Seven Trails, Including Ponta de São Lourenço, to Charge €3 Fee
Starting in January 2025, tourists visiting seven of Madeira’s most popular hiking trails, including the stunning Ponta de São Lourenço, will be required to pay a €3 entrance fee. Other trails that will introduce this charge include Caldeirão Verde, Levada dos Balcões, Levada do Risco, Levada do Rei, PR1 Pico do Arieiro, PR 1.2 Pico Ruivo - some of the island’s busiest routes.
Goal: Protect Nature and Manage Crowds
The new fee is part of an effort to protect Madeira’s natural beauty while managing the increasing number of visitors. Officials plan to use the revenue to maintain the trails and encourage visitors to explore less crowded, free-to-access paths. This is meant to reduce the strain on the most popular spots and ensure sustainable tourism.
Madeira Forest Tax May Replace Fees in 2026
Looking ahead to 2026, the regional government is considering replacing individual trail fees with a general forest tax. This tax would apply to all visitors, whether they hike or not, and help fund conservation efforts across the island. The idea is still under discussion, but it could provide a more comprehensive way to support Madeira’s environmental work.
Paid Parking Under Consideration
Paid parking may also be introduced at some popular tourist sites, including Ponta de São Lourenço and Ribeiro Frio. The government hopes this will encourage visitors to use organized tours or alternative transportation, easing traffic and preserving local infrastructure. Private operators will likely manage these parking areas.
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