PR 9 — Levada do Caldeirão Verde
Briefly
Often called the most beautiful levada on Madeira, this trail takes you deep into the emerald-green Queimadas Forest Park. You will walk along narrow cliff paths, pass through four tunnels, and traverse the heart of the UNESCO Laurissilva forest. The trail ends at a spectacular 100-meter waterfall plunging into a green lagoon.
Basic Information
Start: Queimadas Forest Park (Santana)
End: Caldeirão Verde Waterfall (and back)
Distance: 13 km (round trip)
Time: 4 – 5 hours
Elevation gain: Minimal (very flat)
Difficulty: Moderate (due to distance and tunnels)
Entrance: €4.50
Parking: Queimadas Forest Park (Paid parking)
Best season: All year round
How to Get There
Drive to Santana and follow the signs for “Queimadas.” The road ends at a parking lot next to traditional thatched-roof houses.
Important: A flashlight is absolutely mandatory for the four tunnels on this route.
What to Bring
- Flashlight or headlamp (mandatory)
- Waterproof jacket (it’s wet in the tunnels and near the falls)
- Hiking boots (the path is often very muddy)
- Water and snacks
Key Points
- Tunnels: There are 4 tunnels. The longest is about 200 m. Watch your head as the ceilings are low in some sections!
- Narrow Paths: Some parts of the levada are narrow with steep drops. Most have railings, but focus is required.
- The Waterfall: You can rest and have a picnic at the base of the Caldeirão Verde waterfall before returning.
- Extension: The trail continues to Caldeirão do Inferno, but that adds another 5 km and is much more difficult.
Booking
Advance booking is mandatory.
Book here: SIMplifica
Madeira residents: Free entry, but booking still required.
Similar Trails
- PR 18 — Levada do Rei: Another spectacular forest levada on the north side.
- PR 6 — Levada das 25 Fontes: The most famous waterfall trail in the West.
- PR 16 — Levada Fajã do Rodrigues: For those who enjoy tunnels and wild forest.
Hiked this trail? Share your photos and current conditions in the comments! 