PR6 + PR6.1 — 25 Fontes & Risco Levada (Transfer + Self-Guided Hike)
Full-day self-guided hike from Rabaçal to the 25 Fontes and Risco waterfalls with roundtrip transfer from central Funchal. Includes hike instructions, digital map and air-conditioned vehicle. Moderate difficulty — approx. 10 km hiking (5 h) within an 8-hour day.
In Collaboration with Do It Madeira. Updated on February 13, 2026.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Do It Madeira, inspired by the tour PR6 + PR6.1. 25 Fontes & Risco Levada Hiking Transfer. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Levada das 25 Fontes — iconic cascade and lagoon
- Risco waterfall viewpoint
- Laurissilva forest scenery and endemic flora
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Itinerary
Day 1
Morning pickup in Funchal, transfer to Rabaçal, self-guided PR6 + PR6.1 hike to 25 Fontes & Risco, short rest and return transfer to central Funchal.
Meet & Quick briefing — central Funchal pickup
Meet your driver at a central city location for a 10–15 minute pickup briefing: weather update, safety tips, and digital map handed over. Driver will confirm drop-off options for return.
Tips from local experts:
- Agree a WhatsApp contact with the driver before pickup so the group can coordinate if anyone is running late.
- Bring light daypacks: you’ll leave larger luggage at the vehicle — group-friendly seating available in the minivan.
- Charge phones fully overnight; driver can confirm mobile-signal expectations and the best place for last-minute toilet stops.
Scenic transfer to Rabaçal
Air-conditioned drive from central Funchal up to the Rabaçal valley (Paul da Serra area). Relax, enjoy coastal-to-mountain views and a short restroom/stretch break if needed en route.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the left side of the van for better coastal views heading out of Funchal — great group photo opportunity.
- If anyone gets travel-sick, ask the driver for a short stop; ginger sweets or motion-sickness bracelets can help on winding mountain roads.
- Use this time to double-check footwear and refill water bottles — there are limited facilities once you arrive.
Hike PR6 + PR6.1 — Levada das 25 Fontes & Risco (self-guided)
Begin the 25 Fontes & Risco loop through ancient Laurissilva forest. Follow the levada paths to the Lagoa das 25 Fontes and the Risco cascade — approx. 10 km and ~5 hours of moderate hiking on mostly well-maintained levada paths.
- MondayOpen 24 hours
- TuesdayOpen 24 hours
- WednesdayOpen 24 hours
- ThursdayOpen 24 hours
- FridayOpen 24 hours
- SaturdayOpen 24 hours
- SundayOpen 24 hours
Tips from local experts:
- Bring at least 1.5–2 L water per person and salty snacks; share snacks among the group — a good way to bond and keep energy up.
- Bring a portable power bank and small tripod/monopod for group shots at the Lagoa das 25 Fontes — morning/early afternoon light is great for photos.
- Stay on marked levada paths and keep noise moderate to avoid disturbing wildlife; the trail can be narrow in spots, so keep the group in single file.
Relax & picnic break at Lagoa das 25 Fontes (short rest)
Short 30-minute stop to rest, snack, take photos and, if weather permits, paddle at the lagoon edge. Use coins for the nearby WC if needed and enjoy the waterfall backdrop.
- MondayOpen 24 hours
- TuesdayOpen 24 hours
- WednesdayOpen 24 hours
- ThursdayOpen 24 hours
- FridayOpen 24 hours
- SaturdayOpen 24 hours
- SundayOpen 24 hours
Tips from local experts:
- Carry small euros (coins) for the forest WC (usually 0.5–1 EUR) — split costs among friends to avoid fumbling.
- Keep a small waterproof bag for electronics if you plan near-water photos; friends can trade off for safety in taking group shots on slippery rocks.
- If you pre-packed sandwiches or tapas, this is a great social moment — spread a light picnic and swap favourite bites.
Return transfer to Funchal & drop-off
Drive back to central Funchal with drop-off at a central meeting point. Use this time to cool down, share photos from the day and get tips from the driver on evening plans.
Tips from local experts:
- Tip the driver in cash if they helped with gear or provided local tips — drivers appreciate it and it’s common practice.
- If you plan to hit Funchal nightlife, ask the driver for a recommended bar or live-music spot nearby; they usually know the best local hangouts.
- Rinse off or change at your accommodation before heading out; many hostels/hotels have luggage storage if you want to go straight for dinner.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 3 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 3 |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 2 |
| Total Places | 2 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Outdoor, Break |