9 hour(s)
English
Included
Spectacular mountain ridge views
Unique flora of the high altitude ecosystem
Rare island bird species
Rock tunnels and dramatic stairways
€ 47.57
This activity is managed by our trusted partner FareHarbor.
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This remarkable mountain experience begins on one of the highest ridges of Madeira, where sweeping views open across the central peaks and deep valleys of the island. The route leads through rugged volcanic terrain shaped by centuries of natural forces, offering a powerful sense of the island’s wild character. As the path rises and falls along the mountain slopes, you will explore narrow ridgelines, impressive rock formations, and misty passages carved into the stone. The journey reveals dramatic scenery at every turn, from soaring cliffs to wide open skies, while native plants such as the delicate Madeira violet and the hardy mountain heather bring color and life to this high altitude landscape. This area is also known for its rare bird species, including the graceful local petrel and several other mountain birds that accompany the walk with their presence.
Continuing through tunnels, stairways, and steep rock passages, the trail gradually leads toward the highest summit of Madeira, a breathtaking viewpoint that dominates the entire region. From this peaceful summit, the island unfolds in all directions, revealing sheltered villages, ancient valleys, green plateaus, and distant coastal formations. After taking time to enjoy the silence and immense natural beauty, the route descends toward a quiet mountain refuge and later continues through open rocky ground until reaching the end point of the journey. This adventure is a powerful immersion in the heart of Madeira’s volcanic mountains, offering an unforgettable combination of challenge, reward, and magnificent scenery.
Guided mountain hike
Support from an experienced local guide
Safety and orientation throughout the route
Gratuities
Comfortable shoes
Weather appropriate clothing
Camera
Flashlights
Cane
Snacks and water bottles
Participants must be at least 18 years or older
Public transportation nearby
Wheelchair not accessible
Keep personal essentials
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
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Incredibly beautiful. We went for sunset and hiked back when it got somewhere dark. It was well worth the hike. There were plenty of parking available if you go later in the day.
Beautiful easy hike, terrible parking. There is a line of parked SUVs in the right lane of the road, which creates jams of cars which don't have space to pass each other and have to reverse down or uphill while more cars arrive, making it even worse. As some other reviewer said, come late before sunset to have an easier situation, or park somewhere much lower.
This is the parking and starting area of Pico Ruivo taken around 18h30 end of september 2025. When we arrived around 14h30 the cars were parked along the road as far as you can see. In the morning it is even more crazy from what I have heard. If you arrive in the evening at 18h00 there is so much parking, you can even park at the start. Walk up to the top in an hour. Take your time along the way up and around 20h00 enjoy the sunset. Not many crowds. Not sure why people prefer sunrise. instead of sunset. If you want to avoid the crowds, just come in the afternoon. The later you go the less people. We arrived at 14h30 and we could easily park at the entrance of the trail. The crowd from the morning was already leaving little by little.
We arrived around 10 am and while the parking area was already quite busy, we still managed to find a spot without much trouble. Tickets can be bought online and cover multiple trails on the island. As beginner hikers, we found this trail to be quite challenging – lots of breaks, heavy breathing, and plenty of sweat – but wow, the views made every step worth it! Truly breathtaking. Along the way there’s a small stop where you can buy drinks and snacks (bring some coins for this), and back at the parking area there’s a really nice café with food, coffee, cakes, ice cream, and refreshing drinks – perfect after a tough hike up and down the mountain.
A must-do on the island. The route is short, but steep. But very rewarding. Certainty if you’re lucky enough like us, to end up above the clouds. The scenery is amazing. And the restaurant at the parking place is also amazing. It gives you all Alpine vibes. The parking is very challenging. Arriving at 9/9.30 is recommended. The sunrise crowd is on their way back but it’s too early for the masses. We found a spot easily. When we got back after 2,5 hrs parking was a mess
