PR 18 – Levada do Rei
The King’s Jungle Path
Distance
10.6 km (Return)
Duration
3.5h – 4h
Difficulty
Moderate
Status
✅ OPEN
🕐 Best Time to Visit
💡 Pro Tip: This levada is in São Jorge (North Coast). It is incredibly lush because it rains a lot here. Don’t be afraid of a little rain; it makes the greens pop and the waterfalls flow stronger.
⚠️ Technical Difficulty Rating
Why Hike Levada do Rei?
The PR 18 – Levada do Rei is one of the best examples of Madeira’s Laurisilva Forest (UNESCO World Heritage). The vegetation here is denser, greener, and more tropical than almost anywhere else.
The trail is flat and relaxing, leading you to the magical Ribeiro Bonito, a secluded river gorge where birdsong echoes off the canyon walls.
Trail Map
From ETAR São Jorge (Water Plant) to Ribeiro Bonito.
Step-by-Step Guide
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1
ETAR (Start)
Start at the Water Treatment Plant (ETAR) in Quebradas, São Jorge. The path begins wide and passes through exotic eucalyptus forest.
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2
The Native Zone
As you go deeper, the exotic trees disappear, replaced by native Laurel, Til, and Vinhatico trees dripping with moss.
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3
The Waterfall Tunnel
You will encounter a small waterfall that spills directly over the path. You might have to run through it to stay dry!
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4
Ribeiro Bonito (Finish)
The trail dead-ends at the “Beautiful River” source. It is a stunning, silent sanctuary of giant ferns and crystal-clear water.
📸 Best Photo Spots
The waterfall that flows over the path is the most iconic shot. Use a fast shutter speed to freeze the water droplets.
The section near the end is so green it looks like the Amazon. Capture the sunlight filtering through the dense canopy.
Like Balcões, the birds here are friendly. Have your camera ready for a close-up if you sit still at Ribeiro Bonito.
Facilities & Amenities
How to Get There
Drive to São Jorge on the north coast. Follow signs for “Levada do Rei” or “ETAR”.
📍 Parking Note
The road dead-ends at the Water Treatment Plant. There is parking, but it fills up by 11:00 AM. If full, park further back in the village streets.
The Driver’s Perspective
🚘 Rural Village Roads
Winding access through São Jorge.
Our Rental Recommendation: São Jorge is a beautiful but steep village. A car with good brakes is essential for the descent from the main highway to the trailhead. This is Madeira Island vehicles are regularly serviced for mountain driving.
Essential Gear
- Waterproof Jacket: Mandatory. You walk under a waterfall. You will get wet.
- Mud Shoes: The path is often muddy due to the high humidity of the valley.
- Towel: To dry off your camera lens after the “shower” section.
🍹 After the Hike: Where to Eat?
Quinta do Furão
Located nearby in Santana (10 min drive). This is one of the best restaurants on the north coast, offering spectacular views of the cliffs and high-quality Madeiran cuisine. Great for a post-hike treat.
