Discover the forest that’s a living natural treasure
Madeira hides a lush, ancient secret: the Laurissilva forest, a living relic from the time of the dinosaurs. Recognized as a UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, this humid subtropical forest covers around 20% of the island — and holds some of Europe’s rarest biodiversity.
But what truly sets it apart? Its astonishing variety of endemic species — lifeforms that exist only here.
🌿 A unique flora that survived for millions of years
The Laurissilva is not just green — it’s alive with ancient green. Trees like the til (Ocotea foetens), vinhático (Persea indica), laurel (Laurus novocanariensis) and barbusano (Apollonias barbujana) once covered much of Southern Europe, but now survive only in Macaronesia.
Their thick canopies shelter mosses, ferns and lichens in a humid atmosphere that feels untouched by time — a true natural time capsule.
🐞 Hidden fauna, incredible stories
Much of Laurissilva’s wildlife is subtle, but exceptional. The Trocaz pigeon (Columba trocaz) and the Madeiran chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs madeirensis) are among the island’s iconic birds — found nowhere else.
Beneath the leaves and bark, thousands of endemic insects and snails thrive — many still unknown to science. These small creatures play crucial ecological roles and are part of Madeira’s biological treasure chest.
🔬 Europe’s greatest living laboratory
Thanks to its isolation, altitudes and subtropical climate, the Laurissilva is one of Europe’s most important natural research sites. Scientists study it to understand adaptation, evolution and ecological balance.
Preserving it is not only a local duty — it’s a global responsibility.
🌱 Explore, respect and protect with BlueGreen
With small groups and certified nature guides, BlueGreen offers sustainable tours into the Laurissilva — where every step is a chance to connect, learn, and care.
📍 Explore our Laurissilva hikes and breathe in the future of the natural world.