PR16 Levada Fajã do Rodrigues with Kids

Searching for a family-friendly, yet exhilirating hike on Madeira Island? Look no further than the PR16 Levada Fajã do Rodrigues! Located in the heart of the stunning coastal town of São Vicente, the ocean quickly meets the forest. From caves to waterfalls, this trail has it all. Not only is it an easy trail, but it’s a relatively safe hike with very few drop off sections. We found very few hikes with ZERO sketchy sections on the island. So, this trail was a winner. This was one of our toddlers’ favorite hikes during our time on Madeira. We highly recommend the Levada Fajã do Rodrigues with kids when hiking Madeira. Look no further! Here is your full guide to the PR16 with kids. Be sure to read our Madeira with toddlers post for more epic Madeira content and tips!

About the PR16 Levada Fajã do Rodrigues

Hike Details

- - Distance: 4.2 mi
  - Duration: 2-2.5 hrs
  - Elevation Gain: 1,053 ft
  - Difficulty: Easy
  - Type: Out & Back

Level of Difficulty

The PR16 is not a difficult hike in terms of elevation gain, distance or trail conditions. It is a relatively low incline with mostly flat portions. A total elevation gain of 1,053 feet, which I felt like was the initial portion of the hike. Honestly, it did not feel like we gained that much elevation at all. From there, the trail winds around the mountain following a levada (aqueduct network through the mountains), as many do in Madeira. The majority of the trail is in the forest, lined with lush greenery and cool temperatures. You will encounter two major waterfalls and 3 tunnel sections. Yes, tunnels. Ultimately, the hike ends at a large waterfall, but we did not get that far due to the distance of the last tunnel explained below.

Technical Sections – The Tunnels

The absolute highlight of the PR16 hike with kids is the presence of levada tunnels that you will encounter. There are two short tunnels and one long tunnel that require a headlamp for optimal safety. Maya and Luna loved this so much that I would never talk a parent out of doing this hike. The reason we didn’t continue on for the last portion is because the final tunnel is about 1 km long. To fit an infant or toddler in a hiking carrier and not bump their head for an entire kilometer would be a massive challenge. You’re basically ducking for many portions of the tunnel which is an about 1.5 feet wide path. Despite the quietness of the hike, you have to either wait until hikers on the opposite side have completed the tunnel or you have very little space to let someone around you.

Being a much longer tunnel, it’s impossible to wait for other hikers to walk through first. We did not feel safe with two toddlers completing this portion. If you have older kids (maybe 6 and up), I think it’s definitely doable. However, the hike itself and small tunnels were enough excitement for our family. It served its purpose and that was more satisfying than being uncomfortable and “on edge” at the end. Just don’t forget to bring your headlamps to free up your hands for littles!

The reason we didn't continue on for the last portion is because the final tunnel is about 1 km long.

When to Hike

What is the best part of Madeira Island? The weather! With fairly consistent and mild temps year round, this is an anytime destination! This means, you can hike in any season. Woohoo! After asking a local what the busiest time of the year is on the island, she responded with “There’s really no slow season.” The island bears similarity to Caribbean-type climate with mild to warm temperatures year round, making for perfect hiking conditions.

As with any mountain terrain, you could still experience multiple “seasons” in one day. This means that you need to prepare for any and all weather. It is unlikely that you’ll encounter snow here, but anticipate big swings in temperatures, rainfall at any point and warmth on exposed trails. The key here is to always check the weather prior to a hike, keep an eye out for trail closures (All Trails is your best friend) and wear layers. Below is our packing list for the PR16 hike with kids. However, this list can be applied to just about any Madeira hike.

What to Pack

Do NOT forget a headlamp for the caves!!

- - Child Hiking Carrier (we love the Osprey Poco line)
  - Hiking Poles
  - Hiking boots (water resistant – muddy on waterfall trails and after rainfall)
  - Water shoes (if planning on a waterfall hike)
  - Hat and gloves for the top
  - Warm base layers (merino wool is the best for temperature regulation)
  - Fleece jacket
  - Rain jacket (we love the Therm Kids SplashMagic jackets)
  - Water
  - Plenty of snacks (apples, PB&J, trail mix & snickers are our go to’s)
  - Diapers/Wipes
  - Milk bottle (if needed)
  - Portable changing pad (depending on age of child)
  - Sunglasses or hat (no shade)
  - Sunscreen for sensitive babies in the summer
  - Camera, Go Pro, Drone, Tripod (for the photographers out there)
  - Mini first aid kit (10% off KEEP>GOING kits)

Child Tips

- - Bring headlamps – you do not want to walk the tunnels without a light and a phone light is not ideal. You may need free hands to help your kids
  - Hype up the tunnels! – We like to prepare our girls for any unique circumstances. Don’t scare them, but give them a heads up about exciting caves or tunnels on the walk. It gives them something to look forward to while hiking
  - Turn around at any point. Once you complete the first 2 tunnels, you can walk a little further to first waterfall, but don’t feel obligated to continue. Safety first! If you have older adventurous kids, I think you could easily continue on with headlamps
  - Bring rain jackets for tunnels, water falling off mountainside and waterfalls. Fun for kids!
  - This trail is relatively flat and a great space for littles to explore out of the hiking carrier. Save it for steeper drop-off sections. There are a couple steep ledges with wide paths, so keep a close eye and always teach trail safety.

Final Thoughts

Hiking the PR16 with kids is not only doable, but easily our favorite trail in Madeira! From the safe, easy paths to the fun, adventurous tunnels, your kids are sure to have a blast! We love that it is not a long, strenuous day and you still can enjoy the afternoon on Madeira’s stunning coast. This is a must-do trail when visiting Madeira Island. Don’t forget to follow our adventures on social media and read our full Madeira with toddlers guide!