Ribeiro Frio, Portela Walk

Skip the over crowded bus tours the cruise lines offer when you book this full day adventure excursion, that brings you up close and personal with the natural beauty of the Laurissilva forest.The ancient forest in Madeira is around 20 million years old and a natural UNESCO World Heritage site. During this 11 kilometers (6.84 miles), moderate walk from Ribeiro Frio to Portela, you will enter a magical forest, full of lush moss and a wide variety of plants and beautiful birds.Your fully qualified, local and knowledgeable mountain guide will lead you past Laurel, Mahogany, Barbusan and many other trees reaching up to 40 meters (131 feet) into the sky while sharing the forest's history and secrets with you. Keep an eye out for orchids and geraniums, as well as the endemic Trocaz pigeon as you walk along the levada and enjoy the peaceful ambience. The total time you will walk is approximately 4 hours.Go ahead, this is your chance to take a walk on the wild side when you book this small group tour that provides an intimate and up close experience in the countryside.