Travel Vaccines and Advice for Madeira
Madeira is a group of islands in the Atlantic Ocean and is an autonomous region of Portugal. The islands include Madeira, Porto Santo, and Desertas.
The population of Madeira is 289,000 with the islands spanning 280 square miles. This population pales in comparison to the amount of tourists that visit each year, about 1.4 million.
The largest cities in Madeira include the capital city of Funchal, Calheta, and Ponta do Sol.
Do I Need Vaccines for Madeira?
Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Madeira. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Madeira: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.
See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunizations:
- Hepatitis A –
Food & Water –
Recommended for most travelers - Hepatitis B –
Blood & Body Fluids –
Accelerated schedule available - Rabies –
Saliva of Infected Animals –
High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. - Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) –
Various Vectors –
Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. - TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) –
Wounds & Airborne –
Only one adult booster of pertussis required. - Chickenpox –
Direct Contact & Airborne –
Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. - Shingles –
Direct Contact –
Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. - Pneumonia –
Airborne –
Two vaccines given seperately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. - Influenza –
Airborne –
Vaccine components change annually. - Meningitis –
Airborne & Direct Contact –
Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. - Polio –
Food & Water –
Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended.
See the tables below for more information:
Recommended Travel Vaccinations for Madeira |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Hepatitis A | Food & Water | Recommended for most travelers |
| Hepatitis B | Blood & Body Fluids | Accelerated schedule available |
| Rabies | Saliva of Infected Animals | High risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-term travelers and those who may come in contact with animals. |
Routine Vaccinations for Madeira |
||
| VACCINE | HOW DISEASE SPREADS | DETAILS |
|---|---|---|
| Measles Mumps Rubella (MMR) | Various Vectors | Given to anyone unvaccinated and/or born after 1957. One time adult booster recommended. |
| TDAP (Tetanus, Diphtheria & Pertussis) | Wounds & Airborne | Only one adult booster of pertussis required. |
| Chickenpox | Direct Contact & Airborne | Given to those unvaccinated that did not have chickenpox. |
| Shingles | Direct Contact | Vaccine can still be given if you have had shingles. |
| Pneumonia | Airborne | Two vaccines given seperately. All 65+ or immunocompromised should receive both. |
| Influenza | Airborne | Vaccine components change annually. |
| Meningitis | Airborne & Direct Contact | Given to anyone unvaccinated or at an increased risk, especially students. |
| Polio | Food & Water | Considered a routine vaccination for most travel itineraries. Single adult booster recommended. |
There are several hospitals on Madeira that are language accommodating, as most staff members speak English. Remember to check out traveler health insurance options.
To find out more about these vaccines, see our vaccinations page. Ready to travel safely? Book your appointment either call or start booking online now.
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Madeira?
No tourist visa is required for U.S. citizens if your stay is under 90 days. But, you do need a valid passport for entry. Your passport should be valid for at least three months after your intended stay and must have two blank pages for stamps.
Madeira Entry Requirements |
||
| Do I Need A… | For My Trip to Madeira? | |
|---|---|---|
| Passport |  |
|
| Tourist Visa | ||
| Business Visa | ||
| Vaccinations | ||
Sources: Embassy of Madeira and U.S. State Department
For more information contact a Passport Health Passport and Visa specialist by calling 1-844-366-8472 or by filling out our online form.
What Is the Climate Like in Madeira?
The climate of Madeira is very mild and is considered the island of eternal spring. The average temperature remains consistent year-round. Temperatures range from the mid-50’s to high-80’s. If you are traveling to the mountains or experience a change in altitude, these temperatures will vary.
Rainfall is frequent between October-May, but in the summer months, rain is rare.
How Safe is Madeira?
Petty crime is possible in Madeira due to it being a popular tourist destination. As you are a tourist, beware of your surroundings. Keep your valuables close to you or in a safe place. Do not stand near doors when using the trains or buses.
Local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime if a crime should be committed against you.
Nature in Madeira
The breathtaking landscape brings tourists to Madeira every year. With that landscape comes unforgettable views and wildlife.
Ponta de São Lourenço is a Nature Reserve on Madeira Island that features all these things.
This nature reserve features cliff top views overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, along with volcanic rock formations and a black sand beach. In the reserve, travelers can also see rare flowers.
As part of the reserve, tourists are also able to snorkel, scuba dive, and kayak to see more marine wildlife.
What Should I Take To Madeira?
Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to Madeira:
- Light layers are essential, but it can be cooler at night or in the mountains.
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen or other forms of sun protection
- Walking or hiking shoes
U.S. Embassy in Madeira
All Americans traveling to Madeira should register online with the U.S. Department of State before departure. This will inform the office of your travel plans within the country and will allow them to reach out in the case of an emergency or evacuation.
There is no U.S. embassy in Madeira, but it is served by the embassy in Portugal.
U.S. Embassy Lisbon
Avenida das Forças Armadas
1600-081 Lisboa
Phone: 351-21-727-3300
Fax: 351-21-726-9109
If you have any questions about traveling to Madeira or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic. Call us at or book online now and protect yourself today.
On This Page:
Do I Need Vaccines for Madeira?
Do I Need a Visa or Passport for Madeira?
What Is the Climate Like in Madeira?
How Safe is Madeira?
Nature in Madeira
What Should I Take To Madeira?
U.S. Embassy in Madeira
