Madeira: Sunrise Hike Transfer to Pico Do Arieiro (PR1)

Madeira’s Pico do Arieiro is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The Sunrise Hike Transfer offers an unforgettable 8-hour adventure, guiding hikers through breathtaking landscapes and culminating in a stunning sunrise view. With personalized attention, transportation, and snacks included, this intermediate-level hike promises an immersive experience in the heart of nature. Whether you’re seeking a challenging trek or a serene moment to appreciate Madeira’s natural beauty, this tour provides a compelling reason to explore the island’s captivating wonders.

Key Points

• This activity offers a sunrise hike at Pico do Arieiro, followed by a 10 km hike to Pico Ruivo with a break at Achada do Teixeira.
• The hike is suitable for intermediate hikers, with rocky and steep terrain, and lasts approximately 4.5 hours.
• Transportation, personal guide, snacks, drinks, and mandatory hiking fees are included in the package.
• The activity is not recommended for children under 14, individuals with mobility issues, vertigo, or recent surgeries.
• Participants should wear sturdy shoes, bring layers of clothing, water, snacks, and be prepared for the level of difficulty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

The title of this activity is "Madeira: Sunrise Hike Transfer to Pico do Arieiro (PR1)," and it’s priced from $32.49 per person.

The duration is 8 hours, and the group is limited to 8 participants. The activity offers language support in English, German, Portuguese, and Spanish.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance. Pickup and drop-off locations are Caniço and Funchal.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance. Pickup and drop-off locations are Caniço and Funchal.

The early morning shuttle departs around 6 a.m. to transfer hikers to Pico do Arieiro, where they’ll witness the sunrise before embarking on a 10 km hike to Pico Ruivo, with a break at Achada do Teixeira.

Itinerary and Hiking Details

The early morning shuttle departs around 6 a.m. to transfer hikers to Pico do Arieiro, where they’ll witness the sunrise before embarking on a 10 km hike to Pico Ruivo, with a break at Achada do Teixeira.

The terrain is rocky with steep sections, suitable for intermediate hikers. Hikers should dress in layers and prepare for sudden weather changes, with an elevation of 1862 metres.

The hike takes approximately 4.5 hours, and hikers must pay a €3 fee for non-resident access.

Included Services

The activity package includes transportation, with a shuttle service transferring participants from their accommodations to the hike locations.

A personal guide is available to assist the group throughout the excursion. Snacks, drinks, and the mandatory government hiking fee of €3 per person over 12 years old are also covered.

Participants are advised to bring their own sturdy hiking shoes, water, snacks, light jacket, sunscreen, camera, and hat.

To ensure a comfortable and safe experience, the tour prohibits pets, large bags, smoking, food, alcohol, and drugs in the vehicle.

Important Restrictions and Recommendations

Although the sunrise hike to Pico do Arieiro is a popular activity, it may not be suitable for all participants. The hike is not recommended for children under 14, individuals with mobility issues, vertigo, or recent surgeries. On top of that, certain items are prohibited on the shuttle, including pets, large bags, smoking, food, alcohol, and drugs. To fully enjoy the hike, hikers should wear sturdy shoes, bring water and snacks, and dress in layers to prepare for sudden weather changes. Plus, non-resident hikers over 12 years old must pay a €3 hiking fee.

| Not Suitable For | Prohibited Items |

|—————–|——————|

| Children under 14 | Pets |

| Mobility impairments | Large bags |

| Vertigo | Smoking |

| Recent surgeries | Food, alcohol, drugs |

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Customer Reviews and Highlights

Travelers have left overwhelmingly positive reviews for this Madeira sunrise hike, with an impressive 4.9/5 rating based on 52 reviews.

Guests praise the helpful drivers and guides, enjoying the scenic views and flexible hiking pace. They highlight the personal touches, like being offered coffee and blankets.

The sunrise from Pico do Arieiro is a standout experience, as are the diverse landscapes and unique flora along the trail.

Exploring Pico Do Arieiro

One of the main highlights of this Madeira sunrise hike is the ascent to Pico do Arieiro, the third-highest peak in the archipelago.

At an elevation of 1,862 meters, the summit offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Hikers will be rewarded with a panoramic vista of rugged peaks, deep valleys, and the vast Atlantic Ocean.

The trail to the top is rocky and steep in parts, making it suitable for intermediate hikers. With the right gear and preparation, the challenging climb is well worth the effort for the stunning sunrise experience atop Pico do Arieiro.

Hiking to Pico Ruivo

After marveling at the stunning sunrise over Pico do Arieiro, hikers embark on the challenging trek to Pico Ruivo, the highest peak in Madeira at 1,862 meters.

The 10-kilometer hike takes approximately 4.5 hours, with steep, rocky terrain suitable for intermediate hikers. Guides assist along the way, offering breaks at scenic spots like Achada do Teixeira.

Proper attire and equipment, such as sturdy hiking shoes, water, and layers, are essential to navigate the changeable weather.

Though strenuous, the journey rewards with breathtaking vistas across Madeira’s dramatic landscapes, making the effort well worth it for adventurous travelers.

Preparing for the Sunrise Hike

To make the most of this Madeira adventure, travelers should consider a few key preparation tips.

First, dress in warm, layered clothing to account for fluctuating temperatures on the mountain.

Dress in warm, layered clothing to account for fluctuating temperatures on the Madeira mountain.

Second, pack essential hiking gear like sturdy shoes, water, and snacks.

Third, familiarize yourself with the hiking route and level of difficulty to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.

With these preparations in place, hikers can focus on savoring the stunning sunrise views from Pico do Arieiro and the breathtaking landscapes along the challenging Pico Ruivo trail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Stop to Take Pictures During the Hike?

Yes, participants can stop to take pictures during the hike. The activity’s description notes that personal guide assistance is available, and the hike is suitable for intermediate hikers who can accommodate photo breaks along the trail.

Is There an Option to Extend the Hike Beyond Pico Ruivo?

Yes, the hike can be extended beyond Pico Ruivo. Customers have the option to continue hiking to Achada do Teixeira or further on the PR1 trail, though this will add more time and difficulty to the overall excursion.

What Kind of Snacks and Drinks Are Provided During the Tour?

The tour includes snacks and drinks for participants. Hikers are provided with light refreshments like energy bars, fruit, and water to help fuel their trek. Guests are also welcome to bring their own preferred snacks and beverages.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size for the Hike?

The activity is limited to a maximum of 8 participants. There’s no stated minimum group size, so the hike can run even with just a single participant. The small group size allows for a more personalized experience.

Is There Any Flexibility in the Starting Time of the Tour?

The tour has a fixed early morning shuttle departure around 6 AM to catch the sunrise. While the group size is limited to 8, the start time is not flexible to accommodate individual preferences.

The Sum Up

The Sunrise Hike Transfer to Pico do Arieiro (PR1) in Madeira offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure. With a guided hike, stunning sunrise views, and beautiful landscapes, it’s a must-do experience for intermediate hikers. At just $32.49 per person, it provides excellent value and a personalized experience in the heart of nature. Don’t miss the chance to witness Madeira’s breathtaking beauty on this exceptional hiking tour.

You can check availability for your dates here: