Madeira Waterfalls: The Best Waterfalls in Atlantic Utopia
Last updated: 14 February 2021 | Guides, Portugal
Madeira island and its waterfalls have a sort of unbreakable bond so to say. Probably you are wondering what I mean by that… Well, let’s just say that the island of Madeira is just full of waterfalls… EVERYWHERE! Trust me, wherever you look, you will spot a waterfall 👀. It is inevitable…
Madeira waterfalls are some of the most magnificent and jaw-dropping waterfalls in the Atlantic Ocean. Their height, which is usually over 100 meters makes them one of the most gigantic waterfalls around.
Usually, getting to the waterfalls is not difficult at all. In fact, it is usually quite easy, but requires lots of walking. It is also unlikely to get lost, as most of the trails leading to these beautiful waterfalls follow a centuries old irrigation channels called levada. These levadas were providing fresh water to the locals directly from the waterfalls of the island. Most of these irrigation channels were built during the 15th century by the settlers of Madeira. Some are still used as the main source of water in some parts of the island.
Although, Madeira waterfalls are almost everywhere and can be easily found, there are a couple of waterfalls that are worth a visit for sure. Thus, I have curated a detailed list of all the waterfalls of Madeira along with some useful information for visiting them…
Madeira Waterfalls Map
Risco Waterfall in Madeira
Although, there might be taller or more magnificent waterfalls in Madeira, Portugal, Risco waterfall is probably the most notable waterfall. This jaw-dropping waterfall is guaranteeing to blow your mind with its beauty.
Risco waterfall has two major cascades, which create the illusion there are two separate waterfalls. In fact, the waterfall consists of Lagoa do Vent, which falls into a lower waterfall and creates the enchanting Risco waterfall.
The hiking trail to Risco waterfall is for sure one of the journeys you should embark on. You are guaranteed to fall in love with the island of Madeira, which is entirely covered by the magical Laurisilva vegetation. While on your levada walk to the waterfall you will get to witness some of the most breathtaking views of the Rabaçal valley…
Risco Waterfall Overview:
📋 Height: 20 m
⛅ Best time to visit: March, April, May
📍 Location: Lombo Do Doutor, Madeira, Portugal
🏞️ Best Way to Get There: PR 6.1 Levada do Risco
⭐ Rating: 5/5
See Also: Best Hikes in Madeira
25 Fontes Waterfall in Madeira
While exploring the surrounding area around Rabaçal and Risco waterfall many go to the 25 Fontes waterfall too. Although, the 25 Fontes in Madeira lies in the shadow of the mighty Risco waterfall, it does not mean it is not as beautiful as its big brother. In fact, 25 Fontes, or the 25 Springs waterfall is even more enchanting and magical than Risco.
It is surrounded by lush Laurisilva vegetation, which has occupied its den and is thriving along with the waterfall. You will be stunned by its beautiful inhabitants – the little Canaries flying around and chirping, which creates an incredible feeling for every visitor.
Although many visitors would go for a dip in the pool of the 25 Fontes waterfall, I would not suggest it. The waterfall is surrounded by thick Laurisilva vegetation, which prevents its water from warming up. Thus, if you take a dip, there is a huge chance of you not enjoy it, due to the very cold water… 🥶
25 Fontes Waterfall Overview:
📋 Height: 30 m
⛅ Best time to visit: All year round
📍 Location: Lombo Do Doutor, Madeira, Portugal
🏞️ Best Way to Get There: PR 6 Levada das 25 Fontes
⭐ Rating: 5/5
Levada do Alecrim Waterfalls in Madeira
If you didn’t have enough of the waterfalls in the Rabaçal valley, then you can follow the easy hiking trail of Levada do Alecrim. It is full of waterfalls of all sizes, but don’t expect grandiose ones.
The good thing about the waterfalls of the Levada do Alecrim is that the waterfalls are quite small, but incredibly picturesque. In addition to that, in summer months, people come here to have a nice and refreshing bath in their huge ponds. In general, don’t expect anything spectacular, at least until you reach the Lagoa do Vento, which feeds Risco waterfalls and gives an incredible view over the valley.
Levada do Alecrim Waterfalls Overview:
📋 Height: 3-10 m
⛅ Best time to visit: April, May, June, September, October
📍 Location: Lombo Do Doutor, Madeira, Portugal
🏞️ Best Way to Get There: PR 6.2 Levada do Alecrim
⭐ Rating: 4/5
Levada Nova Waterfalls in Madeira
If you want to walk over a pathway surrounded by waterfalls and a great view, then you should definitely head to Levada Nova. This hiking trail is one of the most waterfallish levada walks in Madeira, which will amaze you with its waterfalls of all sizes and types.
The Levada Nova starts in the upper hills of the parish of Ponta Do Sol and goes through the ridge between Ponta Do Sol and Tabua. While walking on it, one can enjoy the beautiful views of the valleys and mountains surrounding the trail. Moreover, you will get the chance to explore the cultures of the island of Madeira, as the trail goes through many farmlands on the southern part of the island.
Levada Nova Waterfalls Overview:
📋 Height: 8 – 15 m
⛅ Best time to visit: April, May, June
📍 Location: Ponta do Sol, Madeira, Portugal
🏞️ Best Way to Get There: Levada do Moinho to Levada Nova
⭐ Rating: 4/5
Anjos Waterfall in Madeira
Cascata dos Anjos is for sure one of the most prominent waterfalls in Madeira. Many of the locals would joke that “if you need a carwash you should go to Cascata dos Anjos and wash it for free”. Well, this is sort of true. It is for free. But so is the view, especially during sunset…
The best way to get to Anjos waterfall is to drive from Ribeira Brava to Madalena do Mar on road VE3. Then, get on road ER101 continuing to Madalena do Mar and you will see it!
Anjos Waterfall Overview:
📋 Height: 30 m
⛅ Best time to visit: April, May, June, September, October, November
📍 Location: Ponta do Sol, Madeira, Portugal
🏞️ Best Way to Get There: Drive from Ribeira Brava to Madalena do Mar road(VE3) then swipe to road ER101
⭐ Rating: 4/5
Caldeirão Verde Waterfalls in Madeira
In the north of the island is one of the most serene Madeira waterfalls that can be found on the island. The Caldeirão Verde Waterfall is one of the tallest, but quietest waterfalls on the island and probably that is why there are not many visitors. Regardless, this is one of the most beautiful waterfalls on the island and is surely worth a visit.
Going to the waterfall is one of the best things you can do while resting on the island of Madeira. The hiking trail of Caldeirão Verde Waterfall is pretty straightforward and flat, so there is no chance of you getting tired or lost. On top of that, if is quite spacious and offers great views of the surrounding Laurissilva forests.
Caldeirão Verde Waterfall Overview:
📋 Height: 100 m
⛅ Best time to visit: All year round
📍 Location: Santana, Madeira, Portugal
🏞️ Best Way to Get There: PR9 – Caldeirão Verde
⭐ Rating: 5/5
Garganta Funda Waterfall in Madeira
Garganta Funda is probably the most secret and highest of all the Madeira waterfalls. Hidden deep into the farmlands near Calheta, it is usually very hard to be found. However, Garganta Funda is for sure one of the loudest waterfalls on the island, so it is not so hard to find it.
Good thing is that the hiking trail is not so long, so in no time you will be there and enjoy the beautiful view over the Atlantic Ocean and the waterfalls that falls into it.
Garganta Funda Waterfall Overview:
📋 Height: 140 m
⛅ Best time to visit: April, May, June, September, October, Novemeber
📍 Location: Ribeira Da Vaca, Madeira, Portugal
🏞️ Best Way to Get There: Vereda da Garganta Funda
⭐ Rating: 4/5
Agua D’Alto Waterfall in Madeira
The Alto waterfall is one of the best waterfalls in Madeira island. It is easy to be found, does not require lots of hiking and is simply astonishing.
As you can imagine, the Alto waterfall is surrounded by lush Laurisilva vegetation and is hidden deep into the thick forests of the north. However, a nice pathway leads directly to the waterfall and does not take more than 20 minutes of walking. Having this in mind, you can easily visit the Caldeirao Verde waterfall and then the Alto waterfall…
Alto Waterfall Overview:
📋 Height: 100 m
⛅ Best time to visit: April, May, June
📍 Location: Faial, Madeira, Portugal
🏞️ Best Way to Get There: From Lombo Galego village go up the hills and follow the pathway
⭐ Rating: 4/5
Véu da Noiva Waterfall in Madeira
Veu da Noiva waterfall or the Bridal Veil waterfall is situated in the north coast of Madeira island at the end of Seixal parish. This graceful waterfall is attracting many vista lovers to its viewpoints all the time and is one of the highlights on the island.
Unfortunately, there is no way to get near to the waterfall, unless you ride a boat to it. However, its viewpoint provides an unique way to observe it and brings the magic close to its visitors.
The Veu da Noiva waterfalls is just 10 minutes away from Porto Moniz natural swimming pools where you can take a refreshing dip! Make sure to visit them too 🏊 Or if you want to sunbathe check how to easily get to Porto Santo’s beaches 🏖️
Veu da Noiva Waterfall Overview:
📋 Height: 30 m
⛅ Best time to visit: April, May, June
📍 Location: Seixal, Madeira, Portugal
🏞️ Best Way to Get There: Miradouro do Veu da Noiva Viewpoint
⭐ Rating: 4/5
Caminho Real Waterfalls in Madeira
The Caminho Real is generally known as the “Royal Path”, since it was mainly used by landed gentry passing through the island. Nowadays, the route is mainly used by tourists who are yearning to see its tiny waterfalls and breathtaking vistas.
This hiking trail is one of the best ways to explore the Nun’s valley – a mystical closed city inhabited by refugee nuns from the Santa Clara Convent. In addition, you can encounter the Madeiran mahogany and the Lily of the valley trees.
Caminho Real Waterfalls Overview:
📋 Height: 5-10 m
⛅ Best time to visit: April, May, June
📍 Location: Jardim da Serra, Madeira, Portugal
🏞️ Best Way to Get There: PR12 Caminho Real da Encumeada
⭐ Rating: 5/5
Where to stay in Madeira?
Madeira is a very populated island with a huge stream of tourists on a yearly basis. This makes the island one of the best places to have a vacation. Having this in mind, there is abundance of hotels, hostels, guest houses, campings and all sorts of accommodations. Of course, during the high season most of the places are taken, but you will never be left without a bed!
However, the best area to stay in Madeira is in its western part. Away from the big city, closer to the hiking trails and offering peace and quiet in abundance! Thus, you might want to look for accommodation in Calheta, Porto Moniz, Sao Vicente or Ponta Delgada.
To make your search for accommodation in Madeira easier I have prepared a list of the highest rated stays depending on your preferences:
Budget Accommodation
Value for Money Accommodation
Luxury Accommodation
Madeira Waterfall Tours
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Hi, I'm Alex. For the past years, I have extensively travelled around Europe. In 2019 I have moved to Portugal where I spent a couple of months learning about the Portuguese culture, traditions and language. My speciality is mainly in travelling in a sustainable and less harmful to the environment way. I am focusing more on ways to travel on a budget or money-for-value.
I hope that you found this blog post about Madeira’s waterfalls useful. Did you have the chance to visit any of them?
Which waterfall is your favourite?