Camping in Madeira: permits, forest parks and campsites
Can you camp in Madeira? How camping permits work in the forest parks, the official campsites on Madeira and Porto Santo, and why wild camping is not allowed.
Camping in Madeira is possible, but it is regulated. Wild camping is not allowed, mainly because of fire risk and to protect the forests. You have two options: an official campsite, or a permit for one of the designated camping areas in the forest parks.
Forest park camping areas
The regional forest service, IFCN, runs around twenty designated camping zones in forest parks and recreation areas around the island, many with picnic tables, barbecues, toilets and water. Examples include areas in the laurel forest and on the edge of the Paul da Serra.
- Permit: book online through SIMplifica, the regional government’s services portal, in advance. Permits are limited in number and are for specific dates and zones.
- Fee: a small fee per night applies.
- Rules: camp only in the marked zone, use barbecues only where they exist and when fires are allowed, and take all rubbish with you.
- Fire risk: in hot, dry periods camping and barbecues can be banned and areas closed.
Campsites
- Porto Moniz on the north-west coast has a campsite close to the natural pools.
- Porto Santo has a campsite near the long beach.
Facilities are simple. Book ahead in summer.
What to expect
Most forest camping zones are in the mountains, where nights are cold and damp even in summer, and fog is common. Bring a warm sleeping bag and a waterproof tent. Many have no mobile signal.
Campervans
Sleeping in vans is restricted in many places, especially at viewpoints and car parks in protected areas. Use campsites or designated areas, and check local signs.
Sources: SIMplifica, camping permits, IFCN, forest recreation areas