Funchal: Bica da Cana to Encumeada Guided Hike with Pickup

This guided hike from Funchal promises an authentic, scenic adventure through Madeira’s lush landscapes. While we haven’t personally trekked it, the detailed descriptions and traveler reviews suggest it’s an excellent choice for nature lovers eager to see Madeira’s iconic levadas and verdant valleys without the hassle of planning every detail.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to walk through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Laurisilva Forest—a rare and dense forest full of towering trees and incredible biodiversity. Second, the experience of crossing two mountain tunnels and witnessing cascading waterfalls adds a touch of adventure and awe. Lastly, the spectacular views of São Vicente and Serra de Água valleys are captivating, offering perfect photo moments and a true sense of Madeira’s rugged charm.

A potential drawback? The walk covers approximately 11 km over five hours, which can be demanding for some. It’s also not suitable for children under 12, those with mobility issues, or anyone uncomfortable with enclosed spaces like tunnels or claustrophobic environments.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who love outdoor activity, appreciate scenic beauty, and want a guided experience that combines nature, culture, and a little bit of adventure. If you’re after a leisurely stroll or are traveling with very young children or mobility impairments, you might want to consider other options.

Key Points

• Stunning landscapes: See waterfalls, lush forests, and panoramic valley views.
• UNESCO Laurisilva Forest: Walk through one of Madeira’s most treasured natural sites.
• Levada do Norte: Experience one of the largest levadas, with flat terrain and majestic sights.
• Adventure elements: Cross tunnels and spot waterfalls along the trail.
• Expert guidance & transport: Includes pickup, drop-off, and a knowledgeable guide.
• Not for all: Long walks, tunnels, and uneven terrains mean it’s not suitable for everyone.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off with a pickup from your Funchal hotel or designated meeting point, making planning simpler and eliminating the need to rent a car or coordinate transport. The group size is limited to up to five people, creating a more intimate, personalized atmosphere. The guide, João Quintal, is certified and well-versed in Madeira’s landscapes, which enhances the overall experience.

The Journey Through the Laurisilva Forest

Once on-site, the guide provides a briefing, helping everyone gear up with comfortable shoes, rain gear, and essentials like water and snacks. The walk begins in the Bica da Cana area, where the trail gently descends toward the São Vicente valley, offering lovely views that gradually unfold as you walk.

The Laurisilva Forest itself is a highlight—tall, ancient trees with twisting branches form a lush canopy, and the air is often tinged with moisture from nearby waterfalls. Many reviews mention how the forest feels like stepping into a different world, full of chirping birds and the scent of damp earth. Travelers have appreciated the opportunity to learn about the forest’s ecological significance from their guides, adding a layer of understanding to the natural beauty.

Exploring the Valleys and Levadas

The walk continues along the Levada do Norte, one of Madeira’s main levadas (irrigation channels). This part of the hike is relatively flat, allowing you to enjoy the stunning scenery without too much effort. As you stroll along, you’ll see majestic waterfalls cascading down the mountainsides—something many hikers find breathtaking. The levada walk is a great chance to appreciate Madeira’s ingenious irrigation system and the effort it took to bring water across steep terrains.

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Crossing Tunnels and Waterfalls

One of the more adventurous moments is crossing two tunnels carved into the mountain. These tunnels are illuminated, but it’s wise to bring a flashlight or headlamp. Reviewers mention that the tunnels add a thrilling element to the hike, though they require a bit of caution. The waterfalls along the trail are another highlight, with some reviewers noting the sight of water tumbling down amidst the greenery as especially memorable.

Reaching Encumeada and the Viewpoint

The final destination is Encumeada, a mountain pass offering sweeping views of the Serra de Água valley. Here, you can relax at a local café, often described as charming and well-placed for panoramic vistas. Many reviewers mention how the view is worth the effort and provides a perfect spot to rest, soak in the scenery, and reflect on the hike.

Return Trip

After recharging at Encumeada, transportation takes you back to Funchal, completing a full day of natural beauty and adventure. The entire experience lasts around 5 hours, covering about 11 km, making it a manageable yet rewarding outing for active travelers.

Practical Details & Value

The Price and What’s Included

At $235 for a group of up to five, this tour offers a fairly personalized experience compared to larger group excursions. The price covers transportation, the guide, route fees, and access to the natural sites. While food and drinks aren’t included, the stop at Encumeada provides a good opportunity to purchase refreshments and local specialties.

What to Bring and Wear

To enjoy the hike comfortably, travelers should pack comfortable hiking shoes, rain gear, snacks, water, and a flashlight or headlamp for the tunnels. Some reviewers advise bringing hiking poles if you’re used to extra support, especially for the descent and tunnels. Weather can change unexpectedly, so layered clothing and waterproof gear are recommended.

Duration & Physical Demands

The walk stretches roughly 11 km over five hours, so moderate fitness levels are needed. The flat sections along the levada are accessible, but the descending trail and tunnels add some physical challenge. It’s not suitable for children under 12 or those with mobility issues, given the uneven terrain and enclosed spaces.

Authentic Experiences & Traveler Insights

One reviewer shared that the walk along the levada felt like being in a fairy tale, with waterfalls spilling beside the trail. Others noted how the scenery changed constantly, from dense forests to open valley views, keeping the experience engaging throughout.

Many appreciated the knowledgeable guide, who provided context about the forest and landscape, making the walk more meaningful. The inclusion of tunnels was a hit for thrill-seekers, though some found the enclosed spaces a bit claustrophobic; bringing a flashlight is highly recommended.

The stop at Encumeada was praised for its breathtaking views, with several commenters saying they could have stayed longer just soaking in the scenery. The overall consensus was that this hike offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, light adventure, and cultural insight.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This guided hike is fantastic for adventurers, nature lovers, and those comfortable with a moderate physical challenge. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a guided, hassle-free way to see Madeira’s iconic levadas and valleys. The small group size and expert guide make it ideal for those seeking a more personalized experience.

If you’re interested in ecology, waterfalls, and mountain views, this tour hits all those marks. However, if you prefer a very relaxed, easier stroll or have mobility restrictions, this might be less suitable.

The Sum Up

This Bica da Cana to Encumeada hike offers a well-rounded, scenic adventure through some of Madeira’s most famous landscapes. You’ll appreciate the combination of lush forests, waterfalls, tunnels, and panoramic views—all curated and explained by an experienced guide. The small group size ensures a more intimate experience, and the inclusion of transport simplifies planning.

The tour’s value lies in the sheer diversity of sights and experiences packed into a 5-hour walk—at a reasonable price considering the personalized guidance, access to UNESCO sites, and the unforgettable scenery. It’s perfect for those craving a genuine outdoor adventure, with the flexibility to explore Madeira’s natural wonders comfortably and safely.

While demanding for some, the journey rewards those willing to hike with intense beauty and a sense of achievement. If you’re after a day immersed in Madeira’s legendary landscapes, this guided trek is a reliable, memorable choice.

FAQ

How long does the walk take?
The entire hike lasts roughly five hours, covering about 11 km. It’s a good balance between adventure and manageable physical activity.

What’s included in the price?
Transport from Funchal or your hotel, a certified guide, entry to the Laurissilva forest, the walk along Levada do Norte, and access to tunnels and waterfalls are included. Food and drinks are not.

Is this suitable for children?
No, the tour is not recommended for children under 12 or travelers with mobility impairments due to the terrain and confined tunnel spaces.

Do I need special equipment?
Comfortable hiking shoes are essential. Bringing a rain jacket, snacks, water, and a flashlight for tunnels is highly recommended. Hiking poles are optional but useful.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

What’s the best time of year to do this?
While not explicitly specified, the best weather for hiking in Madeira tends to be in spring and fall when conditions are mild, and the landscape is at its greenest.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off from Funchal or your hotel are part of the package, removing the hassle of finding your way to the trailhead.

This guided hike combines natural beauty, light adventure, and expert insights, making it an excellent way to see Madeira’s lush landscapes beyond the usual tourist spots. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just someone looking to enjoy some fresh mountain air, this tour offers a memorable day out in Madeira’s spectacular scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: