Levada Walking - BE CAREFUL

I have said this on the blog before and will repeat this again, that Levada walking needs concentration and care. 

The British Government have released today caution for British tourists traveling to Portugal.

It is one of the most popular tourist destinations and has advised tourists visiting Madeira to take caution when walking Levada's on the island and some should only be attempted if your used to hiking.

Also in Portugal to take care not to have money and passports on show as there is an increase in robberies in certain areas, and to also look for anything or anyone suspicious that could lead to terrorist activity, as its a destination they believe could be targeted.

Coming back to the LEVADA walking, Saturday 30th April a French male 85 years old dies after falling 100m from the levada at Garachico,  Estrieto de Camara de Lobos.

Today both French again, a woman of 59 years fell and broke her foot on the Levada 25 Fonts Rabaçal, and a young woman of 27 years fell from Caldeirão do Inferno Santana with suspected broken leg.

Levada's are beautiful and the only way you will see the real Madeira, I do many and enjoy them very much,

You need to be very careful though, if your looking at the scenery and taking photos for god sake stop and do this, I see so many tourists walking along with their eyes everywhere apart from the path in front of them, a small slip or trip can result in death in an instant. 

I am not trying to put people off but just have common sense, wear good walking shoes or boots, make sure you have a touch, a light waterproof, a mobile phone that is charged something to eat if your on a long walk and water to drink. 

MOST IMPORTANTLY tell someone where you are going, especially tourists staying in hotels, and hotel staff will notice your missing if your bed has not been slept in over night. and if they know where you planned to go, it could SAVE YOUR LIFE.

Enjoy Madeira, Enjoy the Levadas and stay safe, they are beautiful, and so much to see and enjoy.