Frequently Asked Questions
How to book a transfer?
Go to “Our Transfers” page or front page, select the transfer of your preference, read the description, select the date, the number of people and complete the booking form.
Check again that your details are correct and finish the booking with all the information required and your payment details (debit card, credit card or PayPal) to finish your booking.
You will receive a confirmation email and we will send your exact time of pick-up and details one day before the transfer in the evening.
Is the service a guided tour?
No, all our services are transfers that include pick-up and drop-off in your accommodation in Funchal or Caniço.
Our concept is to give the freedom to enjoy the hike in your own rhythm without having to follow anyone and make stops whenever you want. As a shared transfer to make it affordable. With a schedule to make it organized for everyone.
In what areas do you pick-up and drop-off customers?
Please check: picotransfers.com/pick-up-drop-off/
Is it safe to do the hike without any guide?
Yes, it is completely safe. You must be careful and use common sense as in any other hike. But it is not dangerous to go without a guide for many reasons:
1) There are clear big wooden signs all over the trail easy to read and follow.
2) There are hundreds of people doing this hike every day, you are not going to be alone.
3) Locals and travelers with rented cars do this hike every day without a guide.
4) You are going to meet more people during your transfer, that you can choose to share the hike with, is up to you.
Can I book a transfer by message or call and pay in cash or card at the pick-up?
No. Your booking must be made on our website and paid online through debit card, credit card or PayPal.
We do not accept payment at pick-up to avoid last-minute cancellations and no shows. Having empty seats is not sustainable for us.
Can I get a refund if I decide to cancel my booked transfer?
Please check: picotransfers.com/cancelation-policies/
Can I get a discount if I book for a group?
Unfortunately not. We offer the best price in the market with the best value to get to Pico Do Arieiro and enjoy the hike to Pico Ruivo, therefore, we don’t offer discounts.
How are the weather conditions on the hike to Pico Ruivo?
Since the mountains are at 1800 meters of altitude, the temperature can be the opposite of Funchal in every season. Expect an average of the following temperatures:
From October to June: 0°C to 10°C.
From July to September: 10°C to 25°C.
Thermo clothes or warm layers, gloves and a winter waterproof jacket/clothes might be needed depending on the day from October to June.
What happens if the weather conditions are extremely bad?
Please check: picotransfers.com/weather-policies/
Is the time given enough to finish the hike?
The time given to complete the hike will depend on the temperature of the day and the exact schedule will be inform in the pick-up message the day before.
The time given will be either 5h00m or 4h45m or 4h30m.
We can assure you that is possible to finish the hike with the time given. We have almost 4 years of experience.
The hike is doable in 4h00m by an avarage hike including breaks and pictures. And we give more than that.
The driver will explain everything about the route and how to manage the timings once you arrive to Pico Do Arieiro.
We have had customers on 79 years old, families with 6 years old kids, and beginner hikers on a daily basis, finishing the hike before schedule with no rush. Being that said, a good fitness level is required regardless of age.
I have a rented car and I will park it at Pico Do Arieiro, can I have a transfer at the end of my hike from Achada Do Teixeira to Pico Do Arieiro?
Unfortunately not, we don’t offer that route. Our transfers are shared and are only:
1) From Funchal/Caniço to Pico Do Arieiro.
2) From Achada Do Teixeira to Funchal/Caniço.
It is much easier logistically to book with us instead of going with your own car. You will also avoid the big problematic of parking in Pico do Arieiro.
I have a question that I don’t find in this page, can I contact you?
Of course. If you still have any doubt, please, do not hesitate to contact us. We are more than happy to help you.
WhatsApp: +351935223118
Email: picotransfers@gmail.com
Available from 8 am to 8 pm intermittently, not constantly.
Messages are prefered over calls. Thank you.