Interview with Fabio from Madeira Adventure Kingdom
Fabio Castro, from Madeira Adventure Kingdom, was our guide on our Pico Ruivo to Pico do Arieiro hike in Madeira in April 2023. Antonia from Team MLA caught up with him to find out more about his adventurous spirit and his love for passing it on.
Fabio's skill and knowledge played a crucial role in the success of our April hike. The start was incredibly windy, one of us had just come out of a heart operation and was advised to ‘take it easy’ with exercise, and the group didn’t know what to expect.
Fabio’s knowledge of these peaks is unmatched, and he's a pro at helping even the most nervous guests stay relaxed and enjoy it. Experiencing a place through the eyes of a local is one thing, but overcoming your fears and attempting harder things is a whole new level of adventure!
Antonia: Fabio, can you share with us the challenges and triumphs of the Pico to Pico hike that you did with Team MLA?
Fabio: The Pico to Pico hike is genuinely challenging, and I'm very proud of how well everyone in Team MLA managed it. It is very high up with rugged paths and you are hiking above the clouds at times. This is an exciting experience but it can push people to their limits if they have even a small fear of heights. It was special to watch the accomplishment on everyone’s faces at the end though, it still gives me a great feeling every time.
Antonia: Your own journey started with downhill biking, but Adventure Kingdom now offers a variety of different adventure activities. What sparked this change, and what activities are the most popular?
Fabio: Yes, downhill biking was my first passion, the adrenaline and freedom you get from this sport is something special, but I wanted to offer more. That‘s when I started canyoning and hiking. These sports are in huge demand right now, especially canyoning. Guests go crazy for this sport. Madeira is also considered one of the best places in the world to try canyoning. It takes place inside a gorge and we have to swim, jump and rappel in beautiful waterfalls. It is the ultimate adventure!
Antonia: You've mentioned your love for what you do. Could you share more about what drives that enthusiasm?
Fabio: Adventure Kingdom isn't just about adrenaline; it's about connection and making people happy. I get to share the beauty of Madeira with new friends, and that's incredibly rewarding. I am so passionate about Madeira and hopefully I can pass on this passion to our guests.
Antonia: Addressing individual fears on hikes can be tricky as everyone has different strengths, weaknesses, and fitness levels. Can you share your approach to getting your guests feeling comfortable?
Fabio: I find the most important thing is to build trust and make sure everyone feels comfortable. I always give individual encouragement or help if needed and just want people to have fun. Whether it's a steep drop or a challenging stretch, I try to help people feel supported and confident enough to challenge their fears.
Antonia: Madeira is known for its beautiful hikes. What makes them a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts and adventure seekers?
Fabio: Madeira has some of the most beautiful hikes in Europe and these are a must-see for anyone who’s seeking adventure. I spoke about the Pico to Pico hike that offers amazing views of Madeira’s dramatic landscapes. There is also the Levado do Caldeirão Verde, with lush laurel forests and valleys that lead to a beautiful waterfall. As well as the mystical Laurissilva Forest, which is like a real-life fairytale.
Antonia: You came back to Madeira to return to your roots. Can you tell us more about this journey and its significance to you?
Fabio: Sure. My parents originally came from Madeira, but they then moved to South Africa. Returning to Madeira was a journey back to my roots and gave me the chance to reconnect with my heritage. It's been an incredibly fulfilling experience.
Antonia: It sounds as though Adventure Kingdom became your true calling. How did you shift from studying management to embracing the world of adventures?
Fabio: While I studied management, Adventure Kingdom became my passion and purpose. My adventurous side was too strong to ignore, so I made a decision to run Adventure Kingdom full-time. I’ve never regretted making that choice.
Antonia: It is so inspiring to hear people pursue their passions. You’re also an instructor for the Mountain Guards on the island and this role goes beyond safety. Can you tell me more about this role?
Fabio: Being an instructor for the Mountain Guards is not just about safety. My role is to preserve and share the rich heritage of Madeira with those exploring the mountains. It is a privilege that has a lot of cultural significance for us locals, and it is a role I don’t take lightly.
Antonia: What motivates you to introduce people to adventure sports like canyoning?
Fabio: I love offering canyoning because it takes people out of their comfort zones and is such an exhilarating sport. Many of my clients and visitors to Madeira have never tried it, so it's a great opportunity to introduce them to something entirely new and exciting. I have no doubt they will always remember the experience.
Antonia: Alongside canyoning, Adventure Kingdom offers many other exciting activities. Can you tell us a bit more about them?
Fabio: Each activity brings its own thrill and excitement. Adventure Kingdom offers coasteering, mountain biking, and jeep tours. It's about offering a variety of experiences that are suitable for adventure seekers of any fitness level and background.
Antonia: You had a lot of fun with our group. What made us stand out, and how does a group dynamic influence the overall experience?
Fabio: The MLA group was super fun, curious and up for challenges and adventures. What made them stand out was their team spirit—they came as a group and knew each other already. This made building trust and working together much easier, enhancing the overall experience.
We’re so grateful to Fabio and Madeira Adventure Kingdom. Their infectious passion for adventure, connection and Madeira island really resonates with our own values. We’re counting down the days to join them again in April 2024!