The 5 Best Kayaking Tours in Madeira

1.Garajau Nature Reserve Kayak and Snorkel Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.1 · 906 reviews · 3 hours · from $41Our pick

Start near the Cristiano Ronaldo Statue, learn tandem-kayak basics, then paddle toward Lazareto and the Garajau Nature Reserve. Expect about 40 minutes each way, a pebble-beach stop, snorkeling with fish and crabs, and possibly a safe cliff jump. Guides speak English, Portuguese, and Spanish.

“Our trip was really good! We kayaked out to the reserve where Joao showed us where we could jump into the water. İn the reserve there are lods of fish amd crabs everywhere so youre guaranteed to encounter a lot of wildlife. Highly recommended!”

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2.Kayak and Snorkeling Tour in Underwater Nature Reserve Garajau

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 111 reviews · 2 hours (approx.) · from $59

Paddle from Caniço into Madeira’s Garajau Underwater Nature Reserve, then snorkel among parrotfish, damselfish, and other Atlantic species. Guides such as Pedro, Hugo, Luis, and Antonio Ramos adjust the pace to the group, but choppy water and ladder access require comfort in the sea.

“We really enjoyed it, saw lots of fish, the cayac peace was matched with our skills and the guide, Borja was really funny and friendly. We definitely recommend this experience!”

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3.Quinta do Lorde: Kayak Experience in Ponta de São Lourenço

★★★★★★★★★★4.6 · 106 reviews · 1 day · from $44

Ride a Zodiac from Marina Quinta do Lorde to Cais do Sardinha, then kayak beneath the cliffs of Ponta de São Lourenço with a guide. You’ll have time for the Casa do Sardinha Nature Spot Café, a swim, and possibly snorkeling. Guides such as Lino and Martin have been praised for calm, clear instruction.

“Does require a long bus ride from funchal if you don't have car. Bus stops not marked either. In odd deserted hotel village but was fun getting speed boat taxi to kayak area. the kayaking itself not hard or far, the main part was the snorkelling and seeing lots of fishes”

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4.Caniço, Madeira: Marine Reserve Kayak & Snorkelling Tour

★★★★★★★★★★4.3 · 104 reviews · 2 hours · from $57

Paddle beneath Caniço’s cliffs with a small group of up to 10, then snorkel from the calm launch area in Garajau Marine Reserve. Guides such as Ben, Marcos, and Pedro are praised for clear instruction, safety, and photos. Kayaking can be shortened when wind or waves rise.

“Super fun, the kayak was not difficult, water was gorgeous. The activity was seamless, thoughtful and safe. Highly recommend!!”

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5.Kayak & Snorkeling in Garajau Nature Reserve

★★★★★★★★★★4.4 · 68 reviews · from $34Best value

Join an English- or Spanish-speaking guide at the Cristiano Ronaldo statue for a 2.5-hour kayak and snorkeling trip to Ponta do Lazareto. You will paddle along Funchal’s coast, swim among fish, and may spot sea life such as turtles. Bring water shoes and wear swimwear from the start.

“Great experience and our guide knew a lot about nature and Funchal. We had fun jumping from the cliff. All in all great trip.”

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