Rabaçal 25 Fonts levada walk: waterfalls and endemic species

Two levadas, one lagoon, an 800-meter tunnel carved through the mountain

A full-day walking tour in the Rabaçal valley follows two levadas—irrigation channels carved into the mountainside—starting from Paúl da Serra and descending to the Risco waterfall, then continuing to a lagoon formed by 25 springs. The walk takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes, with a guide identifying endemic species and explaining the history of the levada system. Air-conditioned vehicle transport is included, and guides speak English, Spanish, Portuguese, French and one additional language.

The Experience

The day starts in Paúl da Serra, a high plateau where the levada system begins. From there you descend into the Rabaçal valley on the first levada, a narrow water channel that runs along the mountainside. The path leads to the Risco waterfall, where water drops directly from the cliff face. The guide explains how these levadas were built centuries ago to carry water across the island's terrain, and points out the plants and animals found only in this region as you walk.

After the Risco waterfall, you continue on the second levada toward the lagoon of the 25 springs. The route passes through an 800-meter tunnel carved into the rock—a section that shows the scale of the engineering work that made these channels possible. The lagoon itself sits at the end of the valley, fed by the springs that give it its name. The walk covers about 4 hours and 30 minutes in total, with the guide stopping to discuss the endemic species of flora and fauna you encounter along the way.

The return journey retraces the same path back up to Paúl da Serra, where the air-conditioned vehicle is waiting. Pickup is included, so transport to and from the trailhead is arranged as part of the tour.

What’s included

• Air-conditioned vehicle transport.
• a guide speaking your choice of English, Spanish, Portuguese, French or the fifth available language.
• explanation of the levada system's history and the endemic species you encounter along both channels.

Good to know

Moderate physical levelInfant seats availableNot for heart conditionsNot for back problemsInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Madeira Free Spirit walks

Is this one for you?Book this tour if you want a full day of walking without arranging your own transport or navigation—the vehicle, the guide and the route are set, so you focus on the levadas and the valley itself.

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Top questions

What is a levada and why are they in the Rabaçal valley?

A levada is an irrigation channel built into the mountainside to carry water across terrain. The Rabaçal valley has two levadas that were constructed to distribute water, and walking them shows how the system works and the landscape it passes through.

How long is the walk and what is the physical demand?

The walk is about 4 hours and 30 minutes. Moderate physical fitness is recommended; the route involves descending into the valley and walking along narrow paths, though the guide sets the pace and stops to explain the surroundings.

Will I see waterfalls on this tour?

Yes. The Risco waterfall is the main waterfall on the route, where water drops directly from the cliff face. The lagoon of the 25 springs is also fed by water sources throughout the valley.

What languages does the guide speak?

The guide speaks English, Spanish, Portuguese, French and one additional language, so you can request the tour in your preferred language when booking.

Is transport included in the tour price?

Yes. An air-conditioned vehicle picks you up and brings you to Paúl da Serra at the start of the walk, then collects you at the end of the day for the return journey.