Coast to Coast Traverse of Madeira

Madeira is an incredibly beautiful, unique island that will live up to your expectations and more. We had a great group that got on really well. 10 is a really sensible number for a hiking trip. Our guide, Margarida, was superb, and her passion for hiking and Madeira was infectious. She was great at enabling everyone to walk at their own pace without feeling slowed down or, conversely, rushed. The weather was very varied for us and we had two extremely wet days, so make sure you have decent waterproofs, including trousers and a bag cover, and walking poles are useful to help with the long decents in the rain when the terrain can be slippery. In terms of the accommodation, the mountain hut was the most enjoyable place we stayed and it served the best food. I'd definitely recommend this trip, but I think the trip notes should be clearer that due to the wild fires contingencies are in place for a few parts of some of the walks and the group will need to get a private bus on a few occasions to rejoin the hike at an accessible part. In terms of difficulty I would rate this trip between moderate and challenging. It may well merit a challenging rating when all hiking sections are accessible, but for hikers with a reasonable fitness who have prepared for the trip it is not challenging as it currently stands.

Madeira was absolutely stunning, but very very steep. This is a challenging trip. I probably wasn’t fit enough, but Joao was brilliant and helped me along the way. The accommodation is mixed and the mountain hut a definite highlight

My first visit to Madeira and it does not disappoint. Our group got on really well and Margarida was friendly, a very experienced hiker and had an open approach to our trip. We hiked on average 4-5 hours a day with lunch stops. So quite a bit of downtime.

Due to the wild fires the daily itinerary has changed and there are longer transfers required. Given this is an on going issue the website should be amended. Changing hotels most nights is not great especially if you get rain like us and you cannot dry out clothes that easily.

I would recommend this trip and also lots of practice climbing and descending stairs in preparation.

Great guide, great group, beautiful island. Weather in the mountains was definitely different from what I imagined and fairly wet!

We had an amazing trip with some amazing people, and our guide Margarida was fantastic . We were fed well the whole trip and appreciated dietary requirements being met. The accommodation was all entirely satisfactory and the mountain lodge and hotel in Porto Moniz were particularly good. The views from the accommodation at Valley View were spectacular. Organisation and communication were good before and during the trip. If I could award 3. 5 stars I feel this would be an honest rating for the following reasons:

The group consensus was that we thought we were largely tracking the Coast to Coast route and moved accommodation in a linear way because of this. Reality was we moved accommodation daily (besides one night) and rode a minibus to and from start and end points. On one day this was an hours drive. It meant we could have stayed in just one or two places rather than having to pack up each morning. On day 2 and day 3 we had finished walking by 2pm and 1. 30pm which meant a lot of down time with little to do. We would have preferred longer walking days. I appreciate that the fires have changed some of the original itinerary, but as these were over a year I would have expected perhaps a new itinerary by now to compensate for the path closures. I would rate the walking loosely as intermediate as most of our group agreed it was not challenging.

Fantastic place, Pedro was a great guide

I had the BEST week. The routes were difficult and the weather changes constantly but the scenery is stunning. Moving up through the island the landscape changes so much. I got so lucky with the group I was with, everyone was just SO lovely and made the experience amazing. Our leader João was fantastic - really knowledgeable (from the island himself) , super organised and made the trip seamless.

Well-organized tour including good mix of mountain and Levada scenery. We were well-fed all the time and Joao was very good at keeping us on track . We had an excellent group and we enjoyed the camaraderie.

I had the privilege of joining hiking trip in Madeira with Much Better Adventures, and it exceeded all expectations. The itinerary was thoughtfully designed, showcasing the island’s most spectacular landscapes — from dramatic mountain ridges to serene green valleys and sweeping ocean views.

Equally impressive was the overall atmosphere: excellent company, a welcoming and positive group dynamic and a very proffesional guide named Peudro that took great care of us throughout. The experience was rounded off with comfortable clean accommodation and outstanding local food.

For anyone seeking a well-curated balance of nature, companionship, and authentic cultural touches, I can wholeheartedly recommend ”Coast to Coast Transverse of Madeira”

This was my fourth MBA trip. Like the other three, this was marked "challenging", but I found the activities underwhelming.

We were unlucky with the weather, but this wasn't the main issue. Overall, there wasn't enough interesting hiking. The first three days are listed as 7h of hiking. But in fact for our group it was <4. 5h, including a full lunch break. The number of transfers made it feel less purposeful, more like five unrelated day hikes. Perhaps with the original route before the wildfires would have felt like more of a 'traverse'.

Our guide also cancelled the 'spectacular' cliff hike on the first full day based on a second- or third-hand anecdote about hearing distant rockfall. This seemed inappropriately risk-averse for an adventure holiday. We ended up in a bar on the beach with a view of other groups completing the cliff traverse in perfect sunny weather with no problems.

On a more positive note, though the wildfires have prevented crossing the whole central ridge, spending 1. 5h on the "Stairway to Heaven" section was still enjoyable and impressive. The hotels were very good, and the mountain hut was unusually luxurious for its location. I really enjoyed the food, especially the fish and the fruit, sometimes even served together! Madeira and other Portuguese wines and local 'ponchas' were also delicious and reasonably-priced everywhere.

The guide was not engaging with the group at all. On the longest day of the trip, we hardly stopped and he rushed us back to the hotel in order to get his kids from school. The last 2 days was downhill for 2-3h. Again he was not checking on us while the hike down was very slippery. Also the route was altered because of wild fire (that took place 2 years ago but the website wasn't updated). Luckily the group was amazing and we took care of each other. I would not recommend this trip to anyone.

We had a fantastic time with Magarida as our guide! She was knowledgable, fun, and made the trip fantastic. Food options for vegans with allergies were a bit of an issue. Was given salad in a bun for the first lunch, when everyone else had some source of protein. Another day, I was given the previous evenings dinner for breakfast and lunch, which was cold chick peas, some vegetables and a salad. Not the best. That being said, except from a few disappointing meals, I was given vegan burgers in a bun for lunches. Most of the dinners were acceptable, if not a little plain. I'd recommend taking your own protein bars and snacks for lunches just in case! otherwise, hotels well basic but good, all of them were 3 stars. The hut was closed so we couldn't stay overnight, which was a shame, and made the sunrise just in time. Thanks!

What an incredible trip. Margerida was an excellent guide, the group was so much fun, and Madeira is just magical. I think the modified itinerary because of the fires, while still beautiful, isn’t as challenging as the original itinerary. So if you’re looking for a challenge maybe consider a different trip until the original trails reopen. Overall though excellent trip and very good value.

Everything was meticulously planned and seamlessly delivered by the brilliant MBA team – not a detail overlooked, no hikers left behind (even after a few ponchas!).

Our wonderful guide, Margarida, was a total gem – warm, friendly, endlessly patient, and genuinely passionate about her island. She led us along an amazing variety of trails: from dramatic clifftop paths with sweeping ocean views, to enchanted lush green forests, peaceful Levadas, and the odd tunnel or two, before a sunrise hike to one of Madeira’s highest peaks – nothing short of magical. Standing on top of the world watching the first light spill across the clouds was a memory I’ll treasure forever.

Lunches were a daily delight. Thoughtfully prepared and delicious, they catered well for our mixed group, which included a vegan and a coeliac. There was always plenty to go around, and we were well-fuelled for our adventures.

Hotel accommodation was excellent overall – clean, comfortable rooms, great facilities, and tasty food to reward weary legs at the end of each day. The only hiccup was the two-night stay at the rural hotel Quinta. While the food was good and most of the staff were friendly, the proprietor herself seemed to be auditioning for a role in Hotel Misery. She somehow managed to turn the simplest request into a Shakespearean tragedy, and despite the hotel advertising a pool, she mysteriously refused to allow us access. It's a shame, really, because the setting had potential – but the vibe was less “rustic charm” and more “grumpy aunt's spare room. ” My only suggestion to MBA would be to either reduce this to a one-night stop or find alternative accommodation with a hotel that values their customers.

That said, this one grumpy interlude did nothing to dampen the spirit of what was a truly unforgettable adventure. Madeira is an island of rare beauty, and thanks to the care and expertise of the MBA team – and the good company of the group – I left with tired legs, a full heart, and too many photos of misty peaks. Highly recommend!

It is one of the most highly rated trips on MBA for a good reason. The hikes are varied and well-paced, wonderful food and accommodation. Our guide, Margarida, made our trip unforgettable with her kindness and her professional guiding skills. It was beautiful to experience all types of weather in one day as you traverse the many landscapes Madeira has to offer. A special highlight for me was when we climbed Pico de Aireiro in the howling wind and fog, yet when the clouds opened, we felt the most rewarded. All in all, a wonderful experience!!

We had an Amazing group of people on the trek! Technically the hike was not difficult, but there are many stairs to climb! Puedro was an amazing guide and I would absolutely recommend his guidance

I completed the five day hike across Madeira with the wonderful Margarida as the guide. The scenery was spectacular and the planning was impeccable. It was a bit more challenging than I expected - definitely fits its rating. Hotels were of a very good standard and food provided was very good. The company was agile in navigating restrictions in place but what stood out was Margarida who was so knowledgeable, caring and very aware of safety and hazards - there aren’t many at all but she was always thinking of these. Would recommend completely. There are some really marvelous sights on this tour.

This was a wonderful trip, Maderia really is a magical island, we had a wonderful group the size was nice 10-12 people is probably just about right. Our guide Pedro was just perfect 😊

First time booking with MBA and the experience did not disappoint. Our guide Puedro was fantastic, very knowledgable about the island and looked after us well. The scenery was stunning and our group had lots of belly laughs whilst traversing through forests, along mountain paths and coastal cliffs. I cannot recommend this trip enough and will definitely book with MBA again

Had the best time, Pedro was a great guide and I met so many new friends. Everything was catered for, we were well looked after from start to finish, I can't recommend this trip enough, I want to stay and do it again 😁😎

This was my third solo trip with MBA and definitely a trip and group I’ll remember.

Accommodation was comfortable and meals provided were plentiful. Even the hut wasn’t as basic as I thought it would be and my favourite meal of the whole trip was here, a speciality beef espetadas.

Our guide Puedro kept us busy / active for most of the day and went out of his way to make sure we experienced as much as Madeira as possible, also finding us a daily ‘surprise’. I found the hikes moderately challenging with the final day of downhill hiking being the toughest on the legs, but rewarding at end with the natural pools in Porto Moniz. The itinerary really is spot on.

Puedro was knowledgeable and passionate about Madeira and this trip. He really was the best guide, and the whole group loved him.

Sad to be home and already looking for my next MBA adventure!

Spent some time in Madeira before the MBA trip as well as after completing the hike, but 100% feel that doing the tour with our guide Puedro, and the phenomenal group we had, was the best way to come here and see the island. Puedro is just an incredibly fun and likable guy, in addition to being knowledgeable about pretty much any question you could ask about Madeira. The hikes were all beautiful, the accommodations were fantastic though not too fancy, and the food was always quite good.

Would not hesitate to recommend to anybody in good hiking shape, and may even just do it all again someday.

A really well organised trip with a fantastic guide (Shout out to Puedro!)

The highlight of the trip was staying the night at the hut and seeing the sunset/ sunrise from there.

The walks were challenging (in a good way) with good food options all the way.

We had a lovely group also which really made the trip!

Our trip to Madeira was just the absolute best! Jungley treks, tough climbs, sweeping vistas of golden flowers, ocean panoramas, and a sunset over the mountains filtering through the misty clouds that felt transcendent. Our guide Puedro was fantastic and our group was great, I have a bunch of new pals now! We had great fun trying the local specialties (including poncha and Madeira wine, highly recommend) and having an impromptu party at the mountain hut. A really very special trip that I’ll remember forever.

Wonderful experience with a group of ‘strangers’ who become your friends soon. Highly recommend it to anyone who either wants to experience hiking even for the first time.

Hiking against a luscious, languid backdrop - often, in parallel with the Levada.

Includes a diverse set of five treks with varied scenery: cliff edge coastal views, forest trails, stairways and one lengthy descent. My trip was led by Puedro, a v cool guy, infectious in his love for Madeira.

My favourite moment would be the final trek to the mountain hut, with panoramic views, a quiet path, thoughts of almost removing my boots and chilling out at altitude… 🤙🏼

• We were on our own trekking as a group for the majority of the trip, which felt like a luxury. . occasionally meeting busier tourist spots.
• I didn’t mind the cloud cover for Pico Ruivo at all - it felt other-worldly and ethereal in its beauty.
• Accommodation suited me well & balcony views epic one night in particular.
• For me, this felt like a holiday with enough downtime, poncha and reasonable start times in the morning!
• Cheap to drink/eat, but recommend cash for anything extra you want on top of that provided. I enjoyed the food!
• Ends with a black sand beach and a pint before heading to Porto moniz for dinner and sunset viewing. There are also natural pools for a €3 Saturday morning swim.
• Planning my next hike now!

Absolutely amazing trip. Nothing to fault to be honest. Had an amazing group and an amazing guide, obrigada Pedro. Good amount of walking per day with multiple 'big wows' on each outing. Quantity and quality of food was very high, with the highlight being the mountain hut dinner.

Unfortunately parts of the route are still closed from the wildfires last year but transportation between sections was provided, and to be honest, the routes were fabulous.

Would suggest going for the sunset and sunrise at the mountain hut, if weather providing, it is a beautiful experience.

Thank you to those on the trip for a great time: Meghan, Andy, Alice, Jack, Steph, Lucy, Alex, Umesh and my big sis.

What an amazing week! It’s my third time joining a group hiking trip but my first time with MBA and it did not disappoint.

João was absolutely incredible. I couldn’t have asked for a better tour guide, especially considering some of the difficulties he faced within the group. He was professional, kind and had a great sense of humour. You can tell how much he cares about his home island and he taught me so much about what Madeira has to offer. I could not have thanked both João and Jorge enough for the help and support they gave me when I injured my ankle and for making sure my dietary requirements were catered for throughout the trip.

Madeira itself was stunning, the hikes were varied in difficultly but the views and scenery made it all worth it. The mountain hut was truly a magical experience and was a definite highlight of the tour!

This was a really special trip that I won’t forget and I look forward to booking another MBA tour in the future.

What a fantastic place madiera is , our guide Pedro was brilliant there was some unexpected snow so our itinerary had to be changed last minute due to trails being closed but he pulled it out the bag and found us a great sunrise walk to replace it . the group were great and we are already planning meeting up again on another trip .

I was the oldest on the trip (57) I am able but slow and joaõ was so patient and supportive offering advice to me along the way, making sure I didn’t feel excluded from the group. He gave lots of information about the island, the flora around He had a very difficult group that we ended up splitting into two, but he managed his time well between everyone while still being as supportive as he could. Madeira is beautiful and I wouldn’t not hesitate to book a trip if joaõ was guide again. And he cheered me at every pit stop, I expect this when I get home 😁