Book cheap flights to Madeira

Famous for its fantastic botanical gardens, Madeira is most busy in spring (March to Mary). During this time the weather is warm and pleasant, and the aroma of sweet, wild flowers lingers in the air of the Monte Palace Tropical Gardens. The weather is moderate all year, with winter almost as popular as summer. Tourists flock to the city over the wintery festive season as Madeira is known to have one of the best New Year’s Eve fireworks displays in the world. For cheap flights to Madeira, consider travelling to the city between September and November.

South Africans who wish to visit Madeira will need to apply for a Schengen Visa, as Portugal falls under Schengen territory. You will need to apply at the Portuguese Embassy for your Schengen Visa.

Passports may not be older than 10 years, must have 2 blank pages and be valid for at least 3 months beyond your date of departure from the Schengen state.

You will need two photographs, proof of accommodation in Madeira, flight tickets, bank statements, and various other documents to complete your application.

For more information, contact the Embassy of Portugal: 599, Leyds Street Muckleneuk P.O. Box 27102 Sunnyside Pretoria 0132 South Africa Tel: ( 27) 12 341 2340 / ( 27) 12 341 2342

Madeira is a safe island with very few crimes, other than very petty ones reported. It is an all-year-long, top tourist destination so there are always people around. It is always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and not partake in any dangerous activities, such as cliff jumping into rivers or swimming solo at a deserted beach. Also, some of the hiking trails can be dangerous during the winter time. Do not attempt them on your own.

It is always important to have your vaccines up to date when you are travelling. When visiting Madeira, it is suggested to get a vaccination for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, and rabies. These shots will protect you from unfamiliar food, contaminated water, animal bites and various other bacteria found in the soil. Please consult your doctor about this before your trip.

Depending on your plans in Madeira, you might want to book more than one place on the island for your stay there. Funchal is the capital city and also most central to main attractions. There are various types of accommodation available, depending on your budget. Just make sure to book early as it does get busy over the spring and summer seasons. The areas of Lido and Ribiera Brava are also good options, if you’ll be hiring a car.

Most travellers to Madeira use the bus system in the capital of Funchal as it is reliable and affordable. There are also taxis in the city/town areas which can be hailed form the street.

If you’re planning on doing lots of mountain walking around the island then it might be a good idea to hire a car as not all buses frequent the walking trail routes. To travel to Porto Santo, there is a 45-minute ferry or a 15-minute trip by air.