Pico do Arieiro + Sunrise Hike

Embark on a sunrise trek of Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo, immersing yourself in the stunning natural beauty of Madeira while experiencing the island's most remarkable landscapes at dawn.

Activity Overview

At the designated time, a minibus will collect you from your accommodation and transport you to Pico do Arieiro, which is recognized as the third-highest summit on Madeira Island.

Upon arrival at the trailhead, you will start your ascent on foot, guided by the digital map provided. As you follow the path, anticipate captivating panoramic views that unfold in the morning light.

Your initial stop will be at the viewpoint near Pousada do Pico do Arieiro. Here, you'll be able to enjoy magnificent vistas of São Roque do Faial and the Fajã da Nogueira valley, a wonderful location for observing birds in flight.

After reaching Pico do Arieiro, the trail leads you to Vereda del Burro, involving a hike that lasts about 5 hours, navigating through rocky terrain and narrow paths. This segment begins at an altitude of 5921 ft (1805 m)—right below Pico do Arieiro—where you can admire the Ribeira do Cidrão valley and the Paul da Serra plateau, integral to the island's western mountain range. You will also pass the Poço da Neve, a historical igloo-shaped facility from the 19th century that was used for storing snow and hail.

The trek concludes at the Reception Center of the Ecological Park, an ideal place to explore the local flora and fauna, where a small farm with donkeys welcomes visitors. As a delightful finish, enjoy a well-deserved hot chocolate at Restaurante Barracão.

Then, ascend to Pico Ruivo, the highest point on Madeira. The following path lasts around 5 hours and will take you through rocky terrain and narrow trails. At the summit, expect to be amazed by stunning views that create excellent opportunities for photography.

Afterward, the journey continues by minibus, allowing you to enjoy the coastal towns of Machico and Santa Cruz.

Lastly, you will be returned to your hotel, with an estimated arrival 8 hours after your initial pickup.

Options & Schedules

When reserving your spot, you can select from the following options:

• Sunrise Tour at 5:30 am: Ideal for witnessing the breathtaking sunrise.
• Morning Tour at 9 am: For those who prefer a later start; please note that this option does not include the sunrise, though the itinerary remains the same.

Self-Guided Tour

This hiking experience is designed to be conducted without a guide. The day before your adventure, you will receive the digital map and route instructions. The driver will take care of transporting you to the starting point and back from the finish.

Hotel Pickup

This tour offers convenient pickup services from hotels located in Funchal and Caniço.