Madeira

What's the weather like in Madeira in March?

Madeira has a warm subtropical climate thanks to its position off the northwest coast of Africa. It’s closer to Africa than mainland Portugal and has high temperatures all year round, with things warming up in March after the cooler winter. The amount of rain reduces during the month, so you can look forward to Madeira holidays with plenty of sunny weather.

Climatic influences

The cool Canary Current will keep you comfortable in Madeira, although the Gulf Stream’s warm waters have the opposite effect. North easterly winds mean the north’s cooler and wetter than the south, with other parts of the island, including capital Funchal, sheltered by Madeira’s high mountains. The Sahara Desert occasionally sends over hot winds that drive up Madeira’s temperatures.

Averages

The average high temperature in Madeira during March is 19ºC, falling to 10ºC at night. The usual sea temperature’s 18ºC, while humidity’s low and expected rainfall’s 52mm across ten rainy days. You can expect six hours of sunshine from 12 hours of daylight each day, while UV levels will be high so make sure you pack lots of sun cream. Sunset’s just after 7pm at the beginning of March; this is closer to 8.30pm towards the end of the month as daylight saving starts.