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Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo Hike Tour Tickets
Buy Now (20% Off)Hiking Heaven: Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo Trail in Madeira
Madeira, an enchanting Portuguese island in the Atlantic Ocean, is a land of rugged cliffs, lush forests, and breathtaking natural beauty. For adventurous hikers, the Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo trail is a trek that takes you through some of the island’s most dramatic and stunning landscapes. In this article, we’ll guide you through this challenging yet rewarding hike, revealing the allure of the Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo trail and why it’s a must-visit for nature lovers and hikers.
Pico Arieiro and Pico Ruivo: Majestic Peaks
The Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike traverses two of Madeira’s highest peaks, Pico Arieiro and Pico Ruivo, both standing over 1,800 meters above sea level. These peaks are known for their breathtaking vistas, with views that stretch across the island, the Atlantic Ocean, and often above the clouds.
The Hike: A Challenging Adventure
The trail between Pico Arieiro and Pico Ruivo is not for the faint of heart. While it is only about 6.8 kilometers in length, it involves steep ascents and descents, narrow paths, and a few vertigo-inducing cliffside sections. Hikers should be prepared for a physically demanding journey and take precautions to ensure their safety.
Trail Highlights
The Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo trail offers a variety of natural wonders and highlights along the way:
Stunning Scenery: As you ascend Pico Arieiro, you’ll be treated to jaw-dropping panoramic views of jagged peaks, deep valleys, and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean.
Unique Flora: The trail winds through a diverse range of ecosystems, from high-altitude shrubbery to the ancient Laurissilva forest. Keep an eye out for unique flora, including the Madeira Blueberry.
Encounters with Wildlife: Madeira’s natural habitat is home to a variety of bird species and occasional encounters with the island’s wildlife, including the chaffinch and the Madeira wall lizard.
Tunnels and Walkways: The trail is engineered with tunnels and walkways, which not only add to the adventure but also make the hike accessible even during foggy or rainy conditions.
The Nuns’ Valley: A Scenic Interlude
As you continue along the Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo trail, you’ll pass through the Nuns’ Valley (Curral das Freiras), a quaint village nestled in the center of Madeira’s high peaks. This hidden gem offers a chance to rest, refuel with traditional Madeiran cuisine, and take in the serene surroundings before resuming your hike.
Pico Ruivo: The Rewarding Summit
The Pico Ruivo summit, the endpoint of the hike, is a place of awe-inspiring beauty. From here, you can marvel at the world beneath you, with sweeping views of the island, the rugged coastline, and the deep valleys below. It’s the ideal spot to savor the fruits of your labor and relish in the sense of accomplishment.
Tips for Hikers
Dress appropriately: Ensure you have sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing, and waterproof gear due to the variable weather conditions.
Stay safe: Always check the weather forecast and let someone know your hiking plans. Take plenty of water, snacks, and a fully charged phone.
Start early: To avoid cloud cover that often envelops the peaks in the afternoon, it’s recommended to begin your hike early in the day.
Follow the signs: The trail is well-marked with signposts, making it relatively easy to follow the path.
The Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike is a challenging adventure that rewards hikers with some of the most breathtaking scenery in Madeira. It’s a journey through a natural paradise, with rugged peaks, lush forests, and sweeping vistas that will leave a lasting impression. For those seeking an unforgettable outdoor experience in Madeira, this trail is a true hiker’s paradise, a chance to test your limits, and an opportunity to connect with the island’s stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
Timings
Starting time is 8:30 AM
Ticket Prices
Adult (above 9) 42.5 EUR
Child (9 and younger) 29 EUR
Important Information
What to bring:
- Comfortable shoes
- Sun hat
- Food and drinks
- Sunscreen
The guide´s decision is final – safety is the priority
The walk between the two peaks is a challenging walk
Although the walks are offered in several languages, a guide with your language cannot always be guaranteed
An English-speaking guide is always guarantee
How To Get There
Pickup from your location can be booked.
An explorer at heart and a wordsmith by profession, discovered early on that her joys were found in blending the themes of travel and storytelling. With a background in creative writing and a passion for culture, she takes you to the soul of the destination. Join her as she spins tales of curious cultures for curious minds.
