Madeira has introduced new restrictions on tourists on its trails. From 2026, the number of people who can visit the island’s marked hiking trails will be limited.
The move is part of a drive for sustainable tourism, with the proceeds going to fund conservation efforts.
Portugal’s autonomous volcanic region in the Atlantic Ocean is increasingly attracting adventure-loving travellers.
Its recent surge in popularity means that the most popular trails are congested during peak season.
To address this problem, it recently introduced new rules for officially marked PRs.
There was already a system in place where hikers had to buy a €3 ticket for the PR network. This amount has now increased to €4.50 and can only be used for entry and for a specific 30-minute window.
There will also be a limited number of tickets available for each time period, which will be purchased through the SIMplifica online portal, in order to reduce crowds from tourists.
The popular PR1 trail from Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo – which has been closed due to fire damage since 2024 – is scheduled to reopen in April 2026.
However, hikers will be charged a higher fee for this route than others. Tickets will be more expensive, at €10.50 per person or €7 per person with a guide or tour operator.
Until the full reopening, the short version of the trail, which reaches the Miradouro Pedra Richa, maintains the same fee of 4.50 euros as all other trails.
Source: tourismtoday.gr