Morning Transfer to Pico Do Arieiro, Hike to Pico Ruivo & Return From Teixeira

Explore the rugged beauty of Madeira’s highlands with this convenient transfer and hiking package. Setting out from your accommodation, you’ll reach the trailhead at Pico do Arieiro, where the real adventure begins. Over the next 5 hours, you’ll traverse eerie tunnels, conquer notorious stairs, and drink in breathtaking vistas – all while experiencing the island’s dramatic cliffs, deep ravines, and ancient laurel forests. But this is just the start; the true highlight is yet to come as you reach the lofty summit of Pico Ruivo. What wonders await you at the top?

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Treks And Hiking Tours In Madeira.

Key Points

• Transfer service available from Funchal and Canico accommodations, or from Parque 2000 in Funchal for those outside these areas.
• Hike the well-marked PR1 trail, starting from Pico do Arieiro and ending at Achada do Teixeira.
• Approximately 5-hour hike suitable for moderately fit travelers, offering stunning views of Pico Ruivo and the island’s rugged landscape.
• Not recommended for those with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnant women due to the challenging terrain.
• Flexible cancellation policy allows travelers to plan with confidence, with full refunds for cancellations up to 24 hours before the experience.

Overview of the Service

This service provides an excellent option for independent travelers who wish to hike on their own without a group.

It includes a transfer service that drops you off at Pico Do Arieiro to start the hike to Pico Ruivo, and picks you up at Achada Do Teixeira at the end. This allows you to experience the Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo in a single day.

The well-marked PR1 trail takes you through eerie tunnels and up notorious stairs to reach the summit of Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s highest point.

The hike lasts approximately 5 hours, making it an achievable challenge for those with a moderate level of fitness.

Pickup and Dropoff Locations

Pickup is available from accommodations in Funchal and Canico, while those outside these areas should meet at Parque 2000 in Funchal.

Dropoff is at the same location as pickup.

This service provides a convenient transfer to the start of the hike at Pico do Arieiro, and returns you from the end at Achada do Teixeira.

Whether you’re staying in the city or elsewhere on the island, the pickup and dropoff locations ensure a seamless start and finish to your hiking adventure.

The simple logistics allow you to focus on enjoying the stunning scenery and challenging terrain along the well-marked PR1 trail.

Details of the Hike

Traversing eerie tunnels and climbing notorious stairs, the hike along the well-marked PR1 trail leads travelers to the summit of Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s highest point. The journey promises an exhilarating experience, lasting approximately 5 hours. Along the way, adventurers will be rewarded with stunning views of the island’s rugged terrain and breathtaking vistas.

Hike Details
Trail	PR1
Duration	5 hours
Highest Point	Pico Ruivo
Terrain	Eerie tunnels, notorious stairs
Fitness Level	Moderate

This challenging yet rewarding hike is not recommended for those with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnant women. Participants must possess a moderate level of physical fitness to fully enjoy this remarkable outdoor adventure.

Traveler Requirements

To fully enjoy this remarkable outdoor adventure, participants must possess a moderate level of physical fitness. This guided experience requires a certain level of stamina and agility, as it involves traversing eerie tunnels and climbing notorious stairs to reach the summit of Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s highest point.

The hike isn’t recommended for travelers with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnant women. Hikers should be prepared for a challenging, yet rewarding, journey lasting approximately 5 hours.

A maximum of 8 travelers can be accommodated per group. While the trail is well-marked, a moderate fitness level is essential to fully appreciate the stunning landscapes and conquer the physical demands of this exhilarating hike.

Cancellation Policy

Travelers can obtain a full refund for cancellations made up to 24 hours before the scheduled experience.

However, the tour may be canceled due to poor weather conditions or if the minimum number of travelers isn’t met. In such cases, the company will notify participants as soon as possible and provide a full refund.

This flexible cancellation policy ensures that travelers can plan their trip with confidence, knowing they won’t be penalized for circumstances beyond their control.

At the same time, the company reserves the right to cancel the tour if safety or logistical concerns arise.

Timing of the Hike

The hike typically takes around 5 hours to complete, with participants traversing eerie tunnels and climbing notorious stairs to reach the summit of Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s highest point.

Hikers can expect to start their journey in the morning, with pickup service available from accommodations in Funchal and Canico. For travelers outside these areas, the meeting point is Parque 2000 in Funchal. The return dropoff is at the same location as the pickup.

The duration of the hike allows travelers to experience both Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo in a single day, making it an efficient and convenient option for independent travelers.

Terrain and Scenery

Traversing the well-marked PR1 trail, hikers encounter eerie tunnels and notorious stairs as they ascend towards the Pico Ruivo summit, Madeira’s highest point.

The terrain offers a truly captivating journey, with:

• Breathtaking vistas of the island’s rugged landscape
• Dramatic cliffs and deep ravines carved by volcanic activity
• Ancient laurel forests cloaked in mist and mystery
• Unique flora and fauna adapted to the challenging environment

As the hike progresses, the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, culminating in the awe-inspiring panorama from the Pico Ruivo summit.

Trekkers are rewarded with a profound sense of accomplishment and a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders of Madeira.

Recommended Gear and Attire

Proper hiking boots with good traction are essential for tackling the Pico Ruivo’s demanding terrain.

Layered clothing that can adapt to changing weather conditions is also a must, as the summit area is often shrouded in mist and wind.

A backpack equipped with snacks, water, sun protection, and any necessary medications will help ensure a comfortable and safe hike.

Bring a warm jacket, hat, and gloves, as temperatures can drop significantly at the top.

Trekking poles may also be useful for navigating the steep, rocky sections.

Lastly, don’t forget to pack a camera to capture the stunning vistas from the Pico Ruivo summit, Madeira’s highest point.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Stop for Breaks During the Hike?

Yes, you can take breaks during the hike. The trail is well-marked, allowing you to pause and rest as needed. However, plan your breaks wisely to ensure you complete the hike within the expected 5-hour duration.

Is Guide Service Provided During the Hike?

This service does not provide a guide during the hike. Travelers hike independently along the well-marked trail to Pico Ruivo. Though unguided, the service includes round-trip transportation to and from the trailheads.

Are Hiking Poles Recommended for the Trail?

Hiking poles are recommended for this trail as it involves traversing steep terrain and climbing notorious stairs. They provide added stability and support, especially for those with limited mobility or balance concerns.

Can I Bring My Own Packed Lunch for the Hike?

Yes, travelers can bring their own packed lunch for the hike. It’s recommended to pack a light, nutritious meal to refuel during the trek. The service doesn’t provide any food, so bringing your own is encouraged.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Hike?

There is no minimum age requirement for the hike, but it’s not recommended for young children. The hike requires a moderate level of physical fitness, so it’s best suited for travellers aged 12 and up.

Recap

This excursion offers travelers a chance to explore Madeira’s stunning highlands in a single day.

The convenient transfer service and moderate-difficulty hike along the well-marked PR1 trail provide an excellent opportunity for independent adventurers to enjoy the island’s breathtaking natural scenery.

Proper preparation with the recommended gear and attire is advised to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on this unforgettable journey.