Madeira Implements Steeper Hiking Fees for Tourists in 2026
Known for its rugged mountains, lush slopes, and stunning natural vistas, Madeira has long been a paradise for hiking enthusiasts. The scenic trails of this Portuguese archipelago are among its top attractions, drawing visitors from around the globe. However, their popularity has led to new measures aimed at sustainable tourism. In January 2025, visitor fees were first introduced for non-residents aged over 12, charging €3 (approximately £2.50) to hike trails managed by the Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (ICNF).
As of 2026, these fees have seen a significant increase, with one iconic trail set to reopen at a cost of nearly £10 per tourist. Most other scenic walks on the island have risen to €4.50 (around £3.90). Additionally, visitor caps have been implemented for each trail, though the exact daily limits remain unspecified. Those who fail to pay the required fees could face a hefty fine of €50 (about £42).
Popular Trails Affected by the New Charges
The increased fees apply to all of the archipelago's most frequented hiking routes. This includes:
- Pico do Areeiro
- Pico Ruivo
- Levada do Risco
- Levada do Caldeirão Verde
- Balcões
- Levada do Rei
- Ponta de São Lourenço
However, the Vereda do Areeiro (PR1) trail, which connects Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo, will cost tourists £6 more than other walks, highlighting its premium status.
Iconic Trail Reopens with Higher Fee
The PR1 trail is scheduled to reopen in April 2026, following its closure in August 2024 for essential safety and improvement works. Upon reopening, visitors will be required to pay €10.50 (roughly £9.13) per person to walk this route, or €7 (approximately £6) if they are part of a tour operator group. Also known as part of the Highest Peaks, this seven-kilometre trail takes about three and a half hours to complete. It features tunnels carved from volcanic tufts—historically used to shelter cattle and shepherds—and traverses steep slopes, offering a challenging yet rewarding experience.
This move is part of a broader effort to promote sustainable tourism and enhance conservation efforts. According to Rafaela Fernandes, regional secretary of agriculture, fisheries, and the environment for Madeira, all hiking fees will be directed towards cleaning and maintaining the trails, as reported by The Portugal News.
Booking and Payment Procedures for Hikers
To hike in Madeira, tourists must now plan ahead. They need to visit the SIMplifica platform, create an account, and select their desired trail. This process involves choosing a date and a 30-minute entry window for arrival, after which payment for the slot is required. Cash payments on arrival are not accepted, and hikers must carry proof of their reservation, either digitally or in paper form, for potential checks by officials.
Even residents, who are exempt from fees, must register and reserve a time slot to access these local sights. It is hoped that these charges will encourage tourists to explore lesser-visited trails across the island. Payment can be made via the regional government portal Simplifica or through on-site options available at ICNF stations along the trails. Currently, the website offers 2,000 passes for the seven included trails, though it is unclear if this represents a daily cap.
Exploring Madeira's Hiking Landscape
Located off the west coast of Africa, Madeira has been compared by social media users to epic destinations like Hawaii, Peru, and Croatia, thanks to its rugged cliffs and volcanic scenery. Often dubbed the 'Hawaii of Europe', the island boasts nearly 1,800 kilometres of hiking trails. From the network along the east and west coasts to the Central Mountain range, there are countless opportunities for exploration.
On the north coast, hikers can discover some of Madeira's most beautiful levadas—man-made irrigation channels or aqueducts that crisscross the island. Meanwhile, the south coast offers breathtaking views over Funchal, the capital and largest city of the archipelago. According to Tripadvisor, the Levada Do Caldeirao Verde is the island's most popular route. This moderately difficult trail spans 5.4 miles and takes around six and a half hours to complete. Reviews praise it as an unforgettable experience, with one visitor noting, 'You feel like you're in the wild and the waterfall at the end is nice.'
Another favoured route is the Levada das 25 Fontes, approximately 2.6 miles long with an estimated duration of three hours. Described as a 'beautiful walk but busy with tourists', it is advised to arrive early to avoid crowds.
Broader Context of Tourism Measures in Europe
Madeira's new hiking fees align with a wider trend across Europe to combat overtourism. Other measures include restrictions on selfie locations, increases in tourist taxes, fines for behaviours like hogging sun loungers or hiking in inappropriate footwear such as flip-flops, and limited access to certain beaches. These initiatives aim to balance visitor enjoyment with environmental preservation and local sustainability.
In summary, as Madeira continues to captivate hikers with its natural beauty, the introduction of higher fees and booking systems reflects a proactive approach to managing tourism impacts. By investing in trail maintenance and encouraging exploration beyond the most crowded paths, the archipelago seeks to protect its unique landscapes for future generations while offering memorable experiences to all who visit.
