Best time to travel to Madeira

Orchid Bloom in Madeira

Beautiful orchids are an essential part of a tropic paradise

Best time: December–April

Orchid Bloom
Orchid Bloom

If you happen to be in Madeira during winter, you'll be rewarded by the sight of blooming orchid. Three varieties grow in Madeira and can't be found anywhere else. The best orchid collection on the island can be seen at the Botanica Garden of Funchal.

Practical info

What is the significance of the three types of orchids found in Madeira?

There are three native orchid species in Madeira that bloom between December and April. These species are unique to the island and cannot be found elsewhere. They are the orchis maderensis, orchis scopulorum, and jasminum maderense. The three orchids are admired for their beauty and can be spotted in different locations, such as hiking trails, countryside, and botanical gardens. Tourists from all over the world visit Madeira to witness these stunning orchids and experience the island's biodiversity. Show more

When is the best time to head to the Botanical Garden of Funchal?

The Botanical Garden of Funchal is the best place to experience the native orchids of Madeira. It is home to a vast collection of flora, with over 7,500 species, including Madeira's orchis maderensis, orchis scopulorum, and jasminum maderense. These orchids typically bloom between December and April, so the rainy season is the best time to visit. The botanical garden also hosts an annual orchid exhibition, which gives visitors the opportunity to see these magnificent orchids up close. Show more

What other wildlife can be found in Madeira besides orchids?

Madeira is famous for its biodiversity and hosts many endemic species. Visitors can spot unique Madeiran wildlife like the Madeiran long-toed pigeon, the Madeiran wall lizard, the Madeiran firecrest, and the Madeira tree-heather. Additionally, the island's fauna hosts laurel trees, dragon trees, and the Madeira mahogany, a hardwood tree endemic to the island. Madeira's complex and diverse ecosystem is an attraction in and of itself, attracting visitors from all over the globe. Show more

What is the history and significance of orchids in Madeira?

Orchids have been a vital part of Madeira's cultural history. In the past, they were used for perfume and medicine. Today, their primary role is as a symbol of the island's natural beauty and diversity. There are three native orchids in Madeira, the orchis maderensis, orchis scopulorum, and jasminum maderense, that can only be found there. These stunning orchids bloom between December and April and are a vital tourist attraction drawing people from all over the globe. Show more

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Last updated: by Eleonora Provozin