The Government of Madeira has initiated a €3 fee for non-residents on seven classified walking routes, effective immediately. This measure aims to promote sustainable tourism and will extend to all recommended trails by January 2025.
The initial seven routes include Pico do Areeiro, Pico Ruivo, Levada do Risco, Levada do Caldeirão Verde, Balcões, Levada do Rei, and Ponta de São Lourenço. From January 2025, the fee will apply to at least 30 routes managed by the Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation.
Payments can be made via the regional portal Simplifica or on-site. Non-compliance may result in fines up to €50.
This initiative seeks to manage visitor numbers and enhance conservation efforts on the island’s popular trails. Madeira, often compared to Hawaii for its volcanic landscapes and lush scenery, attracts numerous hikers annually.
For more information on walking routes in MAdeira, visit the official tourism website.