Canyon in Madeira
Ribeira do Alecrim
Beginner · v2a2 II
Rappels: 14 · Max waterfall: 23 m · Min rope: 25 m
An easy, pleasant canyon that is frequently found with little or no water: no flow on 31 October 2020, very low but cold pools on 28 October 2020, between normal and low in October 2018, normal in January 2019, plenty of water in the pools on 29 December 2020, and 90% dry on 7 August 2022. In January 2019 the water was turbid because of mud on the bottom, possibly from the works on the Paul da Serra. Vegetation clogs the start (access to R1 is overgrown) and there are landslides and debris inside the streambed.
Current status
As of August 2022As of a descent on 7 August 2022 the access to R1 is overgrown; the anchors are a mix of new ring/red-rope anchors and older pitons with poor rings; the canyon is 90% dry with several landslides.
Anchors and re-equipment
Anchors are generally in place but variable. In 2018 two were missing (trees available); in 2020 some maillons needed replacing and some belay ropes looked old and worn. On 28 October 2020 two chains were added, because one drop had only a single piton and another would otherwise have had to be walked around. One drop is built of stones and big rocks that shed small stones with every step while rappelling: this wall will fall to pieces one day, so it is better to climb into the forest and use a tree. The two pitches above the road have only two studs without a hanger on the first, so it is simpler to start from the road (December 2020). As of August 2022 some anchors are new, with red rope and a ring; extra material was left at points with pitons because some rings are in poor condition; two bolts linked by an untrustworthy black sling were equalised; one of the downclimbs is done from a tree. The sketch matches the canyon (2020).
Access and exit
In October 2020 the road at point #2 was closed for works, so the car shuttle could not be done there. The canyon was reconnoitred and re-equipped in bad weather in March 2015.
Official notes
There have been many equipment thefts in this canyon: bring some gear in case it continues. At R6 (landslide) beware of loose stones; if in doubt use the high natural anchor. The R7 anchor is somewhat exposed: take care approaching it. Last re-equipping March 2015, sponsored by a local company.
Anchors, flow and access change with every storm and every winter. Treat the current status as a snapshot and check the latest conditions before any descent.
Technical data
Official technical sheet
Detailed data, history and technical notes are maintained by Clube Aventura da Madeira on the Canyons da Madeira website.
Nearby and similar canyons
Other sections of the same stream, canyons in the same area, and canyons of a similar grade.