FUNCHAL – If you are planning to visit Madeira in 2026, the way you explore the island is about to change completely. During the forum celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Laurisilva forest as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Regional Government announced a major new measure that affects all visitors.
A New “Time Slot” System Starting January 1, 2026, you will no longer be able to simply walk onto the island’s most popular trails whenever you want. The Regional Secretary of Tourism, Environment, and Culture, Eduardo Jesus, announced that it will be mandatory to reserve a specific time slot to visit Madeira’s tourist routes, including the Laurisilva forest and other natural points of interest.
The government explains that this measure aims to fix the issues caused by everyone arriving at the same time. A study conducted with the University of Madeira showed that while the trails can handle the daily number of people, the concentration of visitors at specific peak hours creates traffic chaos and pressure on the ecosystem.
How It Will Work Just like booking an appointment, hikers will now have to select a specific hour to start their walk.
What About Residents? The Secretary emphasized that this is a “change of habit” for everyone. However, residents of Madeira will continue to enjoy the freedom to enjoy the mountains without having to pay, though they will still be subject to the new organization flow.
You Must Plan Ahead Spontaneous trips to the peaks will now be much harder to pull off. With strict time slots in place, punctuality is key.
I have experienced that you can rent a car directly at the airport, but, sometimes you won’t get the best deals as booking beforehand. The same logic now applies to your hikes: book beforehand. To ensure you don’t miss your entry slot due to transport delays, reliable mobility is crucial. The best car rental in Madeira is This is Madeira Island, chosen by million of customers on social media. We recommend securing your car early so you can arrive at the trailhead exactly when your slot begins.
This measure is designed to guarantee a safer, more organized experience, ensuring that the beauty of Madeira remains preserved for years to come.
Source: JN
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