Madeira’s canyon walls are waiting. This Level 2 trip in the Nuns Valley turns a walk-and-waterfall day into a hands-on adventure with rappels, slides, and big optional jumps. What I like most is the mix of four abseiling sections (including a top drop around 15 meters) and the way the guides keep things encouraging, clear, and safety-minded. One thing to consider: this is still physical, and you’ll be walking, climbing, and getting wet even if you choose gentler options.

You’ll do it with a qualified guide, all the gear, and transfers from the CR7 Museum area (or you can drive yourself). Plan on about 4 hours of canyon time (including the hike-in), and bring your swimwear and a towel so you’re ready to change fast when you’re done.

Nuns Valley Canyoning (Level 2): What Makes It Feel Like Real Adventure

This isn’t a tame “tour” where you just watch other people do the exciting parts. Level 2 is meant for people who want to step out of their comfort zone—think bigger drops, higher rappels, and optional jumps into pools. Even the route choice stays flexible: if you’re nervous about a jump, you can usually go with the safer alternative and still get the full experience of rappels and slides.

In practice, Level 2 is the sweet spot for many visitors: you get that adrenaline payoff, but the guide-led structure keeps it grounded. The canyon includes refreshing pools where jumps and slides are optional, so you can test your confidence as the day progresses.

And yes, you’ll see plenty of mountain views while you’re moving through the canyon and along the approach. That matters more than it sounds—when the scenery is there, it distracts you from the nerves and turns the whole day into a story you’ll remember.

Getting There: CR7 Museum Pickup vs Driving to the Canyon

You have two main pickup ideas tied to the CR7 Museum area near Funchal: Capela de São Rafael and the CR7 Museum roadside. If you’re staying around the CR7 Museum, the transfer setup is straightforward and included.

If you have a car, you’ll likely find it easier to drive yourself. The information you get says that parking is free at the canyon location, and choosing the Capela drop-off option is the best fit when you drive. Either way, the exact pickup time is confirmed the day before.

Why this matters: canyoning runs on timing. You want to arrive without rushing, because the real “stress” in these trips should come from deciding whether to jump—not from fighting traffic.

The Hike-In: 20 Minutes on Dirt Road and a Levada Walk

Before you start rappelling and jumping, you’ll do a ~20-minute walk. It’s described as a dirt-road section plus time along a levada (the irrigation/utility paths that Madeira is famous for).

This is a small detail, but it sets expectations. It gets you moving, gives you a chance to settle your nerves, and it lets you meet your group and guide in a calmer moment before the ropes come out. It’s also where you can quickly decide how you feel about being in and out of water the rest of the day.

Tip for your comfort: wear footwear that feels secure, and be ready for a wet route. Even if the canyon is the “main event,” your body will appreciate proper grip and a stable stance on the approach.

The Main Event: Four Rappels, One Big 15-Meter Moment

The heart of the Level 2 experience is the vertical stuff—four abseiling/rappel sections in total. The largest is up to around 15 meters, and the maximum height across the route is roughly 10–15 meters depending on the specific set of drops that day.

Here’s the practical takeaway: rappelling isn’t just a stunt. It’s a controlled way to travel down the canyon walls. Your guide handles the setup, and you’re taught how to move safely so you can focus on the moment rather than the mechanics.

Between rappels, you’ll move through the canyon and reach pools where you can choose your level of daring. Jumps and slides are optional, meaning you can say yes to some and skip others without feeling like you’re ruining the group vibe. The route is designed so the “big feeling” comes in waves: you’ll do one drop, catch your breath, then decide what you want to do with the next pool.

Pools, Optional Jumps, and Sliding Into the Fun

This tour is built around water that’s actually meant for action—refreshing pools where you can jump, slide, and basically re-learn how fun it is to be wet. Level 2 includes several optional jump spots and natural slides, so the canyon becomes a mix of technique and play.

If you’re nervous about jumping, you’re not alone. The guides are there to coach you and make sure you don’t feel pressured. The best strategy is to treat each pool like a checkpoint. Try one move, get comfortable, then decide on the next one.

A small reality check: even when jumps are optional, the day is still physically demanding. You’ll be moving, balancing, climbing around obstacles, and spending time in cold water. If you’re the type who freezes up when you’re uncomfortable, you’ll want to mentally commit to gradual confidence rather than forcing everything on the first try.

Guides Who Actually Teach: Jose, Bruno, and the Safety-First Mindset

The standout across the experience is how the guides run the day. You’ll be accompanied by a qualified guide, and many groups report the same core duo: Jose and Bruno. The vibe you can expect is professional, plus fun—clear instructions, encouragement, and enough humor to keep your nerves from taking over.

What I love about this style: they don’t just bark orders. They explain what’s happening and how to do it, then they guide you step-by-step through each obstacle. That’s what makes Level 2 feel approachable even if it’s your first canyoning day.

Safety doesn’t mean boring here. The guides keep safety as the priority, but they also keep momentum and energy high. And if you want proof that they’re paying attention, look for the details: people consistently mention feeling safe at each stage, not just at the start.

Equipment, Gear, and What You Need to Bring (and What You Don’t)

This trip includes all equipment required to canyon: the gear that lets you rappel and move safely in the canyon. You don’t have to track down a wetsuit, harness setup, or the other basics.

What you do need to bring is simple:

• swimwear
• a towel

What’s not included: towels, swimwear, and changing rooms. So come prepared to change efficiently when you’re finished, and don’t count on a full locker-room setup.

Value angle on the price: at $61 per person, you’re paying for more than the “activity.” You’re also getting transfers (from the CR7 Museum area or ponta do sol), qualified guidance, insurance, and photos. That helps a lot, because canyoning gear rentals and photo add-ons can add up quickly if you book them separately.

Photos Included: Why That Changes the Day

One quiet reason this tour earns strong praise is that photos are included. Guides take photos during the action, and you get them after the experience.

This matters because it removes friction. You can focus on doing the jumps, the slides, and the rappels without worrying about camera timing or handing your phone to someone else. If you’re going for memories, this is a practical win.

Who This Canyoning Level 2 Tour Suits Best

Level 2 is best for people who want more than “first-timer sightseeing,” but still want a guided day with coaching. It can work for first-time canyoners, especially if you’re open to optional jumps and can follow instructions.

It’s also well-matched to mixed groups—active adults and younger participants often do fine side-by-side because the route is structured with choices. If you’re in your 50s and you feel steady on your feet, you’ll likely be okay as long as you’re mentally ready for the water and physical effort.

Not suitable for: pregnant women.

If you have ankle, back, or other injury issues, you should take extra caution. The data doesn’t list medical restrictions beyond pregnancy, so you’ll need to use your judgment and, if needed, ask the provider directly about your specific situation.

Price and Value: Is $61 a Good Deal for Madeira Canyoning?

At $61 per person for about 4 hours, this is priced like a value-forward adventure—especially because it includes equipment, insurance, transfer support, and photos. The big costs in canyoning aren’t just the guide time; it’s the gear and safety logistics that have to be in place to run the day smoothly.

The “hidden” value is the structure: the combination of rappels, slides, and optional jumps means you’re getting multiple types of adventure in a single morning/half-day. Instead of paying for one stunt, you’re paying for a full set of obstacles and water moments.

What could make it feel expensive is if you show up unprepared. Since towels, swimwear, and changing rooms aren’t included, you’ll want to buy/pack those basics early—then the $61 feels like a solid deal.

Quick Booking Readiness: Sizes, Shoes, and Simple Rules

Before you go, you’ll need to send your sizes: height (cm), weight (kg), shoe size (EU), and age. That’s typical for fitting and running safety gear properly.

You also need to follow the rules: no alcohol and no drugs. This is a safety-and-ethics rule for active outdoor sports, so take it seriously.

If you’re organized, you’ll have a smooth day. If you’re not, you’ll spend the morning stressing about paperwork and gear choices instead of having fun in the canyon.

Should You Book This Madeira Canyoning Level 2 Tour?

Book it if you want a real canyoning day with ropes, water action, and big moments like a top rappel around 15 meters—without needing to jump right into Level 3. It’s a strong match for first-timers who are willing to be coached and who don’t mind getting wet and working a bit physically.

Skip it if you’re looking for an easy, low-effort tour, or if you’re not able to do the physical walking and awkward footing that comes with canyon environments. Also don’t book it if you’re pregnant.

If you’re on the fence between Level 2 and going “all in,” Level 2 is the smartest way to learn the flow of canyoning while still getting those adrenaline hits.

FAQ

How long is the canyoning experience?

The total duration is about 4 hours, including the hike-in and the canyon activities.

Where does this canyoning happen?

It takes place in Madeira, Portugal, in the Nuns Valley (Curral das Freiras area).

What is the maximum rappel height?

The largest rappel is up to 15 meters, with route heights roughly in the 10–15 meter range.

Is there jumping in this Level 2 canyoning?

Yes. There are optional jumps and also pools where you can jump and slide.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear and a towel.

What is included in the price?

Equipment, a qualified guide, insurance, transfers from the CR7 hotel area or ponta do sol, and photos.

What is not included?

Towels, swimwear, and changing rooms are not included.

What pickup and drop-off options are available?

Pickup options include the Capela de São Rafael area and the CR7 Museum roadside. Drop-off also includes those same two locations.

What information do I need to send before the tour?

You’ll need to send your height (cm), weight (kg), shoe size (EU), and age.

What payment and cancellation options are offered?

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and you can reserve now and pay later.