New rules for hiking on Madeira

Planning to go hiking on Madeira? You’ve probably heard that starting January 1, 2026, new rules will apply to the popular PR routes. This means you will need to consider time slots, online reservations, and sometimes advance payments. In this post, we’ll explain exactly what you need to know.

What’s changing?

In short, Madeira is introducing a better system for hiking because some trails are heavily visited every day. Therefore:

• You will need to reserve a time slot.

• For many routes, advance payment is required.

• Everything is handled through the official SIMplifica platform.

• These rules apply to all official PR routes.

Which routes require payment?

Many hiking trails on Madeira will still be free to explore, but a large portion of the popular PR routes will have an entrance fee. Why? These trails are often heavily visited and environmentally sensitive, and the contribution helps protect nature while keeping hiking safe and enjoyable. Examples include:

• PR1 – Vereda do Areeiro

• PR1.2 – Pico Ruivo

• PR6.1 – Risco

• PR8 – São Lourenço

• PR9 – Caldeirão Verde

• PR11 – Balcões

• PR18 – Levada do Rei
  … and more

Children up to 12 years old usually do not have to pay, but sometimes a reservation is still required.

Important: the 48-hour rule (or you lose your spot)

• If your reservation is not paid on time, it will be automatically cancelled.

• This happens 48 hours before your scheduled hike.

So the rule is simple: reserve → pay → done. If you don’t, your spot will be released and you’ll need to book again (if availability remains).

How to reserve a time slot?

All reservations are handled through SIMplifica, the official platform of the Madeiran government. 

Here’s how it works:

1. Go to the SIMplifica portal: Click here

2. Log in or create an account

3. Select the route you want to hike

4. Choose a date and time slot

5. Pay your ticket (if required)

6. You will receive a digital confirmation – showing it on your phone is fine

Tip: For popular routes like Pico do Areeiro → Pico Ruivo, it’s wise to book early. You can reserve from 30 days in advance up until the day of the hike, but top dates fill up quickly.

New 2026 fees for Madeira’s most popular hiking routes

Starting January 1, 2026, the prices for PR routes will change:

• General visitors: minimum €4.50 per person

• PR1 – Pico do Areeiro → Pico Ruivo: €10.50 for visitors without the IFCN protocol

• Madeira residents: Free and no reservation required