A stunning European destination has introduced a tourist tax, with those who fail to pay it facing a fine of more than £40.
Madeira has announced a new fee for non-residents on some of its most popular hiking trails in a bid to encourage more sustainable tourism and fund conservation.
It currently applies to seven routes across the Portuguese archipelago: Pico do Areeiro, Pico Ruivo, Levada do Risco, Levada do Caldeirão Verde, Balcões, Levada do Rei and Ponta de São Lourenço.
From January 2025 it will be expanded to the 30 routes managed by the Institute for Forest and Nature Conservation.
The £2.50 fee for use of the trails applies to all non-residents over the age of 12. Those who fail to pay will face fines of up to £41.50.
Regional Secretary of Agriculture, Fisheries and Environment Rafaela Fernandes said the new fee is necessary to protect natural landscapes and manage the increasing influx of tourists.
Madeira is experiencing an increase in tourism, especially in the peak hiking season, so the hiking levy is intended to manage the flow of visitors on the trails and help protect the natural landscape.
All profits will go toward trail maintenance, cleaning and preservation, according to Fernandes.
Local authorities have launched an awareness campaign to inform visitors about the levy and its purpose.
Fernandes says the move has been welcomed by tourists who appreciate the importance of supporting conservation efforts.
Visitors can pay via the regional government portal, Simplifica, or via on-site payment options available at ICNF stations along many of the routes.