How to Plan Your Pico Do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo Hike in Madeira

Are you looking for a thrilling hiking adventure that takes you to the highest mountains in Madeira Island? If the answer is yes, then the Pico Do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike is for you! This tour offers an excellent opportunity for all nature enthusiasts to explore Madeira’s natural beauty, especially its towering peaks and lush vegetation. This convenient car transfer from Pico Do Arieiro provides an air-conditioned minivan that picks you up from your accommodation in Funchal or Canico, so all you need to do is to relax and prepare for an unforgettable adventure.

Experience

This tour takes you on a thrilling hike from the peak of Pico Do Arieiro, where you’ll watch the breathtaking sunrise over Madeira, to the Pico Ruivo summit, the highest point on the island, at 1,861m above sea level. This tour allows you to hike on paths that are only accessible by foot, giving you a rare chance to immerse yourself in nature and truly appreciate the island’s beauty. Along the way, be sure to look out for bright birds like the Madeira firecrest and other astonishing wildlife unique to the island.

Highlights

The Pico Do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike presents a myriad of unique highlights, including;

Marvel at the sun rising over Madeira from the summit of Pico Do Arieiro

One of the tour’s most impressive features is the opportunity to witness the stunning sunrise over Madeira from the peak of Pico Do Arieiro. The sunrise provides an excellent lighting background for some fantastic photo opportunities and an unforgettable experience unique to Madeira.

Hike at your own pace through mountain paths that are only accessible by foot

This tour offers you an opportunity to trek through mountain paths on a strict schedule that is flexible, letting you hike at your pace. Unlike guided tours, where you have to match other hikers’ capabilities and speed, this hike is yours to customize as you want.

Enjoy a hassle-free transfer from your accommodation in Funchal or Canico

This hike comes with the added bonus of a comfortable and air-conditioned minivan from Funchal or Canico, picking you up from your accommodation to and from the hike’s starting point. You can relax and leave the driving and navigating to someone else, making it much easier to enjoy the entire experience.

Admire lush vegetation and search for bright birds like the Madeira firecrest

Madeira is an outstanding natural paradise with lush green vegetation, unique wildlife, and crystal-clear waters. During the hike, be sure to keep an eye out for some reduced tree species, rare plants, and the popular Madeira firecrest vibrantly colored and agile; the bird can only be found in Madeira.

Capture pictures to share of as you climb the famed “Stairway to Heaven’ path

The ‘Stairway to Heaven’ path layout provides a jaw-dropping spectacle of a path snaking up the mountainside. The pathway offers unbelievable photo opportunities with stunning mountain formations, greeneries, and a fantastic view of the sea, which is slightly above the clouds.

Full description

The Pico Do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike presents a challenging, but rewarding, hike that is worth adding to your itinerary while visiting Madeira Island. The minivan, with hotel pick-up and drop-off included, is available twice daily, morning and afternoon, giving you two additional outdoor adventure options. The tour begins at the Pico do Arieiro, where you’ll get a chance to marvel at the stunning sunrise over Madeira. The mountain’s high point is at an altitude of 1,818m, affording a fantastic panoramic view of the surroundings. The hike, which lasts for about three hours, is perfect for enthusiasts and seasoned hikers who can trek through elevations, steep hills, and tough mountain conditions. After a refreshing hike, you’ll reach the Pico Ruivo summit, the highest point in Madeira, which is accessible by foot. The peak stands tall above the clouds, offering a stunning view of Madeira and the surrounding sea. From here, the minivan will be waiting for you, ready to drive you back to your accommodation. Please note that this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, people afraid of heights, people with vertigo, children under 16 years, pregnant women, or individuals with recent surgeries.

Includes

The tour includes a transfer with a comfortable and air-conditioned minivan from your accommodation in Funchal or Canico, a hotel pick-up and drop-off service, and a guide. However, it’s imperative to note that the tour does not include food and drinks, so be sure to carry snacks and a bottle of water for the hike.

Booking Information

Ready to embark on this fantastic hiking adventure? Book your Pico Do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike now at GetYourGuide, and start making memories!

Frequently Asked Questions about Madeira

If you’re planning a trip to Madeira, you might have some questions. Here we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help you plan your trip.

1. Where is Madeira located?

Madeira is a Portuguese archipelago situated in the North Atlantic Ocean. It is located southwest of Portugal and northwest of the Canary Islands.

2. What is the best time to visit Madeira?

The best time to visit Madeira is from May to October when the weather is pleasant and warm. However, Madeira has a year-round temperate climate so you can visit any time of the year.

3. What is the currency used in Madeira?

The official currency used in Madeira is the Euro (€).

4. What language do they speak in Madeira?

The official language spoken in Madeira is Portuguese. However, many locals also speak English and French.

5. What is the cuisine like in Madeira?

Madeira’s cuisine is influenced by both Portuguese and African cultures. Some popular dishes include Espetada (meat skewers), Bolo do caco (a type of bread), and Bacalhau (salt cod).

6. What are some must-visit attractions in Madeira?

Some must-visit attractions in Madeira include the Laurissilva Forest, Cabo Girão Skywalk, and the Monte Palace Tropical Garden.

7. Can I go hiking in Madeira?

Yes! Madeira is a popular destination for hiking enthusiasts due to its scenic trails and stunning views. The Levada do Caldeirão Verde and the Pico Ruivo trails are both popular choices.

8. Do I need a visa to visit Madeira?

If you are a citizen of the European Union or a Schengen Area country, you do not need a visa to visit Madeira. Citizens of other countries may need a visa, so it’s best to check with the Portuguese embassy in your country.

9. Is Madeira a safe place to visit?

Yes, Madeira is generally a safe place to visit. Crime rates are low, and locals are friendly and welcoming to tourists.

10. What is the nightlife like in Madeira?

The nightlife in Madeira is relatively low-key compared to other destinations. However, there are plenty of bars and restaurants to enjoy a drink or a meal.

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Madeira is a beautiful destination with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you’re looking for stunning hiking trails, delicious cuisine, or a relaxing getaway, Madeira has something for everyone. We hope this FAQ has answered some of your questions and helped you plan your trip to Madeira!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Madeira

Madeira, an autonomous region of Portugal, is a stunning archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean. Known across the world for its stunning natural scenery, welcoming locals, and outstanding outdoor activities, Madeira is a must-visit destination for any tourist. If you’re planning a trip to Madeira and wondering how to spend your time as a tourist, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a detailed guide on the best things to do in Madeira.

1. Explore the Botanical Gardens

Madeira is famous for its exotic flora and fauna, and no visit to the island is complete without exploring some of its botanical gardens. The Jardim Botanico da Madeira, also known as the Madeira Botanical Garden, is a 20-acre garden located in Funchal, the capital of Madeira. The garden comprises several sections, including endemic plants, medicinal plants, exotic plants, succulents, and a traditional Madeiran house. Visitors can explore the garden by foot or take a guided tour. The garden is open daily from 9.00 A.M to 6.00 P.M, and the admission fee is €6.00 per person.

2. Visit the Cabo Girao Cliffs

The Cabo Girao Cliffs, located on the southern coast of Madeira, offer a spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean. With a height of 580 meters, it is the second-highest sea cliff in Europe. Visitors can enjoy the panoramic view from the glass-floored skywalk, which extends over the cliff’s edge. At the base of the cliff, there is a pebble beach with crystal-clear water, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The skywalk is open daily from 9.00 A.M to 5.30 P.M, and the admission fee is €5.00 per person.

3. Take a Levada Walk

The Levadas are ancient irrigation channels that cover most of Madeira’s countryside. They offer a unique way to explore the island’s natural beauty on foot. There are more than 2,000 kilometers of levadas in Madeira, ranging from easy to challenging trails. Some of the most popular levadas are the Levada do Caldeirão Verde, Levada do Rei, and Levada dos Tornos. Most levada walks require a permit and a guide, which can be arranged from the local tourist office or a tour operator.

4. Attend a Wine Tasting Session

Madeira is renowned for its fortified wine, which has been produced on the island for more than 500 years. If you’re a wine enthusiast, you should not miss the opportunity to attend a wine tasting session in Madeira. The island has several wineries that offer guided tours and wine tastings, including the Blandy’s Wine Lodge, the Madeira Wine Museum, and the Barbeito Madeira. Visitors can learn about the wine production process, taste different varieties of Madeira wine, and buy bottles to take home.

5. Discover the Old Town of Funchal

Funchal’s old town, also known as Zona Velha, is a charming area full of history and tradition. The narrow streets are lined with colorful houses, traditional shops, and cozy cafes. Some of the must-visit sites in the old town are the Mercado dos Lavradores, a vibrant local market selling fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, and flowers; the Se Cathedral, an impressive church with Gothic architecture; and the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, a magnificent garden with exotic plants and waterfalls. Visitors can explore the old town on foot or take a guided tour.

6. Go Whale and Dolphin Watching

Madeira is one of the best places in Europe to watch whales and dolphins in their natural habitat. The waters surrounding the island are home to several species, including bottlenose dolphins, sperm whales, beaked whales, and killer whales. There are several boat tours that offer whale and dolphin watching trips, including the VMT Madeira, the Lobosonda, and the Rota dos Cetaceos. The tours usually last between two to three hours and include a marine biologist guide.

7. Relax on the Beaches

Madeira is not known for its beaches, but it can still offer some excellent spots to sunbathe and swim. The most popular beaches are located on the eastern side of the island, including Praia da Machico, Praia da Calheta, and Praia dos Reis Magos. These beaches have golden sand, calm waters, and several amenities, including restaurants, bars, and showers. Visitors can rent sun loungers and umbrellas or bring their own.

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Madeira is a small paradise on earth, with so much to offer to tourists. From stunning natural scenery to rich culture and history, Madeira has it all. By following the above guide, tourists can explore the island’s best attractions and have an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, wine tasting, or relaxing on the beach, Madeira has something for everyone. Just remember to respect the nature and culture of the island while enjoying your time as a tourist.