Funchal: Guided Sunrise Walk & Stairway to Heaven

Funchal: Guided Sunrise Walk & Stairway to Heaven offers a rare chance to start your day with a spectacular view in Madeira. For $69 per person, you’ll be driven up to Pico do Arieiro, the island’s third-highest peak, and watch the sunrise paint the sky in shades you’ll never forget. The tour continues with a scenic 5 km walk towards two popular viewpoints, culminating at the Cristo Rei statue in Garajau, with plenty of time to soak in the views.

What we love about this experience is the expertly guided nature walk that combines spectacular vistas with manageable, well-paced hiking. The fact that transportation up to Pico do Arieiro is included is a real plus—no hassle with parking or navigating narrow mountain roads. Plus, the thoughtful touches like hot chocolate and windbreaker jackets make early mornings much more comfortable.

A potential consideration is the early start—if you’re not a morning person or have trouble with altitude, it’s worth noting the 3rd highest peak can feel a little brisk and cold. But for those who adore authentic outdoor experiences and stunning panoramic views, this tour hits the mark perfectly. It’s ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a quiet, awe-inspiring start to their day in Madeira.

Key Points

• Spectacular sunrise views: Watch the sky light up from the mountain top, an experience worth waking early for.
• Easy access: The driver handles the climb, so no parking worries or steep drives.
• Authentic hike: A well-paced 5 km walk to two viewpoints, including the famed “Stairway to Heaven.”
• Thoughtful touches: Warm drinks, homemade cake, windbreakers, and attentive guides enhance the experience.
• Breathtaking photo opportunities: Capture clouds floating below, mountain peaks, and panoramic city views.
• Flexibility: Book now, pay later, and cancel free up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Experience: A Closer Look at the Guided Sunrise Walk & Stairway to Heaven

Starting early from Funchal, this tour is designed for those eager to see Madeira’s sunrise from a mountain peak. The pickup is straightforward, and the drive up to Pico do Arieiro offers a chance to relax and enjoy the scenery. We appreciated how seamless the transportation was—no worrying about parking or navigating steep mountain roads ourselves.

Once at the top, we are treated to an unparalleled display of colors as the sun begins to peek over the horizon. The guide’s storytelling and local insights make these moments even more meaningful. The view of clouds below, illuminated by the morning light, creates an almost surreal scene that’s perfect for photos or simply soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

After the sunrise spectacle, the walking portion begins. The approximate 5 km hike takes us towards two viewpoints, including the famous “Stairway to Heaven.” This part of the tour is well-paced, with the guide paying close attention to the group’s energy levels and providing pauses to enjoy the scenery. The walk is manageable for most, but as noted, it’s a mountain walk—so comfortable shoes and warm clothes are recommended.

The highlight is the spectacular vista from the viewpoints, where you can observe the rugged terrain and distant Atlantic. The guide’s commentary enriches the experience, pointing out local flora, geological features, and the significance of the viewpoints.

Finally, the tour concludes at the Cristo Rei statue in Garajau, offering a different perspective—this time, looking down on Funchal and the bay. The view from here is equally breathtaking, making for a memorable finish to the morning.

Authentic details from review highlight how well organized everything was, with Isabel praising the friendly, attentive guide who made sure everyone was comfortable and had the best experience. She also appreciated the hot chocolate and windbreakers, which made the early start much more enjoyable.

The Value of the Tour

At $69 per person, this experience provides an excellent value for the unforgettable views and personalized guidance. The inclusion of transport up to Pico do Arieiro means you avoid the tricky drive yourself and start the hike at the best possible vantage point. The hot drink and homemade cake add a cozy touch, making the early morning wake-up worthwhile.

However, it’s important to note that from January 2025, a tax fee of 3 euros per person is payable directly on the day, supporting forest conservation efforts. This small additional cost is typical of many natural parks and doesn’t detract significantly from the overall value.

The tour’s flexibility—reserve and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours—is perfect for travelers unsure of their plans, especially given Madeira’s unpredictable weather.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who adores outdoor adventures and stunning natural scenery, this guided sunrise walk will be a highlight of your Madeira trip. It’s especially suited for photographers, early risers, and those seeking a peaceful, awe-inspiring start to the day. Active travelers who enjoy manageable hikes and scenic viewpoints will find this adventure rewarding.

Conversely, if you have mobility issues, are sensitive to altitude, or dislike early mornings, this might not be your best fit. The chilly mountain air and the ascent to 1,800+ meters could be uncomfortable for some.

In Closing

This tour offers a beautiful blend of nature, scenic beauty, and cultural insight. The guides are knowledgeable and attentive, making sure you get the most out of every moment. The views from Pico do Arieiro and Garajau are genuinely spectacular, and the inclusion of a relaxing walk and authentic touches like hot chocolate make it feel thoughtfully curated.

It’s a perfect choice for travelers who want a meaningful, memorable, and visually stunning experience that captures the essence of Madeira’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply want to enjoy a peaceful sunrise, this tour delivers an authentic and satisfying adventure.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or babies?
This tour is not suitable for babies under 1 year and might be challenging for very young children due to the early start and mountain walk.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes are recommended, along with sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain. It can be quite cold in the early morning at Pico do Arieiro, so layers and windbreakers are advised.

How long does the tour last?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, it includes the drive, sunrise viewing, the 5 km walk, and the final stop at Garajau, making for an early but fulfilling morning.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, booking in advance is recommended. You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

What is included in the price?
The tour price includes transportation, a warm drink (hot chocolate), and homemade cake. Guides are available in English, French, and Portuguese.

Will I see the sunrise if I go later in the day?
No, this tour is specifically designed for early morning sunrise viewing, so punctuality is key.

Are there any additional costs?
From January 2025, there’s a €3 tax fee per person for the conservation fee, payable directly to the guide on the day.

Is the walk difficult?
The walk is approximately 5 km, with manageable difficulty levels, but it does involve mountain terrain. It’s best for those in good health and comfortable with light hiking.

Embark on this sunrise journey in Madeira for a truly memorable experience. The combination of breathtaking vistas, a peaceful mountain atmosphere, and expert guidance makes it well worth the early wake-up call.

You can check availability for your dates here: