Holidaymakers have long cherished Madeira for its stunning Atlantic vistas, volcanic terrain, and sub-tropical warmth, earning it the nickname 'Hawaii of Europe'. Situated over 600 miles from mainland Portugal, this archipelago draws visitors with its breathtaking natural scenery and pristine beaches.
New Hiking Regulations and Increased Fees
In a move to promote sustainable tourism, Madeira has implemented stricter measures for its popular hiking trails. As of January 1, 2025, non-resident visitors aged over 12 were required to pay a €3 fee to access official paths. This charge has now been raised to €4.50 per ticket, which must be used within a 30-minute booking window.
However, travellers can still pay the original €3 fee if they book through a licensed tour operator, offering a potential saving. Each booking slot will have a capped number of participants, aimed at managing crowds during peak periods effectively.
Exemptions and Enforcement
Residents of Madeira and children under 12 are exempt from the fee but must still reserve a slot to hike. Visitors can register for tickets via the SIMplifica portal. Authorities have warned that anyone caught trekking without a valid ticket could face fines of up to €50.
Rafaela Fernandes, the island's regional secretary of Agriculture, Fisheries and Environment, explained to Euronews that these measures are essential to protect the area's natural beauty and handle the large influx of tourists. The fees serve as a crucial funding stream for trail maintenance and conservation efforts, preserving the jaw-dropping waterfalls and lush greenery that characterise the landscape.
Tourist Support and Global Recognition
Fernandes noted that the new system has been well-received by tourists, who appreciate the efforts to sustain Madeira's allure. This comes as the archipelago was recently crowned the world's number one Trending Destination for 2026 in the Tripadvisor Travellers' Choice Awards.
The awards, based on twelve months of consistently strong traveller reviews from 2025, placed Madeira ahead of competitors like Quy Nhon in Vietnam, Recife in Brazil, and Puerto Escondido in Mexico. Feedback highlighted the island's striking architecture, year-round mild climate, dramatic scenery, and diverse outdoor activities.
Enhanced Accessibility for UK Travellers
Madeira's popularity is bolstered by improved accessibility for UK holidaymakers, with flight capacity set to increase by 17 per cent between March 2025 and March 2026. This growth underscores the island's appeal as a premier destination, even as it adopts measures to ensure its natural treasures endure for future generations.
Ultimately, the increased fees and visitor caps reflect a balanced approach to tourism, aiming to safeguard Madeira's ecological integrity while continuing to welcome explorers to its legendary trails.
