Madeira Island Ultra Trail (MIUT)
One of the world's toughest ultramarathons — 115 km traversing the island from Porto Moniz to Machico over the central massif. The 18th edition is confirmed by the organisers for 24–25 April 2027.
About Madeira Island Ultra Trail (MIUT)
Madeira Island Ultra Trail (MIUT) sends runners across the spine of the island — Porto Moniz → Machico on the entry list is the traverse itself. If you're not running, the finish arch at Machico around dawn on day two is the moment worth witnessing.
Runners should have entered months ago; spectators have it easier. The finish area at Machico is the highlight for a non-runner, and the mid-course support points at Pico Ruivo and Encumeada offer the best photo opportunities if you have a car.
MIUT (Madeira Island Ultra Trail) is the major April ultra-running event — a 115 km traverse from Porto Moniz to Machico across the central spine of the island, with shorter 85 km, 60 km and 16 km options on the same weekend. It draws around 2,500 international runners and effectively closes most of the high-mountain PR network to casual hikers for the weekend; if you are planning to hike PR1 in late April, check the MIUT schedule first.
What to know before you go
- Stay near Porto Moniz → Machico if you can — the closest guesthouses go first, and driving in on the day means slow traffic and scarce parking.
- Public transport runs extra services on the main event days, but parking near Porto Moniz → Machico becomes very limited — arrive early or plan to walk in.
- Street programming is free. Paid elements — grandstand seats, gala dinners, indoor concerts — release in waves and disappear quickly once the dates are official.
- Photograph early. The best light and the smallest crowds are usually in the first hour of the programme, not the headline slot.
Best time to visit
The main programme runs around April. Arrive a day early to settle in and see the build-up — set-up day is often the most photogenic.
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Frequently asked
When is Madeira Island Ultra Trail (MIUT)?+
The next confirmed dates for Madeira Island Ultra Trail (MIUT) are 2027-04-24 to 2027-04-25. The event recurs every year.
How do I get to Madeira Island Ultra Trail (MIUT) and where should I stay?+
The finish line in Porto Moniz → Machico runs 24 hours; the atmosphere peaks in the middle of the night as the leaders come in. Bring warm layers even in June.
What's the best day or time to experience Madeira Island Ultra Trail (MIUT)?+
The elite finish comes in around lunchtime; the mid-pack streams in through the afternoon and evening. The most emotional finishes — cutoff-chasers, first-timers, families waiting — happen after dark.
What are the local traditions behind Madeira Island Ultra Trail (MIUT)?+
The course uses the levada and vereda network that has been walked for centuries. Locals with running family in the race set up impromptu supply points on the trail — a Madeiran hospitality that pre-dates the race itself.
Plan the rest of your trip
The four guides most first-time visitors reach for.