There are three ways to get to the Encumeada Pass (at an altitude of 1007 meters): by intercity bus, by car (take the new highway or old road), or by walking along one of the hiking routes (this one is for the most adventurous travelers). The pass connects the northern and southern parts of Madeira. As a rule, people come to Encumeada from the more touristy South, from the town of Ribeira Brava, then descend through the pass to the North, to Sao Vicente, where they continue exploring the island in the local volcanic caves.

The landscapes of the pass take your breath away. You start to think that Olympian gods probably lived in the same majestic nature. Rugged mountains, tropical forests, infatuating scents of eucalyptus trees, tiny white houses away on the slopes, observation decks that make your heart skip a beat. The main viewpoint of the pass is Boca da Encumeada. This is the only place where you can see both coasts at once, but only if the weather is fine. Unfortunately, the local weather is often cloudy and rainy, even if the sun is shining somewhere close in the valley. But do not worry, you can always relax in a cafe. As a rule, 15-20 minutes is enough for the cloud to leave and the sun to start lightening the mountains and the cliffs of the pass. However, a cold wind blows even in sunny weather, and it is 5-7 degrees colder in Encumeada than on the coast. So it is better to take warm clothes and comfortable shoes. If you do not have warm clothes with you, but you want to continue walking, you can buy knitted warm clothes in the souvenir shop right on the pass.

There are several hiking routes starting from Encumeada: you can find the start signs next to the pass. For example, the route to Boca da Corrida, 14 kilometers long, takes 5-6 hours. It runs along the levada (water storage channels), through forests, valleys, tunnels (partly), and leads to a village at the foot of the mountains. Please note that it is better not to take children under the age of 12 on the Encumeada hiking trails. Be sure to have a water supply and a flashlight to pass through the tunnels.