The levadas are water canals which collect water at higher elevations on the island, used for general water supply, hydro-electricity generation and irrigation for agriculture. There are more than 2,000 kilometers of levadas on the island, including 40 kilometers running through tunnels. Along levadas run footpaths intended for maintenance, which double as hiking trails. Some trails provide an easy walk for casual visitors. Others are cut in nearly vertical cliffs, and are not recommended for people afraid of heights.
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All photos taken with Olympus E-1 camera and 14-54mm zoom