Pico do Arieiro - Pico Ruivo - Achada do Teixeira Walk

4.1 (7 reviews) Madeira, Portugal
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Duration7h - 8h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
Instant confirmationYour booking is confirmed right away
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesGerman, English, French, Spanish
Group sizeUp to 15 travelers
Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

This walk starts at Pico do Areeiro, at approximately 1818 meters above sea level and we make our way to the highest point of Madeira, Pico Ruivo, around 1861 meters.

It is possible to witness panoramic views of Madeira over the central
mountain range that are absolutely breathtaking.

This is the only known breeding site in the world of Zino’s petrel (Pterodroma madeira), an endemic species considered to be the most endangered seabird of Europe.

In this area, the vegetation of altitude is predominant, mainly of Centenary endemic Urzes; these large trees predate Madeira’s discovery.

To reach Pico Ruivo, we must go around Pico das Torres up a steep incline of steps carved in the rock and then descend, the most difficult part of this trail being the final climb to the Shelter at Pico Ruivo. But the thought of reaching the highest point of the island is a driving force.

Near the Pico Ruivo shelter, we take footpath, which leads to Achada do Teixeira, where we finish our journey.

What's included

  • Live commentary
  • Insurance
  • Bottled water
  • Lunch

What to expect

  1. Pico do Arieiro
    1h
    This hike begins at Pico do Arieiro, located at 1818 meters above sea level, within a short distance we come upon the Ninho da Manta (Buzzard’s Nest) belvedere. From this platform where this bird of prey is supposed to have bred, one can see the valley of Fajã da Nogueira, where some Manx shearwater (Puffinus puffinnus) breed, São Roque do Faial and a large part of the Central Mountain Range.
  2. Pico Ruivo
    30m
    At an elevation of 1861 meters, the Pico Ruivo Viewpoint, situated in Santana, is located at the highest point of the Madeira Archipelago. This is the third highest mountain in Portugal.
    On a clear day, you can see Curral das Freiras, in the Câmara de Lobos municipality, the various plateaus of Santana and the deep valleys of Ribeira Grande and São Jorge. It also offers great views of the Ponta de São Lourenço, Paul da Serra, Porto Santo and the Desertas Islands.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

We are located at the entrance of the Shopping Center, on the right side. Our shop is easy to find, just look for a yellow smiley face, shop sign.

End point

We are located at the entrance of the Shopping Center, on the right side. Our shop is easy to find, just look for a yellow smiley face, shop sign.

Pickup details

We have two meeting points in the center of Funchal City. One is by the cable car station located in the old town. The other is located in the roundabout so-called "Rotunda do Infante".

Additional information

  • Specialized infant seats are available
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
  • Not recommended for travelers with severe vertigo.
  • Not recommended for travelers with claustrophobia (tunnels).
  • Not recommended for children under 10 years old

Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Reviews

4.1 (7)
From
€48.00 per person
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  • Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts
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Operated by Madeira Happy Tours · Booked through Viator
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