Pico do Arierio To Pico Ruivo Hike in Madeira 2024

The Pico to Pico hike in Madeira is one of the island's most famous and breathtaking trails. This adventure takes hikers from Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo, traversing the central mountain range of Madeira. The trail offers stunning views and a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience.

The Best Time to Visit

The Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo hike can be enjoyed year-round, offering different experiences in each season. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) provide milder temperatures and clear skies, ideal for hiking and breathtaking views. Summer (July and August) brings warmer weather and lush landscapes, though it can be busier with tourists. Winter (November to March) offers a unique experience with cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, but weather conditions can be more unpredictable. Regardless of when you visit, each season presents its unique charm and beauty on this stunning trail.

Trail Details

The PR1 Vereda do Areeiro spans 4.3 miles (7 km) one way from Pico do Areeiro Viewpoint to Pico Ruivo. This moderate trail begins at Pico do Areeiro, which stands at an altitude of 5964 feet (1818 m) and takes approximately 3,5–4 hours to complete. It connects three of the highest peaks in Madeira: Pico do Areeiro, Pico das Torres (6072 ft, or 1851 m), and Pico Ruivo (6108 ft, or 1862 m). The hike covers part of the Central Mountain Massif, an area integrated into the Natura 2000 Network.

Route Description

On the PR 1 – Vereda do Areeiro trail, the first kilometer features dramatic staircases along a ridgeline, often enveloped in clouds, creating an almost surreal experience. This section is safely supported with handrails and chains. The Miradouro do Ninho da Manta, the trail's first major viewpoint, offers a quieter alternative for sunrise views compared to the busier Miradouro Juncal.

From Ninho da Manta, descend onto a ridge leading to Pico Ruivo, which is particularly striking at sunset with cliffs glowing orange. You'll navigate several tunnels carved out of volcanic rock along this ridge, which requires a headlamp or phone torch. The trail then transitions to a steep ascent known as the "gauntlet of death," leading to the Casa de Abrigo Pico Ruivo, a mountain hut with basic amenities. The final push to Pico Ruivo's summit provides panoramic views of Madeira, rewarding your effort with stunning vistas.

From Pico Ruivo, hikers can continue on the PR1.2 trail to Achada do Teixeira, adding another 1.7 miles (2.8 km) to the hike. This part of the trail is less crowded and offers unobstructed views over the central mountain massif. Combining PR1 and PR1.2 makes the entire hike about 6.2 miles (10 km) one way.

How to Get There

Accessing the PR 1 – Vereda do Areeiro trail is convenient from Funchal, with multiple transportation options available. By car, the drive to the Pico do Areeiro parking lot takes about 30 minutes, making it a quick trip for those with a vehicle. An added benefit of driving is the option to visit Pico do Areeiro just for the stunning sunrise views without committing to the hike, as the main viewpoint is only a 2-minute walk from the parking lot. However, if you decide to hike to Pico Ruivo, you will need to return using the same trail. Below the summit of Pico do Areeiro, there is a parking lot that serves as the starting point for the hike. However, parking at the summit station is limited to just 1 hour. For those planning to embark on the hiking tour, it is advisable to park in the free parking lot, located lower down. For those opting for a taxi, the fare from Funchal to Pico do Areeiro is approximately 40 Euros one way. Additionally, organized transfer services, such as Pico Transfers, provide an efficient solution by offering rides from Funchal to Pico do Areeiro and from Achada do Teixeira back to Funchal, allowing hikers to complete the trail without needing to backtrack.

Hiking Options

When considering hiking options for the PR 1 – Vereda do Areeiro trail, you have several choices to enhance your experience.

Sunrise Start

Embark on your hike early in the morning from Pico do Areeiro to witness the spectacular sunrise. This popular option offers breathtaking views, but be prepared for large crowds as many visitors opt for this timing.

Pre-Sunrise Hike

For a more serene experience, start the hike about half an hour before sunrise. This timing allows you to enjoy the changing colors of the sky while avoiding the peak crowds.

Night Hike

Adventurous hikers can opt for a night hike, beginning two hours before sunrise. Equipped with a headlamp, you can traverse the trail to reach Pico Ruivo in time to see the sunrise, combining the challenge of night hiking with the reward of a beautiful dawn.

Alternative Route (Sunset Option)

Another option is to hike starting from the Achada do Teixeira parking lot to Pico Ruivo via the PR 1.2 Vereda do Pico Ruivo trail. This route offers a different perspective as Pico Ruivo is also recommended for its stunning sunsets. Prepare for potentially foggy and cold conditions at the Achada do Teixeira parking lot, but as you ascend, you’ll rise above the clouds into warmer temperatures. This contrast makes for a memorable hike with exceptional views.

Wildlife and Flora

The trail traverses a unique ecosystem characterized by high-altitude heath and a variety of endemic plant species, including the Madeira Violet and Rock Orchid. As you climb, you'll also experience the melodic songs of local birds. Birdwatchers may spot species such as the Canary, Berthelot’s Pipit, and the critically endangered Zino’s Petrel, Europe's rarest seabird. The enchanting bird songs add a serene and atmospheric touch to the hike, enhancing the overall experience as you ascend.

Tips

In the high-altitude terrain of Madeira's mountains, weather can be highly unpredictable and shift rapidly. To ensure a safe and enjoyable hike, it's crucial to be prepared for all weather conditions. Pack essentials, including at least 1 liter of water per person, high-energy snacks, and comfortable, non-slip shoes or hiking boots. Regardless of the forecast, bring a rain cover or poncho, as rain is always a possibility. A hat or cap, sunblock, gloves, and a windbreaker will also help you stay comfortable in varying conditions. Don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking views along the trail!

Visitor Reviews

Rove.me reached out to Yana Kozlovska from Ukraine, who hiked the Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo trail with a friend in June 2024. We asked her about her overall impressions and any challenges she encountered on this famous Madeira hike.

Yana Kozlovska shared that she was captivated by the breathtaking views above the clouds and the majestic mountains, noting, "I've never seen mountains like these before." She also appreciated the unique experience of walking through tunnels carved out of the rock, which added an adventurous touch to the journey. As for the difficulty of the hike, Yana found it manageable, commenting that "the difficulty level was generally easy, with only a few challenging ascents."

However, she pointed out one downside: "The only drawback was the large number of people, which at times caused some queues on the trail." Despite this, Yana highly recommends the hike, especially for the unforgettable sunrise views, which she described as "the most beautiful sunrise."