1. We Provide Transportation Only
Pico Transfers is a point-to-point transportation service. We do not operate, guide, or control the hiking trails, nor can we control the mountain weather. When you book with us, you are securing a seat on our transfer, regardless of the weather conditions at the peaks.
2. Weather is the Customer’s Responsibility
It is entirely the customer’s responsibility to monitor the weather forecast before their trip. Bad weather, thick clouds, fog, rain, or a lack of a clear sunrise are not grounds for a last-minute refund or free reschedule. If you decide not to hike due to the weather, our standard Cancelation Policies still apply.
3. How to Check the Weather (Recommended Tools)
Mountain weather in Madeira changes rapidly and coastal forecasts do not apply to the peaks. To check the real-time and upcoming conditions for your hike before your cancellation window closes, we strongly recommend:
- The “Windy” App: Search specifically for Pico do Arieiro to get accurate high-altitude forecasts on wind speed, rain, and cloud cover layers.
- Live Webcams (For Morning Transfers): Before heading out for a daytime hike, you can check the live conditions at the peak via the Madeira Weather App or on netmadeira.com (search for the Pico do Arieiro live webcam).
4. Sunrise vs. Morning Transfer Logistics (On-Arrival Rules)
Because the logistics differ by time of day, please note our strict rules upon arriving at the peak if the weather is poor:
- For SUNRISE Transfers Only: If we arrive at Pico do Arieiro and you realize the weather is too severe or you are not well-prepared for the conditions, you may choose to stay with the driver and take the immediate transfer back down to Funchal. (Please note: This does not entitle you to a refund, but it saves you from being stranded in bad weather).
- For MORNING Transfers: This option is not available. Our drivers must depart immediately to stick to tight schedules. If you choose not to hike upon arrival on a morning transfer, you are responsible for arranging and paying for your own separate transportation back. Please use the live webcams mentioned above to make your decision before boarding the vehicle.
5. Rescheduling and Cancellations
If you check the forecast and decide you want to change your dates or cancel your trip, you must do so within our official timeframe:
- Deadline: All reschedules or cancellations must be requested at least 2 full days (48 hours) in advance of your scheduled transfer time.
- Late Changes: Any requests made after this 2-day period are completely non-refundable and non-reschedulable, regardless of weather conditions.
6. Extreme Safety Closures (Force Majeure)
The only exception to this policy is if the Civil Protection or local government authorities officially close the roads or trails due to extreme, hazardous weather alerts (such as severe storms or high-risk winds). Only in these official closure scenarios will Pico Transfers cancel the service, in which case you will be offered an alternative date (subject to availability) or a full refund.
7. Come Prepared
The peaks can experience multiple microclimates in a single morning. It can be sunny at sea level but freezing, windy, or wet at 1,818 meters. Please always dress in layers and bring windproof/waterproof clothing, regardless of what the forecast says.