Pico do Arieiro – Pico Ruivo – Achada do Teixeira Walk

Discover Madeira’s Highest Peaks: Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo Walk

Planning a hike in Madeira? This guided day tour offers an accessible way to experience the island’s most iconic mountain scenery. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or just love a good panoramic view, this trip promises a memorable adventure.

What we really appreciate about this tour is the opportunity to walk along well-maintained paths through some of Madeira’s most striking landscapes. Plus, the inclusion of a knowledgeable guide who shares insights about the local nature adds depth to the experience. On the flip side, some might find the 7-8 hour duration a bit demanding, especially if you prefer shorter outings.

This trip works best for those comfortable with moderate physical activity and eager to see the highest points on the island. If you love mountain scenery and don’t mind a full day outdoors, it could be just the ticket.

<h3 id="section-0">Key Points

• Stunning panoramic views from Madeira’s highest peaks provide unforgettable photo opportunities.
• The full-day size group keeps it intimate and manageable, with personalized attention from the guide.
• Transport is included, so you won’t need to worry about getting to the trailhead.
• The tour is not suitable for young children under 10 and those with vertigo or claustrophobia due to tunnels.
• The hike covers moderately difficult terrain that requires good physical fitness.
• Free cancellation allows flexibility if weather or plans change.

An Honest Look at the Pico do Arieiro – Pico Ruivo Walk

If you’ve been dreaming of seeing Madeira’s rugged mountains up close, this guided hike hits just the right notes. The tour starts with pick-up from your hotel or designated meeting point in Funchal, making logistics simple from the start. You’ll then enjoy a scenic drive to Pico do Arieiro, at 1818 meters above sea level, the third-highest point in Portugal.

The journey itself is part of the charm. You’ll get a taste of Madeira’s lush greenery and mountain vistas even before you hit the trail. Once at Pico do Arieiro, the hike kicks off and begins with a visit to the Ninho da Manta belvedere—a spot famed for its bird of prey breeding. Here, you’ll get sweeping views of Fajã da Nogueira valley, São Roque do Faial, and the Central Mountain Range.

What’s Special About Pico do Arieiro?

This spot is often considered the starting point of the most scenic hikes. The views are breathtaking, with expansive vistas that stretch across the island. The terrain is well-maintained, but expect some elevation change and uneven paths, so moderate fitness is essential.

Based on reviews, visitors love the way this part of the day feels like “an adventure through a real mountain landscape,” with an added bonus of spotting local wildlife and bird species, like the Manx shearwater.

Reaching the Summit at Pico Ruivo

After about an hour of hiking from Pico do Arieiro, you’ll arrive at Pico Ruivo, the highest point on Madeira at 1861 meters. The viewpoint here offers sweeping views that can include Curral das Freiras, Santana’s plateaus, deep valleys, and even the distant Ponta de São Lourenço and Porto Santo.

On clear days, the scenery is truly spectacular, as one reviewer described: “Views always to remember.” It’s a good spot for photos and soaking in the raw beauty of the island’s rugged landscape. The terrain gets a little trickier in spots, with some tunnels—so you’ll want to be comfortable with enclosed spaces if you’re sensitive to that.

Authentic Experiences at the Top

Many guests appreciate the opportunity to stand at what is, in fact, the third-highest mountain in Portugal. It’s a proud moment, especially when you realize how much elevation you’ve gained during the day.

The Walk Back: Achada do Teixeira

While the main hike is from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, the tour includes a return route via Achada do Teixeira. This winding path provides a gentle descent and an alternative perspective of the mountains, with fewer steep sections.

The full duration of 7-8 hours means you’re outdoors for quite a while—so comfortable walking shoes and layers are a must. Many who’ve done the tour mention that the well-maintained paths make the hike more manageable, even if you’re not an experienced trekker.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers transportation from Funchal, which makes it easier to focus on the views rather than logistics. The live commentary from guides is a big plus—they’re knowledgeable about local nature and the area’s geography, enriching what could otherwise be just a walk.

The price, at around $52, is reasonable considering the full-day experience, guided expertise, and transport. It’s worth noting that lunch and bottled water are not included, so packing some snacks and water is advisable.

Insurance is provided, adding a layer of safety to the adventure.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those with good physical fitness, as the terrain is moderately challenging. It’s ideal for travelers who want a full immersion in Madeira’s mountain scenery without the hassle of planning each detail. As it’s not recommended for children under 10, it’s mainly geared toward active adults, teens, or older children comfortable with outdoor hiking.

Keep in mind, the tour requires clear weather for optimal views, and you might find it less suitable if you’re prone to vertigo or claustrophobia, given the tunnels and high-altitude exposure.

What Could Be Better?

While many reviews praise the professionalism and friendliness of guides, some mention the length of the hike as demanding. If you prefer shorter outings, this might feel a bit long. Also, since bottled water and lunch aren’t included, you’ll want to prepare ahead of time, which adds a small layer of planning.

Weather can also be a factor; tours are subject to cancellation if conditions are poor, but you’re generally offered a different date or full refund if that happens.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this guided Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo walk is a fantastic way to see Madeira’s mountain splendor with knowledgeable guides and minimal hassle. It offers a solid mix of physical activity, breathtaking scenery, and insightful commentary—perfect for those ready to tackle a moderately challenging day outdoors.

It’s especially rewarding if you enjoy panoramic vistas and want to tick off the island’s highest peaks from your list. While it’s not a casual stroll, the views and sense of achievement make it worth the effort.

If you’re looking for a day that combines nature, scenic hiking, and a taste of Madeira’s rugged beauty, this tour could very well be your highlight.

FAQ

• Is transportation included? Yes, round-trip transport from Funchal is included.
• What is the difficulty level? It’s considered moderately difficult and requires good physical fitness.
• Can I cancel if the weather is bad? Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll get a full refund or a rescheduled date.
• Are children allowed? Not recommended for children under 10, mainly because of the physical demands and tunnels.
• What should I bring? Pack bottled water, snacks, layered clothing, and sturdy shoes.
• How long is the tour? Approximate duration is 7 to 8 hours.
• Are guides professional? Yes, reviews highlight the guides’ knowledge and friendliness.
• Is lunch included? No, you need to bring your own food.
• What views will I see? Panoramic mountain vistas, valleys, and islands on clear days.
• How crowded does it get? The group is limited to 15 travelers, so it remains intimate.

This guided hike balances adventure, natural beauty, and comfort, making it a worthwhile choice for anyone eager to explore Madeira’s mountain heights.