January 25, 2026 Decision Ends Mandatory Online Registration for Madeira Residents
The Regional Government of Madeira has stepped back from a rule announced about a month ago that required all visitors, without exception, to register online before entering classified hiking trails. As of January 25, 2026, residents of Madeira are no longer obliged to book access through the digital platform, according to a report broadcast by RTP Madeira at 22:16.
The change follows heavy public debate and criticism, especially from residents who said the system made spontaneous use of trails more difficult. Visitors from outside the region must still register online.
Alternative Entry System Uses Resident Card and QR Code at Trailheads
Under the revised rules, Madeirans can choose between two options. They may
Continue to register on the Simplifica platform if they wish
They can present themselves directly at the start of a classified trail without a prior registration and show their citizen card / Simplificaresident card.
Above all we wanted to create one more alternative to make life easier for residents. They can continue to register on the platform if they want. If they prefer the alternative, they just have to show up here, as we are today at the start of a classified trail, and present their citizen card and the Simplifica resident card. This allows us to count the person for load management, which is our main concern.
Eduardo Jesus, RTP Madeira
A government representative explained during the broadcast. The authorities say the aim is to manage pressure on sensitive areas and keep visitors safe, without forcing residents to plan ahead online.
Government Rejects Term ‘Backtrack’ and Cites Safety and Access Control
Eduardo Jesus, speaking on behalf of the regional authorities, rejected the idea that the government had reversed course. He said the core objective has always been access control and safety.
It is very important, not only for controlling the load on the trails, which was the main priority, but also for safety (…) After some time and after listening to some ideas that were presented, we promoted this technological development, which allows control at the start of the trail without registration.
Officials from the Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation will be present at trail entrances to carry out checks.
Visitor Reactions Show Mixed Views on Time Slots and Planning
Visitors interviewed by RTP Madeira gave mixed reactions to the system that remains in place for non-residents. One visitor from mainland Portugal said the 30-minute entry window booked online can be inconvenient because travel delays are common. Still, he noted that the portal was clear and easy to use.
Another visitor, returning to Madeira after 18 years, said he understood the need for limits, adding that there are now many more people on the trails than in the past and that control can improve safety and cleanliness.
60,000 Registrations in 2026 as Ponta de São Lourenço Leads Demand
According to data cited in the report, around 60,000 people used the registration system this year. The most visited classified trail was Ponta de São Lourenço, with the most requested entry time between 09:00 and 11:00.
Madeira residents accounted for only 1.4% of all users of classified trails, a figure the government has pointed to when explaining why it sought a more flexible solution for locals while keeping controls in place for the wider flow of visitors.
Source: RTP Madeira
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