From Funchal: Pico Do Areiro and Pico Ruivo Hiking Tour

The Pico do Areiro and Pico Ruivo Hiking Tour offers adventurous travelers a chance to explore Madeira’s stunning natural landscapes. Connecting the island’s two highest peaks, this challenging 12 km trek rewards hikers with breathtaking views above the clouds. Departing from Funchal, the tour includes transportation and knowledgeable guides, catering to experienced outdoor enthusiasts. While the steep ascents and rocky terrain pose a physical test, the tour’s flexible cancellation policy and multilingual support make it an accessible option for those seeking an unforgettable Madeiran adventure. Prepare to be captivated by Madeira’s rugged beauty as you embark on this unforgettable journey.

Key Points

• This 12 km, 4-hour hiking tour connects Madeira’s two highest peaks, Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo, offering scenic views above the clouds.
• The tour starts at Pico do Arieiro (1818m) and features steep ascents and rocky terrain, making it suitable for experienced hikers.
• Priced from $41.19 per person, the tour includes transportation from Funchal and live guides in Portuguese, English, French, and Spanish.
• Cancellation is free up to 24 hours prior to the tour, providing a stress-free booking experience.
• The tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments due to the challenging terrain and long walking time.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo Hiking Tour in Funchal, Madeira offers an exhilarating outdoor adventure for nature enthusiasts.

This challenging hike covers a distance of 12 km and takes approximately 4 hours to complete. Priced from $41.19 per person, the tour provides transportation from Funchal to the starting point at Pico do Arieiro (1818m).

Hikers will then trek to the summit of Pico Ruivo (1862m), the highest peak in Madeira, enjoying scenic views along the way. The tour is suitable for experienced hikers due to the steep ascents, rocky steps, and overall difficult terrain.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, and multilingual guides are available to ensure a safe and informative experience.

Itinerary

Starting from Funchal, the tour transportation takes guests on a 40-minute bus or coach ride to the trailhead at Pico do Arieiro.

From there, hikers embark on the challenging trek, ascending to the summit of Pico do Arieiro at 1,818 meters. Along the way, they’ll be rewarded with breathtaking scenic views.

The tour then continues to the highest peak in Madeira, Pico Ruivo, standing at 1,862 meters. After exploring this iconic landmark, guests return to Funchal by bus or coach, which takes approximately 55 minutes.

Throughout the journey, the tour provides an opportunity to take in Madeira’s stunning natural landscapes and test one’s physical capabilities.

Highlights

One of the main highlights of this hiking tour is that it connects the two highest peaks of Madeira – Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo.

As you trek, you’ll walk above the clouds, witnessing stunning scenic views. The route features steep ascents and descents with rocky steps, providing a physical challenge for nature enthusiasts.

Hikers can look forward to reaching the lofty summit of Pico Ruivo at 1,862 meters.

This challenging yet rewarding experience is ideal for those seeking an adventure that immerses them in Madeira’s breathtaking natural beauty and rugged terrain.

Important Information

Cancellation of this hiking tour is free up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for a full refund if plans change.

Live tour guides are available in Portuguese, English, French, and Spanish, ensuring clear communication throughout the experience.

However, this tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, as it involves steep ascents and descents with rocky steps.

Proper preparation is key, so hikers are advised to bring essential items such as a hiking stick, appropriate footwear, ample water, snacks, sunscreen, and a waterproof jacket.

With these considerations in mind, adventurers can fully enjoy the stunning landscapes and challenges of the Pico do Areiro and Pico Ruivo hike.

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Cancellation Policy

With free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, this hiking tour offers flexibility for travelers. Guests can receive a full refund if they need to cancel their plans due to unforeseen circumstances. This policy ensures a stress-free booking experience, allowing hikers to plan their adventures with confidence.

Cancellation Window	Refund Amount
Up to 24 hours	100%
Less than 24 hours	0%

The tour’s cancellation policy caters to the needs of both spontaneous and organized travelers, making it an attractive option for those seeking a reliable and flexible hiking experience in Funchal.

Languages

The Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo Hiking Tour in Funchal, Madeira offers live tour guides available in Portuguese, English, French, and Spanish.

This ensures that travelers from various backgrounds can fully understand and engage with the tour’s informative content. Whether you’re a native Portuguese speaker or prefer English, French, or Spanish, the knowledgeable guides are equipped to provide an enriching and enjoyable experience throughout the hike.

This multilingual approach caters to the diverse needs of visitors, allowing everyone to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Madeira’s highest peaks.

Mobility Impairments

The Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo Hiking Tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments. The hike involves steep ascents and descents with rocky steps, which can be challenging for those with limited mobility. Walking time is approximately 4 hours, and the total distance is 12 km, making it a difficult trek.

Consideration	Explanation
Terrain	The hike includes steep, rocky sections that may be inaccessible for some with mobility issues.
Duration	The 4-hour walking time may be too physically demanding for those with limited mobility.
Distance	The 12 km route may be too long for those with mobility impairments to complete comfortably.
Accessibility	The tour does not provide accommodations or assistance for individuals with mobility challenges.

Customer Reviews

Numerous positive reviews from satisfied customers indicate the Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo Hiking Tour has resonated well with travelers.

The tour boasts an impressive 5/5 rating based on 9 customer reviews. Reviewers consistently praise the helpfulness and informativeness of the tour guide, who leads the hike in multiple languages.

Travelers from Italy, Belgium, and the UK have all enthusiastically recommended the tour, highlighting the magnificent views and physical challenge it provides.

With its combination of scenic landscapes and strenuous hiking, this tour appears to be an ideal choice for nature enthusiasts seeking a rewarding outdoor experience in Madeira.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour does not specify a minimum age requirement. However, it is rated as "Difficult" and involves strenuous hiking, so it may not be suitable for young children. Participants should have a good level of fitness and hiking experience.

Is There a Maximum Group Size?

The tour doesn’t specify a maximum group size. However, the small group nature of the experience suggests it’s likely limited to ensure a personalized and manageable hike for participants. The exact group cap is not provided in the tour details.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Hiking Equipment?

Hikers should bring their own hiking equipment, such as a hiking stick, appropriate footwear, water, snacks, sunscreen, and a waterproof jacket. The tour does not provide any personal hiking gear, so participants are responsible for bringing their necessary supplies.

Can I Opt-Out of Certain Parts of the Hike?

While the full itinerary includes hikes to both Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo, participants can opt-out of the second peak if they prefer. The tour operator can accommodate requests to end the hike early.

Are There Any Bathroom Facilities Along the Trail?

The hiking trail doesn’t have any dedicated bathroom facilities along the way. Hikers must plan accordingly and use natural areas discreetly. Bringing personal wipes and hand sanitizer is recommended for comfort and hygiene during the trek.

Recap

The "From Funchal: Pico Do Areiro and Pico Ruivo Hiking Tour" is an exhilarating and challenging 12 km trek that connects Madeira’s two highest peaks. This tour offers breathtaking views, knowledgeable guides, and a flexible cancellation policy, making it an unforgettable way to explore Madeira’s stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or seeking an adventure, this tour is worth considering for its comprehensive package and positive customer reviews.

You can check if your dates are available here: