Stairway to Heaven: Pico do Areeiro in Madeira Island

Planning a day in Madeira that combines breathtaking scenery, a good workout, and a sense of wilderness? This tour might be just what you’re after. For $52 per person, you’ll spend about six hours exploring some of the island’s most scenic spots, from the serene Ecological Park of Funchal to the rugged heights of Pico do Areeiro, culminating in the legendary Stairway to Heaven. Led by knowledgeable guides, this experience promises sweeping views, challenging trails, and plenty of authentic Madeira atmosphere.

What really sets this tour apart? First, the opportunity to visit Poço da Neve, an old ice storage site with panoramic vistas of Funchal and the Atlantic. Second, the chance to see the spectacular views from Pico do Areeiro, the third-highest peak on the island, and then push your limits on the notorious Stairway to Heaven.

A potential consideration? The hike is physically demanding, with many steep ascents and descents, making it unsuitable for those with mobility issues or limited fitness. But if you’re a reasonably fit traveler looking for an active way to see Madeira’s wild side, this tour offers terrific value.

This experience suits adventurous travelers who love outdoor challenges, panoramic vistas, and learning about Madeira’s natural beauty from friendly guides. If you don’t mind a bit of a workout and enjoy scenic walks, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Authentic Madeira landscapes: The tour showcases forests, viewpoints, and mountain vistas, giving you a real taste of the island’s terrain.
• Expert guidance: A knowledgeable mountain guide leads the way, ensuring safety and enriching your experience with local insights.
• Challenging hike: Expect steep paths and stairs, making this ideal for active travelers with good fitness.
• Stunning views: From Pico do Areeiro to Ninho da Manta, the vistas are breathtaking and well worth the effort.
• Includes transportation: Pickup and drop-off from your hotel make logistics straightforward.
• Value for money: At $52, you get a full morning of adventure, scenic highlights, and expert guidance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Madeira Mountain Adventure

If your idea of travel excitement involves fresh air, mountain views, and a bit of a challenge, this tour delivers in spades. We appreciated how it begins with a scenic drive from Funchal, where the lush island landscape quickly gives way to the mountain wilderness. The transfer, lasting about an hour, sets the tone for the day—relaxing and anticipation-building as you leave the city behind.

Exploring Funchal’s Ecological Park and PR 3 Trail

The tour kicks off at Funchal’s Ecological Park, a peaceful green space that perfectly introduces Madeira’s variety of landscapes. You’ll follow PR 3, Vereda do Burro, a trail that winds through lush forests and offers quick glimpses of the natural environment that makes the island special. Here, expect the air to be crisp and the trail well-maintained, making it a comfortable start even for those not used to hiking.

The reviews highlight how guides are attentive and knowledgeable—“Martha was especially friendly and helpful,” one traveler noted. This personal touch makes a difference, especially when tackling the somewhat demanding trails. The guided approach also means you’ll learn about Madeira’s flora and fauna—details that bring the scenery to life.

Visiting Poço da Neve and Scenic Vistas

Next, the tour takes you to Poço da Neve, an old ice storage site perched with sweeping views over Funchal harbor. This stop is more than just a photo op; it’s a chance to see a piece of Madeira’s history and appreciate the strategic location for storing ice centuries ago. The view here is a reminder of the island’s dramatic geography and the importance of this spot historically.

Reaching Pico do Areeiro

The ascent to Pico do Areeiro (1818 meters) is the pinnacle of the tour—literally. Standing on this third-highest peak, you’re rewarded with panoramic views of mountain ridges that seem to stretch endlessly. The altitude and exposed position make this a standout highlight. Expect clear, crisp air and a feeling of being on top of the world.

From here, the trail continues to the Miradouro do Ninho da Manta, offering further sweeping vistas. This spot also serves as a perfect photo opportunity. Several reviews mention the “beautiful but challenging” nature of the hike—over 7 km with steep sections—which is worth considering if you’re not used to strenuous walks.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Stairway to Heaven

The most famous feature of this tour is the Stairway to Heaven—a steep, narrow ascent that tests your stamina but provides unmatched views. One reviewer described it as “tough, but incredibly rewarding,” and that rings true. Reaching the top offers spectacular panoramic vistas that stay with you long after the hike ends.

Looping Back to Pico do Areeiro

After conquering the Stairway, the group returns to Pico do Areeiro, with a short break before heading back down. The itinerary includes a scenic drive back to Funchal, giving you a chance to reflect on the day’s unforgettable landscapes.

The Practical Details: What to Expect and What to Bring

This tour is about six hours long, starting with hotel pickup, then about 30 minutes of scenic driving to the trailhead. You’ll spend roughly 4 hours hiking, including stops, and the rest in transit. The group size is balanced to allow for personal attention, and guides speak multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Portuguese, German, and French.

What to bring? Good hiking shoes are essential—think sturdy, comfortable footwear with grip. Dress in layers, as mountain weather can change rapidly—sun protection, a rain jacket, and warm clothes are sensible. Pack water, snacks, and perhaps some fruit or energy bars. The tour does not include food or drinks, so come prepared.

What not to bring? Avoid flip-flops, sandals, or anything unsuitable for steep terrain. Smoking, pets, and large items like baby strollers are not allowed along the trails, and safety regulations prohibit climbing with ropes, fireworks, or explosive substances.

Fitness and Safety

This is a challenging hike, with considerable ups and downs, stairs, and uneven terrain. It’s not suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, or those with health issues like heart problems or mobility impairments. The high-altitude weather can be unpredictable, and the tour will proceed only if conditions are safe.

Cost and Value

At $52, this tour offers excellent value for a full day of adventure. It includes transportation, guiding, insurance, and a chance to see Madeira’s best mountain scenery. It is priced competitively against similar hikes and guided trips, especially considering the expert guidance and the unforgettable vistas.

Authentic Experiences and Feedback

Authentic reviews emphasize the expertise of guides—“Carlos drove us there and back safely,” and “Martha was a great guide, very friendly and attentive.” Travelers also appreciate the stunning views and the sense of achievement after tackling the steepest parts.

One traveler summed it up: “I thought the trip was perfect,” highlighting the personal connection and memorable experience that comes from a guided walk through Madeira’s wild landscapes.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for active travelers who enjoy a good physical challenge combined with scenic beauty. It suits those who want to go beyond typical sightseeing and experience Madeira’s rugged terrain firsthand. It’s excellent if you’re comfortable with a few hours of hiking and are eager to see the island from its highest points.

If you prefer leisurely walks or have mobility limitations, this may not be the best choice. But for those ready for a physically rewarding day, you’ll find this tour to be one of the most authentic ways to see Madeira’s mountains.

The Sum Up

This Stairway to Heaven tour offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, physical challenge, and expert guidance. You’ll get to see Madeira from its highest peaks, walk through lush forests, and stand on viewpoints that seem almost surreal. The knowledgeable guides help make the steep climbs manageable and enrich the experience with local insights.

Costing only $52, it’s a fantastic value for travelers seeking a real adventure—especially if you’re fit, enjoy scenic hikes, and want to experience Madeira’s untamed mountain scenery up close. It’s perfect for active explorers eager to see the island’s wild side and for anyone craving panoramic views that linger long after the hike ends.

If you’re prepared for a full day of walking and the occasional steep climb, this tour offers a memorable, rewarding experience—well worth the effort for the spectacular views and sense of achievement.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 8 due to the physical demands and steep terrain.

What should I wear?
Comfortable hiking shoes are essential. Dress in layers, including a jacket and rain gear, as mountain weather can be unpredictable.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but you should bring your own refreshments for energy during the hike.

How long is the hike?
The total duration is about 4 hours of active hiking, within a total activity time of six hours including transportation and stops.

Is the tour suitable for people with health issues?
It’s not recommended for those with severe health issues, mobility impairments, or pregnancy, due to the challenging nature of the hike.

What is the difficulty level?
High. Expect steep ascents, descents, and stairs—appropriate for reasonably fit travelers.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides speak Portuguese, English, Spanish, German, and French, ensuring clear communication.

What if the weather turns bad?
The tour proceeds only if conditions are safe. In case of hazardous weather, the guide may alter the route or cancel.

How do I book and pay?
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity.

This detailed exploration shows that the Stairway to Heaven tour is a well-balanced mix of adventure, spectacular scenery, and expert guidance—perfect for those eager to truly experience Madeira’s mountainous majesty.

You can check availability for your dates here: