From 2025, non-residents visiting Madeira will be required to pay a fee to hike on over 30 routes on the Portuguese archipelago. This new charge is part of an effort towards sustainable tourism and the proceeds will be used to fund conservation efforts in the region. Currently, the fee applies to seven of the most popular trails, but it will be expanded to all recommended routes starting in 2025. Madeira’s regional secretary of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Environment, Rafaela Fernandes, explains that the charge is necessary to protect the natural landscapes of the area and manage the increasing number of tourists.
Tourists over the age of 12 who are non-residents will be required to pay a €3 fee to hike on Madeira’s trails, including popular routes such as Pico do Areeiro, Levada do Risco, and Ponta de São Lourenço. Failure to pay may result in fines of up to €50. Payment can be made through the regional government portal, Simplifica, or at on-site payment options at ICNF stations along many of the trails. The introduction of this fee is aimed at managing the flow of visitors, especially during peak hiking seasons, and to support trail maintenance, cleaning, and preservation efforts in Madeira.
All profits generated from the new tourist fee will be invested back into maintaining and conserving the hiking trails in Madeira. This initiative comes as the region experiences a surge in tourism, and the trail charge is seen as a way to help protect the natural landscape while accommodating the increasing number of visitors. Madeira’s authorities have launched an awareness campaign to inform tourists about the fee and its purpose, with many visitors appreciating the importance of supporting conservation efforts through their contribution. The move is part of a broader strategy to ensure the sustainability of tourism in the region while safeguarding its natural beauty.
The introduction of the hiking fee reflects a growing trend towards sustainable tourism practices in popular travel destinations. By charging non-residents to hike on the island’s trails, Madeira aims to strike a balance between welcoming tourists and preserving its natural environment. The funds collected from this fee will enable ongoing trail maintenance, cleaning, and conservation projects that will benefit both locals and visitors alike. Additionally, the awareness campaign launched by Madeira’s authorities underscores the importance of educating tourists about the reasons behind the fee and how their contributions can make a positive impact on the region.
As the hiking fee in Madeira takes effect in 2025, non-residents planning to visit the Portuguese archipelago should be prepared to pay the €3 fee to access the designated hiking trails. By doing so, visitors not only contribute to the preservation of the island’s natural landscapes but also help manage the increasing tourism flow in the region. With proper funding allocated towards trail maintenance and conservation efforts, Madeira can ensure the sustainability of its tourism industry while safeguarding its unique ecosystem for generations to come. Ultimately, the introduction of the hiking fee represents a proactive step towards protecting the environment and promoting responsible tourism practices in Madeira.
