Madeira’s New Hiking Fee Comes with a Strict Liability Clause
December 13, 2025
Share:
Madeira’s New Hiking Fee Comes with a Strict Liability Clause
By now, most travelers know that Madeira has introduced entrance fees for its most popular hiking trails (Levadas). However, while booking your ticket online, there is a crucial detail that many might miss—but strictly must accept.
As you can see in the screenshot below from the official booking portal, it is impossible to purchase a ticket without checking a specific box regarding liability.
The checkbox reads:
“Users of pedestrian routes are personally and exclusively responsible for any material or human damage that occurs during their use – Article 11 of Regional Legislative Decree No. 24/2022/M, of December 19.”
What does this mean for you? This clause shifts the responsibility entirely onto the hiker. By purchasing the ticket, you acknowledge that you are personally liable for any mishaps. This covers “material or human damage,” which implies that if you injure yourself, get lost requiring rescue, or cause damage to the trail infrastructure, the costs and responsibility fall “exclusively” on you.
You cannot proceed with the payment or receive your QR code without accepting these terms.
A tourist caused surprise and astonishment among visitors and locals alike this Thursday after being discovered illegally camping on one of Madeira’s most popular walking trails, the Vereda dos Balcões. The camper had pitched a tent directly on the scenic 1.5-kilometer trail located in Ribeiro Frio, Santana, a protected area where such activities are strictly prohibited. The incident highlights a growing concern regarding illegal camping in the region’s natural landscapes....
The situation regarding Madeira’s world-famous New Year’s Eve celebrations is evolving rapidly as Storm Francis approaches the archipelago. With an Orange Warning in effect and forecasts predicting the worst weather conditions—heavy rain, hail, and 80 km/h winds—precisely during the midnight hour, authorities are being forced to rethink the traditional schedule. The Plan: Fireworks at 20:00? According to exclusive information obtained by This is Madeira Island, the safety and technical teams...
As the clock ticks toward 2026, Madeira is preparing for one of the most iconic New Year’s Eve celebrations in the world. While the tradition of the massive midnight fireworks display remains the crown jewel of the night, several updates have been announced regarding event timing and the impressive lineup of vessels in the bay. Fireworks Confirmed, Animation Adjusted The Regional Government has confirmed that the spectacular midnight fireworks display...
Stay connected to the wonders of Madeira! Subscribe to receive exclusive travel tips, exciting updates, and special offers straight to your inbox. Your next adventure starts here!
