Historic Levada Trails, Subtropical Forests, and a Legendary Wine
Hiking the Isle of Madeira
{"trip":{"TripID":10399,"Trip_Code":"MADEIRA","Trip_Name":"Hiking the Isle of Madeira","TripYear":"2024","BrandName":"Wilderness Travel","BrandID":1,"Trip_Tag_Line":"see custom fields","Start_Location":"Funchal, Portugal","End_Location":"Funchal, Portugal","Number_Days":8,"Number_Nights":7,"DisplayOnWeb":true,"Book_On_Web":true,"Featured":false,"SpecialEvent":false,"BestSeller":false,"Short_Description":"Set in the cobalt blue waters of the Atlantic and warmed by the Gulf Stream, Madeira is an island of eternal spring, blanketed in lush laurel forests and topped by sharp volcanic peaks that sheer out of the sea. Our hiking journey explores the island's many personalities as we walk ancient levada<\/em> irrigation canals through green valleys and UNESCO-protected laurissilva forests, hike to crater lakes, take cobbled paths to red-roofed villages, and cross high trails above the sparkling Atlantic. Along the way, we'll visit a producer of Madeira's famous fortified wines, taste catch-of-the-day fish, and go dolphin and whale watching by private boat. This is the perfect way to celebrate Madeira's beauty!","Long_Description":"","ActivityHighlight":"5 hiking days on moderate to strenuous trails, some steep sections, 2-7 hours a day","TripType":"Small Group Adventure","HeaderImage":"","HeaderImageAltTag":"","ThumbnailImage":"http:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/trips\/thumb-MADEIRA-hiking-trails-porto-moniz-santana-coastline.jpg","MapImage":"http:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/trips\/madeira-map.jpg","MapImageAltTag":"","FloatingImage":"","VideoLink":"","GroupSize":"","tripURL":"customercases.petitserif.com\/trip\/Portugal\/madeira-island-hiking-adventure","ThisYear_Year":"2023","ThisYear_PriceDetails":"$4,795 (9-14 members)
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$5,395 (4-9 members)","NextYear_PriceDetails2":"Single supplement: $860","PriceNextYear":"4895","SingleSupplementPrice1NextYear":"0","SingleSupplementPrice2NextYear":"0","NextYearSingleSupplementPrice1Caption":"","NextYearSingleSupplementPrice2Caption":"","NextYearAirPriceCaption":"","AirPriceNextYear":"0","NextYearFeePrice1":"0","NextYearFeePrice2":"0","NextYearFeePrice3":"0","NextYearFeeName1":"","NextYearFeeName2":"","NextYearFeeName3":"","TripSavings":false,"TripSavingsDescription":"","VariablePricing":false,"PricingNoteTitle":"","PricingNotes":"","NewTrip":true,"MinAge":0,"TripRatingID":9,"TripRatingName":"3+","TravelFromDate":"2022-01-01","TravelToDate":"2050-12-31","BookFromDate":"2022-01-01","BookToDate":"2050-12-31","EventID":21,"EventName":"","AccountingGroup":"Europe","DepositRule":2,"DepositAmt":"600","FinalDays":90,"AutoConfirm":false,"AutoConfirmAmount":"0","PrivateAvailable":true,"OperationMonths":"","AccmRating":""},"itinerary":[{"DayFrom":1,"DayTo":1,"Headline":"Funchal, Madeira \/ Casa Velha Garden Tour","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Welcome to Madeira! We'll meet in the afternoon at our hotel, the Casa Velha do Palheiro, a former hunting lodge?set on an estate in the foothills of Funchal. We'll stretch our legs with a guided tour of their gardens, renowned for their colorful camellias, proteas, and perfumed jasmine hedges, followed by a short stroll on the hotel grounds to a wonderful viewpoint of the whole city of Funchal spread below us. Returning to the leafy gardens surrounding our hotel, we'll sip a glass of delicious Madeira wine. It was Madeira wine that was toasted to celebrate the writing of the American Declaration of Independence, and it was also a popular tipple of Winston Churchill, a frequent visitor to the island. After a trip briefing, we enjoy our Welcome Dinner. Overnight at Casa Velha do Palheiro.<\/body>","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":2,"DayTo":2,"Headline":"Hike at Ponta Do Sao Lourenco \/ Toboggans \/ Funchal \/ Fado","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Madeira's geographic origins began over five million years ago as the African and North American plates split apart. If it were counted from the earth's crust, Madeira would stretch 19,000 feet high, but just 6,000 feet of land breaks above sea level. We start the day with a hike on the dry eastern tip of Madeira at Ponto do Sao Lourenco, where the variegated rocks speak of this volcanic past. Later we make our way to Nossa Senhora do Monte, a picturesque white church built in the late 1700s and still one of the most venerated sites on the island. On the Feast of the Assumption, penitents climb on their knees all 74 steps to pray in this church. Just below is the start of the famous toboggan run that allows us a quirky departure, in giant wicker baskets. These toboggans are steered by two guides elegantly dressed in white, wearing straw hats and traditional soft leather boots. During the short slide we won't be traveling at great speed, though Ernest Hemingway famously described it as one of the most exhilarating rides of his life. Despite his large touch of irony, this unique experience is an island “must” and it's guaranteed to generate big smiles all the way down the hill. Continuing into town, a walking tour brings us through Funchal, which first flourished in the 15th century as sugar (or “white gold”) enriched the island. Sugar merchants settled around the Se Cathedral, beautiful in its simplicity and topped off with tiny colored “azulejos” tiles. Close by, fruit and vegetable stands jostle for space alongside flower stalls in the colorful Mercado dos Lavradores (“Farmers' Market”). Wearing the traditional red-and-blue striped skirt with an embroidered waistcoat and pointy hat, the local flower sellers always steal the show. After absorbing the sights, sounds, and aromas of the market, we'll finish the day in Funchal's Old Town at a local restaurant where Portugal's traditional Fado music is played. Fado's evocative songs tell stories of love and loss. Even without understanding a word of Portuguese, the deep emotions are powerfully conveyed in haunting melodies. At the restaurant, all the family members take part in the musical performance—even the cook may come out of the kitchen to take his turn! Overnight at Casa Velha do Palheiro.\r\n\r\nHiking Details: 3.5 hours, 4.5 miles, 1,350 feet ascent\/descent, moderate","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":3,"DayTo":3,"Headline":"Hike the Levada do Furado \/ Santana Houses \/ Rum Factory","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Madeira's famous levadas are hand-built irrigation channels that brought water to the island's fields. There are more than 200 levadas in Madeira, many built over 200 years ago. Our hike on the Levada do Furado in Ribeiro Frio (“Cold River”) begins at 2,800 feet and brings us through an indigenous laurel forest. This ancient woodland once covered the whole of the island, but great swaths were burned down to clear land for planting sugar cane when the Portuguese first arrived. Hiking along the edge of the levada, we'll recognize the astonishing amount of labor required to construct this unique network of water channels that wind for more than 1,400 miles across the island. As we walk, we'll keep an eye out for one of the island's endemic birds, the tiny Madeira firecrest, with its distinctive orange mohawk.\r\n\r\nAfter our hike, we stop by Santana, a town known for its traditional triangular houses. The steeply-pitched thatched roofs that descend nearly to the ground are ideal for the location, staying warm in winter and cool in summer, and give the town a whimsical fairytale feel. From Santana, we'll head along the coast to Porto da Cruz to witness 100-year-old steam-driven machinery noisily crush the sugar cane to extract its juices, then distilled into rum—which we'll just have to taste! Before dinner at our hotel, the sommelier will introduce us to some of the island's finest Madeiran wines. We'll learn of the accidents of history that led to the creation of the unique qualities of this rich, flavorsome wine. Overnight at Casa Velha do Palheiro.\r\n\r\nHiking Details: 4-5 hours, 7 miles, 900 feet descent, moderate","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":4,"DayTo":4,"Headline":"South Coast: Camara do Lobos \/ Hike the Levada da Calheta","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Today we drive along Madeira's southern coastline, first stopping at Camara do Lobos, a picturesque fishing village where Winston Churchill came often to relax and paint. The fishermen here head out to sea at night to line-catch black scabbard fish, or espada, a mainstay of the local cuisine. These fish are caught only off Madeira and Japan and live at a depth of up to 5,500 feet. Their sharply pointed snout lined with protruding fang-like teeth and enormous round eyes give this fish a fearsome appearance, but their taste is surprisingly delicate. Our hike is along the Levada Nova da Calheta, starting at Prazeres and heading west to Maloeira. This hike is best described as agricultural, as the waterway wends its way slowly through farmland where many of the regional vegetables are grown, including potatoes, sweet potatoes, green beans, cabbage, and corn. At 1,600 feet, fruit flourish as well—apple, lemon, fig, and papaya trees add color to the terraced fields. Sections of eucalyptus and pine trees provide shade, blue flowering agapanthus abound along the levada's edge, and in the distance shimmer waves of the Atlantic. We end at a marvelous bakery serving excellent cakes, coffee, and beer, but you may prefer to head straight for an ice cream at the end of the trail!\r\n\r\nA scenic hours' drive takes in the western edge of the island on our way to the picturesque village of Porto Moniz at the northwestern tip of Madeira. Our hotel is nestled above natural volcanic rock swimming pools filled by Atlantic breakers (the original infinity pool!). The rock formations along the coast here are stunning. After savoring some of the fresh locally caught seafood, and perhaps relaxing in the hotel's Jacuzzi or sauna, we'll be lulled to sleep by the sound of the sea. Overnight at the Aqua Natura Hotel.\r\n\r\nHiking Details: 3-4 hours, 7 miles, minimal ascent\/descent, easy","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":5,"DayTo":5,"Headline":"Hike the Paul Da Serra Plateau \/ Winery Visit","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Setting out, we'll stop a few miles along the coast to view a dramatic basalt sea stack, a peculiar rock formation 120 feet high and standing a few feet from the shore. Near its top there is a large hole, or “janela” (window), after which the nearby village, Ribeiro de Janela, is named. Our hike on the Paul Da Serra plateau starts out from the Lagoa do Fanal; this crater lake rarely has much, if any, water in it, but is nonetheless a favorite haunt of the rusty brown cattle that roam free on this high plateau. Our earthen trail climbs up through the laurisilva forest, classified in 1999 as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. These sturdy trees with their twisted branches draped in mosses and lichen give the route an otherworldly feeling, especially when mists shroud the area. Wood and shrubs were harvested from here in the near past and taken down to the north coast via a network of cables, to be used in farming and for heating; this practice is no longer permitted.\r\n\r\nAfter our morning hike we'll head to to a winery at Sao Vicente, on the north coast. The vineyards are terraced up the steep hillsides and, in some places, are protected from the salty winds by high hedges constructed from tree heathers. Various grape varieties are grown, producing white, rosé, and red wines, with Verdelho, the most important, producing high-quality white wines. We'll savor the wines over lunch at the Quinta do Barbusano, then enjoy a tour of the vineyards to hear about the challenging conditions these hardy grapes face. Our dramatic drive back to Porto Moniz via the north coast brings us through small coastal villages set on the narrow strip of land between sea and cliff, often referred to as the “Big Sur” of Madeira. We return to the Aqua Natura for overnight. Dinner is on your own this evening.\r\n\r\nHiking Details: 3-3.5 hours, 5 miles, 1,000 feet ascent, moderate","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":6,"DayTo":6,"Headline":"Caminho Real da Encumeada \/ Cabo Girou \/ Funchal","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"This morning we depart early to make the most of the exhilarating hiking day ahead. Our early rise will be well worth the effort as we discover one of the island's most scenic hikes. This is an old “Royal Path,” which was paved and used as one of the main routes across the island by the landed gentry before the roads were built.\r\n\r\nHiking from a high saddle at Encumeada (3,290'), we descend through eucalyptus forests to a tiny mountain settlement by a river, where in the past, islanders came to plant their crops and graze their animals. Today the small, terraced fields lie abandoned but white calla lilies still flower and chestnut trees flourish. From here the well-defined trail starts climbing, first through woodland and on up below the rugged, dark cliffs of Pico Grande. The views down to the valleys as we progress are simply stunning. Until very recently, goats roamed wild over the mountains, eating the fragile vegetation thus threatening the delicate natural balance; their removal is enabling plants to re-establish and regenerate. Higher up we'll pass old tree heather, slow growing and lasting hundreds of years. These trees were sought after for their high fuel value and many were felled in the past to make charcoal, thus the tree is quite rare in its natural habitat. Reaching a grassy saddle at 2,700 feet, we'll stop to enjoy our picnic while looking over the secluded Valley of the Nuns, where the village lies snuggled below us in a small bowl surrounded by the rugged high peaks of the island. From here the trail becomes wider, crossing the central massif and following the ups and downs and curves of the high ridge to Boca da Corrida, with great views all the way to the end of our hike.\r\n\r\nEn route to Funchal, we'll have a quick stop at the sea cliffs of Cabo Girou, among the highest in the world. At a lookout point, a glass skywalk will give us breathtaking views of the land and sea far below. The elegant Reid's Palace Hotel, built in the late 19th century to accommodate passengers traveling on ocean liners, is our setting for our final two nights. Everyone from George Bernard Shaw to Bette Midler has stayed here. Surrounded by 10 acres of landscaped subtropical gardens with plentiful birdlife, it's a delightful oasis. Dinner this evening is on your own; you can wander into downtown Funchal to soak up the atmosphere and grab a bite to eat. Overnight at Reid's Palace Hotel.\r\n\r\nHiking Details: 6-7 hours, 9 miles, 3,500 feet ascent\/2,000 feet descent, strenuous","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":7,"DayTo":7,"Headline":"Hike from Eira do Serrado to Curral das Freiras \/ Dolphin and Whale Watching","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"We begin today's hike at Eira do Serrado, a beautiful vista point about a half-hour drive from Funchal. Here a steep, winding cobbled path leads down to the village of Curral das Freiras (“Nuns Valley”) with great views all along the way as we descend. Our trail descends through a large stand of horse chestnut trees that produce one of the crops for which Curral das Freiras is best known. At lunch we'll enjoy a sampling of this simple nut in a variety of ways: roasted in a soup, in a hearty stew with beans, or for dessert as a delicious cake washed down with chestnut liqueur.\r\n\r\nLater in the day, a private boat will take us out for an evening of whale and dolphin watching. The waters around the island are visited by more than 20 species of dolphins and whales throughout the year. Tonight, we gather for our festive Farewell Dinner at the historic 17th century Fortress of S\u00e3o Tiago overlooking the waterfront. Overnight at Reid's Palace Hotel.\r\n\r\nHiking Details: 1.5 hours, 2 miles, 1,475 feet descent","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":8,"DayTo":8,"Headline":"Depart","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Transfer to the airport and depart on homeward-bound flights.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":1,"DayTo":3,"Headline":"Funchal, Madeira \/ Ponta do Sao Lourenco and Levada do Furado Hikes","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"After a spectacular coastal walk on the Ponta do Sao Lourenco trail, we hike our first levada, the peaceful Levada do Furado, through indigenous laurel forests alive with birdsong, then stop by the town of Santana, with its triangular houses. One evening, we'll sample Madeira's wines at a private tasting.<\/p>","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":4,"DayTo":5,"Headline":"Levada Nova da Calheta \/ Paul da Serra Plateau \/ Vineyard Tour","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"
A hike along the Levada Nova da Calheta brings us through farmland with vistas of the shimmering waves of the Atlantic. The next day finds us hiking on the Paul da Serra, a high plateau that hosts an indigenous laurissilva forest, now a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. We'll taste wines and enjoy lunch and a vineyard tour at a winery at São Vicente, then drive through small coastal villages along a dramatic strip of land between sea and cliff, often referred to as the “Big Sur” of Madeira.<\/body>","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":6,"DayTo":8,"Headline":"The Royal Path \/ Curral das Freiras \/ Dolphin and Whale Watching","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Our hike on the Royal Path, a trail in place before roads were built, brings us from a high saddle down through woodlands, below the cliffs of Pico Grande, and across a ridge to Boca da Corrida, with great views all the way. Our final hike is on a cobbled path through chestnut trees to the village of Curral das Freiras, followed by an evening of dolphin and whale watching by private boat. Depart on Day 8.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true}],"itinpdf":[{"ItinYear":"2023","docType":"1","FileName":"http:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/hiking-the-isle-of-madeira-itinerary-2023.pdf"},{"ItinYear":"2024","docType":"1","FileName":"http:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/hiking-the-isle-of-madeira-itinerary-2024.pdf"},{"ItinYear":"","docType":"2","FileName":"http:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/hiking-the-isle-of-madeira-predeparture.pdf"}],"whattoexpect":[{}],"highlights":[{"DisplayOrder":1,"HighlightText":"","Description":"Hike Madeira's unique levada trails through subtropical forests","Image":"","VideoLink":"","ImageAltTag":"","image_id":27682,"caption":""},{"DisplayOrder":2,"HighlightText":"","Description":"Follow a spectacular ridge trail to Madeira's highest 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Life continues to be an adventure for Skye, who has recently taken up bee-keeping, wild-water swimming, and scuba diving."},{"GuideID":851298,"First_Name":"Nuno","Last_Name":"Portela","BioShort":"","BioLong":"Originally from Funchal, the largest city in Madeira, Nuno has a deep knowledge of the island's natural wonders and culture, and finds something new to enjoy on every adventure he leads. He studied in mainland Portugal and has been a mountain guide for more than 18 years. His experience in nature, paired with his passion for Madeira's people and traditions, makes him the perfect guide on our journey to this unique island."}],"guestreviews":[{"GuestNames":"Clarissa M.","GuestLocation":"Tucson, AZ","GuestReview":"Really a magical trip—and very well-organized!"},{"GuestNames":"Jeff L.","GuestLocation":"Sioux Falls, SD","GuestReview":"Well-designed trip that combined some good hiking with getting a feel of the culture of the island."}],"Extensions":[{}],"SimilarTrips":[{"TripID":10399,"SimilarTripID":10373,"Trip_Code":"ENTDOURO","Trip_Name":"Enticing Douro"},{"TripID":10399,"SimilarTripID":10407,"Trip_Code":"PORTUGA","Trip_Name":"Hiker's Journey to Portugal"},{"TripID":10399,"SimilarTripID":10463,"Trip_Code":"HIKAZORE","Trip_Name":"Hiking in the Azores"},{"TripID":10399,"SimilarTripID":11124,"Trip_Code":"PJSPORT","Trip_Name":"Spain to Portugal Private Journey"}],"Specialists":[{}],"TripSegments":[{"VendorID":73043,"ProductID":84890,"SelectType":"Optional","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Extra Hotel Night","Vendor":"Casa Velha do Palheiro","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Funchal","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Pre-Trip Extra Services: Casa Velha do Palheiro (DATES, 1 night)","Day":0,"Sequence":20,"Duration":1,"PropertyDescription":"This tranquil country house hotel, a restored 18th century hunting lodge, is set in the Palheiro Nature Estate in the foothills of Funchal. 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A taxi from the airport to your hotel in Funchal will cost about €30. There are many taxis available at the curb right outside of baggage claim when you arrive.<\/p>
<\/p>
MEETING PLACE<\/strong>
Your Trip Leader will meet you at the Casa Velha do Palheiro hotel in Funchal at 5:00 pm on Day 1 for a short stroll and welcome drinks.<\/p>","Custom_Arrival-_Meeting_Place":"Casa Velha do Palheiro<\/strong>
R. da Estalagem 23 - S\u00e3o Gon\u00e7alo
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+351 291 790 350<\/p>","Custom_Arrival_Transfer":"","Custom_Departure":"DEPARTING FROM MADEIRA<\/strong>
Your Trip Leader can help you arrange your airport transfer for any flights on Day 8.<\/p>","Custom_Extra_Services":"","Custom_Contact_Information_for_Friends_and_Family":"If friends or family wish to contact you during the trip, we encourage them to call, text, or email you directly. Another option is to reach you by calling the hotel (please see the enclosed Hotel List). If they are unable to reach you directly, please instruct them to call our office in Berkeley, California, and we will get a message to you as soon as possible. If they need to reach you outside of our office hours, we ask that they reach out to our Trip Leader (contact information is listed below) and also leave a message with our Berkeley office, so that we can follow up with our team on the ground.<\/p>
<\/p>
We recommend using WhatsApp<\/a>, and suggest you download the free app and enter the local emergency contact number(s) in advance of your trip.<\/p>","Custom_Outfitter_Contacts_Left":"","Custom_Outfitter_Contacts_Right":"","Custom_Valid_Passport_Alternative":"","Custom_Visa":"","Custom_FB_Before_You_Go_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Before_You_Go_-_MISC_2":"","Custom_Luggage_Requirements":"LUGGAGE REQUIREMENTS:<\/strong> Please limit your luggage to one soft sided suitcase and a daypack, as there is limited space in the van.<\/p>","Custom_Carry-On":"
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Suggested Date & Time: <\/strong>Day 8, anytime
Your trip leader can help you arrange your airport transfer for any flights on Day 8.<\/p>","Custom_International_Air_Travel":"You are responsible for making your own arrangements for flights to and from Madeira.
There are many online consolidators for booking travel, but for more personal help arranging air transport, you can contact Exito Travel at 1-800-655-4053 in the US or 1-800-670-2605 in Canada. They are very adept at putting flight itineraries together, to even the most far-flung places. More information can be found on Exito's website at www.exitotravel.com<\/a>.
Depending on your routing, it is necessary to depart from the US one or possibly two days prior to Day 1 of the trip itinerary. The name on your airline ticket must match the name on your passport exactly, and your passport must be valid for at least six months after your date of return to the US.
Please do not purchase your tickets until you are confirmed on the trip.<\/strong> Once your tickets have been purchased, please send us a copy of your airline schedule. It is your responsibility to ensure your flight times coordinate with the arrival and departure logistics for this trip.<\/p>","Custom_Extra_Hotel_Nights":"","Custom_Recommended_Hotels":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_1":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_1":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_2":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_5":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_5":"","Custom_Passport":"","Custom_Visas_and_Entry_Notes":"","Custom_Money":"","Custom_Tipping":"","Custom_Food":"","Custom_Communications":"","Custom_Electricity":"","Custom_Laundry":"","Custom_Ship_Notes":"","Custom_Inoculations":"","Custom_International_Health":"","Custom_Malaria_Prevention":"","Custom_Staying_Healthy":"","Custom_Getting_In_Shape":"","Custom_Medical_Care":"","Custom_Altitude_Considerations":"","Custom_Reading_List":"","Custom_Photography":"","Custom_Cultural_Considerations":"","Custom_Giving_Back":"","Custom_Enviromental_Concerns":"","Custom_Shopping_and_Souvenirs":"","Custom_Seasickness":"","Custom_Explore":"","Custom_Additional_Information":"","Custom_Essentials":"","Custom_Luggage":"","Custom_Clothing":"","Custom_Hiking_Boots":"","Custom_Equipment":"","Custom_Personal_First_Aid":"","Custom_Optional_Items":"","Custom_Also_Reccomended":"","Custom_Prohibited_Items":"","Custom_When_to_Go":"","Custom_Children":"","Custom_Tag_Line":"Historic Levada Trails, Subtropical Forests, and a Legendary Wine","Custom_Lodging":"7 nights hotels","Custom_Meals":"All meals included except 1 lunch and 2 dinners","Custom_Activity":"","Custom_Difficulty":"5 hiking days on moderate to strenuous trails, some steep sections, 2-7 hours a day","Custom_Currency_Exchange_Rate":"","Custom_Fuel_Surcharge":"","Custom_Signing_Up_For_a_Trip_-_Email":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_This_Year":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_Next_Year":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like":"This trip is rated Level 3+, Moderate to Strenuous<\/strong>, according to our trip grading system. We have five hiking days, varying from 2-7 hours of hiking a day. The 8-hour hike on Day 5 is strenuous; the trail is quite narrow and steep in places, with precipitous drop-offs and a degree of exposure. Please note that our daily hiking activities are weather-dependent. Based on their many years of experience here, our Trip Leaders always have wonderful alternate plans.<\/body>","Custom_Terrain":"Two of our hikes are along levadas, where the paths are well maintained and there is minimal altitude gain or loss. Others are on well-defined but rocky trails and involve a few hundred feet of ascent and descent.","Custom_Getting_in_Shape":"","Custom_Weather":"Madeira is a subtropical island. The south coast is the warmest and driest area and the mountains, rising to over 6,000 feet, are the coolest and wettest. We can expect pleasant temperatures of 58 to 66\u00b0F at the coast, but cooler temperatures up in the mountains. April is the start of the dry season, but rain is always a possibility; the monthly average is two inches.","Custom_Accommodations":"All our hotels are chosen for their local history and central location. Because some of them are in historic buildings, the rooms may not conform to uniform standards, but we hope you will enjoy them for their charm and local color. Single rooms can be requested, but are not always available, due to the limited space in some of our hotels. If you require a single room, please make the request as early as possible. European single rooms are often smaller than US singles.","Custom_Cuisine":"","Custom_Transportation":"We travel the island by mini-bus, and the roads are very twisty in some places. The longest single drive is about one hour and 15 minutes.","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Header_1":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Text_1":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Header_2":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Text_2":"","Custom_Trip_Level_Note_1":"","Custom_Trip_Level_Note_2":"","System_Choosing_the_Right_Trip":"Adventure travel often involves exotic destinations, unusual loris of physical exertion, or activities you ma not have participated in previously. We work hard to help you choose the right trip for you, paying attention to your individual interests, abilities, and needs. If you have questions about the level of comfort or any of the activities described in this itinerary, please call Wilderness Travel at 1-800-368-2794 and ask for the<\/p>","System_References":"
We'd be happy to put you in touch with a past client that has traveled with us on this trip.<\/p>","System_Visit_Our_Website":"
At customercases.petitserif.com<\/a>, you can find out about added departures, last-minute deals, and special WT Expeditions that aren't listed in our catalog. You can also access a complete library of our detailed itineraries and browse the customized reading guides for each of our adventures.<\/p>","System_Helpful_Links":"Wilderness Travel has compiled a list of useful websites for travelers. Find the Toucan Club tab on the home page of our website and choose Helpful Links: customercases.petitserif.com\/ toucan\/links<\/a>.<\/p>","System_About_Private_Journeys":"Wilderness Travel Private Journeys are designed for people who want to travel with their own small private group, but who still want to experience the same superb itinerary design, great accommodations, and signature quality of Wilderness Travel's escorted group trips. These Private Journeys allow you to choose your own dates and your traveling companions -- even if it's just the two of you -- yet still enjoy a guided adventure.<\/p>","System_About_New_Trips":"","System_Social_Media":"
SOCIAL MEDIA:<\/strong> We invite you to share your adventure with us on social media. Tag @wildernesstravel and we may even feature your content on our pages!<\/p>","System_If_You_Miss_Your_Flight":"IF YOU MISS YOUR FLIGHT<\/strong>
If you miss your flight or are otherwise delayed, contact our Wilderness Travel office, as well as our local partners, with your new flight information. Refer to the Emergency Contact Information listed in this Final Bulletin.<\/p>","System_Valid_Passport":"VALID PASSPORT:<\/strong> Check that your passport is valid for at least six months from the last day of your trip, and that you have at least two blank pages for any necessary visa or entry and exit stamps.<\/p>","System_Insurance_Policy":"INSURANCE POLICY:<\/strong> If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan, you should have received an email confirmation of your policy. Please bring a digital or printed copy of this policy with you. If you cannot find your email confirmation, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com. If you have not purchased Travelex insurance already, you have the option to do so up to 24 hours prior to your departure.<\/p>","System_Covid-19_Travel_Requirements":"COVID-19 TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:<\/strong> Please double-check COVID-19 entry requirements for any countries you may be traveling to or transiting through, on this website: apply.joinsherpa.com\/travel-restrictions<\/a><\/p>","System_Pre-Trip_Safety":"PRE-TRIP SAFETY:<\/strong> In the next weeks, we encourage you to do everything possible to stay healthy. Please practice social distancing, steer clear of potential COVID-19 exposure, and take an at-home antigen or lab based PCR test before you depart.<\/p>","System_Wilderness_Travel_Office":"Our office in Berkeley, California can be reached at 510-558-2488, or by email at info@petitserif.com. We are available during regular business hours (M-F, 8:30 am-5:00 pm, PST). <\/p>","System_ECI_Travel_Insurance":"
If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan through Wilderness Travel, please remember to bring your Confirmation of Coverages (COC) with you on the trip, including your Plan Number and important emergency contact information.<\/p>
If you've purchased a travel protection plan on your own, we recommend that you bring a copy of your policy, including all coverages, with you on your trip.<\/p>","System_Face_Masks_and_Hand_Sanitizer":"","System_DidNotPurchase_Insurance":"
Travel Insurance: We recommend that you purchase travel insurance for this trip. For your convenience, we offer Travelex travel protection. Please let us know if you would like us to add the Travelex Travel Protection Plan to this final invoice. You can learn more about the policy on our website<\/a>.<\/p>","System_Purchased_Insurance":"Please remember to bring a copy of your Travelex Confirmation of Coverage and State Specific Policy with you on your trip. You should have received an email directly from Travelex with these documents. If you need this email to be re-sent, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com.
","System_Questions?":"Our Area Specialists are you single point of contact and would be happy to answer any questions about yout trip!
800.368.2794 | 510.558.2488<\/p>","System_Travel_Insurance":"
Overview
Set in the cobalt blue waters of the Atlantic and warmed by the Gulf Stream, Madeira is an island of eternal spring, blanketed in lush laurel forests and topped by sharp volcanic peaks that sheer out of the sea. Our hiking journey explores the island's many personalities as we walk ancient levada irrigation canals through green valleys and UNESCO-protected laurissilva forests, hike to crater lakes, take cobbled paths to red-roofed villages, and cross high trails above the sparkling Atlantic. Along the way, we'll visit a producer of Madeira's famous fortified wines, taste catch-of-the-day fish, and go dolphin and whale watching by private boat. This is the perfect way to celebrate Madeira's beauty!
Arrive: Funchal, Portugal
Depart: Funchal, Portugal
Highlights
- Hike Madeira's unique levada trails through subtropical forests
- Follow a spectacular ridge trail to Madeira's highest point at 6,100 feet
- Savor fresh seafood, explore red-roofed villages, hear evocative fado music
- Go dolphin and whale watching by private boat
- Explore impossibly picturesque Funchal, with its colorful homes
- Enjoy delightful hotels, including elegant Reid's Palace, the Grand Dame of Funchal
Itinerary
Download Itinerary
Expand All Days
After a spectacular coastal walk on the Ponta do Sao Lourenco trail, we hike our first levada, the peaceful Levada do Furado, through indigenous laurel forests alive with birdsong, then stop by the town of Santana, with its triangular houses. One evening, we'll sample Madeira's wines at a private tasting.
A hike along the Levada Nova da Calheta brings us through farmland with vistas of the shimmering waves of the Atlantic. The next day finds us hiking on the Paul da Serra, a high plateau that hosts an indigenous laurissilva forest, now a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. We'll taste wines and enjoy lunch and a vineyard tour at a winery at São Vicente, then drive through small coastal villages along a dramatic strip of land between sea and cliff, often referred to as the “Big Sur” of Madeira.
Our hike on the Royal Path, a trail in place before roads were built, brings us from a high saddle down through woodlands, below the cliffs of Pico Grande, and across a ridge to Boca da Corrida, with great views all the way. Our final hike is on a cobbled path through chestnut trees to the village of Curral das Freiras, followed by an evening of dolphin and whale watching by private boat. Depart on Day 8.
Dates & Pricing
Payment & Cancel Schedule
$600 due at time of reservation
90 days prior to departure: Balance
Cancellation & Transfer Schedule
Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge!
61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost
46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost
45 days or less: 100% of trip cost
Included
- Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader and local guides
- Accommodations in hotels
- All meals included except 1 lunch and 2 dinners as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
- A glass of wine or beer with dinner
- All ground transportation and baggage handling from meeting until departure
- All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
Not Included
- Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
- Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates
- Optional gratuities to Trip Leaders or staff
- 可选的旅行保险
- Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)
Accommodations
Listed below are our signature accommodations for this trip. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.
Casa Velha do Palheiro
Days 1-3 (3 nights)
This tranquil country house hotel, a restored 18th century hunting lodge, is set in the Palheiro Nature Estate in the foothills of Funchal. More than 12 miles of hiking trails surround the lodge (great for birdwatching), and there are two swimming pools. All guest rooms convey a sense of the history, beauty, and elegance of the estate, and our rooms in the Garden Wing feature pleasant views across the gardens. The lodge features an award-winning restaurant and is a member of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux association.
Aqua Natura Bay
Days 4-5 (2 nights)
With panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the dramatic cliffs of Porto Moniz, Aqua Natura Bay is pleasant hotel perfectly situated near Madeira's lush landscapes. Guest rooms have lovely ocean views, private balconies, and modern amenities. If you have time, be sure to relax in one of their pools—the hotel has both an indoor and rooftop pool.
Reid's Palace Hotel
Days 6-7 (2 nights)
Century-old Reid's Palace, now a Belmond property, is set on clifftops and surrounded by acres of subtropical garden. Just a short walk from Funchal's shops and restaurants, Reid's is the Grand Dame of the city, with an “old school” décor that includes dozens of fresh flower displays. The terrace bar is a great place for vistas over the gardens, the city, and the blue expanse of the sea.
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Trip Leaders
Skye McDonald
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Nuno Portela
View ProfileWhat the Trip is Like
This trip is rated Level 3+, Moderate to Strenuous, according to our trip grading system. We have five hiking days, varying from 2-7 hours of hiking a day. The 8-hour hike on Day 5 is strenuous; the trail is quite narrow and steep in places, with precipitous drop-offs and a degree of exposure. Please note that our daily hiking activities are weather-dependent. Based on their many years of experience here, our Trip Leaders always have wonderful alternate plans.
Review Trip Level Details
Two of our hikes are along levadas, where the paths are well maintained and there is minimal altitude gain or loss. Others are on well-defined but rocky trails and involve a few hundred feet of ascent and descent.
Madeira is a subtropical island. The south coast is the warmest and driest area and the mountains, rising to over 6,000 feet, are the coolest and wettest. We can expect pleasant temperatures of 58 to 66°F at the coast, but cooler temperatures up in the mountains. April is the start of the dry season, but rain is always a possibility; the monthly average is two inches.
All our hotels are chosen for their local history and central location. Because some of them are in historic buildings, the rooms may not conform to uniform standards, but we hope you will enjoy them for their charm and local color. Single rooms can be requested, but are not always available, due to the limited space in some of our hotels. If you require a single room, please make the request as early as possible. European single rooms are often smaller than US singles.
We travel the island by mini-bus, and the roads are very twisty in some places. The longest single drive is about one hour and 15 minutes.
Client Testimonials
"Really a magical trip—and very well-organized!"
Clarissa M.
Tucson, AZ
"Well-designed trip that combined some good hiking with getting a feel of the culture of the island."
Jeff L.
Sioux Falls, SD
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Book your trip today
Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!
Itinerary
Submit the form below to download itinerary
Trip Levels
With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.
Level 1 – Easiest
Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.
Level 2 – Easy to Moderate
Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.
Level 3 – Moderate
Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.
- Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
- Argentina: Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
- Palau Snorkeling & Sea Kayaking
- Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin, are Trip Level 3.
Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous
Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.
Level 5 – Strenuous
Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.
Level 6 – Very Strenuous
Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.
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We'll meet in the afternoon at our hotel, the Casa Velha do Palheiro, a former hunting lodge?set on an estate in the foothills of Funchal. We'll stretch our legs with a guided tour of their gardens, renowned for their colorful camellias, proteas, and perfumed jasmine hedges, followed by a short stroll on the hotel grounds to a wonderful viewpoint of the whole city of Funchal spread below us. Returning to the leafy gardens surrounding our hotel, we'll sip a glass of delicious Madeira wine. It was Madeira wine that was toasted to celebrate the writing of the American Declaration of Independence, and it was also a popular tipple of Winston Churchill, a frequent visitor to the island. After a trip briefing, we enjoy our Welcome Dinner. Overnight at Casa Velha do Palheiro.<\/body>","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":2,"DayTo":2,"Headline":"Hike at Ponta Do Sao Lourenco \/ Toboggans \/ Funchal \/ Fado","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Madeira's geographic origins began over five million years ago as the African and North American plates split apart. If it were counted from the earth's crust, Madeira would stretch 19,000 feet high, but just 6,000 feet of land breaks above sea level. We start the day with a hike on the dry eastern tip of Madeira at Ponto do Sao Lourenco, where the variegated rocks speak of this volcanic past. Later we make our way to Nossa Senhora do Monte, a picturesque white church built in the late 1700s and still one of the most venerated sites on the island. On the Feast of the Assumption, penitents climb on their knees all 74 steps to pray in this church. Just below is the start of the famous toboggan run that allows us a quirky departure, in giant wicker baskets. These toboggans are steered by two guides elegantly dressed in white, wearing straw hats and traditional soft leather boots. During the short slide we won't be traveling at great speed, though Ernest Hemingway famously described it as one of the most exhilarating rides of his life. Despite his large touch of irony, this unique experience is an island “must” and it's guaranteed to generate big smiles all the way down the hill. Continuing into town, a walking tour brings us through Funchal, which first flourished in the 15th century as sugar (or “white gold”) enriched the island. Sugar merchants settled around the Se Cathedral, beautiful in its simplicity and topped off with tiny colored “azulejos” tiles. Close by, fruit and vegetable stands jostle for space alongside flower stalls in the colorful Mercado dos Lavradores (“Farmers' Market”). Wearing the traditional red-and-blue striped skirt with an embroidered waistcoat and pointy hat, the local flower sellers always steal the show. After absorbing the sights, sounds, and aromas of the market, we'll finish the day in Funchal's Old Town at a local restaurant where Portugal's traditional Fado music is played. Fado's evocative songs tell stories of love and loss. Even without understanding a word of Portuguese, the deep emotions are powerfully conveyed in haunting melodies. At the restaurant, all the family members take part in the musical performance—even the cook may come out of the kitchen to take his turn! Overnight at Casa Velha do Palheiro.\r\n\r\nHiking Details: 3.5 hours, 4.5 miles, 1,350 feet ascent\/descent, moderate","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":3,"DayTo":3,"Headline":"Hike the Levada do Furado \/ Santana Houses \/ Rum Factory","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Madeira's famous levadas are hand-built irrigation channels that brought water to the island's fields. There are more than 200 levadas in Madeira, many built over 200 years ago. Our hike on the Levada do Furado in Ribeiro Frio (“Cold River”) begins at 2,800 feet and brings us through an indigenous laurel forest. This ancient woodland once covered the whole of the island, but great swaths were burned down to clear land for planting sugar cane when the Portuguese first arrived. Hiking along the edge of the levada, we'll recognize the astonishing amount of labor required to construct this unique network of water channels that wind for more than 1,400 miles across the island. As we walk, we'll keep an eye out for one of the island's endemic birds, the tiny Madeira firecrest, with its distinctive orange mohawk.\r\n\r\nAfter our hike, we stop by Santana, a town known for its traditional triangular houses. The steeply-pitched thatched roofs that descend nearly to the ground are ideal for the location, staying warm in winter and cool in summer, and give the town a whimsical fairytale feel. From Santana, we'll head along the coast to Porto da Cruz to witness 100-year-old steam-driven machinery noisily crush the sugar cane to extract its juices, then distilled into rum—which we'll just have to taste! Before dinner at our hotel, the sommelier will introduce us to some of the island's finest Madeiran wines. We'll learn of the accidents of history that led to the creation of the unique qualities of this rich, flavorsome wine. Overnight at Casa Velha do Palheiro.\r\n\r\nHiking Details: 4-5 hours, 7 miles, 900 feet descent, moderate","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":4,"DayTo":4,"Headline":"South Coast: Camara do Lobos \/ Hike the Levada da Calheta","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Today we drive along Madeira's southern coastline, first stopping at Camara do Lobos, a picturesque fishing village where Winston Churchill came often to relax and paint. The fishermen here head out to sea at night to line-catch black scabbard fish, or espada, a mainstay of the local cuisine. These fish are caught only off Madeira and Japan and live at a depth of up to 5,500 feet. Their sharply pointed snout lined with protruding fang-like teeth and enormous round eyes give this fish a fearsome appearance, but their taste is surprisingly delicate. Our hike is along the Levada Nova da Calheta, starting at Prazeres and heading west to Maloeira. This hike is best described as agricultural, as the waterway wends its way slowly through farmland where many of the regional vegetables are grown, including potatoes, sweet potatoes, green beans, cabbage, and corn. At 1,600 feet, fruit flourish as well—apple, lemon, fig, and papaya trees add color to the terraced fields. Sections of eucalyptus and pine trees provide shade, blue flowering agapanthus abound along the levada's edge, and in the distance shimmer waves of the Atlantic. We end at a marvelous bakery serving excellent cakes, coffee, and beer, but you may prefer to head straight for an ice cream at the end of the trail!\r\n\r\nA scenic hours' drive takes in the western edge of the island on our way to the picturesque village of Porto Moniz at the northwestern tip of Madeira. Our hotel is nestled above natural volcanic rock swimming pools filled by Atlantic breakers (the original infinity pool!). The rock formations along the coast here are stunning. After savoring some of the fresh locally caught seafood, and perhaps relaxing in the hotel's Jacuzzi or sauna, we'll be lulled to sleep by the sound of the sea. Overnight at the Aqua Natura Hotel.\r\n\r\nHiking Details: 3-4 hours, 7 miles, minimal ascent\/descent, easy","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":5,"DayTo":5,"Headline":"Hike the Paul Da Serra Plateau \/ Winery Visit","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Setting out, we'll stop a few miles along the coast to view a dramatic basalt sea stack, a peculiar rock formation 120 feet high and standing a few feet from the shore. Near its top there is a large hole, or “janela” (window), after which the nearby village, Ribeiro de Janela, is named. Our hike on the Paul Da Serra plateau starts out from the Lagoa do Fanal; this crater lake rarely has much, if any, water in it, but is nonetheless a favorite haunt of the rusty brown cattle that roam free on this high plateau. Our earthen trail climbs up through the laurisilva forest, classified in 1999 as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. These sturdy trees with their twisted branches draped in mosses and lichen give the route an otherworldly feeling, especially when mists shroud the area. Wood and shrubs were harvested from here in the near past and taken down to the north coast via a network of cables, to be used in farming and for heating; this practice is no longer permitted.\r\n\r\nAfter our morning hike we'll head to to a winery at Sao Vicente, on the north coast. The vineyards are terraced up the steep hillsides and, in some places, are protected from the salty winds by high hedges constructed from tree heathers. Various grape varieties are grown, producing white, rosé, and red wines, with Verdelho, the most important, producing high-quality white wines. We'll savor the wines over lunch at the Quinta do Barbusano, then enjoy a tour of the vineyards to hear about the challenging conditions these hardy grapes face. Our dramatic drive back to Porto Moniz via the north coast brings us through small coastal villages set on the narrow strip of land between sea and cliff, often referred to as the “Big Sur” of Madeira. We return to the Aqua Natura for overnight. Dinner is on your own this evening.\r\n\r\nHiking Details: 3-3.5 hours, 5 miles, 1,000 feet ascent, moderate","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":6,"DayTo":6,"Headline":"Caminho Real da Encumeada \/ Cabo Girou \/ Funchal","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"This morning we depart early to make the most of the exhilarating hiking day ahead. Our early rise will be well worth the effort as we discover one of the island's most scenic hikes. This is an old “Royal Path,” which was paved and used as one of the main routes across the island by the landed gentry before the roads were built.\r\n\r\nHiking from a high saddle at Encumeada (3,290'), we descend through eucalyptus forests to a tiny mountain settlement by a river, where in the past, islanders came to plant their crops and graze their animals. Today the small, terraced fields lie abandoned but white calla lilies still flower and chestnut trees flourish. From here the well-defined trail starts climbing, first through woodland and on up below the rugged, dark cliffs of Pico Grande. The views down to the valleys as we progress are simply stunning. Until very recently, goats roamed wild over the mountains, eating the fragile vegetation thus threatening the delicate natural balance; their removal is enabling plants to re-establish and regenerate. Higher up we'll pass old tree heather, slow growing and lasting hundreds of years. These trees were sought after for their high fuel value and many were felled in the past to make charcoal, thus the tree is quite rare in its natural habitat. Reaching a grassy saddle at 2,700 feet, we'll stop to enjoy our picnic while looking over the secluded Valley of the Nuns, where the village lies snuggled below us in a small bowl surrounded by the rugged high peaks of the island. From here the trail becomes wider, crossing the central massif and following the ups and downs and curves of the high ridge to Boca da Corrida, with great views all the way to the end of our hike.\r\n\r\nEn route to Funchal, we'll have a quick stop at the sea cliffs of Cabo Girou, among the highest in the world. At a lookout point, a glass skywalk will give us breathtaking views of the land and sea far below. The elegant Reid's Palace Hotel, built in the late 19th century to accommodate passengers traveling on ocean liners, is our setting for our final two nights. Everyone from George Bernard Shaw to Bette Midler has stayed here. Surrounded by 10 acres of landscaped subtropical gardens with plentiful birdlife, it's a delightful oasis. Dinner this evening is on your own; you can wander into downtown Funchal to soak up the atmosphere and grab a bite to eat. Overnight at Reid's Palace Hotel.\r\n\r\nHiking Details: 6-7 hours, 9 miles, 3,500 feet ascent\/2,000 feet descent, strenuous","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":7,"DayTo":7,"Headline":"Hike from Eira do Serrado to Curral das Freiras \/ Dolphin and Whale Watching","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"We begin today's hike at Eira do Serrado, a beautiful vista point about a half-hour drive from Funchal. Here a steep, winding cobbled path leads down to the village of Curral das Freiras (“Nuns Valley”) with great views all along the way as we descend. Our trail descends through a large stand of horse chestnut trees that produce one of the crops for which Curral das Freiras is best known. At lunch we'll enjoy a sampling of this simple nut in a variety of ways: roasted in a soup, in a hearty stew with beans, or for dessert as a delicious cake washed down with chestnut liqueur.\r\n\r\nLater in the day, a private boat will take us out for an evening of whale and dolphin watching. The waters around the island are visited by more than 20 species of dolphins and whales throughout the year. Tonight, we gather for our festive Farewell Dinner at the historic 17th century Fortress of S\u00e3o Tiago overlooking the waterfront. Overnight at Reid's Palace Hotel.\r\n\r\nHiking Details: 1.5 hours, 2 miles, 1,475 feet descent","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":8,"DayTo":8,"Headline":"Depart","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Transfer to the airport and depart on homeward-bound flights.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":1,"DayTo":3,"Headline":"Funchal, Madeira \/ Ponta do Sao Lourenco and Levada do Furado Hikes","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"After a spectacular coastal walk on the Ponta do Sao Lourenco trail, we hike our first levada, the peaceful Levada do Furado, through indigenous laurel forests alive with birdsong, then stop by the town of Santana, with its triangular houses. One evening, we'll sample Madeira's wines at a private tasting.<\/p>","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":4,"DayTo":5,"Headline":"Levada Nova da Calheta \/ Paul da Serra Plateau \/ Vineyard Tour","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"
A hike along the Levada Nova da Calheta brings us through farmland with vistas of the shimmering waves of the Atlantic. The next day finds us hiking on the Paul da Serra, a high plateau that hosts an indigenous laurissilva forest, now a UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site. We'll taste wines and enjoy lunch and a vineyard tour at a winery at São Vicente, then drive through small coastal villages along a dramatic strip of land between sea and cliff, often referred to as the “Big Sur” of Madeira.<\/body>","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":6,"DayTo":8,"Headline":"The Royal Path \/ Curral das Freiras \/ Dolphin and Whale Watching","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Our hike on the Royal Path, a trail in place before roads were built, brings us from a high saddle down through woodlands, below the cliffs of Pico Grande, and across a ridge to Boca da Corrida, with great views all the way. Our final hike is on a cobbled path through chestnut trees to the village of Curral das Freiras, followed by an evening of dolphin and whale watching by private boat. 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She has worked as a Trip Leader in 35 countries since the millennium and lived in Germany, France, and Tanzania. “Bringing understanding between peoples of very different cultures and backgrounds is one of the joys of being a Trip Leader, and of course, the chance to make friends around the world.” Closer to home, she delights in sharing the glories of her native Scotland, and says that a good day scaling some of the beautiful Scottish mountains is hard to beat. Skye speaks German, French, beginners Portuguese, and unusually, a smattering of Swahili from earlier years as a volunteer agricultural officer in Tanzania. Life continues to be an adventure for Skye, who has recently taken up bee-keeping, wild-water swimming, and scuba diving.","BioLong":" Skye McDonald lives in Scotland's Highland capital, Inverness. She has worked as a Trip Leader in 35 countries since the millennium and lived in Germany, France, and Tanzania. “Bringing understanding between peoples of very different cultures and backgrounds is one of the joys of being a Trip Leader, and of course, the chance to make friends around the world.” Closer to home, she delights in sharing the glories of her native Scotland, and says that a good day scaling some of the beautiful Scottish mountains is hard to beat. Skye speaks German, French, beginners Portuguese, and unusually, a smattering of Swahili from earlier years as a volunteer agricultural officer in Tanzania. Life continues to be an adventure for Skye, who has recently taken up bee-keeping, wild-water swimming, and scuba diving."},{"GuideID":851298,"First_Name":"Nuno","Last_Name":"Portela","BioShort":"","BioLong":"Originally from Funchal, the largest city in Madeira, Nuno has a deep knowledge of the island's natural wonders and culture, and finds something new to enjoy on every adventure he leads. He studied in mainland Portugal and has been a mountain guide for more than 18 years. His experience in nature, paired with his passion for Madeira's people and traditions, makes him the perfect guide on our journey to this unique island."}],"guestreviews":[{"GuestNames":"Clarissa M.","GuestLocation":"Tucson, AZ","GuestReview":"Really a magical trip—and very well-organized!"},{"GuestNames":"Jeff L.","GuestLocation":"Sioux Falls, SD","GuestReview":"Well-designed trip that combined some good hiking with getting a feel of the culture of the island."}],"Extensions":[{}],"SimilarTrips":[{"TripID":10399,"SimilarTripID":10373,"Trip_Code":"ENTDOURO","Trip_Name":"Enticing Douro"},{"TripID":10399,"SimilarTripID":10407,"Trip_Code":"PORTUGA","Trip_Name":"Hiker's Journey to Portugal"},{"TripID":10399,"SimilarTripID":10463,"Trip_Code":"HIKAZORE","Trip_Name":"Hiking in the Azores"},{"TripID":10399,"SimilarTripID":11124,"Trip_Code":"PJSPORT","Trip_Name":"Spain to Portugal Private Journey"}],"Specialists":[{}],"TripSegments":[{"VendorID":73043,"ProductID":84890,"SelectType":"Optional","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Extra Hotel Night","Vendor":"Casa Velha do Palheiro","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Funchal","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Pre-Trip Extra Services: Casa Velha do Palheiro (DATES, 1 night)","Day":0,"Sequence":20,"Duration":1,"PropertyDescription":"This tranquil country house hotel, a restored 18th century hunting lodge, is set in the Palheiro Nature Estate in the foothills of Funchal. 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In order to confirm your space on this trip, we require a first deposit of $600 per person, which is fully refundable up to 91 days prior to departure.<\/body>","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Region":"Portugal Hiking<\/body>","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Region_Sales_Points":"","Custom_Hiking_Poles":"HIKING POLES: <\/strong>If you choose to bring hiking poles, they must be packed in your checked luggage as they are not permitted in carry-on bags.<\/p>","Custom_Daypack":"DAYPACK:<\/strong> To carry a jacket or rain gear, water bottle, camera, and other items you want on the trail.<\/p>","Custom_Vaccination_Card":"","Custom_FB_Packing_Reminders_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Additional_Notes_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Additional_Notes_-_MISC_2":"","Custom_Arrival":"ARRIVING IN MADEIRA<\/strong>
A taxi from the airport to your hotel in Funchal will cost about €30. There are many taxis available at the curb right outside of baggage claim when you arrive.<\/p>
<\/p>
MEETING PLACE<\/strong>
Your Trip Leader will meet you at the Casa Velha do Palheiro hotel in Funchal at 5:00 pm on Day 1 for a short stroll and welcome drinks.<\/p>","Custom_Arrival-_Meeting_Place":"Casa Velha do Palheiro<\/strong>
R. da Estalagem 23 - S\u00e3o Gon\u00e7alo
9060-415 Funchal, Portugal
+351 291 790 350<\/p>","Custom_Arrival_Transfer":"","Custom_Departure":"DEPARTING FROM MADEIRA<\/strong>
Your Trip Leader can help you arrange your airport transfer for any flights on Day 8.<\/p>","Custom_Extra_Services":"","Custom_Contact_Information_for_Friends_and_Family":"If friends or family wish to contact you during the trip, we encourage them to call, text, or email you directly. Another option is to reach you by calling the hotel (please see the enclosed Hotel List). If they are unable to reach you directly, please instruct them to call our office in Berkeley, California, and we will get a message to you as soon as possible. If they need to reach you outside of our office hours, we ask that they reach out to our Trip Leader (contact information is listed below) and also leave a message with our Berkeley office, so that we can follow up with our team on the ground.<\/p>
<\/p>
We recommend using WhatsApp<\/a>, and suggest you download the free app and enter the local emergency contact number(s) in advance of your trip.<\/p>","Custom_Outfitter_Contacts_Left":"","Custom_Outfitter_Contacts_Right":"","Custom_Valid_Passport_Alternative":"","Custom_Visa":"","Custom_FB_Before_You_Go_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Before_You_Go_-_MISC_2":"","Custom_Luggage_Requirements":"LUGGAGE REQUIREMENTS:<\/strong> Please limit your luggage to one soft sided suitcase and a daypack, as there is limited space in the van.<\/p>","Custom_Carry-On":"
CARRY-ON: <\/strong>Valuable or essential items, such as well broken-in hiking boots, camera equipment, binoculars, prescription medications, and any paperwork required to enter Madeira or transit through airports, should be hand carried on your flights to avoid loss or damage.<\/p>","Custom_name_slug":"portugal-madeira-island-hiking-tour","Custom_Meta_Description":"Hike Madeira's unique “levada” trails through lush landscapes and below volcanic peaks, with cultural explorations, wine tasting, and whale watching.","Custom_List_Description":"Hike Madeira's unique “levada” trails through lush landscapes and below volcanic peaks, with cultural explorations, wine tasting, and whale watching.","Custom_Redirect":"","Custom_PJ_-_Best_Months":"","Custom_After_Dates":"","Custom_Trip_Web_Note":"","Custom_Title_Tag":"Madeira Island Hiking & Walking Tour | Wilderness Travel","Custom_Before_Days":"","Custom_After_Days_Header_1":"","Custom_After_Days_Text_1":"","Custom_After_Days_Header_2":"","Custom_After_Days_Text_2":"","Custom_Choosing_Right_Trip_Office_Contact":"","Custom_About_WT_Expeditions":"","Custom_Arrival_-_Sales":"Suggested Airport: <\/strong>Madeira Airport (FNC)
Suggested Date & Time:<\/strong> Day 1, before 5:00 pm
Meeting Place: <\/strong>Your Trip Leader will meet you at your hotel at 5:00 pm for a short stroll and welcome drinks. A taxi from the airport to your hotel in Funchal will cost about 30 Euros. There are many taxis available at the curb right outside of baggage claim when you arrive.<\/p>","Custom_Departure_-_Sales":"Suggested Airport:<\/strong> Madeira Airport (FNC)
Suggested Date & Time: <\/strong>Day 8, anytime
Your trip leader can help you arrange your airport transfer for any flights on Day 8.<\/p>","Custom_International_Air_Travel":"You are responsible for making your own arrangements for flights to and from Madeira.
There are many online consolidators for booking travel, but for more personal help arranging air transport, you can contact Exito Travel at 1-800-655-4053 in the US or 1-800-670-2605 in Canada. They are very adept at putting flight itineraries together, to even the most far-flung places. More information can be found on Exito's website at www.exitotravel.com<\/a>.
Depending on your routing, it is necessary to depart from the US one or possibly two days prior to Day 1 of the trip itinerary. The name on your airline ticket must match the name on your passport exactly, and your passport must be valid for at least six months after your date of return to the US.
Please do not purchase your tickets until you are confirmed on the trip.<\/strong> Once your tickets have been purchased, please send us a copy of your airline schedule. It is your responsibility to ensure your flight times coordinate with the arrival and departure logistics for this trip.<\/p>","Custom_Extra_Hotel_Nights":"","Custom_Recommended_Hotels":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_1":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_1":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_2":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_5":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_5":"","Custom_Passport":"","Custom_Visas_and_Entry_Notes":"","Custom_Money":"","Custom_Tipping":"","Custom_Food":"","Custom_Communications":"","Custom_Electricity":"","Custom_Laundry":"","Custom_Ship_Notes":"","Custom_Inoculations":"","Custom_International_Health":"","Custom_Malaria_Prevention":"","Custom_Staying_Healthy":"","Custom_Getting_In_Shape":"","Custom_Medical_Care":"","Custom_Altitude_Considerations":"","Custom_Reading_List":"","Custom_Photography":"","Custom_Cultural_Considerations":"","Custom_Giving_Back":"","Custom_Enviromental_Concerns":"","Custom_Shopping_and_Souvenirs":"","Custom_Seasickness":"","Custom_Explore":"","Custom_Additional_Information":"","Custom_Essentials":"","Custom_Luggage":"","Custom_Clothing":"","Custom_Hiking_Boots":"","Custom_Equipment":"","Custom_Personal_First_Aid":"","Custom_Optional_Items":"","Custom_Also_Reccomended":"","Custom_Prohibited_Items":"","Custom_When_to_Go":"","Custom_Children":"","Custom_Tag_Line":"Historic Levada Trails, Subtropical Forests, and a Legendary Wine","Custom_Lodging":"7 nights hotels","Custom_Meals":"All meals included except 1 lunch and 2 dinners","Custom_Activity":"","Custom_Difficulty":"5 hiking days on moderate to strenuous trails, some steep sections, 2-7 hours a day","Custom_Currency_Exchange_Rate":"","Custom_Fuel_Surcharge":"","Custom_Signing_Up_For_a_Trip_-_Email":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_This_Year":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_Next_Year":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like":"This trip is rated Level 3+, Moderate to Strenuous<\/strong>, according to our trip grading system. We have five hiking days, varying from 2-7 hours of hiking a day. The 8-hour hike on Day 5 is strenuous; the trail is quite narrow and steep in places, with precipitous drop-offs and a degree of exposure. Please note that our daily hiking activities are weather-dependent. Based on their many years of experience here, our Trip Leaders always have wonderful alternate plans.<\/body>","Custom_Terrain":"Two of our hikes are along levadas, where the paths are well maintained and there is minimal altitude gain or loss. Others are on well-defined but rocky trails and involve a few hundred feet of ascent and descent.","Custom_Getting_in_Shape":"","Custom_Weather":"Madeira is a subtropical island. The south coast is the warmest and driest area and the mountains, rising to over 6,000 feet, are the coolest and wettest. We can expect pleasant temperatures of 58 to 66\u00b0F at the coast, but cooler temperatures up in the mountains. April is the start of the dry season, but rain is always a possibility; the monthly average is two inches.","Custom_Accommodations":"All our hotels are chosen for their local history and central location. Because some of them are in historic buildings, the rooms may not conform to uniform standards, but we hope you will enjoy them for their charm and local color. Single rooms can be requested, but are not always available, due to the limited space in some of our hotels. If you require a single room, please make the request as early as possible. European single rooms are often smaller than US singles.","Custom_Cuisine":"","Custom_Transportation":"We travel the island by mini-bus, and the roads are very twisty in some places. The longest single drive is about one hour and 15 minutes.","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Header_1":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Text_1":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Header_2":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Text_2":"","Custom_Trip_Level_Note_1":"","Custom_Trip_Level_Note_2":"","System_Choosing_the_Right_Trip":"Adventure travel often involves exotic destinations, unusual loris of physical exertion, or activities you ma not have participated in previously. We work hard to help you choose the right trip for you, paying attention to your individual interests, abilities, and needs. If you have questions about the level of comfort or any of the activities described in this itinerary, please call Wilderness Travel at 1-800-368-2794 and ask for the<\/p>","System_References":"
We'd be happy to put you in touch with a past client that has traveled with us on this trip.<\/p>","System_Visit_Our_Website":"
At customercases.petitserif.com<\/a>, you can find out about added departures, last-minute deals, and special WT Expeditions that aren't listed in our catalog. You can also access a complete library of our detailed itineraries and browse the customized reading guides for each of our adventures.<\/p>","System_Helpful_Links":"Wilderness Travel has compiled a list of useful websites for travelers. Find the Toucan Club tab on the home page of our website and choose Helpful Links: customercases.petitserif.com\/ toucan\/links<\/a>.<\/p>","System_About_Private_Journeys":"Wilderness Travel Private Journeys are designed for people who want to travel with their own small private group, but who still want to experience the same superb itinerary design, great accommodations, and signature quality of Wilderness Travel's escorted group trips. These Private Journeys allow you to choose your own dates and your traveling companions -- even if it's just the two of you -- yet still enjoy a guided adventure.<\/p>","System_About_New_Trips":"","System_Social_Media":"
SOCIAL MEDIA:<\/strong> We invite you to share your adventure with us on social media. Tag @wildernesstravel and we may even feature your content on our pages!<\/p>","System_If_You_Miss_Your_Flight":"IF YOU MISS YOUR FLIGHT<\/strong>
If you miss your flight or are otherwise delayed, contact our Wilderness Travel office, as well as our local partners, with your new flight information. Refer to the Emergency Contact Information listed in this Final Bulletin.<\/p>","System_Valid_Passport":"VALID PASSPORT:<\/strong> Check that your passport is valid for at least six months from the last day of your trip, and that you have at least two blank pages for any necessary visa or entry and exit stamps.<\/p>","System_Insurance_Policy":"INSURANCE POLICY:<\/strong> If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan, you should have received an email confirmation of your policy. Please bring a digital or printed copy of this policy with you. If you cannot find your email confirmation, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com. If you have not purchased Travelex insurance already, you have the option to do so up to 24 hours prior to your departure.<\/p>","System_Covid-19_Travel_Requirements":"COVID-19 TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:<\/strong> Please double-check COVID-19 entry requirements for any countries you may be traveling to or transiting through, on this website: apply.joinsherpa.com\/travel-restrictions<\/a><\/p>","System_Pre-Trip_Safety":"PRE-TRIP SAFETY:<\/strong> In the next weeks, we encourage you to do everything possible to stay healthy. Please practice social distancing, steer clear of potential COVID-19 exposure, and take an at-home antigen or lab based PCR test before you depart.<\/p>","System_Wilderness_Travel_Office":"Our office in Berkeley, California can be reached at 510-558-2488, or by email at info@petitserif.com. We are available during regular business hours (M-F, 8:30 am-5:00 pm, PST). <\/p>","System_ECI_Travel_Insurance":"
If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan through Wilderness Travel, please remember to bring your Confirmation of Coverages (COC) with you on the trip, including your Plan Number and important emergency contact information.<\/p>
If you've purchased a travel protection plan on your own, we recommend that you bring a copy of your policy, including all coverages, with you on your trip.<\/p>","System_Face_Masks_and_Hand_Sanitizer":"","System_DidNotPurchase_Insurance":"
Travel Insurance: We recommend that you purchase travel insurance for this trip. For your convenience, we offer Travelex travel protection. Please let us know if you would like us to add the Travelex Travel Protection Plan to this final invoice. You can learn more about the policy on our website<\/a>.<\/p>","System_Purchased_Insurance":"Please remember to bring a copy of your Travelex Confirmation of Coverage and State Specific Policy with you on your trip. You should have received an email directly from Travelex with these documents. If you need this email to be re-sent, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com.
","System_Questions?":"Our Area Specialists are you single point of contact and would be happy to answer any questions about yout trip!
800.368.2794 | 510.558.2488<\/p>","System_Travel_Insurance":"