Hello hikers! Keen on an outdoor adventure on Madeira Island, a Portuguese destination off the coast of Africa? Check out Pico do Arieiro, the 3rd-highest peak there. It’s a popular spot for nature lovers year-round and you can explore on your own or join a tour.
Here’s everything you need to know about visiting this iconic mountain in 2024.
What is Pico do Arieiro?
Madeira is one of 2 autonomous regions of Portugal (the Azores is the other one) and an archipelago situated in the North Atlantic Ocean.
There are 4 islands in total (but only the first 2 are inhabited):
- Madeira (the biggest one)
- Porto Santo
- Desertas
- Selvagens
Besides its delicious cuisine and rich cultural heritage, Madeira Island is known for its beautiful landscapes, majestic mountains, and subtropical climate, making it a must-see European destination.
Pico do Arieiro is one of the highest peaks on Madeira Island, formed by volcanic activity millions of years ago. It’s the easiest mountain destination to access from the capital Funchal, even if it stands at an elevation of 1,818 meters above sea level!
Only 2 peaks on the island are higher than Pico do Arieiro: Pico Ruivo (1,862 meters) and Pico das Torres (1,851 meters).
Why should you visit Pico do Arieiro?
Going to Pico do Arieiro for sunset or sunrise is very special. If you stay long enough in the evening when the sky is clear, you can see the shimmering stars and constellations illuminating the sky over the mountain. A truly magical view.
You should also pay attention to your surroundings during the day. You might see plants and animals that are endemic to Madeira Island, such as the Madeiran orchids, the Madeiran chaffinch, and the Berthelot’s pipit (2 kinds of bird).
At the top of the mountain, there is a restaurant and a souvenir shop if you like spending your money on a little something to remember this lovely trip forever instead of keeping it to travel more.
The drive from the visitor center to the summit of Pico do Arieiro takes around 20 to 30 minutes. It’s a scenic drive that winds its way up the mountain. If you’re an adrenaline junkie, you can also try rock climbing and mountain biking in the area.
Besides driving up, you can hike to the top. Hiking to the top of Pico de Arieiro is the best way to experience this impressive peak. You can take your time to fully enjoy the diverse landscapes, from valleys to rugged slopes. You might also see even more of the unique plants and animals along the way! Unlike driving up, hiking is a great way to get exercise and connect with nature.
Once you’re there, you feel like you’re on top of the world, and you are blown away by the amazing views of cliffs and valleys.
Which hikes are available in Pico do Arieiro?
The duration of the hike to the summit of Pico do Arieiro varies depending on your starting point, chosen trail, and pace. It typically takes around 1.5 to 2.5 hours to hike to the summit from the trailhead near the Pico do Arieiro visitor center.
Several hiking trails actually lead to the summit or include this stop on the way to other destinations. They range from easy to challenging, so make sure to choose the right one for you. If you’re unsure which trail to take, you can ask for guidance at the visitor center.
The main and most common trail starts from the parking area near the Pico do Arieiro radar station. This big radar dome serves as a weather station, and you can get there by car. The trail is well-marked and starts off relatively easy, with paved paths and stone steps.
As you start going up, the trail becomes steeper and more rugged. You’ll pass through sections with metal railings and narrow pathways.
Halfway through the hike, you’ll enter tunnels carved through the mountains. These tunnels are usually well-lit but can be damp and cool. Keep going. The final stretch to the summit involves a steeper climb. As you get closer to the goal, the terrain becomes more challenging, but the incredible views at the top make it worthwhile.
Can you hike from Pico do Arieiro to other peaks?
If you’re an experienced hiker, maybe you can attempt the most famous (and arguably the most beautiful) hike on the island: PR1 Vereda do Areeiro (Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo).
This iconic out-and-back trail connects Pico do Arieiro to the highest peak on the island, Pico Ruivo. It’s about 12 kilometers long with an elevation gain of 1,313 meters.
The views are worth it, but it’s a very challenging adventure. The hike difficulty is due to the elevation gain as well as the length of the itinerary. It usually takes around 3.5 to 4 hours to complete just one way, so this is not recommended for beginners!
Sometimes, you’ll be walking on narrow ledges with railings, mostly above the clouds, along the mountainside, or even through tunnels. At times, you might spot tiny houses lost in the mountains, but you’ll be mostly facing the grandeur of nature.
The trail from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo is typically a one-way hike, not a loop. Hikers usually start at Pico do Arieiro and make their way to Pico Ruivo, then arrange transportation from Pico Ruivo back to their starting point. You can return the same way if you want, though.
On this route, you can expect a lot of people and guided tours.
What to know for the hike in Pico do Arieiro?
Here are a few tips:
- Check the weather forecast: The weather can be unpredictable at high elevations, so always check it the night before and the morning of your hike.
- Start early: Wake up and begin your hike early to avoid crowds and ensure you have plenty of daylight. If you can, aim to begin your hike around sunrise, which is typically between 6 and 7, depending on the time of year.
- Take breaks: You should rest a lot, drink water frequently, and take in the beautiful surroundings.
- Follow the trail: All trails are well-marked with signs and trail markers. Always stay on the designated path to avoid getting lost and to ensure your safety.
- Bring appropriate gear and supplies, including:
- Sturdy hiking shoes
- Layers of clothes
- A waterproof jacket
- A backpack
- Snacks
- Water
- A GPS device
- A first-aid kit
- A camera (optional)
- Binoculars (optional)
What’s the best time of the year to visit Pico do Arieiro?
If you wish to avoid crowds, the best times to visit Pico do Arieiro are during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these periods, the weather is mild, and there are also fewer visitors compared to the summer months.
From June to August, the days are longer, providing more daylight hours for hiking and enjoying the views. This season is ideal if you prefer warmer temperatures (20°C to 25°C) and don’t mind the crowds of hikers.
Due to the high elevation, hiking in winter can often be too cold to enjoy this incredible site.
How to see the sunrise and sunset at Pico do Arieiro?
It’s worth visiting during the sunrise or sunset:
- In Spring and Autumn, the skies are generally clearer, and conditions are better for observing the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset or sunrise to find the best spot
- Bring a flashlight or a headlamp; you’ll need it if you arrive before dawn or leave after dusk
- There’s a viewpoint called Miradouro do Juncal at the summit, with a clear view to the east for sunrise and to the west for sunset
- Stay for a while to enjoy the sunset’s afterglow
How to get to Pico do Arieiro?
Pico do Arieiro is located in the central part of Madeira, about 20 kilometers northeast of Funchal. The Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, covers most of the island’s mountainous interior, including the areas surrounding Pico do Arieiro.
The drive from Funchal to Pico do Arieiro takes around 30 to 40 minutes by car. If you decide to get a rental car and drive, start by taking the ER103 road north out of Funchal. Then, follow the signs for Poiso. From there, continue on the road to Pico do Arieiro.
Rental cars cost as little as $14 per day in Funchal if you pay with your credit card that has rental car damage insurance coverage for free and decline the agency’s extra charge.
There isn’t a direct public bus route to Pico do Arieiro from Funchal. However, numerous companies offer guided tours from the capital. This is an option if you don’t want to overthink and plan too much and prefer convenience over savings.
If you’re coming from somewhere else in Portugal (Lisbon or Porto, for example), you must fly first to Madeira’s airport in Santa Cruz (FNC). This airport is approximately 16 kilometers northeast of Funchal. The price of the flight is around $26 one-way and takes about 2 hours.
If you want to fly from North America to Madeira, Flytrippers doesn’t spot as many flight deals to there compared to the Azores. It might sometimes be cheaper to use the self-transfer tip via Europe, as there are often flights in the $400s or $500s roundtrip to Portugal or other nearby countries.
Where to stay near Pico do Arieiro?
Here are some examples of accommodation in Funchal, near Pico do Arieiro, Portugal.
Hotels
- Cheapest: Queimada de Baixo
- $49 per night
- $25 per night per person with 1 companion
- Rated 7.1/10
- Well-rated: Hotel Orquidea
- $73 per night
- $36 per night per person with 1 companion
- Rated 8.1/10
- Luxurious: Quinta Mirabela – Design Hotel
- $124 per night
- $62 per night per person with 1 companion
- Rated 9.0/10
Hostels
- Cheapest and well-rated: 29 Madeira Hostel
- $30 per night per person
- Rated 9.3/10
Other accommodations
- Cheapest room: Residencial Monaco
- $51 per night
- $26 per night per person with 1 companion
- Rated 7.6/10
- Well-rated private apartment: Apartment “Jota Paradise”
- $149 per night
- $75 per night per person with 1 companion
- Rated 10/10
- Well-rated private home: Apartamentos do mar 303
- $219 per night
- $110 per night per person with 1 companion
- $59 per night per person with 3 companions
- Rated 10/10
FAQs — Frequently asked questions about Pico do Ariero
Here are a few other commonly requested answers about Pico do Ariero.
How long does it take to hike Pico do Arieiro?
The summit walk is about 1 kilometer or 2 kilometers long. Depending on your pace, it takes between 30 minutes to 1 hour to reach the top.
Is Pico do Arieiro safe?
Overall, Pico de Ariero is quite safe, but longer trails (especially the route to Pico Ruivo) have steep and narrow sections that might cause vertigo. Always watch for your steps, even if all hazardous zones are equipped with handrails. Check weather conditions as well, and bring layers just in case.
Can you drive up to Pico Arieiro?
Yes, you can drive up to the summit of Pico do Arieiro! There’s a good road that takes you right to a parking area near the top! So, if you’re not into hiking, it’s still a great place to visit.
Do you need hiking boots for Pico do Arieiro?
If you decide to hike in Pico do Arieiro, hiking boots are highly recommended.
What is the closest city to Pico do Arieiro?
The nearest cities are Funchal (18 kilometers) and Santa Cruz (14 kilometers). From there, you will drive for about 30 to 40 minutes before you reach the mountain.
Learning how to travel for less
Join over 100,000 savvy Canadian travelers who already receive Flytrippers’ free newsletter so we can help you travel for less (and inspire you, too)!
Summary
You should visit Pico do Arieiro for its panoramic views of the clouds and breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. It’s a fantastic destination for hiking enthusiasts, and even a simple drive to the summit is worthwhile. If you’re visiting Madeira in Portugal, this is a must-see.
What would you like to know about the hike to Pico do Arieiro? Tell us in the comments below.
See the flight deals we spot: Cheap flights
Discover free travel with rewards: Travel rewards
Explore awesome destinations: Travel inspiration
Learn pro tricks: Travel tips
Featured image: Pico do Arieiro, Portugal (photo credit: Tim Roosjen)
