage and photos—a real plus for those wanting to relive the moments or share their adventure.

What to Expect During the Tour

The experience kicks off at 9 am from the O Barracão bar & restaurants near the Funchal Ecological Park, with transportation included to the starting point. Once there, the guides will give a safety briefing and guide you through the equipment fitting, making sure everyone is comfortable before hitting the water.

As you navigate through the canyon, you’ll encounter several features that make this tour engaging:

• Waterfalls: Six in total, each offering a different challenge or visual spectacle.
• Natural pools: Calm, clear waters perfect for cooling off or snapping photos.
• Jumps: Three jumps are available, with the tallest being a thrilling 15 meters. Many reviews highlight how much fun these jumps are, with one reviewer stating, “The added sarcasm and humor made the trip even better.”
• Rappelling: The tallest rappel is 12 meters, providing a gentle but exciting descent that’s suitable for beginners.

Throughout the journey, the guides keep safety a priority but also ensure the fun factor isn’t lost. Reviewers like Maggie_M praised Sandro and Filipe for their humor and personal approach, making what could be a nerve-wracking activity feel relaxed.

The Final Highlight: The 15-Meter Abseil

The canyon concludes with a spectacular 15-meter abseil—a favorite among thrill-seekers—and a perfect way to end your adventure. Afterward, you’ll return to the meeting point, often feeling exhilarated and grateful for the experience.

The tour’s reviews reveal several insights that may help you decide if it’s right for you. Maggie_M called it “a very fun and thrilling adventure” and appreciated the safety and humor of guides, which made the experience feel more personal and less intimidating. Many mention the stunning views and crystal-clear waters—the ideal backdrop for photos—and note that the jumps, while optional, add an extra dash of adrenaline.

Another reviewer highlighted the value of the included water, snacks, and free photos, making the tour feel well-rounded and thoughtful. The small group size—max 20 travelers—also ensures a more intimate and engaging experience, allowing guides to give personal attention and encouragement.

Practical Details and Logistics

Starting at 9 am, the trip is well-timed to make the most of daylight and avoid the hottest part of the day. The price of $75.59 includes all gear, water, snacks, and photos, making it a good value considering the adventure and scenery involved.

Transportation is included from the meeting point at O Barracão, but for those staying outside Funchal, there are additional costs of $10 per person for pickup in locations like Ponta do Sol, Calheta, Santana, São Vicente, and Porto Moniz. The tour is suitable for most travelers; however, children under 7 or those shorter than 1.20 meters are not permitted.

The activity is weather-dependent, so if conditions aren’t ideal, the tour may be canceled or rescheduled with a full refund. This flexibility offers peace of mind when booking.

This canyoning experience offers a great introduction to Madeira’s outdoor adventures. Its combination of manageable difficulty, jaw-dropping scenery, and professional guides creates a safe environment for first-timers or families seeking a fun outing. The inclusion of photos and videos ensures you can cherish the moment without worrying about capturing it yourself, and the small group size fosters a more personalized experience.

It’s a perfect choice if you want a half-day activity packed with excitement, natural beauty, and the chance to tick off a bucket list item. The price point strikes a balance between affordability and quality, especially given the excellent equipment and guiding.

This activity is ideal for beginners or those with limited canyoning experience, looking for a gentle yet fun adventure. It’s also suited for travelers who enjoy outdoor activities with stunning views and don’t mind getting a little wet and adventurous.

Families with older children (over 7 and taller than 1.20 meters) will find it a memorable experience, especially with guides who are known for their humor. If you’re after a thrilling, safe, and relatively short canyoning outing that highlights Madeira’s natural beauty, this tour ticks all the boxes.

However, if you’re seeking a more intense or longer canyoning expedition, this might feel too easy or quick. Likewise, those with mobility issues or who dislike jumping from heights should consider the optional nature of the jumps.

Is pickup included in the tour?
Pickup is available at an additional cost of $10 per person in locations like Ponta do Sol, Calheta, Santana, São Vicente, and Porto Moniz. Otherwise, you meet at the designated meeting point in Funchal.

What is the duration of the tour?
The activity lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, including transportation, safety briefings, and the canyoning itself.

Is it suitable for children?
Children under 7 years old and shorter than 1.20 meters are not allowed. The activity is geared towards beginners, making it suitable for most older kids and teens.

What equipment do I need to bring?
All necessary gear such as full body suits, harnesses, helmets, gloves, and boots are provided. You should wear comfortable clothing underneath and bring a waterproof camera or use the included GoPro service for photos.

What is the weather policy?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this activity safe for beginners?
Absolutely. The route is designed for beginners, with manageable waterfalls and options to skip jumps. Guides emphasize safety and fun.

The Canyoning Level 1 in Ribeira das Cales presents a fantastic way to experience Madeira’s wild side without requiring prior experience. It combines adventure, stunning scenery, and expert guidance at a reasonable price point, making it an excellent choice for those new to canyoning or outdoor adventures.

You’ll appreciate the friendly guides, the beautiful natural pools, and the chance to challenge yourself with jumps and rappels in a safe environment. The included photos and videos ensure you can cherish the memories long after the tour ends.

If you’re after a half-day, beginner-friendly adventure that mixes nature and adrenaline, this tour is a smart pick. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers eager to tick something exciting off their Madeira itinerary.

In summary, this tour offers value, safety, and a taste of Madeira’s awe-inspiring landscape. It’s best for those who want a fun, guided introduction to canyoning, with just enough challenge to keep things exciting but not intimidating. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving an outdoor adventure, this experience delivers memorable moments and stunning views without breaking the bank.