Levada do Caldeirão Verde
Also known as: Green Cauldron, Queimadas Levada
100m waterfall, emerald pool, jungle immersion
Trail Overview
Levada do Caldeirão Verde (PR9) is a easy-moderate levada walk trail located in Madeira, Portugal. Starting from Queimadas Forest Park and ending at Caldeirão Verde waterfall, this 17.4km route typically takes 5-7 hours to complete. 100m waterfall, emerald pool, jungle immersion. Multiple dark tunnels; headlamp essential; narrow ledges in places
Quick Facts
- Distance
- 17.4 km
- Duration
- 5-7 h
- Difficulty
- Easy-Moderate
- Elevation Gain
- 250 m
Exposure & Heights
Moderate exposure (3/5)
Includes narrow ledges and multiple dark tunnels; take extra care in wet weather.
Tunnels
- Has tunnels
- Yes
- Tunnel count
- 4
- Headlamp
- Required
Route Details
- Starting Point
- Queimadas Forest Park
- End Point
- Caldeirão Verde waterfall
- Trail Type
- Levada Walk
Parking & Access
- Parking Location
- Queimadas Forest Park
- Parking Cost
- Free
- Best Season
- Year-round (waterfalls best in winter and spring)
Essential Equipment
Hiking boots, headlamp (tunnels), rain gear
Safety Information
Multiple dark tunnels; headlamp essential; narrow ledges in places
Weather Advisory
Levada trails are generally sheltered, but sections may be slippery when wet. Rain increases waterfall volume, which makes the experience more dramatic but the path more challenging. Wear waterproof boots.
Best time for this trail: Year-round (waterfalls best in winter and spring)
Best Time to Book
Calderão Verde is less crowded than PR6 but still popular. Book morning slots to have the waterfalls more to yourself. Winter (November-February) has fewer hikers and the most dramatic waterfall flow.
Permit Required
This route typically requires a paid permit. Always confirm the final requirements (price, timing, and who is exempt) in SIMplifica for your exact route and date.
Similar trails
Prefer a guided experience?
If you prefer not to worry about logistics or safety, a certified guide is highly recommended.
Skip the logistics. These transfer services include hotel pickup, drop-off at the start, and collection at the end.
Guided Caldeirão Verde Levada Walk
Caldeirão Verde Levada (PR9) – Guided Walk
We may earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep the site free and updated.
Get your free Madeira trail guide
A printable 1-page summary with key stats, equipment checklist, emergency numbers, and booking links. Delivered to your inbox.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime. We respect your privacy.
Need help planning?
We also run the leading guides for other activities in Madeira.
Boat Tours & Whale Watching
Relax after your hike on a catamaran or speedboat looking for marine life.
Jeep Safari Tours
Explore Madeira's rugged interior without the legwork. Great for rest days.
Canyon & Advanced Tours
For those who want more adventure! Rappel down waterfalls and jump into pools.
We may earn a small commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.