Madeira Canyoning: Beginner Adventure with Funchal Pickup

Summary

Canyoning fun for beginners in Madeira’s lush valleys with local guides

You’ll hike through Madeira’s forests with expert guides before canyoning down waterfalls—jumping into clear pools and sliding natural rock chutes along the way. All equipment is included (wetsuit, helmet, harness), plus pickup from Funchal at CR7 Museum for a relaxed start. Expect laughter, encouragement from locals, and memories that stick long after you’ve dried off.

What’s the experience like?

“Don’t worry, you’ll love the first jump — it’s not as high as it looks,” Pedro grinned as he handed me the helmet outside the CR7 Museum in Funchal. I didn’t know if I believed him, but his laugh was contagious and somehow made the nerves a bit less sharp. The van ride out of town was short, maybe half an hour, and I kept catching glimpses of green hills through the window. The air smelled different up there — wet leaves, something sweet from the forest floor.

We hiked maybe ten minutes to reach the canyon’s mouth, boots squelching a little on muddy roots. Our group was small — just me, a German couple who kept joking about their “canyon fashion”, and two guides. Pedro showed us how to use the harness and ropes; he made it look easy, but my hands were clumsy at first. When we finally slid down that first natural toboggan (my heart thumping), cold water rushed up my back and I yelped loud enough that everyone laughed. The water was so clear you could see your toes wriggling under the surface.

Jumping into those pools… honestly, I hesitated. But Pedro just nodded — not pushy, just patient — so I did it. There was this split second of weightlessness before hitting the water that I still think about when I close my eyes at night. We rappelled down seven waterfalls in total, each one a bit different — some smooth rock under your fingers, some mossy and slick. At one spot we could repeat jumps as much as we wanted; I went twice because why not? My wetsuit felt heavy by then but also sort of protective, like armor against my own doubts.

The walk back was short but nobody said much — tired legs, big smiles. Back in Funchal, Pedro showed us some photos he’d snapped along the way (I look ridiculous mid-jump). It wasn’t just about adrenaline or even canyoning itself; it felt more like letting go for a morning and trusting these people who knew every stone and current by heart.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Beginner canyoning adventure in Madeira

• Pick up from CR7 Museum, Funchal
• Arrive at canyon starting point
• Receive equipment and safety briefing
• Descend seven waterfalls by rappel
• Slide down natural toboggan
• Jump into crystal-clear pool repeatedly
• Walk 10 minutes back to start
• Return to Funchal

Top questions

Is this canyoning tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, this Madeira canyoning adventure is designed for beginners with no prior experience needed.

Where does the tour start in Funchal?

The tour includes pickup from the CR7 Museum in central Funchal.

What equipment is provided for canyoning?

The tour provides wetsuit, helmet, harness, boots, and neoprene socks for all participants.

How long is the hike to reach the canyon?

The hike to reach the starting point of the canyon takes about 10 minutes.

Are professional photos or videos included?

Yes, professional photos and videos are included so you can relive your adventure later.

Is lunch or food included on this tour?

No meals are included; only equipment and transfers are provided.

How many waterfalls will we rappel down?

You’ll descend seven waterfalls using rappel techniques during this beginner canyoning tour.

Is this activity suitable for families?

This day trip is suitable for families or anyone looking for an easy introduction to canyoning in Madeira.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from Funchal’s CR7 Museum, all technical gear—wetsuit, helmet, harness, boots with neoprene socks—and guidance from certified local experts. You’ll also get professional photos and videos of your Madeira canyoning adventure before returning to town together at the end.