From Funchal: Pico Do Areiro and Pico Ruivo Hiking Tour

The "From Funchal: Pico Do Areiro and Pico Ruivo Hiking Tour" is a thrilling adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. With a challenging 12 km trek, this 4-hour tour takes hikers from the scenic Pico do Areiro to the majestic Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s highest peak. Led by professional multilingual guides, the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off in Funchal. While the price tag of $40.50 per person may seem steep, the breathtaking views and unforgettable experience could make it well worth the investment. To better understand what this tour entails, let’s dive deeper into the itinerary and inclusions.

Key Points

• A 4-hour, 12 km hiking tour from Funchal to Pico do Areiro and Pico Ruivo, the highest peak at 1,862 meters.
• Includes transportation via bus/coach with pickup and drop-off in Funchal, and a guided hike with a multilingual tour guide.
• The challenging hike features steep ascents and descents, with steps carved into the rock terrain.
• Participants should bring essential gear like hiking sticks, proper footwear, water, and snacks for a comfortable experience.
• Cancellation allowed up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and early booking is recommended due to tour popularity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This hiking tour from Funchal offers a chance to explore the stunning landscapes of Madeira, including the iconic Pico do Areiro and Pico Ruivo peaks.

Priced from $40.50 per person, the tour lasts approximately 4 hours of walking over 12 km. It’s a challenging hike with steep ascents and descents, so proper footwear and equipment are essential.

Transportation via bus/coach is included, with pickup and drop-off in Funchal. The tour features breathtaking views from Pico do Areiro and the chance to climb the steps carved into the rock to reach the highest peak, Pico Ruivo, at 1862m.

Itinerary

The hiking tour begins in Funchal, where participants are picked up and transported by bus or coach.

The journey takes 40 minutes to reach Pico do Areiro, the starting point of the hike. From there, hikers ascend to Pico Ruivo, the highest peak at 1,862 meters.

The hike begins at Pico do Areiro, followed by an ascent to the highest peak Pico Ruivo at 1,862 meters.

This part of the trek involves climbing steps carved into the rock. After reaching the summit, the group returns to Funchal, a 55-minute journey.

The overall distance covered is 12 kilometers, and the hike is considered difficult due to the steep ascents and descents.

Inclusions and Recommendations

The hiking tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day’s adventure.

Lunch isn’t provided, so hikers should plan to bring their own sustenance.

To ensure a comfortable and safe experience, the tour company recommends bringing a hiking stick, proper footwear, 2 liters of water, an impermeable jacket, snacks, and sunscreen.

These essentials will help hikers navigate the difficult terrain, which features steep ascents and descents.

With these recommendations in mind, adventurous travelers can embark on an unforgettable journey to the peaks of Pico do Areiro and Pico Ruivo.

Language and Guide

A live tour guide is available to lead the hiking tour in Portuguese, English, French, and Spanish.

Hikers will benefit from the guide’s expertise and local knowledge as they explore the trails from Funchal to Pico do Areiro and Pico Ruivo.

The multilingual guide can provide insightful commentary about the natural surroundings and assist participants throughout the day.

This ensures a seamless and enriching experience for hikers of all language backgrounds.

Whether you’re fluent in one of the offered languages or a beginner, the guide will facilitate an engaging and informative hiking adventure.

More Great Tours Nearby

Booking and Cancellation Policy

If you need to cancel your hiking tour, you can do so up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This gives you flexibility in case your plans change.

The tour also offers a "reserve now & pay later" option, so you can book your spot without immediately paying. To ensure availability, be sure to check the starting times.

This hiking experience is quite popular, so reserving in advance is recommended. The tour company aims to make the booking process as smooth and hassle-free as possible for all their guests.

Customer Reviews

Hikers who’ve experienced this tour rave about it, with an overall 5/5 rating based on 9 reviews.

Customers highlight the knowledgeable and helpful guides, leading to an enjoyable hiking experience. One reviewer noted the guide’s expertise in pointing out local flora and fauna. Another mentioned the guide’s patience in ensuring everyone in the group kept up.

Reviewers also praised the stunning vistas from Pico do Areiro and the challenging yet rewarding climb to Pico Ruivo.

Preparing for the Hike

Proper preparation is crucial for this demanding hiking tour. Bringing the right gear and supplies can make the difference between an enjoyable trek and a miserable experience. The tour operator provides helpful recommendations, which hikers would be wise to follow.

| Item | Recommendation |

| ——————– | ————– |

| Hiking Stick | Bring one |

| Footwear | Sturdy hiking boots |

| Water | 2 liters minimum |

| Layers | Impermeable jacket |

| Snacks | Pack energy-rich foods |

| Sun Protection | Sunscreen, hat |

Adhering to these guidelines will ensure hikers are prepared to tackle the challenging terrain and environmental conditions on the Pico do Areiro and Pico Ruivo hike.

Exploring Pico Do Areiro and Pico Ruivo

As hikers depart from Pico do Areiro, the true challenge of the hike begins.

The path leads them to the imposing Pico Ruivo, the highest peak on the island at 1,862 meters. Steep ascents and descents test endurance as hikers climb steps carved into the rocky terrain. Stunning vistas of the island’s rugged landscape unfold with each step.

The path ascends to the formidable Pico Ruivo, where rigorous climbs and descents challenge hikers amidst the island’s breathtaking, rugged panoramas.

Reaching the summit, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views that span the horizon.

The return journey follows the same route, offering another chance to appreciate the natural beauty of this iconic Madeiran landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age or Fitness Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age or fitness restrictions, but it’s rated as difficult with steep ascents and descents. Participants should be in good physical condition and prepared for challenging terrain.

Can I Bring My Pet on the Hike?

Unfortunately, pets are not permitted on this hiking tour. The trail is considered difficult, with steep ascents and descents, making it unsuitable for pets. The tour company recommends leaving your furry friend at home for this particular hiking adventure.

Is There a Photography Guide During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t provide a dedicated photography guide, but the knowledgeable multilingual tour guides can offer tips on capturing the scenic views along the hike. Participants are free to take photos throughout the experience.

Can I Book This Tour for a Private Group?

Yes, you can book this hiking tour for a private group. The tour operator offers a private option, allowing you to customize the experience for your group size and schedule. Prices may vary based on the number of participants.

Are There Any Options to Extend the Hike or Explore More?

Yes, there are options to extend the hike or explore more. Travelers can inquire about adding an extra stop or pursuing a longer route that covers additional peaks and landscapes in the area. The tour operator may be able to customize the experience.

The Sum Up

The "From Funchal: Pico Do Areiro and Pico Ruivo Hiking Tour" offers an exhilarating and challenging 4-hour trek through Madeira’s stunning landscapes. Priced at $40.50 per person, the 12 km hike from Pico do Areiro to Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s highest peak, is led by professional multilingual guides and includes convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off. Hikers are encouraged to bring their own provisions and gear for a comfortable and rewarding experience exploring these breathtaking natural wonders.

You can check availability for your dates here: