Coast to Coast Traverse of Madeira

This trip was absolutely amazing and well organized. I booked with a group of friends after seeing how beautiful the island of Madeira is online, and I could not have asked for a better experience. Pedro, our guide, was extremely kind and very passionate about Madeira. He shared a lot of knowledge with the group and made sure to check on everyone. I am more of a novice hiker and haven’t had much experience hiking trails of this difficulty, and he was so patient with me!

I would say that the “challenging” difficulty grade of this trip is accurate. While a lot of the trails are not difficult in technical terms (they are well marked and are mostly paved with large rocks), they are difficult just due to the very steep ascents/descents. In particular the trail we did on our last day of hiking was a very steep staircase down the side of a mountain that ended up being quite slick as it had rained that day. If you are afraid of heights or get vertigo, I would take this into account.

The group I went with was also amazing! Everyone was so supportive of each other and encouraging whenever anyone was struggling. Despite the itinerary being slightly modified due to the recent wildfires, I don’t think anyone felt like we were missing out on anything.

I would highly recommend this trip to anyone and in particular would like to commend Pedro again for being such an amazing/guide for our group. I’m very thankful for the experience I was able to share with my friends old and new!

Whilst the trip was well organised i think the guide did not take into account the need of the group as a whole, and needed to do a more gentle warm up on day one morning, rather than straight up steps, resulting in me having issues with my IS band on my leg, and physiotherapy appointment back in the UK. This was very disappointing as I am a reasonably fit person. As a result of this i was not able to participate in all of the activities.

Perfectly organised hiking trip across this beautiful island. Good balance of time on feet and chilling at the accommodation. Great food throughout the trip. A good level of fitness is needed to navigate the steep up/ downhills. Definitely a good idea to visit in October (off season). Our trip was slightly modified because of the recent wildfire damage but still absolutely amazing! The short transfers between hikes and accommodation were nothing to moan about. Our guide Puedro did a fantastic job to show us around. Thanks!

The trip was exactly as described. We had some amends due to the wildfires but felt every effort had been made to include as much as possible. The views were incredible and the weather was generally kind to us, just the last two days we started in the clouds but it cleared as we got lower.

I would definitely recommend taking the hiking poles even if you haven't used them before, we didn't need a sleeping bag in the mountain hut- there were loads of blankets. The power bank was handy. Have cash on you but you don't need loads, found everywhere to be very reasonable.

Our guide was Pedro and he was great, really knowledgeable and took care of the group as there was mixed experience levels. I would call out the "challenging" rating is pretty accurate there were some tough climbs and the descents were steep too. A decent fitness level/regular hiking is required and remember you're carrying your backpack too.

Overall fantastic location and well planned trip, just know nothing is flat in Madeira!

We had a tremendous trip trekking c. 70km across all of eve most beautiful spots on the island. Our guide Puedro was terrific. He knew so much about the flora and fauna of the island, was chilled and fun and laughed at our jokes! Hotels were good. Logistics seamless. Group dynamic was great. We were knocked out by the incredible scenery, dramatic coastline and warm welcome. Very much recommend this to all who love hiking, camaraderie and have a thirst for knowledge!

I had an amazing trip early October, with Pedro as our guide. There was a group of 10 of us, which was a lovely number, as we were able to get to know each other very well and the trek didn't feel too crowded. The group was very friendly and Pedro is the best guide I've ever had on an organised trip - very knowledgable and passionate about Madeira, and a chilled out guy overall. The trek exceeded my expectations. I will say that it should be marked as intermediate and not challenging. Every day was different, from coastal walks, walking through green forests, walking through an autumnal orange forest, walking in the clouds on the day we did the stairway to heaven, and a well deserved beach day at black sand beach. Words can't explain how much I enjoyed the trip and how beautiful everything was, so here are some photos!

The island is so stunning, it is hard not to love it. I have nothing but praise for our local guide. His love of the natural environment, and his ability to share that with us was really special. Devastating wildfires had closed the high hikes, but the local company went to a lot of extra logistical trouble to allow us to hike as high as possible.

Madeira is a beautiful place to hike. We saw amazing and varied scenery, the accommodation was great, food excellent , fresh and healthy. Joao our guide was knowledgeable and fun and did a great job despite quite difficult circumstances due to unforseen changes to the itinerary. My only suggestion for improvement would be doing more to ensure that everyone is of a similar level of fitness and ability.

Loved every minute of this adventure, stunning scenery, great bunch of like minded people, challenging hikes, refreshing swims, plentiful meals, great guides, what else could you ask for! Our guide Yulia was passionate and knowledgeable and made sure we had the best time even though some trails were closed due to recent wildfires. The sunset and sunrise at the mountain hut was an experience to cherish forever! If you’re thinking about this trip, just book it, you won’t regret it :-)

Thank you to Pedro for being the most amazing, supportive and kind guide with a passion for Madeira that was infectious. He created new routes when difficulties arose due to the fires and I did not feel I missed out on what might have been. Madeira has the most beautiful scenery, the Lavadas are unique and the steep ascents legendary. I never felt a burden at the back of the group and that was down to Pedro and of course the fabulous group I found myself a part of. The cloud inversions, sunsets and sunrise were special, the food was perfect and the packed lunches were impressive. Hotels were all of an excellent standard and the mountain hut; an experience to remember for a life time. Swimming opportunities were welcome as I love to be in the sea, as did a number of our group. George was always in the background supporting the group and solving any problems. This is challenging but doable with a good level of fitness. I would recommend this for solo travellers or friends together, and opportunity for those like me: who want an adventure but aren't brave enough to go alone, or experienced hikers who like a group setting.

This was my first trip with MBA. I have nothing but great memories from the past week. Yulia & Jorge made every effort to give us the best experience following the recent forest fires which closed parts of the trails. Accommodations and meals were also great. Love Madeira.

Firstly - a massive thanks to our guide Yulia (and Jorge) who pulled out all the stops in challenging circumstances to make sure that our week was brilliant! The recent fires in Madeira closed some of the paths, but that didn’t detract from the week at all. Yulia worked herself into the ground making sure that we had a week to remember - but also a safe one. Her passion and knowledge about the environment of Madeira is amazing.

Highlights for me were the sunset at Pico Ruivo, stairway to heaven (again, thanks to Yulia for making that happen) and everyone huddled, somewhat bleary-eyed, for the sunrise on top of the Casa. Totally lived up to the reviews on here - and then some!

The sun seemed to follow us from Santa Cruz all the way to Porto Moniz. A great adventure, and a wonderful group of people to share it with! Memories made that I’ll cherish for the rest of my days.

Not sure I’d change anything - but the hotels (for the first few nights) had some quirks. The mountain hut was more comfortable than expected - and the accommodation (and meals) improved from there.

Oh - and DO believe that “challenging” rating… definitely take some hiking poles!

Yulia and Jorge took fantastic care of the group. Despite some closures due to the recent wild fires, we were still able to experience some incredible trails owing to their meticulous planning and the odd additional transfer.

The accommodation was fairly comfortable and reasonably well placed for the hikes, all things considered. The night at Casa de Abrigo was a wonderful experience thanks to the lovely staff, superb meal and stunning views. The trip truly showcased Madeira’s diverse landscapes, from the island’s mystical forests to its rugged volcanic peaks.

I was impressed that the local guides went out of their way to ensure everyone was adequately fed according to their needs throughout the week. Whilst I accept options are naturally limited in certain regions, its important that everyone is suitably fuelled for the activities. Most of the hotels served strictly traditional dishes but the guides made sure alternatives were available for those with special diets.

Our main guide, Yulia, was brilliant fun, kept us safe and demonstrated a true wealth of knowledge of the area. Her love for the island and her enthusiasm for the outdoors are inspiring. She really is the best guide I've had for a trip of this kind. Vamos!

Fabulous trip hiking across Madeira. Pedro was a fantastic guide. Good standard of hotels. Watching the sunset and sunrise at the mountain hut was a highlight. The walks were interesting and varied. Only downside was the number of minibus transfers. This wasn't a true coast to coast traverse of Madeira but I would still highly recommend it as a great way to see the island.

I have just finished a September coast to coast of Madeira. While overall I really enjoyed the trip there are a few tweaks I would suggest. Due to recent wildfires on the island the itinerary has changed so it is no longer as per the website. This means it’s not quite a traverse, slightly more disjointed but still a well laid out trip. The hiking was really challenging some days, think lots of steps, but rewarding and a really enjoyable trip!

Tips: bring cash and in small bills, lots of places don’t like or don’t take card. Ask you host in advance if you’ll need the sleeping bag/liner. As many have limited packing it might save you bringing it. We didn’t need it. While the tap water is safe to drink it tastes a bit ivk. I brought a Robinson concentrate mini squeeze bottle which was a lifesaver. Half the group wore boots half wore runners, everyone was happy but I felt the boots were good for the longer days. Bring some plastic bags for lunches/wet clothes etc A foam mat to sit on for lunches would have been handy as all the lunches are sitting on the ground. For the hut night bring a pair of sliders/flip flops and layers. Baby wipes to avoid cold shower also advised. Definitely think poles are required for this trip even if you arent used to them, the last days downhill in particular. Not every day has a place to buy snacks so even though there was enough food I would recommend stocking up early.

My only criticisms would be that the trip isn’t really a reverse and at times the food was below par, particularly some of the lunches.

This trip needs a rename… Not really a coast to coast traverse with transfers most days but some great hiking for sure. The terrible August ‘24 wildfires has sadly closed the ‘stairway to heaven’ and so the itinerary has had to be changed a lot and could do with some more thought. Pedro was a fab guide and everything was very well organised. Such a great group and lots of fun.

Thoroughly enjoyed my first MBA trip. Madeira is a fantastic island and I couldn't have asked for a better group of individuals to visit with, including our guide Pedro who was a delight!

Food was plentiful and accommodation was nice!

A good week however and Madiera is a truly spectacular place to visit. Highlight was the starry night at the Mountain Hut.

Whilst it was a trip as described, there did seem to be a lot of taxi transfers to the hiking points whereas better choice of accommodation would have been appreciated.

Those with special diets really struggled with the quality of the food given.

Had an absolute blast on this trip. As a first timer, I was a little hesitant about how the group dynamic would be - no idea why, the guys and girls were an absolute delight to be around. Our guide Joào was also top notch and went the extra mile to accommodate. If you're interested in really seeing Madeira and avoiding the tourist traps, then this trip is for you. Will definitely be travelling with MBA again!

Great hike through Madeira with a lovely bunch of similar minded people. The highlights were the two mountain days before and after we stayed in the mountain hut, and the views from Pico Ruivo at sunset and sunrise were stunning. There were also opportunities to swim in the sea on some of the days which was great. The accommodation was all very nice. I didn't find the hiking too hard, I could definitely have walked further each day, but after all it was a holiday so it was good to have some time to chill when we got in! And there was always the option to go to a bar to sample the local rum drink 'Poncha'.

Pedro really gave us the full Madeiran experience. We had the best week, packed with gorgeous hikes, wonderful food (especially the delicious local black scabbard fish), comfortable accommodation all week, and just so much fun and laughter.

I really feel like we saw the very best of what beautiful Maderia has to offer, and the hikes were challenging yet enjoyable. Everything was so well planned and organised, so we could really relax and enjoy. We had a great group and all got on so well. This was my second trip with MBA, and am looking forward to the next!

Madeira is simply an amazing island for hiking. Our guide Pedro had it all well planned and we had a blast of an experience! Pedro Pedro Pedro, P P P! 🎵🎶 🙌😂 It was my first time traveling with MBA and I am positively impressed 👏👏

This was my second time in Madeira, and this trip did not disappoint. The hikes were varied and paced extremely well. I went with one friend, who I met on a previous MBA trip. We were part of a group of 10 x females, who all bonded extremely well within just a few days. I feel like I've made friends for life! Our guide, Pedro was excellent, he was informative about Madeira and really made sure we had a trip to remember! The hotels were to a good standard. All meals, especially the packed lunches exceeded expectations. One of my highlights was the mountain hut, which was less basic than expected. The morning sunrise was absolutely stunning.

I would highly recommend this trip to anyone who has a love for nature and hiking. I would also recommend spending some free time in funchal if you can.

An absolutely fantastic adventure in Madeira. Stunning views everywhere we went. The hikes were varied and although challenging they were achievable. Seeing the sunrise from the mountain hut was phenomenal. Our group was great - we got along so well. I went with two friends of mine and I would like to think I made many more on this trip. In terms of practical tips - the kit list is accurate, make sure you’ve got layers as the weather in the mountains can be unpredictable. I would suggest bringing at least a sleeping bag liner for the mountain hut. The conditions in the hut are more basic (no hot water and electricity is off at 10pm); however, the rooms are spacious and have beds. This really is a fantastic adventure- book it, you won’t regret it!

I had an amazing time on this trip. Our group was an amazing group of all girls and we had such a fun time getting to know eachother over the week. Pedro, our guide, was brilliant- he paced the hikes to include everyone, was super knowledgeable and up for having a laugh with us. He is great at his job! The accommodations were good at the start of the trip and got better and and better throughout. As many other reviews have also said, the mountain hut is not very basic and even a cold shower is nice after a hot day of hiking. Madeira is incredibly beautiful and I can't wait to go back.

A fabulous trip. The hikes were stunning and our guide Nuno was very good. He gave us lots of information on the geology and the nature of the area. He made us laugh and was part of our group not just our guide. The food was generally good and plentyfull. The hotels were comfortable and the mountain hut was much better than expected. A great time.. Thankyou

An incredible week hiking coast to coast on a beautiful island.

🥾75km in 5 days ⛰️ Boca do Risco, Pico do Suna, Pico do Arieiro 🌄 Pico Ruivo

Levadas, Waterfalls, Laurel Forests, Natural Pools, Poncha, Wicker Toboggans; what a trip!

Take me back 🇵🇹

Where to even begin! What a fantastic holiday. We had the amazing Yulia who was flawless from start to finish. You can really tell this is her passion and she really went the extra mile to make a memorable trip. Her knowledge on the hikes for Madeira’s beautiful nature was so insightful and she always made sure everyone was cared for and safety was at the forefront. The food on the trip was really good and the surprise packed lunches each day was something to look forward too (please pass our thanks to the Bakery Jorge!!). You definitely won’t go hungry on this trip! The hikes were beautiful and at times challenging but definitely do able if you have reasonable fitness and have hiked before. We had a brilliant group which also helped to make a magical experience. The night at the hut is not as basic as presumed and the sunset/sunrise was something like we’ve never seen before. Some tips if you are going… bring flip flops for the mountain hut, nice to get out of your hiking boots! Would say poles are really good to bring and a flask for a cuppa to have with lunch would also be fab! All in all a fantastic trip, thank you MBA, would definitely recommend!

I would thoroughly recommend this fabulous hike across Madeira. There is nothing that the trip lacked - stunning scenery and beautiful views, plus plenty of variety hiking and some good ascents and descents. The stay at the mountain was a highlight and especially seeing the sunset. Lunches were excellent and there was plenty to keep us going through the day. Our guide, Yulia, was inspiring and knowledgeable. Her her passion for Madeira was infectious.

This was a great trip and Maderia is a beautiful island. I cannot recommend enough.

The trip and beauty of the island was amplified by our amazing guide Yulia. Her passion for the island and its history and flowers and plants really added an extra dimension to the dramatic scenary of the island.

Every days hike was different and showcased the different sides of the island. From the dramtic beauty of the stairway to heaven to walking through a cloud encased forest. From the sunset on the highest peak to swimming in the Atlantic on a black sandy beach. Each day was stunning. Brilliant.

The food was great with brilliant packed lunches to keep us going on the hikes. Add to that some great coffee stops, Pastel de Nata, Rum and not forgetting some Poncha made the days that little bit better.