Pico Ruivo-Achadas do Teixeira-Pico Ruivo – Pico pedras/Queimadas

Introduction

This guided tour taking you to Madeira’s three highest peaks—Pico do Arieiro, Pico Ruivo, and Achadas do Teixeira—seems like a fantastic choice for anyone eager to explore the island’s mountain scenery. While we haven’t personally trekked these trails ourselves, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of what to expect.

What pulls us in are the spectacular mountain vistas, the ease of guided navigation, and the convenient logistics—no need to worry about map reading or returning on the same trail. However, potential hikers should note that this tour demands good physical fitness and that recent fire damage has temporarily closed some parts of the original route, leading to interesting alternative paths.

This experience caters best to active travelers who love nature, enjoy a bit of a challenge, and value professional guidance. If you’re after a well-organized, scenic adventure with plenty of photo opportunities, this guided tour may well be your ideal Madeira day trip.

Key Points

• Expert-guided: A knowledgeable guide takes care of navigation, making it suitable even if you’re not an expert hiker.
• Spectacular views: Enjoy panoramic vistas from high peaks, with plenty of photo opportunities.
• Convenient logistics: Includes transportation to and from the starting point, plus a bus to return from the final peak.
• Alternative route: Due to recent fires, the original route is modified but still offers incredible scenery from Pico Ruivo.
• Group size: Small groups of up to 16 travelers provide a more intimate experience.
• Price for value: At around $52, you’re paying for a guided, scenic mountain adventure that covers multiple peaks.

Exploring Madeira’s Mountain Highlights

Pico do Arieiro: The Gateway to the Sky

The tour begins at Pico do Arieiro, which is Madeira’s third-highest peak at 1,818 meters. Travelers often rave about the breathtaking sunrise views and the dramatic mountain scenery. This spot offers a stunning panoramic outlook over the island’s rugged terrain, with rugged cliffs and cloud-layered valleys.

Several review comments mention how knowledgeable guides like Sandra and Maria bring the terrain alive with interesting facts, making the whole experience more engaging. Many also appreciate the smooth handling of route changes when trail closures happen—something that’s more common in mountain hiking.

Achadas do Teixeira: The Starting Point of the Challenge

The walk from Achadas do Teixeira provides a gentle but scenic ascent towards Pico Ruivo. It’s known as an easier introduction to Madeira’s highlands, making it suitable for those with good fitness but not necessarily seasoned hikers.

The reviews highlight how the guide’s expertise helps keep the group safe and motivated, especially when weather conditions turn challenging. Sandra’s positive energy and her knowledge about local flora and fauna helped elevate the experience, according to those on the trip.

Pico Ruivo: The Highest Peak

At 1,862 meters, Pico Ruivo is the highest point on Madeira, and the views from here tend to be the highlight for many. On clear days, you can expect to see sweeping vistas over the rugged mountains and valleys.

While fires in August 2024 have temporarily limited access to parts of this route, the tour now includes a shorter alternative that still delivers the signature “top of Madeira” feeling. Many travelers mention how the effort to reach this summit feels rewarded by the stunning scenery and the sense of achievement.

The Route and Its Unique Features

Original Route & Fire Impact

The original trail, which would have taken hikers from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo via a connecting ridge, has been temporarily closed due to recent forest fires. This means the current tour takes a slightly altered path: starting at Queimadas, climbing to Pico das Pedras, then moving on to Achadas do Teixeira, and finally reaching Pico Ruivo before returning.

This change might sound like a downgrade, but reviews suggest the alternative route still offers beautiful views and interesting geological features. One reviewer stated, _”The alternative walk up to Pico Ruivo was excellent, even if the segment from Pico das Pedras to Queimadras was average.”_

The Final Descent and Return

After soaking in the views from Pico Ruivo, instead of hiking back down, travelers are transported by bus from the final peak. This saves tired legs and provides comfort after a full morning of mountain walking.

Tunnel Passages & Rock Formations

Throughout the hike, you’ll pass through tunnels carved into the mountains and navigate around impressive rock formations—features that excite nature lovers and photographers alike. Several reviewers mention how Sandra’s knowledge of local geology made these features come to life, adding an educational layer to the adventure.

Logistics and Practicalities

Duration & Group Size

The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a manageable half-day outing. The small group limit of 16 travelers ensures a more personalized experience, with plenty of room for questions and photos.

Transportation & Comfort

Transportation is a major plus here. Travelers are picked up from their accommodations in an air-conditioned vehicle, easing the commute to the trailhead. The bus ride back from Pico Ruivo is equally comfortable and efficient, especially after a challenging hike.

Price & Value

At $52.25 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the guided service, transportation, and access to Madeira’s most iconic peaks. The reviews reinforce that this is well-organized and worth the cost, especially when compared to the cost of doing similar hikes independently, which would involve arranging transport and guides separately.

Weather & Cancellations

The tour is weather-dependent, and poor weather may lead to cancellations or route adjustments. The policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which is helpful in unpredictable mountain weather.

What Reviewers Love About This Tour

Many reviews highlight the knowledge and enthusiasm of guides like Sandra and Maria. One reviewer praised Sandra for her positive energy and her efforts to keep everyone safe during fire-related route changes.

Others appreciated the smooth handling of route modifications—a sign of good planning and experience. The breathtaking scenery and the chance to see Madeira’s mountain landscape from its highest points are frequent themes, with comments like _”amazing scenery”_ and _”fantastic walk”_ popping up often.

Some Caveats

A few reviewers experienced route changes or cancellations due to fire damage or weather, which is understandable given the mountain environment. One reviewer felt disappointed when a last-minute cancellation was poorly handled, but most found the alternative routes still enjoyable.

Most agree that good physical fitness is necessary, especially since the hikes are challenging and involve walking on uneven terrain.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour appeals to active travelers who want to see Madeira’s peaks without the hassle of planning multiple routes. The guided element and small group size make it perfect for those who prefer a safe, educational, and scenic experience.

If you love mountain views, geological features, and a bit of adventure, this tour offers a balanced combination of challenge and comfort. Nature lovers with good fitness levels will find it especially rewarding.

The Sum Up

This Madeira mountain tour packs in stunning scenery, expert guidance, and good value, making it a top choice for active explorers. While the fire-related route changes slightly alter the original plan, the revised itinerary still delivers breathtaking views from Pico Ruivo and nearby peaks.

The small group size and knowledgeable guides like Sandra or Maria add a personal touch, turning a challenging hike into an educational and memorable outing. It’s perfect for those who want to experience Madeira’s rugged beauty without the stress of navigation or logistics.

If you’re after authentic mountain scenery, professional guidance, and a well-organized outing, this tour ticks all the boxes. Just make sure you’re ready for a workout and keep an eye on weather conditions—mountains are unpredictable, but the rewards are more than worth it.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, including transportation and hiking time.

What is the difficulty level?
You should have a strong physical fitness level since the hike involves mountain walking and some challenging terrain.

Is the route affected by recent fires?
Yes, recent fires have temporarily closed parts of the original trail, so the tour now follows an alternative route that still offers great views.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers guided hiking, transportation, and pick-up/drop-off service. The bus back from Pico Ruivo is also included.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour if weather conditions are poor, and you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

What should I bring?
Bring good hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, water, and a camera for capturing the views.

Is this suitable for children or less active travelers?
Given the physical demands, it’s best suited for active adults and older teens with good fitness levels. Less active travelers might find the hike challenging.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 16 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience with your guide.

If you’re craving mountain adventures with a mix of scenic beauty and expert guidance, this Madeira tour offers a memorable, well-organized way to conquer the island’s highest peaks.