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”.
About The Transfer
Shared transfer on schedule.
Vehicle: 9 seater minivan (driver + 8 customers).
A/C in all rows. Comfortable, clean and new minivans.
With the absence of public buses to this incredible place, we have created the easiest and cheapest way to visit it and enjoy this amazing hike in your own rhythm!
Pick-up and Drop-Off
Your transfer includes pick-up and drop-off at your door anywhere in Funchal* or Caniço.
We will arrive at Pico Do Arieiro in the late morning.
After your hike to Pico Ruivo, we will pick you 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: 4h45m or 5h00m (depending on the temperature of the day). We will inform the schedule in the pick-up message the day before.
Difficulty: medium-hard.
Total distance: 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. Especially in autumn and winter, 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
Between 1,5 and 2 liters of water per person.
Lunch pack/snacks.
Coins for toilets.
Rain cover.
Flashlight/smartphone.
For autumn and winter: waterproof winter jacket/clothes and hiking boots for better grip (it can be slippery).
For spring and summer: sunscreen and a hat.
April 2024 Program
Funchal/Caniço pick-up between: 9:30 to 10:30
(Possible gap. Pick-up lasts between 10 and 30 min.)
40 minutes drive up to Pico Do Arieiro (start point of the hike)
Hike to Pico Ruivo and Achada Do Teixeira: 4:45 or 5:00 hours
Achada Do Teixeira pick-up: 15:30 to 16:00 (depending on the schedule of the day)
1 hour drive to Caniço/Funchal
Drop-off between: 16:30 – 17:30
(Possible gap. Drop-off lasts between 10 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, 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 before 7 pm 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.