The PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde is one of the great classic hikes in the north of Madeira. It follows an 18th-century levada deep into the laurel forest, through four rock tunnels, to the Caldeirão Verde: a green basin where a waterfall drops around 100 metres into a small lagoon.
PR9 at a glance
- Start: Queimadas Forest Park (Santana)
- End: Caldeirão Verde / Caldeirão do Inferno (return the same way)
- Distance: 8.7 km one way, 17.4 km there and back
- Duration: approx. 6.5 hours
- Difficulty: moderate – mostly flat, but long, narrow and with drop-offs
- Booking: mandatory via the SIMplifica portal
The route
The hike starts at the Queimadas Forest Park, where you will see a traditional thatched Santana-style house. From there the levada winds along steep valley walls, sometimes with sheer drops on one side (secured with railings in parts). After four tunnels carved into the rock you reach the Caldeirão Verde. Very fit hikers can continue to the Caldeirão do Inferno before returning the same way.
Booking, fees and parking
PR9 must be booked in advance on SIMplifica. The fee is €4.50 per person; children up to 12 and Madeira residents are exempt. Parking at Queimadas costs around €2 per hour.
Fees and rules can change – check SIMplifica before you go.
Tips
- Bring a headlamp: the tunnels are dark, low and wet.
- Waterproof jacket and grippy shoes are a must – the north side is often rainy.
- Plan a full day and start early.
FAQ
Do I need to book PR9?
Yes, access requires prior registration and payment on SIMplifica.
Is there an easier version of PR9?
Yes. The PR9.1 “Um caminho para todos” is a short, accessible section at the start of the trail, designed for people with reduced mobility.
Keep exploring
Browse all trails on our hiking overview.
