Important travel updates for Madeira
For everyone planning a hiking holiday on Madeira, it is important to be aware of some significant changes coming into effect soon. The island is implementing new measures to manage the growing number of visitors and protect its unique natural landscapes. Below you’ll find a clear overview of what to expect.
New Booking System for Popular Trails
Starting on the 1st of January 2026, access to the most popular walking routes, known as the PR trails, will require a prior reservation. This new system will be managed through the official online platform, Simplifica.
The key points are:
Time Slots: You will need to select and book a specific time slot for your walk.
Fee: A small contribution of €3 per person, per trail, will be applied.
Capacity: The number of people per day will be limited. If a trail is full, an alternative time or trail will need to be chosen.
The primary goals of this system are to distribute visitors more evenly throughout the day, enhance the overall experience by reducing overcrowding, and protect the sensitive ecosystem of the Laurissilva forest.
Residents of Madeira will maintain free access but are also required to use the booking system.
It is not yet clear how these rules will be enforced in practice. The island authorities also trust that visitors will understand the necessity of these measures and respectfully adhere to the new protocols.
A note for guided tours: If you plan to explore the trails with a licensed tour operator, they will manage the reservation and associated fees for you. Your spot will be secured as part of the tour package, so you don’t need to worry about the booking process yourself.
Planned Reopening of PR1 Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo
In positive news, the iconic PR1 trail between Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo, which has been closed since the wildfires of August 2024, is scheduled to reopen in April 2026.
Safety work and path restoration are ongoing. As always, it is advisable to verify the status directly on the official IFCN Madeira website before your visit, as timelines can be subject to change.
New Measures for Visiting Fanal
To preserve the ancient landscape of Fanal, which is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site, new protective regulations are being introduced gradually.
The changes will include:
The installation of fences and clearly marked paths to guide visitors.
Controlled access for both vehicles and pedestrians to manage numbers.
Increased monitoring by the IFCN.
A daily limit of 3,000 visitors to prevent mass tourism and soil erosion.
Final Considerations
These developments reflect a conscious effort to balance tourism with conservation. While it requires a bit more planning from visitors, the outcome is a more sustainable and preserved Madeira for the future.
Should you have any questions, please feel free to leave them in the comments or message me directly on Instagram @themadeiratravelista.
Kind regards,
Monica | The Madeira Travelista