The levadas and trails of Madeira Island are one of the region’s major attractions, with lush landscapes and unique experiences in contact with nature. To ensure the preservation of these spaces and the safety of visitors, the Regional Government of Madeira implemented, as of October 2024, a fee for access to some hiking trails.
Madeira Hiking: Forest Fee
The reason for the fee creation
The measure aims to protect the most popular trails, which suffer from the large flow of tourists, and ensure their sustainability. The resources collected from the fee will be invested in trail maintenance, signage, and other improvements that benefit both visitors and the local population.
Who should pay this fee?
The fee applies to all non-residents of Madeira over the age of 12 who wish to hike the trails subject to payment.
Methods of Payment
The payment of the fee, in the amount of €3 per person, per trail, must be made online, through the “Simplifica” digital platform, on the Regional Government’s website, at least 24 hours in advance of using the trail. The proof of payment must be kept and presented to the authorities in case of inspection.
Which trails are subject to the fee?
Not all of Madeira’s hiking trails are subject to this fee. The trails that require payment are those considered to be at higher risk or with a greater flow of visitors. The complete and updated list of trails subject to the fee is available for consultation on the “Simplifica” digital platform.
