Pico do Arieiro – Pico Ruivo

The Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo Hike: A Complete Guide

Imagine standing atop Madeira’s highest peaks, surrounded by clouds and rugged mountain scenery, on a trail that challenges both your legs and your sense of adventure. This tour takes you on an 8-hour journey through some of Madeira’s most impressive landscapes, starting from the iconic Pico do Arieiro and culminating at Pico Ruivo, the island’s tallest point at 1,862 meters. For around $36, you’ll join a small group led by a knowledgeable guide, with transportation included, making this a hassle-free way to get your mountain fix.

What we love most about this experience is how accessible and intimate it feels, thanks to the small-group format, and the spectacular views that reward every ascent and descent. You’ll appreciate the provision of walking sticks, raincoats, and the overall attentiveness of your guide — which makes tackling the steep climbs much more manageable.

On the flip side, this hike isn’t for everyone. It demands good physical fitness and a willingness to handle variable weather — sometimes foggy, sometimes sunny, with the possibility of rain or wind. But if you’re a lover of mountain scenery, challenging walks, and don’t mind a bit of unpredictability, this tour is a perfect fit for you.

In short, this tour is best suited for fit, adventurous travelers who want to see Madeira’s peaks from a fresh perspective while enjoying expert guidance and a small, friendly group atmosphere.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The hike offers some of Madeira’s most breathtaking vistas, especially from Pico Ruivo.
• Small Group: Enjoy more personalized attention from your guide, with a maximum of 15 travelers.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Walking sticks, raincoats, hotel pickup, and air-conditioned transport are included.
• Physical Demands: Expect steep climbs, descents, and uneven terrain that requires good fitness.
• Weather Variability: Be prepared for fog, rain, or sun — weather can change unexpectedly.
• Authentic Experience: Your guide shares detailed insights about the landscape and local environment.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Start at Pico do Arieiro

Your day begins early with hotel pickup around 8:30 am, giving you a head start before the crowds and the fog. The journey begins at Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak, which is already a highlight in itself. This location is famous for its dramatic cliffs and panoramic views, often shrouded in clouds that add a sense of mystery to the landscape.

Here, you’ll embark on a 12 km challenging hike that typically takes about 5 hours — plenty of time to soak in the scenery, take photos, or even snap a quick video of the rugged terrain. You can expect tunnels, steep ascents, and descent sections, all set amidst the mountains’ central core. As noted by a recent traveler: “It was an amazing experience. The guide was so nice and helpful and explained a lot about what we saw.” That’s a common theme — guides are enthusiastic and eager to share their knowledge, making the journey much richer.

Walking from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo

The trail between these two giants is not for the faint of heart. It’s a walk that involves constant ups and downs, with spectacular views at each turn. The route is well-marked but includes narrow paths and tunnels, adding an element of adventure.

Expect several steep sections that will test your legs and your stamina. We loved the way this hike combines physical challenge with visual reward—as you navigate through the clouds, you’ll see the lush mountains, deep valleys, and the rugged coastline far below. As one reviewer put it: “The walk was cancelled after we arrived… but the original plan to walk around the cliffs was worth the effort, even if the weather didn’t cooperate.”

Reaching Pico Ruivo

Your goal is the peak at 1862 meters, Madeira’s highest point. You’ll spend about 40 minutes here, taking in your surroundings and marveling at the panoramic views. The summit is often the highlight, with a sense of achievement for reaching the top. Visitors frequently comment on how spectacular the landscape is, and how the ascent is worth every step, even with a few dizzying moments. “It’s not for the faint-hearted,” one reviewer warns, but “if you can cope with dizzying heights, you are rewarded.”

Return Journey and Lunch Break

After soaking in the views, you’ll descend back to the starting point or head to a nearby spot like Santana for a midday break. Some reviews mention enjoying a local meal or tapas after the hike, which is an excellent way to relax and reflect on the day.

End of the Tour

Your day concludes with drop-off at your accommodation, typically with plenty of stories and photos to share. The tour generally wraps up in the late afternoon, offering a full day of mountain scenery, physical activity, and cultural insight.

The Experience and Its Value

This tour is priced at an approachable $36, which covers transportation, guides, and equipment. When you consider the effort it takes to organize a mountain hike yourself, plus the cost of transportation and the potential for getting lost or weathering adverse conditions, the value becomes clear. The small group size ensures you get more attention and can ask questions, making this more than just a walk — it’s a guided adventure.

The provision of walking sticks and raincoats is a thoughtful touch, especially given the unpredictable weather. The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, often sharing stories about Madeira’s landscape, flora, and geography. Several reviews highlight how the guides make the experience educational as well as enjoyable.

While some travelers have faced disappointments—such as the cancellation of the hike or issues with booking transfers—the tour provider appears attentive to feedback, and weather-related cancellations are clearly communicated, with options for rescheduling or full refunds.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active travelers comfortable with steep climbs and uneven terrain. It’s ideal for those who want authentic mountain vistas and are prepared for variable weather conditions. The tour is also perfect if you value small-group intimacy and detailed explanations about Madeira’s natural environment.

If you’re looking for a less demanding, more leisurely walk, or travel with very young children or those with mobility issues, you might find this too challenging. Conversely, if you’re a seasoned hiker, you might crave even more vertical distance or longer trips — but for most visitors, this hike hits the sweet spot of adventure, scenery, and manageable challenge.

The Sum Up

Taking the Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo tour offers a remarkable blend of challenge and beauty. You’ll experience Madeira’s rugged mountain charm, breathtaking vistas, and the camaraderie of a small group led by an experienced guide. The inclusion of essential gear, transportation, and personalized attention makes it a great value, especially considering the unforgettable views and physical sense of achievement.

This tour is best for energetic travelers, outdoor lovers, and those eager for an authentic mountain adventure without the hassle of navigating alone. It’s a day that promises stunning scenery, good company, and a true sense of accomplishment — the kind of experience you’ll be glad to have ticked off your Madeira list.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
The tour starts at 8:30 am, so you’ll want to be prepared and ready at your hotel by then. The provider offers hotel pickup, so check your confirmation for the exact time.

Is this hike suitable for children or less fit travelers?
Given the challenging nature, steep climbs, and uneven terrain, it’s best suited for those with good physical fitness. The hike involves dizziness and heights, so caution is advised for children or less active individuals.

What should I bring with me?
While the tour provides walking sticks and raincoats, you should also bring good hiking shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and layers to adapt to changing weather. A small backpack with water and snacks is also recommended.

Could the weather spoil the experience?
Yes, weather can vary from foggy to sunny or rainy. Some reviews mention fog and rain, which can obscure views but also add to the atmosphere. The guides are experienced in managing safety during variable weather.

What happens if the hike is canceled due to weather?
If weather conditions are unsafe, the hike may be canceled. The provider offers full refunds or rescheduling options if this happens.

How long is the entire tour?
The hike itself lasts about 5 hours for the main walking portion. Including transportation and breaks, the full day lasts approximately 8 hours.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour includes air-conditioned vehicles for pickup and drop-off, making the journey comfortable and convenient.

Can I customize this tour?
This particular tour is set, but you can contact the provider for specific requests or additional options, especially if you wish a private experience.

Embark on this hike if you’re craving mountain vistas, a physical challenge, and expert guidance in Madeira. It’s an adventure that will leave you with stories — and photos — to cherish long after you leave the island.