Levada Hike Faial Island: Wet Passages & Tunnel

Walk an old water channel where the jungle closes in around you

A private hike along the Levada on Faial Island follows an abandoned water line through terrain so overgrown it feels prehistoric. You'll encounter wet passages and a short dark tunnel on a route that takes 3 to 4 hours, with the return on the same path. Transport, liability and accident insurance, and a picnic with snacks and drinks are included. A live guide speaks English, French, German or Hungarian.

The experience

The Levada itself is the draw here: an old irrigation channel carved into the landscape, now reclaimed by vegetation so thick it blocks out the sky. The hike is physically easy, but the terrain demands attention: wet sections require careful footing, and a short tunnel passage means ducking into darkness before emerging back into the overgrown channel. You'll walk the same route back, so the day unfolds as a single immersive stretch rather than a loop.

Transport to the trailhead is included, as is liability and personal accident insurance. A picnic with snacks and drinks breaks up the walk, and your guide (fluent in English, French, German or Hungarian) navigates the route and handles logistics. The hike runs 3 to 4 hours depending on pace and conditions. Weather doesn't stop it. The Levada is walkable even when rain has fallen.

Children from age 5 can join. The operator notes that the hike suits travelers with at least moderate fitness. It's not recommended for pregnant travelers or anyone with cardiovascular concerns. Book for the group size you're traveling with: the options run from one adult up to six.

What’s included

• Private transportation to and from the trailhead.
• liability insurance and personal accident insurance.
• an air-conditioned vehicle for transport.
• a picnic with snacks and drinks during the hike.

Options for this experience

6 options

4 adultsUp to 4 per booking · Guide in 4 languages · Available from 13 Nov · 09:00 and 14:00Includes pickup

5 adultsUp to 5 per booking · Guide in 4 languages · Available from 13 Nov · 09:00 and 14:00Includes pickup

6 adultsUp to 6 per booking · Guide in 4 languages · Available from 13 Nov · 09:00 and 14:00Includes pickup

See 3 more options

2 adultsUp to 2 per booking · Guide in 4 languages · Available from 13 Nov · 09:00 and 14:00Includes pickup

3 adultsUp to 3 per booking · Guide in 4 languages · Available from 13 Nov · 09:00 and 14:00Includes pickup

1 adultUp to 1 per booking · Guide in 4 languages · Available from 13 Nov · 09:00 and 14:00Includes pickup

You pick the guide language when booking.

You'll see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates and prices

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDepartures at 09:00 and 14:00

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (13 to 70 years) · Child (5 to 12 years) · Under 5: can't be booked

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish, French, German and Hungarian

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.You can choose from 14 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 9 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problems

Operated by Visitfaial

Is this one for you?Choose this if you prefer a private walk where your pace controls the itinerary, and you want your guide speaking your language throughout the 3–4 hour hike.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English, French, German and Hungarian.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (5 to 12 years). Children under 5 can't be included in the booking.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What exactly is the Levada and why does it feel so different from a regular forest trail?

The Levada is an abandoned water channel that once carried irrigation water across the island. Because it's sunken and lined with vegetation, walking it feels enclosed and primordial: the overgrown banks and tunnel passage create an atmosphere you won't find on open hillside trails.

How wet do the passages actually get, and what should I wear on my feet?

The wet sections require careful footing but are manageable with proper footwear. Waterproof hiking boots or shoes with good grip are essential. The operator includes insurance but not specific gear, so come prepared for damp conditions and slippery surfaces.

Is the dark tunnel something I need to be nervous about?

The tunnel is short and part of the standard route. It's dark enough to need a moment for your eyes to adjust, but your guide leads the way and the passage is brief. If tight spaces or darkness cause significant anxiety, mention it when booking so the guide can prepare you.

Can I do this hike if the weather looks uncertain?

Yes. The operator specifically notes the Levada is walkable even when weather is not perfect. Rain actually adds to the experience: the channel drains quickly and the vegetation is lush partly because of the moisture. Dress for wet conditions and the hike proceeds as planned.