That first rope drop grabs you fast. Level 2 canyoning in Madeira’s Nun’s Valley (Curral das Freiras) is a real-world adventure day with abseiling, jump options, and mountain views as your backdrop. It’s built for people who want more action than the easy routes, without jumping straight to the toughest grades.

I love how the course mixes four abseils (with the biggest around 15 meters) plus slide-and-jump choices in refreshing pools. I also like the human factor: the guides, especially Jose and Miguel, keep instruction calm and clear so you feel in control before each descent.

One consideration: you’ll be in a wetsuit and in cold mountain water (even if it’s not brutal), so you’ll want a towel and swimwear—those aren’t provided.

Quick hits: what makes Nun’s Valley Level 2 worth it

• 15-meter abseil plus a total of four rappels on a true canyon route
• Optional jumps into refreshing pools, with slide and plunge moments
• Small group (max 10) for more attention and a smoother pace
• Walk about 20 minutes on dirt road and along a levada before the action starts
• Photos included, and the vibe stays upbeat thanks to guides like Jose and Miguel
• Transfer included from CR7 Museum (Funchal), Calheta, or Ponta do Sol

Nun’s Valley Level 2: what the experience is actually like

Level 2 canyoning in Madeira’s Nun’s Valley is the sweet spot for active travelers. You’ll still get plenty of guidance, but the canyon gives you real reasons to focus—rope work, water depth changes, and the moment you choose whether to jump or rappel. Think “more adventure” rather than “extreme-only.”

The setting matters. You’re surrounded by steep mountains in the middle of the island’s valleys, and the route runs through that Curral das Freiras area people know for dramatic terrain. Even when the water is doing the talking, you’re still watching cliffs, valley angles, and mountain views as you move from one obstacle to the next.

And the pace is not a sprint. Expect a short build-up first (walking and getting ready), then sustained canyon time with multiple descents and pool sections. The whole experience runs about 4 hours total, with around 3.5 hours guided once you start the canyon portion.

Price and value: why $82 feels fair (when you add up what’s included)

At $82 per person, the value comes from the bundle. You’re not just buying a spot to slide down a rock. You’re getting all the required equipment, a qualified guide, insurance, and a set of basics that normally cost extra on island activities: water, chocolate, and included photos.

You also get transfers from three convenient areas:

• CR7 Museum roadside (Funchal area)
• Calheta (in front of the Pingo Doce supermarket)
• Ponta do Sol (from a petrol station)

That transfer piece is a big deal on Madeira, where getting around efficiently can turn into a day-long puzzle if you’re relying only on buses or taxis. If you have a car, you can drive straight to the canyon location and use the free parking, which is handy.

Bottom line: Level 2 canyoning plus gear plus guided safety plus photos for a half-day format is a solid bargain. The only way it feels expensive is if you’re comparing it to a purely scenic half-day. This isn’t that. This is hands-on adventure.

Getting there: pickup options and the one thing you should plan for

The tour starts with pick-up choices across the island’s south and Funchal side. You’ll get one of three pickup locations depending on what’s easiest for you:

• Portugal’s CR7 Museum (roadside)
• Ponta do Sol
• Praia da Calheta (Calheta)

The operator confirms exact pickup times the day before, so I recommend keeping your schedule loose on that final evening. If you’re staying in the Funchal area, the CR7 Museum meeting point tends to be simple to find.

From there, you’ll drive to the start area near Curral das Freiras. One practical tip from how the day flows: even though the canyoning is the headline, you still spend time on foot before the first rope action. So wear shoes you’re comfortable getting wet and muddy in.

The 20-minute walk and the levada: your warm-up before the canyon

Before the canyoning starts, you’ll walk about 20 minutes on a dirt road and along a levada. This is not a casual stroll. It’s the kind of walking that reminds you you’re on a working mountain landscape—sometimes uneven, sometimes damp, and always part of the real route to the water.

This portion is useful though. It helps you get your bearings fast:

• you’ll see the valley you’re working in
• you’ll get a feel for footing
• you’ll settle into the gear setup routine

If you’re prone to anxiety around getting wet or handling gear, this lead-in time is good. It’s a gentle ramp before abseiling.

The canyoning run: four abseils, the 15-meter moment, and pool jumps

Here’s where Level 2 earns its name.

You’ll do four abseils during the canyon route. The biggest rappel is around 15 meters, and the rest reach a maximum height that’s generally in the 10–15 meter range. That matters because it shifts canyoning from “controlled fun” into “you’re doing real vertical movement.” You’ll learn quickly that the guide’s pace and your breathing matter as much as your grip.

Between rope sections, you’ll hit refreshing pools. Some pools have optional jumps and even slide-and-plunge-style moments. This is the part where you decide how bold you want to be. If you’re nervous, you can choose the lower-commitment option where available. If you’re feeling confident, you can push yourself with the jumps.

A key detail: the water is cold enough to matter, but the wetsuits make a difference. In a rainy scenario, you don’t suddenly lose the day—you stay warm enough to enjoy it rather than just endure it. One of the most repeated themes from past participants is how comfortably warm the wetsuits felt, even when the weather wasn’t perfect.

And all of this is happening with mountain views nearby. That combination—vertical drops plus open sky glimpses—is why Madeira canyoning feels different from the usual theme-park-style adventure.

Why the guide team makes Level 2 feel manageable (even if you’re new)

Level 2 is designed for people pushing past their comfort zone. The good news is you’re not thrown into it alone. You’ll travel with a qualified guide who handles safety checks, rope setup, and step-by-step instruction.

Jose and Miguel come up again and again in the day-to-day experience—calm explanations, patient support, and clear safety talk before each new move. In practice, what that means for you is simple: you don’t have to guess. You’ll be shown what to do, then you’ll do it with an eye on the plan.

That relaxed-but-pro team approach is especially important for the parts that feel intimidating:

• the moment you commit to the first abseil
• the decision point for jumps into pools
• the transitions between rope and water

Also, small-group size helps. With up to 10 participants, the guides can keep eyes on everyone, answer questions without rushing, and still keep a fun energy in the group.

What to bring: the three items that prevent the annoying problems

You don’t need to pack much, but you do need to pack the basics correctly.

Bring:

• Swimwear
• A towel

That’s it for the essentials you’re told about. Equipment and gear are included, and you’ll also get water during the activity.

One thing to expect: there are no changing rooms listed as included. So plan on a practical day—show up ready to go as much as you can, and keep your towel and dry clothes handy for the post-canyon transition.

What not to bring:

• alcohol and drugs are not allowed

If you’re tempted to “celebrate” before the ropes, save it for later.

Weather on Madeira: why rain doesn’t automatically mean cancellation

Madeira weather can shift fast. Even if you show up worried about rain, this canyoning style can still work because the route and safety process are built for real conditions.

In past experiences, rainy weather didn’t ruin the plan. The group still ran the canyon day, and the wetsuits helped keep people comfortable. What changes is the mental game: you’ll want to listen carefully, stay focused, and trust the safety routine.

If you hate slippery footing or cold water psychologically, that’s the one reason to hesitate. Not because it’s unsafe—because it takes mindset. But the guides tend to keep that mindset steady, especially when you’re choosing jumps or deciding to rappel instead.

Transfers, group size, and why small groups feel better

Transfers matter here because the route is not just “walk out your hotel and go.” You’ll get pickup and drop-off from three locations, and your pickup time is confirmed the day before. That reduces stress and lets you focus on the day’s main goal: canyoning.

The group size is limited to 10 participants, which is small enough for a more personalized flow. In a bigger group, canyoning can turn into waiting and rushing. In a smaller group, you get more attention at each safety checkpoint, and it’s easier to ask questions right when you need them.

If you like active days with people who also want adventure (not a large party vibe), this format fits well.

Who should choose this Level 2 Nun’s Valley canyoning?

Level 2 is for you if:

• you want more adventure than Level 1
• you’re comfortable trying bigger jumps or waterfalls where options exist
• you can handle basic physical effort (walking in and moving through the canyon)
• you’re willing to follow safety steps closely

It’s also a good choice for first-timers who are nervous but willing to learn. The recurring theme from guide support is that they keep instruction clear and supportive, so you don’t feel left behind.

You should skip it if:

• you’re pregnant (not suitable)
• you’re not comfortable with water activities and vertical rappelling in cold conditions
• you’re hoping for a purely scenic day with no ropes or jumps

A quick reality check on gear, comfort, and photos

Gear is included, and the wetsuits are a big part of why people report feeling comfortable in the water. You’re not meant to freeze your way through the day.

Also, photos are included. That’s underrated value for an activity like this. The canyoning day is chaotic in the best way, and you’re usually too focused on the next move to stop and pose. Having guides take photos helps you keep the memory without turning it into a distraction.

Plus, you’ll get small “comfort” touches like chocolate and water during the day, which keeps energy steady between sections.

Should you book Go Explore Canyoning Level 2 in Nun’s Valley?

I’d book it if you want a true Madeira action day: rope work, pool jumps, and mountain views in one half-day slot. Level 2 hits that sweet balance of challenge and support—especially with guides like Jose and Miguel who focus on calm safety instruction and keeping the group confident.

Skip it if your comfort zone is strictly no-cold-water and no vertical movement. Also be ready for the practical stuff: bring swimwear and a towel, and accept that there aren’t changing rooms provided.

If you’re an active traveler planning Madeira around experiences, this one is a strong fit—and it’s the kind of day you’ll remember long after the photos are uploaded.

FAQ

How long is the Go Explore Canyoning Level 2 experience?

The total duration is about 4 hours. Starting times vary, so you’ll need to check availability.

Where does the canyoning take place?

It’s in Madeira, Portugal, in the Nun’s Valley area near Curral das Freiras.

How much does it cost?

The price is $82 per person.

What are the pickup locations?

Pickup options include Portugal’s CR7 Museum (Funchal roadside), Ponta do Sol, and Praia da Calheta. Specific pickup points are: Calheta in front of Pingo Doce, and Ponta do Sol from a petrol station.

What’s included in the price?

Included are all required equipment, transfer from CR7 hotel, Calheta, or Ponta do Sol, a qualified guide, insurance, chocolate, water, and photos.

What should I bring?

Bring swimwear and a towel. Towels, swimwear, and changing rooms are not included.

How big is the group?

It’s a small group limited to 10 participants.

What do I need to send before the trip?

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

Is it suitable for everyone?

It’s not suitable for pregnant women. Alcohol and drugs are not allowed.