Pico do Arieeiro

If you’re someone who loves a good challenge and breathtaking vistas, the Pico do Arieiro tour offered by Pride of Madeira might just be the highlight of your trip to Funchal. While I haven’t personally tackled this walk, I’ve gathered enough details and honest feedback to help you decide if it’s the right adventure for you. This trek promises some of Madeira’s most spectacular mountain views, but it’s not for everyone.

What I love about this experience is how it combines stunning scenery with the thrill of conquering the island’s highest peaks. Plus, the guided expertise ensures you’re in safe hands, especially important given the walk’s challenging nature. On the flip side, it’s a difficult walk that requires good physical fitness and proper gear—so it’s not suitable if heights or strenuous hikes aren’t your thing.

For travelers with a sense of adventure who are comfortable with moderate to high physical activity, this trek offers an unmatched opportunity to see Madeira from above the clouds. It’s ideal for those eager to push themselves and see sights that few get to experience on foot.

Key Points

• Challenging but rewarding trek with incredible mountain scenery
• Guided walk with knowledgeable local guides ensuring safety and info
• Requires good fitness, proper gear, and a willingness to tackle stairs and uneven terrain
• Not suitable for children under 14 or those afraid of heights
• Includes transport, guide, and insurance but not food or drinks
• The ultimate experience for adventure lovers seeking panoramic views above the clouds

An Honest Breakdown of the Pico do Arieiro Tour

This tour is more than a casual walk—it’s a full-day adventure that combines natural beauty with physical challenge. Starting early at 9:00 am, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Funchal, and the journey to the mountains begins. The tour lasts roughly 9 to 16 hours, depending on the pace and conditions, which makes it a serious commitment but one packed with reward.

The Pickup and Group Size

Initially, the pick-up around 9:10 am is smooth, and the tour is limited to a maximum of 16 travelers, which is a nice size for a more personal experience. Smaller groups often mean more personalized attention from guides, especially when navigating tricky sections. The tour includes both a driver/guide and a local professional guide, ensuring you get expert commentary and safety oversight.

The Route and What Makes It Special

The walk starts at Pico do Arieiro, which is the second-highest peak in Madeira. From here, you’ll traverse trails that lead to Pico Ruivo, the highest peak on the island, and then to Achadas da Teixeira, the third-highest. These peaks are quite a feat for most—expect lots of stairs and uneven terrain. The route is far from flat, so being comfortable on your feet is key.

What truly sets this walk apart are the views above the clouds. You’ll be walking amidst a landscape that feels otherworldly—spectacular vistas that make the effort worthwhile. Our source reviewer called it “fantastic views,” especially on clear, sunny days, which are perfect for photography and simply soaking in the scenery.

The Physical Challenge and Safety Considerations

This walk is labeled as difficult and not suitable for everyone. If you’re someone who struggles with heights or has respiratory issues like asthma, this might not be the best fit. The guide, Nester, is praised for being very knowledgeable and serious about safety, which is reassuring given the exposure and elevation.

The walk involves lots of stairs and some steep sections. It’s a route that demands moderate fitness; if you’re used to walking regularly and love outdoor adventures, you’ll likely enjoy it. However, children under 14 aren’t recommended, and those under 13 should probably skip this one.

Packing Tips and What to Bring

Since you’ll be exploring high-altitude terrain, gear is important. You’ll want to wear comfortable clothes, sturdy walking boots, and a hat. A jacket is advisable—weather can change quickly in the mountains. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water and a picnic for when you finish the walk. The tour includes insurance and guide services, but your food and drinks are on you.

End of the Walk and After

After hours of trekking, you’ll finish in a lovely coffee shop, where you can unwind with a drink. The tour concludes around 4 pm, with a drop-off back at your hotel. It’s a long day, but for many, the views, sense of achievement, and the guide’s insights make it all worthwhile.

How Much Does It Cost and Is It Good Value?

At $41.77 per person, this tour is priced reasonably considering the length, guide, transportation, and insurance included. The value is especially clear if you compare it to the cost of hiring a private guide or organizing transportation and gear yourself. The group size keeps things intimate enough for good interaction but still manageable for a small tour.

Beyond the Price

What you’re paying for is not just a walk, but a curated experience. The safety, local expertise, and convenience of hotel pickup are all part of the package. Plus, the views above the clouds are priceless, and the guide’s knowledge adds depth that you can’t get just walking alone.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This walk is best suited for active travelers who are comfortable with moderate to strenuous hikes. If you’re afraid of heights or have mobility issues, this isn’t the right fit. It’s ideal for those wanting to challenge themselves and see some of Madeira’s most dramatic scenery. It’s also a good choice if you’re staying in Funchal and want an all-in-one day trip that combines adventure, nature, and expert guidance.

Final Thoughts

The Pico do Arieiro tour offers a rare opportunity to see Madeira’s high peaks from an up-close perspective. The stunning, expansive views make every step worth it, and the knowledgeable guides help ensure safety throughout the challenging route. The walk’s difficulty might be a deterrent for some, but for those prepared, it promises an unforgettable day above the clouds.

While it’s not a walk for families with young children or anyone fearing heights, it’s perfect for adventure-seekers eager to push their limits and enjoy some of the most spectacular scenery the island has to offer. The experience’s value is evident not only in the views but also in the effort and expertise invested in making it a safe, memorable, and truly unique journey.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 14 are not recommended for this walk. The terrain and height might be too challenging or risky for younger kids.

What should I bring for the walk?
Bring water, a picnic, sturdy walking boots, comfortable clothes, a jacket, and a hat. Weather in the mountains can change quickly, so dress appropriately.

How long does the walk last?
The tour lasts approximately 9 to 16 hours, including transportation, walking, and breaks. It’s a full-day commitment.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, since it operates in all weather conditions, you should dress for the weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the driver/guide, local guide, professional guide, hotel pickup and drop-off, and insurance. Food and drinks are not included.

How many people will be on the tour?
The group size varies between 4 and 16 travelers, depending on bookings.

Is this walk suitable for someone with respiratory problems?
It’s not recommended for those with asthma or respiratory issues, as the walk involves high altitude and strenuous sections.

This Pico do Arieiro tour is a chance to see Madeira from a perspective few experience—high above the clouds, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. If you’re fit, adventurous, and eager to explore, it’s a day you’re unlikely to forget.