Coasteering in Madeira: Cliff Jumping & Scrambling Tour

Scramble, swim and jump your way down a volcanic coastline

Coasteering in Madeira combines cliff jumping, swimming, scrambling, rappelling and cave exploration along the dramatic Ponta de São Lourenço peninsula on the southeast coast. The 4-hour activity mixes water and rock scrambling with optional jumps from 1 to 10 meters, guided by expert instructors in multiple languages. All safety gear, life jacket, helmet and rappel equipment are provided, plus GoPro video and photos of the day.

The Experience

Four hours of movement along Madeira's volcanic shore means you're climbing, swimming and jumping instead of walking a trail. The route follows the rugged lava and rock faces of Ponta de São Lourenço, where the coastline drops into clear Atlantic water and hidden caves punctuate the cliffs. You'll scramble over uneven terrain, swim between rock formations, dive into pools, and explore sea caves as the mountain backdrop rises behind you. The guide leads the way and teaches technique at each transition — how to rappel down a face, where to grip the rock, how to enter the water safely from height.

Cliff jumps range from 1 to 10 meters, and you choose which ones suit your nerve. Smaller jumps let you test the water and your own comfort; taller ones are there if you want them. The guide watches each jump and adjusts the route based on the group's pace and confidence. You wear a life jacket throughout, a helmet for the scrambling sections, and rappel gear when the descent is vertical. Water and snacks appear at natural rest points, and a GoPro captures the day so you have footage and photos without stopping to take them yourself.

The activity suits anyone from age 7 upward who can swim and move on uneven ground; no prior climbing or jumping experience is needed. The guide speaks English, Spanish, Portuguese, French or another language depending on the group, and hotel pickup is included in the booking. Children under 1.20 meters tall are not permitted due to the fit of safety gear and the terrain itself.

What’s included

• Expert guide in your choice of English, Spanish, Portuguese, French or another language.
• life jacket, helmet and rappel gear.
• water and snacks throughout the 4 hours.
• GoPro video and photos of the day.
• hotel pickup and return.

Good to know

Easy physical levelInfant seats availableNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Discovery Island Madeira

Is this one for you?This is a shared group activity with a guide leading the route and teaching technique at each stage, which suits anyone who wants the instruction and company but also wants to move at their own pace within the group. If you prefer to jump only the heights you choose and explore at a rhythm that matches your comfort, the optional jumps and flexible route work well; if you need a completely private experience or want to set the entire itinerary yourself, a shared coasteering tour is not the format for that.

Traveler reviews

4.95★★★★★★★★★★

78 verified traveler reviews

5 ★75

4 ★2

3 ★1

2 ★0

1 ★0

Read all the reviews ›

Top questions

What exactly is coasteering and how is it different from rock climbing or snorkeling?

Coasteering blends both: you scramble over rock faces and cliffs like a climber, swim and dive like a snorkeler, and jump from height into the water. The activity follows the shoreline itself rather than a single rock wall or a boat route, so you're constantly moving between land and sea, exploring caves and natural features as you go.

Can I choose not to do the cliff jumps if I'm not comfortable with them?

Yes. The jumps range from 1 to 10 meters and are optional — you decide which heights suit you. The guide adjusts the route so you can skip the taller jumps and still complete the full 4-hour activity with all the swimming, scrambling and rappelling.

What is Ponta de São Lourenço like as a location for this activity?

Ponta de São Lourenço is a natural park on Madeira's southeast coast known for dramatic volcanic cliffs, clear water and rugged terrain. The peninsula juts into the Atlantic with mountains rising behind it, creating the scenic backdrop for the route. The water clarity and rock formations make it ideal for the mix of climbing, swimming and cave exploration the activity involves.

What gear and safety equipment do I need to bring, and what's provided?

You bring swimwear and water shoes or grip socks; everything else is supplied. The operator provides a life jacket, helmet, rappel gear, water and snacks. GoPro video and photos are also included, so you don't need to manage a camera during the activity.

How long does the activity take and what time does it start?

The coasteering tour runs 4 hours. Hotel pickup is included, so the guide collects you from your accommodation and brings you back after the activity ends.

Are there age or fitness requirements I should know about?

Children must be at least 7 years old and taller than 1.20 meters to participate. The activity suits all fitness levels, but you need to be comfortable swimming and moving on uneven, slippery rock. It is not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, poor cardiovascular health, or pregnancy.