Ribeira da Abelheira: Santana's 150m Multi-Pitch Challenge
Descend one of Madeira's most impressive waterfalls: 150 meters of technical multi-pitch rappelling in Santana's dramatic north coast terrain. This is advanced canyoning at its finest.
The 150-Meter Waterfall Experience
Multi-Pitch Rappelling
150m isn't a single rappel — it's multiple pitches requiring anchor transitions, rope management at intermediate stations, sustained concentration. You'll rappel sections of 30-50m, regroup, reset, and continue down.
Technical demands: Rope coiling at stations, communication over waterfall noise, managing spray and water volume, maintaining technique over extended vertical distance.
Santana North Coast Setting
Santana's north coast terrain is unforgiving and spectacular. Lush vegetation, constant moisture, dramatic cliffs dropping to the Atlantic. The 150m waterfall descends through multiple ecological zones — you'll feel the temperature and vegetation change as you rappel.
Access note: 60+ minute drive from Funchal. Remote trailhead means rescue would be complicated — this is why experience requirements are strict.
Are You Ready for Abelheira?
✅ You're Ready If:
- 5+ previous canyons including at least 2 intermediate/advanced routes
- Comfortable with 30m+ single-pitch rappels
- Can manage rope coiling and anchor transitions
- Good physical fitness (5-6 hour commitment)
- Experience with multi-hour outdoor activities
⚠️ Wait If:
- Only beginner canyons completed (do Folhado first)
- Haven't done 40m+ rappels (try Ribeira Funda 60m first)
- Uncomfortable with extended vertical exposure
- Limited endurance (shorter canyons leave you exhausted)
- First canyon after a long break (rebuild confidence first)
Technical Specifications
| Difficulty | v5a2II Advanced |
| Highlight | 150m multi-pitch waterfall |
| Max Single Rappel | 50m |
| Duration | 5-6 hours |
| Location | Santana, north coast (60+ min from Funchal) |
| Experience Required | 5+ previous canyons, including intermediate/advanced |
| Best Season | May-October (north coast water flow) |
Book Ribeira da Abelheira
Advanced Tours • Multi-Pitch Waterfalls
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Your Progression Path
Ribeira da Abelheira
Advanced • 150m multi-pitch • Technical challenge