Go Explore Canyoning Level 2 (Nun’s Valley) .

Nun’s Valley is the setting for a hands-on canyoning route: you walk to the stream, then move through pools and waterfalls by abseil, slide or jump. Four rappels, with the highest around 15 meters, give the trip its Level 2 edge, while the jumps are optional.

I like two things in particular: you get a choice about how adventurous to be, and a small group of no more than 10 makes it easier to hear the guides and get individual support. Guides José and Miguel are singled out for calm, clear safety instructions, and photos are included.

The main consideration is that Level 2 is not a gentle sightseeing stroll. You should be comfortable getting wet, trying rope descents and stepping outside your comfort zone. The jumps are optional, but you’ll still need to be ready for an active outing in and around a mountain stream.

What to know before you book

• Four abseils, one up to 15 meters: Expect repeated rope descents, not just a single dramatic waterfall.
• Jumps are optional: You can choose your level of challenge at the pools, rather than being required to take every jump.
• A 20-minute walk starts the outing: The approach follows a dirt road and a levada before the canyon section begins.
• Small group, maximum 10: That gives the guides room to explain techniques and check that everyone is ready.
• Equipment and photos are included: Bring swimwear and a towel. You’ll be provided with the gear needed for the activity.
• Pickup or self-drive: Transfers are available from Funchal’s CR7 Museum, Ponta do Sol and Calheta. Driving to the canyon is described as the more convenient option, with free parking.

A canyoning route in the heart of Nun’s Valley

Madeira’s steep interior gives this outing its character. The canyon sits in Nun’s Valley, surrounded by mountains, and the route takes you into places that are hard to reach on foot alone. Rather than viewing the valley from a roadside lookout, you follow the water through it, descending rock faces and moving between pools.

This is the intermediate option for people who want more than a first taste of canyoning. The advertised maximum height is around 10 to 15 meters, and there are four abseils, with the tallest reaching about 15 meters. Some jumps are available along the way, but you can decide whether to take them. That choice matters: it gives confident participants room to push themselves without making every leap a test you have to pass.

The trip lasts about four hours, with a guided canyon session listed at roughly three and a half hours. That time includes the approach walk and the activity itself, so it’s best to think of this as a half-day commitment, not a quick stop between other plans. Starting times vary, so check availability when choosing a date.

The approach: dirt road, levada, then water

The canyoning starts with a walk of about 20 minutes along a dirt road and beside a levada, Madeira’s traditional water channels. This is a useful transition from the road into the mountain setting, and it gives the group a chance to get together before the more demanding part begins.

It’s a short approach, but it is still part of an active outing. Wear your swimwear under your clothes if that makes changing easier, and have your towel ready for afterward. Changing rooms are not included, so plan for a simple change rather than a full set of facilities at the canyon.

Once you reach the stream, the pace shifts from walking to following the water. You’ll use the provided equipment to make your way through the canyon, with the guides explaining each section as it comes. The exact order of descents, jumps and slides can depend on the route and conditions, so don’t expect a fixed sequence of stunts.

Four rappels, with room to choose your challenge

The four abseils are the outing’s main technical feature. The highest is about 15 meters, a height that feels substantial when you’re attached to a rope above a waterfall, but the guides talk you through the steps. José and Miguel are praised for giving clear explanations and taking time to help people feel safe. That sort of steady instruction can make a big difference if you’re new to canyoning or nervous before your first descent.

The activity is described as Level 2 and suited to people seeking more adventure. It is not presented as requiring previous canyoning experience, and first-timers have taken part. Still, a beginner-friendly guide does not make the route passive: you’ll be moving through water, using ropes and making decisions about optional jumps. Be honest with yourself about your comfort with heights and physical activity.

Along the way, there are pools to jump into and natural slides to try. You can choose the jumps that feel right for you, rather than treating them as compulsory. That flexibility is a real strength for mixed groups, where one person may be eager to leap and another may prefer to descend by rope or watch from a safe spot.

The stream water can feel cool, especially on a rainy day, but wetsuits are provided as part of the gear and have been described as keeping people comfortable. The package also includes water and chocolate, a welcome small boost during a long stretch of physical activity. Don’t mistake the snack for a meal; eat beforehand if you know you’ll need more fuel.

Guides and group size make a practical difference

With a maximum of 10 participants, this is a small-group activity rather than a large convoy. That cap can help keep instructions clear and gives the guides a chance to check in as people tackle each section. The guide team has included José, Miguel and Filipe. Names and staffing can vary, but the experience is led by qualified guides, and instruction is offered in English, French, Portuguese and Spanish.

The most useful guide quality here is not a loud pep talk. It’s the ability to explain a rope descent calmly, answer questions and let you decide how far to push yourself. José and Miguel have been praised for patient safety briefings and for keeping the mood light without making the activity feel careless. You want both: a sense of fun, and no confusion about what to do next.

Photos are included, which is especially handy when both hands are occupied with ropes or you’re concentrating on your footing. You can enjoy the route without trying to carry a camera through wet, slippery terrain. The activity also includes insurance, all required equipment, water and chocolate.

Pickup points, self-driving and the four-hour schedule

Transfers are offered from three points: the roadside by Funchal’s CR7 Museum, a petrol station in Ponta do Sol, and the Pingo Doce supermarket in Calheta. Pickup times are confirmed the day before, so keep an eye out for that information rather than assuming a precise time far in advance.

If you have a rental car, the operator says driving straight to the canyon is more convenient, and free parking is available there. That can save you a round of pickups, particularly if you’re staying outside the three transfer areas. The trade-off is that you’ll need to manage your own drive and arrive at the meeting point at the confirmed time.

The total activity is listed as four hours, while the guided canyon portion is about three and a half hours. Build a little breathing room around it rather than scheduling a tight connection or meal reservation immediately afterward. Pickup and drop-off options are the same three locations, though the exact timing depends on the day’s arrangements.

At $82 per person, the price includes several items that would otherwise complicate an adventure booking: equipment, qualified guides, insurance, transfers from the listed points, water, chocolate and photos. For a four-hour guided activity with technical equipment and a small group, that’s a useful bundle. The value is strongest if you’ll use the transfer and photo service; if you’re driving yourself, those parts matter less, though the gear and instruction remain central.

Is Level 2 right for you?

This outing suits you if you want a proper physical adventure and like the idea of exploring a mountain stream rather than simply looking at the valley from above. It can work for a first canyoning experience if you’re willing to listen closely, try the rope descents and take the activity at your own pace. Families have completed it with children aged 10 and 13, but that does not establish a formal minimum age, so ask the operator about age suitability before booking for children.

It is a poor fit if you are pregnant, as the activity is specifically listed as unsuitable for pregnant women. It may also not suit you if you dislike heights, don’t want to get wet or are not keen on an active outing. Optional jumps offer some control, but they don’t remove the abseils or the physical nature of the route.

For the best chance of a relaxed start, send the requested information promptly: your height in centimeters, weight in kilograms, European shoe size and age. The operator needs these details to prepare the equipment. Bring swimwear and a towel, and leave alcohol and drugs out of the plan.

Should you book it?

Book this if you want a guided, small-group canyoning adventure with real rope descents, mountain scenery and the freedom to choose whether to take the jumps. The included equipment, photos and patient instruction add practical value, especially for a first-timer who wants support without giving up the sense of challenge.

Skip it if you’re after a low-effort nature walk, or if heights and cold water are deal-breakers. For everyone else, Level 2 looks like a strong way to see a less accessible side of Nun’s Valley. Choose your pickup point carefully, confirm the meeting time the day before, and arrive ready to get wet.

FAQ

How long does the canyoning activity last?

The activity lasts about four hours. The guided canyon portion is listed at roughly three and a half hours.

How many abseils are included?

There are four abseils, with the highest reaching about 15 meters.

Do I have to do the jumps?

No. The jumps are optional, so you can choose whether to take them.

Is previous canyoning experience required?

The activity is intended for people seeking an intermediate-level adventure, but first-timers have taken part. The guides explain the steps and safety precautions.

What equipment and extras are included?

The required activity equipment, a qualified guide, insurance, water, chocolate and photos are included. Wetsuits have also been provided as part of the gear.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear and a towel. Changing rooms are not included.

Where can I be picked up?

Pickup is available by the CR7 Museum in Funchal, at a petrol station in Ponta do Sol, or in front of the Pingo Doce supermarket in Calheta. Pickup times are confirmed the day before.

Can I cancel, and is the activity suitable during pregnancy?

You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The activity is not suitable for pregnant women.