Ribeira da Água Negra: The 70-Meter South Coast Challenge
Advanced 13-rappel canyon in Calheta region featuring a spectacular 70-meter waterfall. One of Madeira's longest single descents. Accessed near 25 Fontes trailhead for experienced canyoners.
Why Água Negra is Different
The 70-Meter Waterfall
At 70m, Água Negra's main waterfall is one of Madeira's longest commercially-run rappels. For perspective: Ribeira Funda's famous descent is 60m, Abelheira is multi-pitch to 150m, Água do Vento is extreme at 170m. This sits in the "serious advanced" category.
Technical note: Likely multi-pitch or exceptionally long single-pitch depending on operator setup. Expect anchor transitions, extended rope management, sustained vertical time.
South Coast Alternative
While most advanced canyons concentrate in Porto Moniz (north coast), Água Negra offers a south coast alternative. The Calheta region near 25 Fontes access provides year-round reliability — south coast weather is more stable than north.
Length consideration: 1,600m canyon is significantly longer than typical routes (compare: Funda Inferior is 600m, Folhado is 700m). The 5-6 hour estimate reflects this extended commitment.
Technical Specifications
| Difficulty | v5a2II High Advanced |
| Total Rappels | 13 |
| Max Rappel | 70m waterfall |
| Total Length | 1,600m canyon (exceptionally long) |
| Duration | 5-6 hours |
| Location | Calheta region (25 Fontes access area) |
| Experience Required | Multiple 60m+ rappels completed, advanced route experience |
| Operators | Specialized advanced only |
| Best Season | Year-round (south coast reliability) |
Are You Ready for Água Negra?
✅ You're Ready If:
- Done multiple 60m+ rappels (Funda, Vimieiro, or equivalent)
- 5-6 hour endurance for sustained technical activity
- Experience with multi-pitch anchor transitions
- Strong rope management and extended vertical comfort
⚠️ Wait If:
- Max experience is 40m rappels (do 60m routes first)
- Haven't done extended canyons (4+ hour technical routes)
- 70m vertical sounds intimidating (build gradually)
- It's been 6+ months since last advanced canyon
Book Ribeira da Água Negra
Advanced 70m+ Waterfall Tours
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Your Progression to 70m
Ribeira do Folhado (Intermediate) — Build endurance with 18 rappels
Ribeira Funda Inferior (Advanced) — Master 60m single-pitch
Ribeira do Vimieiro (Advanced) — Experience pure 60m vertical
Ribeira da Água Negra (High Advanced) — The 70m challenge