Pico Areeiro to Pico Ruivo Madeira Island Walk

Madeira Island’s Pico Areeiro to Pico Ruivo trek is a renowned hiking experience that captivates outdoor enthusiasts. Traversing the island’s rugged terrain, this challenging 8-hour journey showcases Madeira’s natural splendor, from breathtaking viewpoints to diverse endemic flora. With expert guidance, hikers embark on an unforgettable adventure, navigating through natural tunnels and encountering stunning rock formations. Though the trek demands physical endurance, the rewards are undeniable, leaving hikers with cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for Madeira’s remarkable landscapes.

Key Points

• An 8-hour guided trek through Madeira’s mountain landscapes, starting at Pico do Areeiro and ending at the iconic Pico Ruivo.
• Challenging yet rewarding trek with panoramic island views, natural tunnels, and endemic flora, with an optional café stop.
• Pickup and transportation from Funchal accommodations to the trailhead, with additional pickup services available for locations outside Funchal.
• Experienced guide providing safety briefing, highlighting the unique ecology, and ensuring a hassle-free guided walk experience.
• Pricing starts from Kč 1,051 per person, including the guided tour, transportation, meals, snacks, and comprehensive insurance coverage.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Trek

The Pico Areeiro to Pico Ruivo walk is an exhilarating 8-hour trek through Madeira’s breathtaking mountain landscapes.

Trekkers will be transported to the Pico do Areeiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak, where the guided hike begins. Over the course of 4.75 hours, they’ll navigate natural tunnels, observe endemic flora, and enjoy panoramic island views.

The trek is challenging yet rewarding, with an optional stop at a local café before the return to Funchal.

Though the main route is currently closed due to wildfires, an alternative trek from Pico do Areeiro is available.

The experience offers an unforgettable glimpse of Madeira’s highest peaks.

Transportation and Pickup

Guests are picked up from their accommodation in Funchal, the capital city of Madeira, for the start of the Pico Areeiro to Pico Ruivo trek.

The journey to the trailhead at Pico do Areeiro takes around an hour. Transportation is provided in a comfortable van.

While the main walk from Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo is currently closed due to wildfires, an alternative trek from Pico do Areeiro is available.

Pickup locations outside of Funchal can be arranged for an additional fee, ranging from €10 to €40 depending on the location.

The tour ensures hassle-free transportation throughout the day.

Guided Walk Experience

After being transported to the trailhead at Pico do Areeiro, the guided walk commences.

Trekkers embark on a 4.75-hour journey through Madeira’s highest peaks, navigating natural tunnels and taking in panoramic island views. The expert guide points out endemic flora along the way, sharing insights into the island’s unique ecology.

The terrain is challenging, yet rewarding, as hikers make their way towards the iconic Pico Ruivo.

Throughout the trek, safety is paramount, with the guide ensuring participants are equipped and prepared to handle the demands of the route.

Scenic Highlights

One of the key highlights of the Pico Areeiro to Pico Ruivo walk is the panoramic island views that unfold throughout the journey.

Trekkers are treated to sweeping vistas of Madeira’s dramatic landscape, including:

• Lush, verdant valleys and peaks

• Rugged, weathered rock formations

• Glimpses of the vast, azure Atlantic Ocean

These breathtaking sights provide a visual feast for the senses and a profound appreciation for the natural beauty of this stunning island.

The challenging trek is well worth the effort, as adventurers are rewarded with a truly unforgettable experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Inclusion and Pricing

The Pico Areeiro to Pico Ruivo walk includes an expert guided tour, transportation to and from the starting point, a safety briefing, comprehensive insurance coverage, and meals and snacks.

Additional pickup costs apply for those outside Funchal – Câmara de Lobos (10€), Ponta do Sol/Ribeira Brava (20€), and Calheta (40€).

The trek is priced from Kč 1,051 per person, and visitors older than 12 years require a 3€ tax payment to access the trail.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the current status indicates an alternative trek available due to wildfires.

Preparation and Requirements

To prepare for the Pico Areeiro to Pico Ruivo trek, visitors should ensure they pack appropriate clothing and footwear. The trek is challenging, requiring sturdy hiking boots and layers to adjust to changing weather conditions.

Prepare for the Pico Areeiro to Pico Ruivo trek with sturdy hiking boots and layers to adjust to changing weather conditions.

Plus, participants should bring:

• A lightweight windbreaker or jacket to protect against sudden changes in weather.

• Snacks and water to stay energized and hydrated throughout the hike.

• Sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as the hike exposes trekkers to direct sunlight for extended periods.

Participant Reviews

Travelers who’ve experienced the Pico Areeiro to Pico Ruivo trek consistently praise the hike as a highlight of their Madeira adventures.

One satisfied customer from Ireland raved, "The views were breathtaking, and the guides were incredibly knowledgeable."

Another reviewer described the trek as "challenging yet immensely rewarding, with unforgettable scenery."

Participants highlight the opportunity to observe Madeira’s endemic flora and navigate through natural tunnels as particularly memorable experiences.

With an impressive 5/5 rating based on customer feedback, this excursion clearly delivers an exceptional outdoor adventure on the island.

Important Considerations

Although the Pico Areeiro to Pico Ruivo trek is a popular and rewarding experience, there are a few important considerations hikers should be aware of.

Firstly, the trail is currently closed due to wildfires, and an alternative trek from Pico do Areeiro is available.

The Pico Areeiro to Pico Ruivo trek is currently closed due to wildfires, but an alternative trek from Pico do Areeiro is available.

Plus, there’s a 3€ tax required for trail access for visitors older than 12 years.

Finally, hikers should come prepared with suitable clothing, including a windbreaker, and be mindful of the challenging nature of the trek.

• Trail closure due to wildfires; alternative trek available

• 3€ tax for trail access for visitors over 12 years

• Appropriate clothing and preparation for challenging trek

The Sum Up

The Pico Areeiro to Pico Ruivo trek on Madeira Island offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure. With stunning landscapes, natural wonders, and expert guidance, it’s a must-do for nature enthusiasts. Hikers can look forward to a challenging yet rewarding experience, complete with breathtaking views and a deeper appreciation for Madeira’s captivating beauty. Whether a seasoned trekker or new to the outdoors, this guided hike is sure to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: