Daily Limit of 3,000 Visitors Defined by IFCN
According to todays Diário de Notícias Madeira, a new limit of 3,000 daily visitors will apply to Fanal Forest. As previously announced, the IFCN has been working with the University of Madeira in order to define this capacity through a scientific study. The measure is part of a wider plan to reorganize how people access the area, which has suffered visible degradation due to growing tourism pressure.
The proposal introduces a single official route with designated points of interest and new “photostops,” designed to guide visitors safely through the most fragile areas of the forest. Authorities say this approach aims to protect the landscape while maintaining access to its well-known mist-covered scenery and centuries-old trees.
Urgent Measures After Concerns Raised Earlier About Severe Plateau Erosion
Warnings about the deterioration of Fanal are not new. Severe erosion in parts of the plateau, along with increasing pressure from society and NGOs, has prompted calls for immediate intervention. Local officials admitted that the situation required rapid reorganization and the introduction of a controlled-entry system.
According to the regional secretary for Tourism, Culture and Environment, these steps are “urgent measures.” Eduardo Jesus explained that the aim is to:
organize an iconic space on the island where we have had a significant increase in the number of visitors, so that it is possible to reconcile environmental protection with the value of the experience of those who visit.
His statement reflects concerns that uncontrolled numbers have put the 40-million-year-old UNESCO World Heritage site at risk.
Upgrade Program Includes Single Circuit and New “Photostops”
During a visit to the site, Eduardo Jesus emphasized the creation of a single formal circuit with marked points of interest and designated “photostops.” These controlled photography areas are intended to guide visitors away from sensitive trees and limit trampling on delicate soil.
Several dozen new elements have already arrived at the site, including:
educational signs
benches
railings and supports
Officials believe they will help visitors move through the area safely while learning about the forest’s history.
Three-Year Plan Will Add Viewpoints, Toilets and Interpretation Center
The full intervention will unfold over the next three years. Planned actions include the
renewal of existing viewpoints
the creation of new leisure areas
automatic capacity-management system
phased entry schedules
improvements to support infrastructure such as toilets, rest zones, and educational signage.
Another central feature will be the Laurissilva Interpretation Center, designed to explain the forest’s ecology and cultural importance.
All work will follow a sustainability-focused approach, aiming to avoid unnecessary environmental impact.
Technical teams will introduce different circuits and phased entry schedules to prevent overcrowding in the most sensitive areas. A new automatic capacity-management system will allow authorities to monitor visitor pressure in real time and adjust entry rules during high-season peaks.
Digital Entry Passes and ‘Fanal Hall of Fame’ for Visitor Guidance
As part of the long-term plan, digital entry passes will be introduced to help manage daily flow. Another new feature will be the “Fanal Hall of Fame,” a set of designated photography points aimed at guiding visitors to safe locations while keeping them away from fragile trees and eroded areas.
This future plan includes a visitor support system with clear information about what is permitted and what is prohibited, reinforcing safety, protection, and the experience of those who visit this place.
Eduardo Jesus, Diário de Notícias Madeira, November 16, 2025, Nr. 49373
The strategy includes reorganizing parking areas, improving orientation signage, and strengthening accessibility. These efforts seek to create a calm, orderly environment while reducing pressure on endangered parts of the plateau.
Source: Diário de Notícias Madeira, November 16, 2025, Nr. 49373
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