New Rules and Fees for Hiking Trails in Madeira from January 1, 2026 - What Every Tourist Needs to Know
Key information: Madeira, known and loved for its spectacular views, wild nature, and unique mountain trails, is entering a new era of tourist traffic management. Starting January 1, 2026, a new reservation and fee system will apply to all official hiking trails classified by IFCN (Instituto das Florestas e Conservação da Natureza).
As madeira.com.pl, we always provide only official information based on reliable and verified announcements, so we fully explain - step by step - what is changing, how it works, and how it will affect your travel plans.
Why is IFCN implementing changes?
The increase in the number of tourists visiting Madeira, especially on the most famous trails, has made it necessary to:
- improve tourist safety,
- enhance the protection of the natural environment,
- control traffic flow on narrow and demanding trails,
- provide better experiences for all visitors.
Therefore, IFCN, in collaboration with the University of Madeira, has set a daily limit for each trail to avoid overcrowding and degradation.
What is a time slot and how does it work?
A new element of the system is the concept of a time slot. A slot is a specified 30-minute interval in which you can start your entry onto a given trail.
Example: If you make a reservation for the slot 09:00–09:30, it means that entry onto the trail must occur between 09:00 and 09:30. After this time, the system will not allow entry under that reservation.
Why slots? They help distribute people over time and space, reduce congestion on narrow sections, improve safety and comfort during hikes.
Mandatory online reservation through the SIMplifica portal.
From 2026, reservations will be mandatory for everyone, without exceptions – for adults, children, organized groups, and individual tourists. Tickets will not be sold on-site at the trail entrance. The control system at the entrances will only check:
- if you have a reservation,
- if you are in the correct time slot,
- if the number of people matches the reservation.
Reservations and payments can only be made through the official government portal: https://simplifica.madeira.gov.pt
This is the only place where you can plan your entry onto the trails.
SEE DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE RESERVATION AND TICKET PURCHASE PROCESS STEP BY STEP.
What are the new fees?
Standard hiking trails:
€3,00 – tourists in groups with a licensed operator (RNAVT / RNAAT) having a contract with IFCN.
€4.50 – individual tourists or groups without a contract.Payment for individual tourists is made at the time of online reservation.
Special situation: PR1 – Vereda do Areeiro PR1 is the most famous and at the same time the most demanding trail in Madeira.
After modernization planned for April 2026, its status will be as follows:
Before full opening:
The Vereda do Areeiro – Miradouro da Pedra Rija section operates like other trails with a traditional fee.
After full opening:
€7 – tourists with a licensed operator under contract with IFCN.
€10.50 – individual tourists or operators without a contract.These higher fees are a result of increased management costs and a higher level of control.
What will happen to tickets on-site?
There will be no option to purchase tickets or make reservations on-site at the entrance. The SIMplifica portal is the only official tool through which you can make a reservation. The personnel controlling the entrances do not sell tickets but only confirm the validity of the reservation and time slot.
Reservations, changes, and refunds.
- Refunds or changes are only possible if: the trail is closed by IFCN's decision
- there are objective restrictions on access to the trail (e.g., due to weather conditions).
Voluntary cancellation by the tourist does not constitute grounds for a refund.
Residents of the Autonomous Region of Madeira.
Residents have free access to the trails but still must:
- make a reservation,
- choose a time slot,
- adhere to entry limits.
Free access does not mean no need for registration.
What does this change bring and what can you expect?
These changes aim to genuinely enhance your hiking experience in Madeira.
You can expect:
- less overcrowding on the most popular trails,
- better distribution of tourist traffic throughout the day,
- more predictable and calmer trip planning,
- less risk of dangerous situations arising from crowds,
- real protection of nature and ecosystems.
This is a step towards quality tourism – based on respect for the environment and a responsible approach to popular destinations.
As you can see, the new system will be in effect from the beginning of 2026, requiring online reservations through the SIMplifica portal, introducing time slots every 30 minutes, eliminating ticket sales at the entrances, differentiating prices on routes (especially PR1), and taking into account local residents of RAM. Madeira focuses on order, quality, and safety – for both tourists and the local nature. This is a positive change that translates into better experiences during your stay on the island.
Do you have questions? We are at your disposal. If this information raises questions or if you want to know more about reservations, fees, access to specific routes, or collaboration with the operator – WRITE TO US. We will provide a complete and reliable answer to your questions.
SUMMARY
Madeira, a popular destination for nature lovers and mountaineers, is introducing a revolutionary change. From 2026, access to all official hiking trails managed by the IFCN will be regulated – visitors must make a mandatory booking and pay a fee.
National Tourist Register - licence RNAVT n° 11932
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