... here’s my personal shortlist of apps and websites that I actually use — every. single. week.
Madeira isn’t a “play it by ear” island — one cloud and your dream hike is gone. So here’s my personal shortlist of apps and websites that I actually use — every. single. week.
Madeira has 5 microclimates. If Funchal is sunny, Seixal could be fogged in like Scotland. Here's what I use:
Madeira Webcams: netmadeira.com
→ Check Pico do Arieiro, Paul da Serra, São Vicente and more before you leave the house.
Windy App:
→ Not just for wind. Check cloud height and fog movement — perfect for chasing sunrise above the clouds.
IPMA.pt (Portuguese Weather Service)
→ Way more accurate than your iPhone’s weather app. It tells you if it’s going to rain for real or just look like it.
Maps.me
→ Best offline app for levadas and unmarked trails. Download Madeira before you land.
Komoot / AllTrails
→ Great for elevation, times, and avoiding “dead-end” shortcuts. I publish some hidden hikes there too!
VisitMadeira.com
→ The official PR hike list (including which are closed). Bookmark this: visitmadeira.com > hiking
7. Madeira Unlocked App → app.madeira-unlocked.com
This gem was built by a friend of mine!
You’ll find everything happening today on the island — from traditional festivals and food markets to DJ nights and art exhibitions. Add it to your homescreen.
8. Agenda Cultural da Madeira
Official calendar of cultural events:
→ cultura.madeira.gov.pt
Useful if you’re into local concerts, exhibitions, and public events.
9. Madeira Island News (Blog)
→ madeiraisland.news
Funny, informal, and sometimes chaotic — but often includes last-minute info, weather alerts, ferry schedules, and random stuff locals talk about.
10. Horarios Funchal (Bus App)
→ horariosdofunchal.pt
Not very user-friendly — but if you must take the bus, this is where to start. I can always help you figure it out.
11. To Drive Rent a Car – NO hidden fees
Message me if you want a reliable rental (with full insurance, no stress).
My Instagram @madeira_hiking
→ for last-minute guided adventure hike plans.
www.instagram.com/figo_fab
→ I post some secret spots, and trip ideas for everyone from chill explorers to trail maniacs.
Save all this in a Google Maps folder or Notes App before you land.
There’s nothing worse than planning a sunrise hike... only to wake up, have no cell signal, and drive two hours into clouds.
Want a PDF or ready-to-use list for your phone?
Message me — I’ll send it over. Or book a video call, and I’ll help plan your whole week.
The Real Madeira Guide - and MORE!
Madeira, Portugal
Go check out my guide for the best free things to do as well as itineraries and travel tips to make your trip unforgettable.