Madeira’s natural beauty is a well-kept secret, and the Walking Tour along Levada do Rei/Ribeiro Bonito offers a chance to discover it. This excursion through the UNESCO-protected Laurissilva forest promises an immersive experience, with expert guides providing insights into the island’s unique flora and fauna. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable adventure, this tour’s flexible booking and convenient pickup options make it an enticing option to explore Madeira’s untouched landscapes.
Key Points

- The Madeira walking tour along Levada do Rei/Ribeiro Bonito is priced at $40.50 per person and available in multiple languages.
- The tour offers the opportunity to explore the Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and provides scenic views of the village and untouched landscapes.
- Pickup service from Funchal City hotels is available at no extra cost, and transportation charges apply for other areas.
- The Laurissilva forest is home to unique flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth, and guides provide insights about the endemic species.
- Proper hiking attire, including sturdy shoes, a light jacket, and hydration, is recommended for the tour, which is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments.
Tour Overview

The activity featured is a Madeira walking tour along the Levada do Rei/Ribeiro Bonito, which is priced from $40.50 per person and is valid for one day.
The tour is offered in several languages: Portuguese, English, German, Spanish, and French.
The tour is available in five languages: Portuguese, English, German, Spanish, and French.
Customers have the flexibility to cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
This walking tour provides an opportunity to explore the Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and discover Madeira’s unique flora and fauna while enjoying scenic views of the village and untouched landscapes.
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Booking Information

How does one go about booking this walking tour? There’s no upfront payment required – simply reserve your spot now and pay later. Pickup service is available from Funchal City hotels at no extra cost, but there are charges for other areas:
| Pickup Location | Roundtrip Cost |
| — | — |
| Caniço | €10 per person |
| Santa Cruz | €15 per person |
| Calheta | €20 per person |
If you prefer to meet at a designated meeting point, be sure to confirm the pickup time. With flexible booking and reasonable transportation fees, this walking tour is easy to schedule and access.
Exploring the Laurissilva Forest

Stepping into the Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the highlight of this walking tour.
This ancient, endemic laurel forest is home to unique flora and fauna found nowhere else on Earth. Hikers will discover lush vegetation, towering trees, and a serene atmosphere as they traverse the trails.
The forest’s misty, cloud-covered landscapes offer a glimpse into Madeira’s natural heritage. Along the way, guides share insights about the region’s endemic plants and animals, fostering a deeper appreciation for this exceptional ecosystem.
This immersive experience allows visitors to fully enjoy Madeira’s untouched natural beauty.
Discovering Madeira’s Endemic Flora and Fauna

As visitors explore the Laurissilva forest, they discover Madeira’s remarkable endemic flora and fauna. The island’s unique ecosystem is home to numerous plant and animal species found nowhere else on Earth. Hikers may spot the Madeiran laurel pigeon, a large endemic dove, or the Madeira firecrest, a tiny golden-crowned bird. The diverse vegetation includes ancient laurel trees, vibrant wildflowers, and rare endemic ferns. Exploring the levada trails allows travelers to enjoy this UNESCO World Heritage site and appreciate Madeira’s natural heritage.
| Endemic Flora | Endemic Fauna |
|—————-|————–|
| Madeira Mahogany | Madeiran Laurel Pigeon |
| Madeira Catkin Daisy | Madeira Firecrest |
| Tree Heath | Madeiran Wall Lizard |
| Madeira Squill | Madeira Cave Spider |
More Great Tours NearbyScenic Views of the Village and Landscapes
The walking tour along the Levada do Rei/Ribeiro Bonito offers travelers stunning vistas of the village and Madeira’s untouched landscapes.
During the first part of the hike, guests can admire picturesque viewpoints overlooking the quaint village below.
As the trail ventures deeper into the island’s interior, the scenery transforms, revealing Madeira’s natural heritage.
Hikers can gaze upon lush, verdant forests and rolling hills that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.
The tour provides an immersive experience, allowing visitors to appreciate the timeless beauty of Madeira’s rural landscapes from historical times.
Itinerary Details
The Levada do Rei/Ribeiro Bonito walking tour follows a route that showcases a mixture of endemic and introduced vegetation.
The experience is divided into two parts – the first features views of the village, while the second part delves into the island’s interior, highlighting its natural heritage.
Hikers can expect to appreciate scenic viewpoints and explore the Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The tour provides an opportunity to discover Madeira’s unique endemic flora and fauna, offering a well-rounded experience for nature enthusiasts.
Recommendations for the Tour
Visitors are recommended to bring sunscreen, hiking shoes, water, and food for the tour.
The walking tour through the Laurissilva forest and along the Levada do Rei/Ribeiro Bonito trail requires some preparation:
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Wear proper hiking shoes to navigate the uneven terrain and rocky paths.
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Pack a light jacket or windbreaker, as the weather can be cool and breezy.
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Bring snacks and plenty of water to stay hydrated during the hike.
The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users due to the challenging terrain.
This walking tour is not recommended for individuals with mobility issues or wheelchair users due to the demanding terrain.
Proper preparation will ensure an enjoyable and safe experience on this scenic walking tour.
Customer Feedback
Based on the 2 reviews provided, customers have had positive experiences with the Levada do Rei/Ribeiro Bonito walking tour.
Travelers from Austria and Switzerland praised the quality of the tour and the knowledgeable guides. The tour earned a 5/5 overall rating, indicating a high level of customer satisfaction.
Reviewers highlighted the scenic views, unique flora and fauna, and the opportunity to explore the UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest.
The tour provides an immersive nature experience, allowing visitors to appreciate Madeira’s natural heritage.
The positive feedback suggests the tour delivers on its promise of an enjoyable and educational walking adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the COVID-19 Safety Protocols for This Tour?
The tour provider follows all local COVID-19 safety guidelines. They provide hand sanitizer, require face masks, and ensure social distancing measures are in place. Participants should also follow any government health and safety protocols during the tour.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Walking Tour?
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the walking tour. The tour operator’s policy prohibits bringing animals for safety and environmental reasons. Only service animals assisting individuals with disabilities are permitted to join the tour.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?
There are no specific age restrictions or requirements for this walking tour. However, it’s not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. The tour may be challenging for young children as well.
Is There an Option to Customize the Tour Itinerary?
The tour itinerary can’t be customized, as it’s a pre-set route and experience. However, guests can discuss any special needs or interests with the tour operator, who may be able to accommodate certain requests within the existing tour framework.
How Experienced Are the Tour Guides Leading This Activity?
The tour guides leading this activity are highly experienced. They’re knowledgeable about the local flora, fauna, and history, and they provide engaging commentary throughout the hike to enhance the participants’ understanding and enjoyment of the natural surroundings.
The Sum Up
The Madeira Walking Tour along Levada do Rei/Ribeiro Bonito offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the natural wonders of the island. With its flexible booking, complimentary pickup, and expert guidance, this tour provides an unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore the UNESCO-protected Laurissilva forest and discover Madeira’s unique flora and fauna. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking breathtaking scenery, this tour won’t disappoint.
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