Canyoning Madeira
Madeira Island is one of the places with the best conditions in Europe to go canyoning.
Its geographical location ensures a mild climate over most of the year and its geological characteristics offer several canyons with different degrees of difficulty which are, suitable for all the ones who want to practice this sport.
The island has a volcanic origin and therefore several mountainous areas, steep rocks, waterfalls and lagoons can be found. The surroundings are amazing and offer spectacular views – in fact, UNESCO has classified our Laurel Forest as Natural Heritage of Humanity. You certainly won’t find many places in the world that offer these amazing conditions. Some professional canyoners say that this is one of the best places in Europe for this sport.
Canyoning is a sport in which you follow the downward incline of a water course.. You must have the proper gear for this activity that uses a set of techniques from mountaineering, swimming and climbing. The degree of difficulty a canyon is assigned depends on its length, the type of obstacles that you must overcome and the verticality that canyon has to offer.
There are canyons for all levels of expertise: for beinners, those who already are familiar to this sport and for those who are more experienced and looking for a challenge right in the heart of nature. The most recommended are the “Canyoning Ribeira das Cales” (at the Funchal Ecological Park), the “Canyoning Lombo das Faias” (Chão da Ribeira - Seixal) and “Canyoning Paul do Inferno”.
Canyoning "Ribeira das Cales"
We suggest the “Canyoning Ribeira das Cales” for those who want to get a first taste of canyoning.
Traversing this canyon will take 2 to 2.5 hours. The height difference is 250 meters over the course of 700 meters with several rappels - the largest is 14 meters high. It goes through a few slides and you must do a small jump. This canyon is located in the Funchal Ecological Park area, which has the mission to preserve Nature and promote environmental education.
Canyoning "Lombo das Faias"
The Canyoning “Lombo das Faias” has a moderate degree of difficulty and and is located inside our Laurel Forest, which was recognized by UNESCO has Natural Heritage of Humanity. It takes about 30 minutes on foot to get to the start of the canyon whereby you pass, through the beautiful and natural landscapes of the Laurel Forest.. For the canyon itself you will need 3 to 3.5 hours. It covers several rappels with the highest being 20 meters. It features a total height difference of 350 meters over the course of 1000 meters of river.
Canyoning "Paul do Inferno"
The Canyon “Paul do Inferno” is also located at the centre of our Laurel Forest. It takes approximately 30 minutes to reach it. Along the way you can enjoy the beautiful scenery that São Vincente has to offer.
This canyon has an advanced level due to its high degree of difficulty. It features a height difference of 400 meters over the course of 1000 meters. For the canyon you will need 4 to 4.5 hours and will traverse several rappels with the highest one being 30 meters.
This sport allows close contact with nature. The experience of being right at the heart of the Laurel forest coupled with the adrenaline of the canyoning experience is a unique feeling. Come and discover the hidden treasures in our Laurel Forest and be dazzled by and marvel at the beautiful surroundings that nature has to offer.
Discovering Madeira
