Canyoning in Madeira
A world-class destination with 128 open canyons. Descend spectacular waterfalls up to 90m, jump into crystal-clear pools, and explore pristine UNESCO Laurisilva forest gorges.
Why Madeira is a Canyoning Paradise
128 Open Canyons
From beginner-friendly descents to expert-level challenges. One of the highest concentrations of canyons in Europe.
UNESCO Forest
Descend through pristine Laurisilva forest, a World Natural Heritage site with unique subtropical vegetation.
Year-Round Season
Subtropical climate allows canyoning in every month. Varied microclimates ensure suitable conditions are always available.
Difficulty Levels
Madeira uses a standardized 4-level difficulty system adopted by all professional operators, making it easy to choose the right experience for your skill level.
Level 1 - Beginner
Introduction to canyoning, suitable for first-timers and families. Slower pace, smaller rappels (up to 15m), optional jumps.
Suitable for:
No experience required
Level 2 - Intermediate
Good fitness level or some prior experience. Longer rappels, higher jumps, faster pace.
Suitable for:
Fit beginners or those with previous experience
Level 3 - Advanced
For experienced canyoners. Very large waterfalls (up to 60m), technical rope work, high physical and mental stamina required.
Suitable for:
Previous canyoning experience essential
Level 4 - Expert
Reserved for autonomous practitioners with advanced technical skills. Long, remote, physically grueling descents.
Suitable for:
Expert canyoners only, self-sufficient teams
Featured Canyoning Routes
Level 1 - Beginner
Ribeira das Cales
📍 Funchal Ecological Park
The quintessential beginner's canyon, located conveniently within the Funchal Ecological Park. Ribeira das Cales offers a perfect introduction to canyoning techniques, featuring fo...
Duration
2.5 - 3 hours
Max Rappel
15m
Rappels
~5
Key Features:
Ribeiro Frio
📍 Central Madeira (Ribeiro Frio)
Set in the heart of the pristine Laurisilva forest (UNESCO World Natural Heritage site), Ribeiro Frio offers a beginner-friendly descent through lush vegetation. The canyon feature...
Duration
2 - 3 hours
Max Rappel
18m
Rappels
~8
Key Features:
Level 2 - Intermediate
Ribeira do Cidrão
📍 Central (Curral das Freiras)
Situated in the dramatic, mountain-ringed valley of Curral das Freiras (Nuns Valley), Ribeira do Cidrão is prized for its breathtaking scenery and exciting features. The descent in...
Duration
2.5 - 3 hours
Max Rappel
18m
Rappels
~8
Key Features:
Ribeira do Lageado
📍 Central (Paul da Serra plateau)
Starting from the scenic Levada do Alecrim on the Paul da Serra plateau, Ribeira do Lageado offers a fun and varied intermediate descent. The canyon features approximately 8 rappel...
Duration
2.5 - 3 hours
Max Rappel
25m
Rappels
~8
Key Features:
Level 3 - Advanced
Ribeira Funda
📍 North Coast (Seixal)
Located on the wild north coast, Ribeira Funda is an advanced canyon for experienced canyoners. The route is defined by its large waterfalls, demanding high levels of confidence an...
Duration
3 - 3.5 hours
Max Rappel
60m
Rappels
~10
Key Features:
Level 4 - Expert
Ribeira da Hortelã
📍 North Coast
Ribeira da Hortelã is an emblematic expert-level canyon on the north coast, reserved for autonomous practitioners with advanced technical skills. This is one of the most demanding ...
Duration
3.5 - 4 hours
Max Rappel
55m
Rappels
~10
Key Features:
Agua da Alto
📍 North Coast (São Vicente)
A highly technical and serious undertaking in São Vicente, suitable only for experienced and self-sufficient canyoning teams. The canyon is short but extremely intense, featuring a...
Duration
1 hour
Max Rappel
90m
Rappels
~4
Key Features:
What to Expect
Activities
- •Rappelling: Descend waterfalls from 6m to 90m using specialized rope techniques
- •Jumping: Optional jumps into deep pools (1m to 10m+)
- •Sliding: Natural rock toboggans and water chutes
- •Swimming: Progress through clear mountain pools and narrow gorges
What's Provided
All tours include:
- ✓Full wetsuit (5mm neoprene)
- ✓Canyoning harness
- ✓Helmet and safety equipment
- ✓Certified guide
- ✓Insurance
- ✓Photos (most operators)
Getting Started
For First-Timers
Start with a Level 1 canyon like Ribeira das Cales or Ribeiro Frio. No experience is required, and guides provide full instruction.
- •Minimum age typically 8-10 years
- •Basic swimming ability required
- •All jumps are optional
- •Total tour duration: 4-5 hours (including transport)
Independent Canyoning
For experienced canyoners:
- •Equipment Rental: Casa Vento (Arco da Calheta) - full canyoning gear + free topos
- •Permits: Apply via Simplifica portal
- •