HIKE ENTRANCE TICKET REQUIRED
(NOT INCLUDED) 10,5 € P/P
“PR1 VEREDA DO AREEIRO – PICO RUIVO (ONE WAY/SENTIDO ÚNICO)”
FOR ANY TIMESLOT, BUT LATEST 11:00.
BOOK HERE: https://simplifica.madeira.gov.pt/services/78-82-259
PLEASE READ IMPORTANT INFORMATION BELOW THE BOOKING CALENDAR.
Description
The number 1 hike of Madeira island.
Pico Ruivo, with 1862 meters of altitude is the highest mountain in Madeira Island, it is also the third highest mountain in all Portugal.
To access the peak you must arrive walking. The absolute best way is from Pico do Arieiro (the 3rd highest mountain on the island with 1810 meters of altitude).
It is popular for being the path in Madeira with the most breathtaking views and weather diversity along the hike.
You will feel that you walk “above the clouds” and on the challenging path you will find a few tunnel-walks and the famous “stairway to heaven”.
To end the hike easily, continue towards Achada do Teixeira. Pico Ruivo is not car accessible.
About The Transfer
✅ Shared budget transfer on specific schedule.
✅ Vehicle: 9 seater minivan (driver + 8 customers).
✅ A/C in all rows. Comfortable, clean and new vans.
✅ Return included.
✅ Pick-up and drop-off at your door (Funchal or Caniço) or máx. 3 min. walk away for small streets.
✅ Much shorter transportation time than bigger vehicles.
Pick-up and Drop-Off
Your transfer includes pick-up and drop-off at your door in Funchal* or Caniço.
We will arrive at Pico Do Arieiro in the late morning when is less crowded.
After your hike to Pico Ruivo, we will pick you up in Achada Do Teixeira, which is the end point of the hike, at the set time, to take you back to your accommodation or arranged point.
*The Monte area is limited. Please check:
picotransfers.com/pick-up-drop-off/
There is also info on the link above about coming to an arranged pick-up point from the east or west by rented car, bus or taxi.
About The Hike
Duration: 5h00m.
Difficulty: medium-hard.
Total distance: around 10,5 km.
Maximum altitude: 1862 m.
Minimum altitude: 1542 m.
Average Temperature and Conditions
Please expect low temperatures and normal conditions for the altitude. In autumn, winter, and spring, is always possible rain/drizzle.
From October to February: 0°C to 5°C.
From March to June: 5°C to 15°C.
From July to September: 15°C to 25°C.
Remember that the altitude changes the temperature. It is NOT the same as in Funchal.
Please, be well-prepared. Views and good weather are NOT guaranteed.
Remember To Bring
✅ 1,5 liters of water per person.
✅ Lunch pack/snacks.
✅ 1 € coins for toilets.
✅ Rain cover.
✅ Flashlight/smartphone.
✅ For autumn, winter and spring: waterproof winter jacket/clothes and hiking boots for better grip (it can be slippery).
✅ For spring and summer: sunscreen and a hat.
June 2026 Program
Funchal/Caniço pick-up between: 8:50 to 9:20
(Possible gap. Pick-up lasts between 15 and 30 min.)
40 minutes drive up to Pico Do Arieiro (start point of the hike)
PR1 hike (Arieiro-Ruivo) : 4:00 hours
PR1.2 hike (Ruivo-Teixeira) : 1:00 hour
Achada do Teixeira pick-up: 15:15
1 hour drive to Funchal/Caniço.
Funchal/Caniço drop-off between: 16:15 – 17:00
(Possible gap. Drop-off lasts between 15 and 30 min.)
Weather and Cancelation Policies
Kids
We DO NOT recommend this hike for kids.
Kids attending MUST HAVE hiking experience and a good fitness level.
Kids should not be left unattended for a split second on any hike.
By booking, the parents or the person in charge, acknowledge to take 100% responsibility for the kid(s).
Extra Info
We will notify your exact time of pick-up, details and temperature during the hike the day before your transfer up to 19:00 h via WhatsApp or email.
Where to find clothes for low temperature?: DECATHLON store (Google Maps) in the center of Funchal or São Martinho.
If you have more questions, please check our FAQ page or Contact Us.