The Caldeirão Verde walk follows a levada through some of the densest laurel forest on the island, with tunnels, cliffs and small waterfalls, and ends in a green lagoon at the foot of a tall waterfall.
The walk starts at the thatched houses of the Queimadas forest park and follows the levada almost level along the valley side. Several tunnels, the longest a few hundred metres, need a torch, and some sections run along steep drops protected by fences.
At the end, the Caldeirão Verde (Green Cauldron) is a narrow amphitheatre of rock where a waterfall drops into a small lagoon. Experienced walkers sometimes continue to the Caldeirão do Inferno, but that section is often closed: check its status before you go.
Bring a head torch, a waterproof jacket and a change of socks: the tunnels drip and the path can be muddy. The road to Queimadas is narrow and parking is limited, which is why many walkers join a guided hike from Funchal. Combine the day with Santana and its traditional houses.
About 13 km return from Queimadas, usually 4.5 to 5 hours.
Yes, there are several dark tunnels along the levada. A head torch is best.
A hike along the levada to Caldeirão Verde, planned as an 8-hour outing with transport included. Suits walkers who want to skip the logistics of getting to the trailhead.
from €42 per person
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A 13 km self-guided walk (PR9) from the Queimadas forest park in Santana, through Laurissilva forest and rock tunnels to a waterfall pool. Suits independent walkers.
from €28 per person
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Covers the PR 9 trail along the levada to Caldeirão Verde in about 7 hours, with a transfer. Suits walkers who prefer not to organise their own transport.
from €42 per person
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A leafy route beside a levada that carries water almost all year, ending at a waterfall and the green pool. Suits anyone who enjoys lush scenery.
from €45 per person
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A full-day walk along a levada to the waterfalls, suited to walkers who want a long day outdoors. Allow about 7 hours in total.
from €39 per person
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A trail through some of the island's more remote corners, passing small tunnels before reaching the Caldeirão Verde waterfall. The outing starts from Funchal.
from €48 per person
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A walk through lush vegetation beside levadas, channels first built to bring water to crops in the drier southeast. Suits those curious about how the island's water network came about.
from €48 per person
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A walk along the PR 9 route through the green surroundings of Caldeirão Verde, with the trail fee already covered. Suits visitors who want lush Madeira scenery.
from €60 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
Prices are indicative and may change. The final price is shown by the booking platform. Prices checked: October 16, 2026.
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Levada Nova A waterfall and cliff-side levada above Ponta do Sol. 