Also Madeira takes a stand against overtourism. In fact, starting from 1 January 2025, it will introduce a tax for non-resident visitors who intend to follow the island’s hiking trails. This is a move aimed at promoting a more sustainable tourismsimilar to what already happens in destinations such as Cinque Terre, Santorini in Greece, and even Mount Fuji in Japan.
The tax, set at three euroswill be applied to anyone over the age of 12 who wishes to explore the famous natural routes of the Portuguese island. Initially tested on seven very popular trails, including Pico do Areeiro, Pico Ruivo, Levada do Risco, Levada do Caldeirão Verde, Balcões, Levada do Rei and Ponta de São Lourenço, the measure will now be extended to over 30 routes.
Management will be entrusted to the Institute for Forests and Nature Conservation (ICNF), which will collect the revenues to allocate them to environmental protection interventions, maintenance and cleaning of routes.
It is necessary to protect the fragile ecosystem of the island
But why did it get to this point? Madeira, with its breathtaking landscapes of rugged mountains, lush forests and waterfalls, is a loved by hikers from all over the world. However, the tourist boom of recent years, accentuated in high season periods, has brought with it the need for protect the island’s fragile ecosystem.
Rafaela Fernandes, Regional Secretary for Agriculture, Fisheries and the Environment, underlined that the tax is necessary to ensure the conservation of natural landscapes and to manage the increase in visitor numbers.
And who will not respect the regulations risks a fine of 50 euros. To facilitate the payment of the tax, the authorities have made several options available: visitors will be able to pay through a online portal managed by the regional government or directly at ICNF stations located along many of the routes.
Madeira is also launching one awareness campaign to explain to hikers the importance of the tax and its purpose. Fernandes said many tourists welcomed the initiative, recognizing the value of contributing to the protection of the natural environment.
The tax, in fact, represents a way to support territory protection activities and to ensure that future generations can continue to enjoy the island’s unique landscapes. With this initiative, Madeira seeks to address the challenges related to growing tourism, preserving its precious trails and offering visitors an environmentally friendly experience.
