Madeira trail fees and booking in 2026: how SIMplifica works
Since January 2026 Madeira’s classified walking trails need a booked time slot and a fee. Prices, who is exempt, how to book on SIMplifica, passes, fines and what to do if a trail closes.
Madeira’s trails have become so popular that the regional government now limits numbers. From 1 January 2026, every walker on a classified PR trail needs a booking for a specific time slot, and non-residents pay a fee. The money goes to trail maintenance and conservation.
How much it costs
- Most PR trails: €4.50 per person, per trail, per day.
- PR1, Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo: €10.50 per person.
- With a licensed tour operator that has an agreement with the forest service, the fee is lower (around €3, or €7 for PR1) and is usually included in the tour price.
- Passes: around €22.50 for three days and €52.50 for seven days. Passes don’t cover PR1, and you still need a time slot for each trail.
Prices are set by the regional government and can change. Check SIMplifica when you book.
Who doesn’t pay
- Children under 12. They still need to be included in the booking.
- People with a disability of 60% or more, and one companion, with documents.
- Residents of the Autonomous Region of Madeira.
How to book
- Go to simplifica.madeira.gov.pt (there is an English version) and create an account.
- Search for the walking trails service (percursos pedestres).
- Choose the trail by its PR number and pick a date and a 30-minute entry slot.
- Add everyone in your group, including children.
- Pay online and save the confirmation on your phone, ideally as a screenshot that works offline. Rangers check.
You must start the walk within your slot. You can book one slot per trail per day.
How far ahead to book
For quieter trails, a day or two ahead is usually enough. For the popular ones, especially PR1, 25 Fontes (PR6), Ponta de São Lourenço (PR8) and Caldeirão Verde (PR9), book several days ahead, and weeks ahead around Easter, summer and Christmas. Early-morning slots go first.
If the trail closes
Trails close after storms, in high wildfire risk and when IFCN finds damage. If your trail is closed on your booked day, you can usually move the booking or ask for a refund through SIMplifica. Check the trail status on the IFCN website the evening before.
Fines
Walking a regulated trail without a valid booking can lead to a fine, and entering a closed trail is a serious offence with much higher fines. Closures exist because of real danger.
Which walks need booking?
All classified PR trails on Madeira and Porto Santo. Some other popular routes managed by the forest service are included too. Many minor levada paths and town walks are not classified and need no booking. When in doubt, check SIMplifica or ask at a tourist office.
Our tips
- Book the slot first, then plan the drive: popular trailhead car parks fill early.
- Pick a slot that gives you enough daylight to finish, especially in winter.
- Keep one spare day in your plan. If the weather is bad, move the booking rather than walking in fog.
Sources: SIMplifica, Madeira government services portal, IFCN, trail information and status, DMC Madeira, trail fees and bookings 2026 (summary of the rules)