Climb Mount Pico With a Professional Guide

Conquering Mount Pico, Portugal’s highest peak, is a thrilling adventure that challenges adventurous travelers. With a professional guide, you’ll tackle the medium-difficulty 5-mile trail, taking in stunning vistas along the way. The 7-9 hour journey culminates at the summit, 2,351 meters above sea level, where a sense of accomplishment awaits. But what sets this experience apart is the expert support and safety measures provided by a certified guide. Intrigued? Discover how to make this unforgettable ascent.

Key Points

• Hike the 5-mile medium-difficulty trail to the summit of Mount Pico, the tallest mountain in Portugal, with a professional and certified guide.
• Ensure good physical fitness and motor coordination are met as the hike is not suitable for children, pregnant women, or those with certain medical conditions.
• Enjoy the included safety features such as personal accident insurance, hiking poles, and crampons if needed, with pick-up and drop-off services.
• Prepare appropriately with proper hiking gear, staying hydrated, and bringing snacks to ensure a safe and successful ascent.
• Benefit from the multilingual availability of the excursion and the flexibility of a full refund for cancellations up to 2 days in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

This activity offers travelers the chance to climb Mount Pico, the tallest mountain in Portugal, with the guidance of a professional and certified mountain guide.

Priced at $87.23 per person, the 8-hour excursion is limited to 6 participants and available in English, Portuguese, and Italian.

An 8-hour guided tour up Mount Pico, Portugal’s tallest peak, for up to 6 participants in English, Portuguese, and Italian for $87.23.

Hikers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 2 days in advance for a full refund.

The medium-difficulty 5-mile trail typically takes 7-9 hours to summit and descend, with the group reaching the peak around lunchtime.

Climbing Details

Mount Pico, the tallest mountain in Portugal, stands at an impressive 2,351 meters (7,700 feet) above sea level.

The hike is a 5-mile (8-kilometer) trail rated medium difficulty, taking an average of 7 to 9 hours to complete. Participants will start early in the morning, reach the summit around lunchtime, and descend in the afternoon.

The climb is led by a professional, certified guide from the Association of Azores Mountain Guides, ensuring a safe and informative experience.

Good physical preparation and motor coordination are required, as the hike isn’t suitable for those with certain medical conditions or low fitness levels.

Safety and Requirements

Good physical preparation and motor coordination are required for the climb up Mount Pico.

The hike isn’t suitable for:

• Children under 12

• Pregnant women

• People with back/mobility issues, heart problems, respiratory issues, altitude sickness, recent surgeries, or low fitness levels

Participants must inform Tripix Azores of any physical restrictions before confirming. This ensures the safety and well-being of all climbers.

The professional and certified guide from the Association of Azores Mountain Guides will lead the group, providing a safe and enjoyable experience on the 5-mile trail rated medium difficulty.

Inclusions

The tour includes a professional and certified Mount Pico guide from the Association of Azores Mountain Guides, who’ll lead the climb.

Participants also receive access to the Mount Pico Natural Reserve, as well as hiking poles and crampons if needed during winter conditions.

An Allianz® personal accident insurance policy is provided for the duration of the hike.

The tour concludes with a certificate of completion and snacks.

Pick-up and drop-off services are also included, making the entire experience seamless and convenient for the climbers.

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Meeting Point and Important Information

The meeting point for the Climb Mount Pico With a Professional Guide tour is the Mountain House, located within the Pico Mountain Natural Reserve. This facility provides participants with valuable information about the geology, biology, history, and climate of the reserve.

Additional important details to note:

• A damaged equipment fee of €10 is charged for any hiking poles that aren’t returned in good condition.

• Participants must register their drones with the Portuguese Civil Aviation Authority (ANAC) website prior to the climb.

• Individuals with a sedentary lifestyle aren’t permitted to participate in the Mount Pico climb.

Preparing for the Hike

Preparing for the hike up Mount Pico requires physical fitness and appropriate gear. Participants must be prepared for the challenging 5-mile trail. Good cardio and leg strength are a must, as the hike is rated medium difficulty.

Proper hiking boots, layered clothing, and a small backpack are essential. Trekking poles and crampons (in winter) are provided, but hikers should break them in beforehand. Staying hydrated and bringing snacks is crucial.

Those with physical limitations or low fitness levels should reconsider the climb, as it’s not suitable for everyone. Following the guide’s instructions is key to a safe and successful ascent.

Reaching the Summit

As they ascend, climbers will notice the terrain become increasingly rugged and the air grow thinner. The final push to the summit is exhilarating yet challenging:

• Scrambling over rocky outcrops and navigating steep slopes

• Pausing frequently to catch their breath in the high-altitude environment

• Marveling at the panoramic vistas of the Azores Islands that unfold before them

With the expert guidance of their certified Pico Mountain guide, climbers will safely reach the top, achieving a remarkable sense of accomplishment.

The descent provides a different perspective as they retrace their steps back down the mountain.

Post-Climb Experience

After the exhilaration of reaching the summit, climbers can look forward to the post-climb experience.

They’ll receive a well-deserved certificate commemorating their achievement. Snacks and refreshments provide a welcome boost of energy for the descent.

The professional guide shares insights into the mountain’s geology, biology, history, and climate at the Mountain House.

Before departing, climbers must return any rented equipment, such as hiking poles, and pay a small fee for any damage.

With a newfound sense of accomplishment, climbers can reflect on their unforgettable adventure up Mount Pico.

Since You Asked

Can I Bring My Pet on the Hike?

No, pets are not allowed on the Mount Pico hike. The tour is limited to 6 participants and pets cannot be accommodated for safety and logistical reasons. Only certified guide-dogs are permitted.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement?

The minimum age to participate in the Mount Pico hike is 12 years old. Children under 12 are not allowed due to the medium difficulty level and physical requirements of the 5-mile trail.

What Type of Weather Should I Expect?

The climate on Mount Pico can be unpredictable, with changeable weather conditions. Hikers should expect cool temperatures, rain, fog, and potentially snow, even during the summer months. Proper layering and preparation for inclement weather is essential for a safe and enjoyable climb.

How Difficult Is the Descent From the Summit?

The descent from the summit can be challenging, as it involves a steep and rocky trail. Hikers should be prepared for a demanding descent, using caution and proper gear to navigate the descent safely.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Along the Trail?

There are no restroom facilities along the Mount Pico hiking trail. Participants should plan accordingly and take breaks as needed during the 5-mile hike. The guide can provide information on the nearest facilities at the mountain house before the climb.

The Sum Up

Conquering Mount Pico with a professional guide is a rewarding experience. The medium-difficulty hike offers breathtaking views and a sense of achievement upon reaching the summit. With expert support and safety measures, you’ll enjoy a memorable adventure. The included amenities, such as hiking gear and a certificate, make this a must-try activity for outdoor enthusiasts visiting Portugal’s Azores islands.

You can check availability for your dates here: