Canyoning Experience Level II Moderate

Canyoning Experience Level II Moderate in Madeira: A Complete Guide

Planning your adventure in Madeira? If you’re craving something more exhilarating than a typical hike, the Canyoning Level 2 Tour with Discovery Island Madeira might just be the perfect fit. This activity promises a challenging yet rewarding way to explore Madeira’s stunning gorges, waterfalls, and rugged terrain. It’s a fantastic option for those who have some canyoning experience or have completed a Level 1 tour and want to push their limits.

What really makes this tour shine is how it combines adrenaline-pumping descents with breathtaking scenery, all guided by a team praised for their safety expertise and enthusiastic approach. We also love the inclusion of free GoPro videos and photos—a great way to relive the thrill. That said, it’s worth noting that the tour involves physical effort and technical skills, so it’s best suited for those with moderate fitness levels and a sense of adventure. If you’re looking for an activity that offers both a physical challenge and awe-inspiring views, this canyoning experience is definitely worth considering.

Key Points:

• Challenging terrain: Larger waterfalls, longer abseils, and complex navigation make this ideal for experienced canyoners.
• Excellent guides: Known for safety, enthusiasm, and fun, guides help you feel secure while enjoying the thrill.
• Authentic scenery: Narrow gorges, lush landscapes, and cascading waterfalls provide a spectacular backdrop.
• Value for money: At around $98, including gear, photos, and snacks, it offers great value for an all-day adventure.
• Family-friendly considerations: Not suitable for children under 7 or shorter than 1.20 meters, so check your group’s suitability.
• Highly rated: With a flawless 5.0/5 from 51 reviews, it’s clear this experience hits the mark for most travelers.

What to Expect from the Level II Canyoning Tour in Madeira

This tour is designed for those who already have some canyoning experience or have completed a beginner level and are eager to progress. The adventure begins with a pickup from the meeting point at Capela de São Rafael, near Funchal. Transportation is straightforward, and with a maximum group size of 20, you’ll find a good balance of camaraderie and personalized attention.

The Itinerary Breakdown: A Day of Action and Amazement

The tour lasts approximately 5 hours 30 minutes, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the canyoning without feeling rushed. It kicks off at 9:00 am, when a professional guide will greet you, equipped with a full safety gear setup: full-body suit, harness, helmet, rappel gear, gloves, and boots. This gear isn’t just for protection; it helps you navigate the technical sections with confidence.

The canyoning route flows through Ribeiro do Cidrão, a gorge famed for its narrow passages and waterfalls. You’ll encounter more demanding obstacles than in Level 1, including steeper descents and larger waterfalls. Expect to master longer abseils, take on higher jumps (up to 4 meters), and navigate more intricate canyon paths.

Guides like Beto, Mauro, Alex, and others are frequently praised for their professionalism, safety focus, and enthusiasm. Multiple reviewers mention guides making the experience not only safe but also fun, energetic, and engaging, often capturing photos and videos as you go. As one reviewer put it, “Beto and Mauro were fantastic guides and they made this awesome experience even better with their outgoing personalities.” Such personalized attention adds to the overall value.

The Highlights: Waterfalls, Slides, and More

You’ll tackle larger waterfalls, some requiring technical skills to rappel down safely. The tour features natural slides and jumps that vary in height, keeping the adrenaline high but still within safe limits. Reviewers mention waterfalls up to 18 meters in other tours, but for Level 2, expect a mix of challenging and manageable descents.

Navigation is more complex than in Level 1, demanding better coordination and problem-solving—something you’ll appreciate if you’re seeking a real sense of accomplishment. The trip ends back at the starting point, with plenty of opportunities to reflect, share photos, and enjoy the natural beauty.

Included Gear and Add-Ons

The price of $98.69 per person is fairly reasonable considering what’s included:

• Full body suit, harness, helmet, rappel gear, gloves, and boots for safety and comfort.
• Water and snacks to keep you energized.
• Free GoPro video and photos—a standout feature, as many reviews highlight how guides actively capture moments, making it easier for you to enjoy without worrying about snapping shots yourself.

Additional Costs and Planning Tips

If you’re staying outside the meeting point, optional pickup from Ponta do Sol, Calheta, Santana, São Vicente, and Porto Moniz costs an extra €10 per person. Booking is straightforward, with an average advance notice of 18 days, so plan ahead.

Good physical fitness is recommended, and children under 7 or shorter than 1.20 meters are not allowed, making this a more adult-focused adventure. The maximum group size of 20 keeps the experience personal and fun but manageable.

Why This Tour Is a Must-Do in Madeira

What stands out most are the enthusiastic guides—reviewers repeatedly mention their professionalism, energy, and ability to make safety feel second nature. It’s clear that Discovery Island Madeira takes safety seriously while maintaining a lively, welcoming atmosphere.

The stunning scenery—hidden gorges, waterfalls, and lush greenery—makes every moment picture-perfect. Many travelers appreciate the authenticity of navigating through Madeira’s rugged landscapes, far from touristy spots. The photos and videos captured during the tour often turn out to be some of their favorite vacation memories.

Pricing-wise, at roughly $98, it offers excellent value for an experience packed with adrenaline, natural beauty, and expert guidance. It’s especially appealing for those who want to test their skills and push beyond beginner canyoning, with the added reassurance of highly rated guides and well-maintained gear.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a moderately fit adventure seeker with some canyoning experience or a strong desire to try something more technical, this tour is perfect. It’s ideal for groups of friends, active couples, or solo travelers confident in their physical ability and looking for an adrenaline rush.

However, if you’re traveling with young children or have mobility challenges, this might not be suitable. The technical nature and physical demands mean it’s better suited for adventurers comfortable with heights and jumps.

Final Tip: Be prepared for a mix of physical exertion and awe-inspiring sights. Bring a sense of humor, a spirit of adventure, and an eagerness to explore one of Madeira’s most thrilling landscapes.

FAQs

Is prior canyoning experience necessary?
While Level 2 is designed for those with some prior experience or completion of Level 1, you should be comfortable with basic canyoning techniques and moderate physical activity.

What’s included in the price?
You get all necessary safety gear, water, snacks, and a free GoPro video and photos. These extras help you relax and enjoy without worrying about gear or capturing memories.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. You’ll receive a full refund, making it flexible if your schedule shifts.

Are there any age restrictions?
Children under 7 years old and shorter than 1.20 meters are not permitted. The tour is geared toward older children and adults with moderate physical fitness.

What should I wear?
Expect to wear the provided full-body suit, and bring closed-toe shoes (which are supplied). Dress in comfortable layers suitable for water activities.

Do I need to bring anything else?
Bring your own towel, and if you have a GoPro or camera you want to use, it’s allowed but guides will take professional shots as well.

How demanding is this canyoning experience?
It requires a moderate level of fitness and some technical ability, especially for longer abseils and complex navigation sections. It’s challenging but manageable with good guidance.

Is transportation provided?
Pickup is offered from the meeting point at Capela de São Rafael. Additional pickup from select locations costs extra. The meeting point is easily accessible.

Final Thoughts

This Level II canyoning tour in Madeira offers a robust mix of adventure, natural beauty, and expert guidance, making it a top choice for thrill-seekers eager to explore Madeira’s wild side. The enthusiastic guides, stunning scenery, and included photos/videos elevate the experience beyond just a day of canyoning—it’s a memorable, adrenaline-filled adventure you’ll be talking about long after you return home.

Perfect for those comfortable with physical activity and looking for a more technical challenge, this tour combines safety and fun in equal measure. Whether you’re a seasoned canyoner or looking to step up from a beginner experience, it’s a fantastic way to see Madeira’s rugged beauty from a truly unique perspective.