Only RNAAT Certified Operators

Experience Madeira'sMost Thrilling Canyons

Compare top-rated operators, find your perfect difficulty level, and book instantly. Adventure awaits in 40+ stunning canyons.

40+
Canyons
4.9
Avg. Rating
2k+
Happy Adventurers
Choose Your Level

Find Your Perfect Adventure

From gentle first-timers to adrenaline-fueled experts — there's a canyon for everyone

Most Popular
Beginners enjoying a gentle waterfall slide in Ribeira das Cales canyon
Level 1

Beginner

Your First Adventure

2-3 hours
7+

Perfect introduction to canyoning. Gentle waterfalls, easy jumps, and stunning Laurissilva forest scenery.

Ribeira das CalesRibeira do Cidrão
From
65/person
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Rappelling down a 15m waterfall in the heart of Madeira
Level 2

Intermediate

Step Up The Challenge

3-4 hours
12+

More waterfalls, higher jumps, and the iconic Nuns Valley descent. A true Madeira adventure experience.

Nuns ValleyRibeiro FrioRibeira do Lajeado
From
75/person
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Expert
Expert canyoneers tackling an advanced technical descent
Level 3

Advanced

For Thrill Seekers

5-6 hours
16+

Technical descents, 30m+ rappels, and Madeira's most challenging canyons. Experience required.

Ribeira FundaRibeira da Hortelã
From
140/person
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At a Glance

Why Madeira for Canyoning?

Discover what makes Madeira one of Europe's premier canyoning destinations

40+
Canyons

Documented routes with technical specs

1-4
Skill Levels

From gentle slides to 170m rappels

5.0
Safety Rating

12 beginner-friendly routes

170m
Max Drop

Europe's longest waterfall descent

Explore Canyons

Discover Routes by Level

From gentle slides to technical descents — explore featured canyons for each skill level

Easy routes with natural pools, small jumps, and slides. Great for first-timers and families.

Ribeira do Cidrão

5

Câmara de Lobos

Ribeira da Água Negra (Inferior)

5

Calheta

Longer routes with more waterfalls and jumps. Stunning settings like Nuns Valley.

Córrego da Beira do Lombo Queimado (Inferior)

5

Porto Moniz

Ribeira do Folhado (Inferior)

5

Porto Moniz

Ribeira da Pedra Branca

5

Porto Moniz

Technical canyoning with bigger waterfalls and challenging terrain. Experience required.

Ribeira da Água do Vento (Inferior)

5

Porto Moniz

Ribeira do Moinho (Centro)

5

Porto Moniz

Verified Partners

Certified Operators

All operators are RNAAT licensed and verified for safety. Compare and book with confidence.

RNAAT Certified
Verified January 2025
Insurance Included

Discovery Island Madeira

4.9(850)
RNAAT 915/2017
Funchal
2-6h

Innovative DMC providing exceptional outdoor activities, canyoning tours, and guided experiences across Madeira Island

BeginnerIntermediateAdvanced
Canyon Locations
Ribeira das CalesRibeira FundaNorthern Madeira
Age Limit
8+
Equipment
Complete professional equipment included

Epic Madeira

4.9(1200)
RNAAT Verified
Funchal
3-5h

World's leading canyoning company with most 5-star TripAdvisor reviews

BeginnerIntermediateAdvanced
Canyon Locations
Ribeiro BonitoRibeiro Frio
Age Limit
12+
Equipment
All equipment provided

Go Canyoning Madeira

4.8(850)
RNAAT Verified
Funchal
3-4h

Unforgettable canyoning adventures with experienced guides

BeginnerIntermediate
Canyon Locations
Ribeira das CalesRibeira da Água Negra
Age Limit
10+
Equipment
Wetsuit, helmet, harness provided

Madeira Adventure Kingdom

4.7(620)
RNAAT Verified
Funchal
4-6h

Adventure tours focused on safety and natural experience

BeginnerIntermediateAdvanced
Canyon Locations
Ribeira do LajeadoRibeira da Hortelã
Age Limit
8+
Equipment
Complete technical equipment

Harmony in Nature

4.6(490)
RNAAT Verified
Santana
3-5h

Authentic canyoning experiences in harmony with nature

BeginnerIntermediate
Canyon Locations
Ribeira FundaRibeiro do Vimieiro
Age Limit
12+
Equipment
Professional safety equipment
FAQ

Common Questions

Quick answers to help you plan your canyoning adventure

What is the best time for canyoning in Madeira?

Canyoning is a year-round activity in Madeira. In summer (June-September), the rivers on the north side are most appealing with greater water flow. In winter (October-May), the rivers on the south side are more advisable as they are calmer. The weather is generally mild throughout the year, making it perfect for outdoor activities.

Do I need previous experience for canyoning?

No previous experience is required for beginner-level canyoning. Level 1 tours are designed for first-timers and include comprehensive safety briefings and basic technique instruction. However, good physical condition is recommended as the activity involves walking on rocks, swimming, and rappelling.

What equipment is needed for canyoning?

All technical equipment is provided by certified operators, including wetsuits, helmets, harnesses, and safety ropes. You only need to bring swimwear, a towel, and water-resistant shoes. During winter months, bring extra layers for warmth before getting into the wetsuit.

Is canyoning in Madeira safe?

Yes, when done with certified RNAAT operators, canyoning in Madeira maintains high safety standards. Professional guides provide safety briefings, quality equipment, and constant supervision. Madeira has about 128 prepared canyoning routes with established safety protocols.