Canyoning Madeira [year]Activities 

Canyoning Madeira 2024

Land activities – Canyoning

Madeira is the ideal place for extreme sports, thanks also to its singular relief with deep valleys and imposing mountains.
Getting down the rivers of Madeira is a way to see undiscovered and untouched parts of the island, while revelling in the exciting journey through transparent waters.

During summer the northern rivers are the most appropriate, as the flows are high and there is enough white water to create an exciting challenge.
During winter, however, we recommend the streams to the south, with gentler, quieter flows.

The mild climate of  Madeira and Porto Santo Islands is ideal for the practice of all kinds of sports, leisure and outdoors activities, at any time of the year.

Many options are available, including water, land and aerial sports, ranging from relaxing activities to traditional and extreme sports:

Sea lovers will benefit from the warm sea currents, with temperatures ranging between 19º and 24ºC, ideal for snorkelling, diving, sailing, surfing, windsurfing and sport fishing, all year round. You will also be able to catch the best waves in Europe, at the Jardim do Mar, Fajã da Areia (São Vicente) and Porto da Cruz beaches.

A quiet boat trip is also a must. Sailing along the coast, you will be able to watch the dolphins, whales and monk seals that grace Madeira seas with their presence.

Canyoning in Madeira Island: An Adventure Through Nature’s Watercourse

Visitors looking for stronger sensations will certainly be able to find them. Paragliding or hang-gliding over the island, canyoning to discover the heart of the mountains, climbing the highest peaks, embarking on an all-terrain adventure, feeling the adrenaline rush while riding a jet-ski, or simply enjoying the sheer freedom of kitesurfing, are some of the sporting experiences available to visitors.

Golf, trekking and hiking are excellent alternatives for those preferring calmer activities, allowing a closer look at the natural features of these lusciously green islands.


Discover the impressive and diverse island vegetation over a walk along one of the local canals known as “levadas” or one of the many trails at the heart of the Laurissilva forest, declared by UNESCO as a World Heritage Nature Site.

Due to its beauty and diverse landscape, this forest has recently been declared one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Portugal.

Canyoning in Madeira Island is not just an adventure sport; it’s an exploration of the island’s natural beauty, a journey through transparent waters, and a thrilling experience that leaves you with an incredible dose of adrenaline. This blog post will guide you through the exciting world of canyoning in Madeira, detailing the various locations, levels, and the unique experiences that await you.

What is Canyoning?

Canyoning is an exhilarating activity that involves exploring a stream or a steep watercourse. Participants overcome vertical and amphibious obstacles using various techniques such as climbing, jumping, abseiling, and swimming. In Madeira, canyoning lets you discover unknown and untouched parts of the island, offering a unique adventure.

Seasonal Opportunities

Madeira’s canyoning opportunities vary with the seasons. During the summer, the northern water flows are most suitable, while in winter, the rivers of the South, with softer levels and quieter flows, become ideal.

Top Canyoning Spots in Madeira Island

Canyoning Ribeira das Cales Level 1

Located in the stunning Funchal Ecological Park valley, this spot is perfect for beginners. The route includes a short hike, jumps into natural pools, and a thrilling waterfall slide.

Canyoning Ribeiro Frio Level 1

An excellent introduction to canyoning, especially during the winter season. Descend through waterfalls and natural pools, jump off cliffs, and slide down natural water slides in the lush Ribeiro Frio area.

Canyoning Ribeira do Cidrao Level 2

For thrill-seekers, Ribeira do Cidrão Level 2 offers high cliffs, natural pools, and cascading waterfalls. The highest jump is a whopping 7 meters, providing an ultimate adrenaline rush.

Canyoning in Ribeira do Lageado Level 2+

An unforgettable adventure for experienced adventurers, Ribeira do Lageado Level 2 combines stunning landscapes with thrilling experiences, including the highest jump of your life.

Booking Your Canyoning Adventure

Madeira Island offers guided canyoning tours with certified guides. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced canyoner, you can book your adventure and explore Madeira’s natural beauty in a unique and exciting way.

Beyond Canyoning: Other Activities in Madeira

Madeira’s adventure opportunities extend beyond canyoning. Explore bike tours, trail running, climbing, and more to immerse yourself in the island’s diverse landscapes.

Embrace the Adventure

Canyoning in Madeira Island is more than a sport; it’s a connection with nature, a challenge to your physical and mental abilities, and an unforgettable experience that stays with you long after the adventure is over.

From the gentle flows of Ribeira das Cales to the thrilling jumps of Ribeira do Cidrão, Madeira’s canyoning spots offer something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a curious explorer, canyoning in Madeira is a journey worth taking.

Are you ready to feel the incredible dose of adrenaline and reveal the exciting journey through Madeira’s transparent waters? Book your canyoning tour today and embark on an adventure that will leave you awestruck by the island’s natural beauty.

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