Achada Do Teixeira to Pico Ruivo in Madeira (Pr1.2) – Hiking Tour

Madeira’s Achada do Teixeira to Pico Ruivo hiking tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Trekkers will traverse a moderate 7.5-mile trail, immersed in lush laurel forests and captivating coastal vistas. With an experienced mountain guide leading the way, participants can focus on the stunning Atlantic views and reaching the island’s highest peak, Pico Ruivo. This guided tour includes essential amenities, ensuring a personalized and safe experience. But the true gem lies in the journey itself, as adventurers uncover Madeira’s natural splendor.

Key Points

• The hiking tour summits Pico Ruivo, the highest point in Madeira, via a moderate-level 7.5-mile route suitable for individuals with average fitness.
• The tour is led by an official mountain guide certified in first-aid and experienced in navigating the lush laurel forests and rugged coastline views along the trail.
• The tour includes transportation, insurance coverage, lunch, and bottled water, with pickup service from designated hotels and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
• The trail features breathtaking panoramic views of the central mountain range, Nuns’ Valley cliffs and waterfalls, and the serene Verdes Lagoon and Atlantic Ocean.
• The tour has a maximum of 15 participants and is rated 4.5 stars from 7 reviews, indicating its popularity among hikers seeking a moderate challenge with stunning scenery.

Tour Overview

The tour offers hikers the opportunity to summit Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s highest point, starting from Achada do Teixeira.

It’s a moderate-level hike suitable for those with decent fitness. The small-group experience has a maximum of 15 participants.

With an overall 4.5-star rating from 7 reviews, it’s a popular option. An official mountain guide leads the way, ensuring navigation and safety.

Transportation from Funchal and Caniçã, insurance, lunch, and bottled water are all included. Guests should be ready 10 minutes before pickup, with guides waiting 5 minutes before leaving.

While not recommended for those with severe health issues, the tour adapts to weather conditions, prioritizing safety.

What’s Included

This small-group hiking tour includes several key features to enhance the experience.

An air-conditioned vehicle provides comfortable transportation from Funchal and Caniça. An official mountain guide leads the way, navigating the route and ensuring safety. Insurance coverage as per Portuguese law is included.

Hikers don’t need to worry about packing lunch or water, as these are provided. The pickup service is convenient, with guides waiting at designated hotels.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for those with severe health issues, back problems, or pregnancy, and involves a moderate 2-hour hike.

Multilingual guides are available, and free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the activity.

Pickup Details

Included in the hiking tour is pickup service from designated hotels in Funchal and Canição. Guests should be ready 10 minutes prior to the scheduled pickup time. The guides will wait for 5 minutes, so guests should look for the white or grey vans. Pickup times may be adjusted for convenience, with any updates communicated on the day of the tour.

Pickup Details
Pick up Locations	Funchal Hotels	Canição Hotels
Pickup Time	10 minutes prior to scheduled time	Guides wait 5 minutes
Pickup Vehicles	White or Grey Vans	–
Pickup Time Updates	Communicated on the day	–

Health and Safety

Not wheelchair accessible, the hiking tour is also not recommended for those with severe health issues, back problems, or pregnancy.

The 2-hour hike involves ups, downs, and stairs, so a moderate fitness level is required. Weather conditions may impact the tour, and guides will prioritize safety. If necessary, alternative hikes may be arranged.

Participants should prepare by having breakfast and bringing their own refreshments, as purchasing along the way isn’t guaranteed.

The tour guides are multilingual, with the tours mainly conducted in English.

Difficulty Level

The hiking tour is rated at a moderate difficulty level, suitable for individuals with a moderate fitness level.

The 7.5-mile (12 km) route involves a 2-hour hike with some ups, downs, and stairs. While not wheelchair accessible, the trail is manageable for those in reasonably good health, excluding those with severe issues, back problems, or pregnancy.

The tour isn’t recommended for participants with limited mobility or extreme fitness levels. Safety is the top priority, and guides may adjust the route due to weather conditions.

Breathtaking Views

Along the hike, trekkers are treated to a series of breathtaking vistas that showcase Madeira’s natural splendor.

The trail winds through lush laurel forests, offering glimpses of the rugged coastline and deep ravines.

Reaching the summit of Pico Ruivo, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views that stretch across the island’s central mountain range, including:

• The dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls of Nuns’ Valley
• The picturesque villages nestled in the verdant hillsides
• The shimmering Atlantic Ocean that surrounds Madeira
• The serene Verdes Lagoon, a hidden gem in the island’s interior

These awe-inspiring landscapes make the moderate hike a truly memorable experience.

Experienced Guides

Guiding the hike is a team of seasoned mountain experts who know the trails of Madeira like the back of their hand. The guides hold official certifications and have extensive experience navigating the island’s rugged terrain. Their main priorities are ensuring the safety and enjoyment of each participant.

Qualifications	Experience	Responsibilities
Mountain Guide Certification	Decades of guiding in Madeira	Route Navigation
First-Aid Training	Familiar with alternative hiking trails	Safety Oversight
Multilingual Capability	Knowledge of local flora and fauna	Providing Insights

With their expertise and dedication, the guides make the Achada do Teixeira to Pico Ruivo hike a rewarding and memorable experience for adventurers of all skill levels.

Cancellation Policy

Travelers can cancel their Madeira hiking tour reservation for a full refund up to 24 hours prior to the activity’s start time. This flexible cancellation policy provides peace of mind and allows for last-minute schedule changes.

In addition:

• The tour operator offers a lowest price guarantee, ensuring customers get the best deal.
• Multilingual guides are available, with tours primarily conducted in English.
• Guests should be prepared with their own refreshments, as purchasing along the hike isn’t guaranteed.
• The tour’s difficulty level is moderate, making it suitable for individuals with average fitness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Hike?

The tour does not allow pets. The tour involves a moderate hike and is not suitable for animals. For the safety and enjoyment of all participants, pets are not permitted on this hiking excursion.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

There is no minimum age requirement, but the tour is not recommended for young children. Participants should be able to complete the moderate 2-hour hike with elevation changes. The tour guides can provide guidance on suitability.

What Should I Pack for the Hike Besides the Provided Lunch?

Hikers should pack extra layers, sturdy hiking boots, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and snacks besides the provided lunch. It’s also a good idea to bring a small backpack to carry personal items during the hike.

Can I Extend My Stay in Madeira After the Tour?

Yes, you can extend your stay in Madeira after the tour. The tour provider does not restrict the length of your visit, allowing you to explore the island further at your own pace.

Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees Not Mentioned in the Inclusions?

The tour’s inclusions cover the key costs, but there may be additional expenses like personal snacks, tips for the guide, and any optional activities not mentioned. Guests should budget accordingly and check if there are any extra fees.

The Sum Up

The Achada do Teixeira to Pico Ruivo hiking tour offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore Madeira’s stunning landscapes. With an experienced guide, hikers can expect breathtaking vistas, a moderate trail, and a personalized adventure to the island’s highest peak. This guided tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts seeking an unforgettable experience in the heart of Madeira’s lush laurel forests and dramatic coastlines.