Levada Das 25 Fontes Hike & Risco Waterfall Madeira

The Levada das 25 Fontes hike is one of the most popular Levada walks on Madeira. It’s not a typical flat levada walk because there’s some incline involved. The hike starts in Rabaçal and leads via the valley into the forest where you’ll pass many waterfalls along the way. The two most impressive waterfalls (after rainfall) are Risco waterfall and the 25 fountains waterfall. This is the source of the levada which is where the name ’25 fountains’ comes from. Along the way you can admire a wide variety of different species of the flora and fauna of the region. Read in this blog post everything you need to know about the Levada das 25 Fontes hike and Risco waterfall, what to expect and much more!

Levada das 25 Fontes hike key facts

Before setting of to the Levada das 25 Fontes hike below some key facts!

Hike distance and duration: The total distance of the Levada das 25 Fontes hike is 11 kilometers (4.6 kilometers one way), but you can add or skip some parts of the route. You will mostly walk the same way back and forth, but there is an option to take another route. More about the different routes later. The total time this hike will take will be around 3 – 4 hours depending on your pace and how much time you take to enjoy the 25 fountains and other waterfalls along the way.

Difficulty and incline: Because the Levada das 25 Fontes hike is one of the most popular Levada walks on Madeira, the paths are well-maintained and clearly marked. There is only about 300 meters of incline on the stairs, which is not a big deal but you will feel it. For more detailed information about routes and hikes in Madeira you might want to use maps.me or the walkmeguide App.

How to get to Levada das 25 Fontes hike

The Levada das 25 Fontes hike is located in Rabaçal, a nature reserve in the southwest of the island. The main starting point of the hike is easy to reach with a huge parking lot.

Book here your rental car for Madeira

Book here your Levada das 25 Fontes guided tours

But there are actually two routes you can walk to end up at the 25 Fontes and Risco waterfall. They both have a separate parking lot and vary in difficulty and elevation.

Route 1: Rabaçal – Levada das 25 Fontes

This is the point from where most of the people will start the trail. Simply put ‘Levada das 25 Fontes’ in Google Maps and you will get there. From this point it is an out and back hike so you will hike the same way back to your car after exploring the 25 Fontes and Risco waterfall. This route has the most to offer because you can enjoy the beautiful green valley and several waterfalls along the way. But take into account that this part of the hike does have some stairs to conquer, although it is doable for most.

Route 2: Calheta tunnel – Levada das 25 Fontes

The other option starts at the parking of ER211 road and is also shown as ‘Rear exit – tunnel Levada das 25 Fontes’ on Google Maps. This route is a bit easier with less elevation. But it also doesn’t go along the valley and some other beautiful waterfalls. However, if you’re looking for an option to avoid the elevation, you can go via this route. But take into account that you have to go through an 800 meters dark tunnel. So you definitely want a flashlight or headlamp for this little adventure!

The tunnel at the Levada das 25 Fontes if you choose the ‘Calheta tunnel’ route.

Always be prepared with a headlamp during your hikes on Madeira!

We would advice you to do the Levada das 25 Fontes route from the main parking at Rabaçal. Yes, there are a few hundred meters of incline involved, but it’s worth it! This is the most scenic route through the forest with stunning viewpoints and other waterfalls along the way. You will see the Risco waterfall and the 25 fountains on both routes, so each decision is fine! But with the tunnel route you just skip the couple of hundred meters incline.

We accidentally did both routes but started at the Rabaçal parking lot. After visiting Risco waterfall and the 25 fountains, we then continued to the other route through the tunnel. At that point, we realized the car was at the other parking lot and it was still some kilometers of incline back to that parking lot. While I was slowly making my way up the hill, I heard a truck approaching us. I spontaneously put my thumb up, but then the driver stopped and understood my nonverbal communication. We got a hitchhike from these worker guys and they dropped us at the other parking lot. We didn’t even ask for that specifically, they clearly understood we were lost hikers haha!

Hitch hiking back to our car at the main parking spot. Thanks to the friendly local workers!

The best time to do the Levada das 25 Fontes hike

Because the Levada das 25 Fontes hike is one of the most popular hikes on Madeira, you can expect it to be very busy. But the best secret to having specific spots for yourself is to show up as (one of the) first ones. So that’s what we also did with this hike. We arrived at 8 AM and it was pretty funny to see the parking lot completely empty when we started the hike. But when we got back in the afternoon, the parking was completely full of cars even on the roadside! So the best time to do the hike is definitely (early) in the morning to avoid walking in a crowd of people later on the day.

In terms of the best season to visit the Levada das 25 Fontes you have to keep in mind that the waterfalls are only powerful after days of rain. We did the hike two times, once in August when the waterfalls were only tiny little streams. And the second time in December after a week of heavy rain when all the waterfalls were very beautiful and impressive! So to set your expectations right, in the summer time the waterfalls won’t be as big and powerful as after days of rain. Which mostly only occur in the winter period.

What to expect at the Levada das 25 Fontes hike

Once arrive at the parking lot, you will have amazing views over the Rabaçal Valley on a clear day. A good way to start the hike! Overlooking the valley you are about to enter it gives a good overview of what you can expect. It is green wherever you look, and with the first waterfall already in sight it looks very promising.

But, keep in mind that the Levada das 25 Fontes hike won’t be a quiet and peaceful time in nature. Especially during the summertime or during the weekends. Because it is one of the well-known levada walks on Madeira, you’ll most likely have to share the trail with many other families and tourists. So therefore, the earlier you go, the better!

The first part of the hike goes downhill along a paved road where little streams of water are pouring out of the walls covered in moss. On your left side, you will have incredible views over the green lush valley with several ‘open gaps’ in the bushes which create natural viewpoints. We had to stop at a few of these ‘natural viewpoints’ to take in the beautiful scenery.

Waterfalls along the trail

When continuing the hike there are already a few waterfalls along the trail to spot. The most impressive one is the one in the second picture. When sunlight hits the waterfall, you might even have a chance of seeing a rainbow! After this little stop, you will make your way deeper into the forest. Interesting tree branches that create ‘tree tunnels’ are some of the highlights during the hike. We did the Levada das 25 Fontes on a sunny day, so there was lots of sunlight coming through the trees. But imagine this part of the hike with mist or on a cloudy autumn day! It will give you the feeling as if you’re on a movie set for sure! Just like Fanal forest which is another enchanting forest in Madeira.

After about 2 kilometers into the hike, you will reach an intersection. You can head to the Risco waterfall on your right which is just an 800 meters detour and really worth it! The path on the left goes straight to the 25 fontes, so you can choose which one to visit first on your hike.

The intersection in the path with the Risco waterfall route on your right and the 25 Fontes route on your left

Risco waterfall

Risco waterfall is one of the stunning and high waterfalls in Madeira that you have to see. Especially after heavy rainfall, Risco is powerful and impressive. But unfortunately in the summer times, it is a bit underwhelming with less water flowing down the mountainside. See the difference between the two pictures below! The first one was when we visited Risco waterfall in August when it hadn’t been raining for months. The second photo was in December after days of heavy rainfall in Madeira. Quite a difference don’t you think?!

When Risco waterfall is full of water, you will see beautiful details in the waterfall if you look closely. That is when I love to use a zoom lens to capture these little details. See below one of the pictures I made when Risco waterfall was full of power!

Risco waterfall is about 100 meters high and is part of a group of different water streams. If you have a drone or stand a bit further away from the viewpoint, you can see the other waterfall in the distance above Risco. This waterfall is part of the Lagoa do Vento hike, which you also can include on this hike if you want to.

In rainy season there is even another waterfall trickle flowing down onto the path towards Risco waterfall. You will have to cover your valuable stuff when walking underneath but you won’t get soaked. It’s a fun little extra adventure when hiking the Levada das 25 Fontes after days of rain!

25 Fontes waterfall

After about another 2.3 kilometres from the intersection to Risco, you will reach the amphitheater with the 25 fountains wall. This is where Levada das 25 Fontes got its name from because these 25 fountains and its waterfall are the source of the levada. This place makes you feel completely immersed in nature with the vines and moss hanging down the walls. You can swim in the natural pool, but expect it to be very cold water! It comes straight from the spring in the mountains, so it almost can get more natural than this.

When we visited the 25 fountains in August, there was not much water flowing down the walls. But a few months later after some heavy days of rain, we visited the 25 Fontes again, and the waterfall was super powerful and beautiful! It didn’t look comfortable anymore to swim in the natural pool with the water gushing down along the rock wall. See the difference in the pictures below.

This little canyon is a great place to sit down, get yourself refueled for the way back and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings. It can get busy quickly here, especially in the summertime, as more people take a break at the 25 fountains. So in terms of photography at the 25 fountains, it might be a challenge to get as less other people in your shot as possible. But the more you head towards the pool with the little streams, the fewer people will be in front. Also, take into account that the sun is for a long time behind the mountain which makes it pretty dark with lots of shadows. So you will need a higher ISO or edit the picture so you can adjust the shadows.

What is a Levada?

If you’re coming to Madeira for the first time, you might question what the word ‘Levada’ actually means. This word is used a lot to specify the different Madeira hiking trails. But what is the origin of these Levadas and what is their purpose? 

Levadas are little canals of water that wind through the mountains and translate as “carriageway”. These water canals are irrigation systems developed to distribute water from the wetter regions on the north of Madeira to the drier and sunnier areas of the south where lots of plantations are located. The levadas cover a total distance of about 2500 kilometers from the heart of the Laurissilva forest to the most rocky slopes.

The origin of the levadas dates back to the 15th century. The first levadas were then created to provide water to irrigate the sugarcane plantations. Back then sugar was also known as the “white gold” because it was considered as the main engine of Madeira’s economy in the 15th & 16th centuries. The narrow water canals have ever since the important task of delivering water along far distances. Mainly to banana plantations, vineyards, fruit orchards, and vegetable gardens, as well as to hydroelectric power stations on the island.

But nowadays, the levadas are also a great way to discover Madeira’s stunning nature with landscapes and species of flora and fauna that are unique in the world.

Precautions for levada walks and hiking in Madeira

For a safe hiking experience in Madeira, it is important to take the following safety precautions. There have been accidents in Madeira on levada walks and in the mountains in the past, which doesn’t directly make hiking in Madeira dangerous. But you do always have to keep in mind that the weather in Madeira can change suddenly. Or that landslides take place, branches can fall or paths can be slippery. In case of any emergency, you can call 112.

Below are some of our tips for a safe Madeira hiking experience

• Wear suitable clothes, always bring an extra jacket and put your hiking boots/shoes on with a good grip.
• Take enough water and some snacks with you such as nuts, (dried) fruits, etc.
• Always bring a headlamp on your hikes in Madeira because some of them include walking through a tunnel.
• Take a whistle with you in case you get lost or slip from the path.
• Book a qualified guide when you want to be sure on your first levada walk. Most of the levada walks are flat and easy, especially the well-known levadas in Madeira. You can find a detailed description in our blog about the 20 best Levada’s in Madeira. But if you prefer a qualified guide next to you when walking in Madeira, you will not only learn more about nature but you will also be 100% safe and don’t have to worry about navigating your way through the forest.
• When hiking alone on Madeira, prepare yourself and collect all the updated information about the trail you plan to follow. Are the trails open? No landslides? On the website of Visit Madeira you can find the up to date info of the walks which are open and closed.
• Calculate the time you’ll need to finish the hike so you’ll be back before dark.
• Inform the hotel or accommodation you are staying which walk you are going to do.
• Do not go off the designated path.

Happy hiking!!

Best Madeira guided levada tours

If you want to explore some of the best levada walks in Madeira, then it is highly recommended to book a guided tour. Your guide can tell you everything about the flora and fauna, you can’t get lost and you don’t have to worry about any preparation except the right shoes and clothing, All of these tours include air conditioned transport with hotel pick up and drop off, certified guides and sometimes also lunch. You can reserve now and pay later, with cancellation up to 24 hours in advance to receive a full refund.

Levada Tours

• Book here your guided walk along Levada Caldeirão Verde including transportation. This is one of the most popular levada walks in Madeira as you will see many waterfalls along the way, such as the famous Caldeirao Verde waterfall. 
• Book here your guided Levada das 25 Fontes walk. Another famous levada walk in Madeira leading you to the beautiful Risco waterfall and 25 Fontes waterfall. A must do! 
• Book here your guided Levada dos Cedros hike. The lesser known Levada dos Cedros brings you to a beautful waterfall at the end of the trail. A must do if you like the more hidden gems. 
• Book here your guided Levada do Moinho to Levada Nova hike including transport. The unique waterfall pours down a cliffs over the levada path. Be prepared to get a little wet!
• Book here your private guided Levada dos Tornos hike. North Madeira is super lush and the Levada brings you along a scenic path to some beautiful waterfalls. 
• Book here your private guided Levada do Alecrim hike including transport. This levada walk is perfect for families and during the summer months you can even swim in the natural pool of the waterfall!
• Book here your private guided Lagoa do Vento hike including transport. The beautiful, tall waterfall of Lagoa do Vento is a must visit. You can even swim in the natural pool for a refreshing dip after the hike down. 

General travel must haves for Madeira

Have you thought about how to get around in Madeira? A car is the easiest way to drive around the island.

• Book your rental car here and compare the providers to get the best deal.
• Book your scooter or motorbike here to get around in Madeira. Most of the scooters you can drive with driving license (A1/A2/A) from 18 years old, or from 25 years old with a car (B) license. The motorbikes have a minimum age of 20 or 21 with A (moto) license.

Do you prefer a private driver for the day and the freedom to create your own itinerary?

• Book your full day customisable private tour here

Did you already book your accommodation? 

• Check out this great tool to compare prices of hotels on different platforms from around the world and book your favorite hotel

Are you insured during your travels?

• Buy your travel insurance here. Safetywing not only includes coverage for travel delay, lost checked luggage, emergency response, natural disasters and personal liability. But also covers all your medical expenses for hospitalisation.

Where to stay in Madeira

Funchal

There are several towns in Madeira that are great to stay while exploring the island. Funchal is the capital town of the island with the most restaurants around. It has a charming old town and all sorts of facilities you might look for such as a boulevard, shopping centre, cafe’s and nightlife. It is a great place to base yourself with plenty of culture and beautiful old buildings and charming streets to explore. There are also a few beaches in Funchal to enjoy the ocean. However these beaches are from pebble stones.

→ Check out this great tool to compare prices on hotels around the world and book your favorite hotel!

We have stayed in The Vine hotel and Okulus villa which are both beautiful locations. The Vine has the comforts of a hotel including breakfast and is located right in the city centre. Okulus villa is located in the Old Town with the most amazing ocean and city view.

→ Book your stay at Okulus villa here

→ Book your stay at The Vine hotel here

Calheta

If you want to be based near a sandy beach in Madeira, then Calheta is a great place. While Funchal is more to the east of the island located, Calheta is more to the west of the island located. So eventually you can also stay a few days in both towns depending the total length of your stay in Madeira. Calheta has an atmospheric marine with restaurants offering great spots to watch the sunset and enjoy a meal.

We have stayed a few weeks at Calheta Boutique Houses during our 7 months living in Madeira. Highly recommend these private villa’s as you have all the amenities you have at home as well. The modern design and amazing ocean views makes it a perfect vacation home.

→ Book your stay at Calheta Boutique Houses here

Small villages in nature

If you want to experience really small towns to stay in Madeira, then check out the accommodations in Seixal, Porto da Cruz, Sao Vicente or Ribeiro Frio. Take into account that there will be less restaurants around but you will be completely immersed in the local life and nature.

→ Check here the available accommodations in Seixal, Porto da Cruz, Sao Vicente or Ribeiro Frio

More Madeira travel inspiration

I hope you enjoyed this full guide about the Levada das 25 Fontes hike.

For more Madeira travel inspiration and the must visit destinations, head over to our other blog posts about Madeira island.

50 best things to do in Madeira – The Ultimate Guide

40 best photo spots in Madeira – The Ultimate Guide

30 best viewpoints in Madeira – The Ultimate Guide

30 best hikes in Madeira – The Complete Guide

25 best things to do in Funchal – The Ultimate Guide

25 best waterfalls in Madeira – The Ultimate Guide

20 best levada walks in Madeira – The Complete Guide

20 best restaurants in Madeira – The Complete Guide

15 best sunrise viewpoints in Madeira – The Complete Guide

15 best sunset viewpoints in Madeira – The Complete Guide

12 best beaches in Madeira – The Complete Guide

12 best Funchal restaurants – The Complete Guide

All about Poncha – The Ultimate Guide about Madeira’s traditional drink

All about Madeira wine – The Ultimate Guide