How to Get to Pico do Areeiro? Available Methods

There are several types of transportation you can use to get to Pico do Areeiro: private car, taxi, tour, or a transfer? You should know that there are no public buses on this route.

The most famous and stunning route on Madeira in Portugal is definitely Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo. The peak you can reach has an elevation of 1862 meters above sea level and can only be accessed on foot; it's well worth it for the views of the coast, trails, and incredible landscape. However, transportation is provided up to a height of 1818 meters above sea level, by one of the means discussed in this article.

The Best Place to Admire Madeira's Landscapes? Pico do Areeiro!

Take a moment to think when you were last in a breathtaking place where you could forget all your worries and concerns. That place is Pico do Areeiro. It is the third-largest peak on Madeira, with a height of 1818 meters above sea level. This is a place where you can experience the power of nature in its purest form.

At the peak, there are several buildings, the most popular of which is the spherical radar antenna of Radar Station No. 4 of the Portuguese Air Force. There's also a café, a souvenir shop, restrooms, and of course, a viewpoint.

The road leading to the peak is asphalt and of good quality, so reaching it does not require physical exertion and can be accomplished by various means of transportation. However, it's best to use our offer and local drivers, as the route is quite steep and winding at times, typical for mountain escapades. For our experienced driver who is familiar with Madeira's roads, this won't pose a significant challenge.

How to Get to Pico do Areeiro?

As mentioned earlier, public transportation doesn't reach the summit; there are no bus lines or regular services available. Available transport options include:

• Get to Hikes transfer;

• Car rental;

• Guided tour;

• Taxi.

Get to Hikes Transfer

Using our experience and local drivers who organize professional transfers, you can easily reach the elevation of 1818 meters above sea level, from where you can proceed to Madeira's highest peak, Pico Ruivo.

Pros

• Freedom to admire the views; spend as much time at Pico do Areeiro as you need. You can also socialize with others during transport and collectively admire Madeira's incredible views.

• The offer is attractive enough that hiking without a guide simply pays off.

• Transfers are available three times a week, once or twice a day at different times.

• Easy online booking.

• Positive reviews from tourists who have already used the transfer service.

• Local drivers have extensive experience and knowledge about the island, food, and other tours. The journey with them is quick and safe.

Cons

• Having to wait for the scheduled transfer time, even if you finish your hike much earlier than other tourists.

• Pick-up and drop-off are not available outside Funchal. You have to reach the designated point by your own transportation, public transit, or on foot.

Car Rental

There are several car rental agencies in Madeira, so you can opt for this service to enjoy an incredible independent journey on local roads.

Pros

• Freedom to travel at any time. You can start and end your trip based on your needs. You are not bound by any schedule.

• 100% privacy during the drive and hike.

Cons

• Limited by the car you leave in the parking lot. Two journey options are optimal: from Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo and back, or from Achada Do Teixeira to Pico Ruivo and back. The longest option that allows you to cover the entire route is logistically complicated.

• Challenging driving on Madeira's roads scares many; steep turns can be frightening, especially in the dark.

• Some rental companies charge very high insurance and deposits, significantly increasing the overall rental price.

Guided Tour

Most tours to Pico do Areeiro start from Funchal or directly from the areas around Funchal. They are organized by local travel agencies. Some organizers provide bus pick-up from the hotel where the tourist is staying. Others ask you to go to a specific bus stop.

Advantages

• Ideal option for tourists who prefer organized trips.

• Availability in different languages allows you to learn about the history and interesting facts related to the place.

Disadvantages

• Tours are offered only once or twice a week. You have to fit into specific dates.

• You have to keep up with the pace set by the guide; breaks are possible if the majority of the group wants them.

• Extended pick-up/drop-off time due to the need to transport multiple tourists.

Taxi

You can book a taxi from many popular networks operating in Madeira. Comfortable and convenient travel is within your reach.

Advantages

• The possibility to start and end the tour at any time without having to stick to a set schedule.

• Privacy offered by independent transport.

Disadvantages

• The most expensive option available.

• You have to arrange a specific pick-up time. The driver won't wait at the peak all day.

• Communication can be challenging as many drivers don't speak English.

How Long is the Route from Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo? Learn this and other facts!

The hike from Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo is the hardest part and takes about 3 hours and 30 minutes. Then you can plan the route from Pico Ruivo to Achada Do Teixeira, which will take about 1 hour. It's an easy walk that almost anyone can handle. The entire route (known as the loop) from Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo to Achada do Teixeira takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes.

You can also opt for the most challenging version of the expedition, which is from Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo and back. This will take 6 to 7 hours. A much easier hike is from Achada Do Teixeira to Pico Ruivo and back, taking just 2 hours.

We should note that the whole expedition is not the most extreme in the world. Many people over 60 manage to complete the entire route, so you don't need to be a professional.

Weather at Pico do Areeiro

The temperature depends on the time of year you plan your trip. It's worth remembering that these are mountains, so conditions at the top can be entirely different from those on the rest of the island.

Other factors to consider while planning the trip are:

• The weather forecast for Funchal is not the same as for Pico do Areeiro. It can be clear and calm in the lowlands and rainy and foggy at the peak.

• Mountain weather can change in just a few minutes. You have to be prepared for any conditions.

• Facilities are available along the entire route of the expedition, including cafes/bars with snacks, designated points with toilets, and WiFi.

How to Get to Pico Ruivo?

You can reach the highest peak of Madeira, measuring 1862 meters above sea level, only on foot. There are several routes to choose from.

Accommodation at Pico Ruivo

Camping at Pico Ruivo provides incredible experiences and allows you to fulfill another dream. This is ideal for those who love spending time (and nights) outdoors. It's recommended only in the summer (from July to September). In other seasons, the temperature drops significantly at night, with strong winds and heavy rainfalls.

To use the camping option, go to the tourist office located in downtown Funchal with your passport. You will get a permit through online registration. You will receive a document that you must keep during your stay in the mountains, as required by law.

What is the elevation of Pico do Areeiro?

Whichever mode of transport you choose will take you up to an elevation of 1818 meters above sea level, bringing you to the summit of Pico do Areeiro, which is accessible via a high-quality, paved road.

If you aim to conquer Pico Ruivo, you'll need to ascend to an elevation of 1862 meters above sea level. Next, you'll descend to 1582 meters if you wish to reach Achada Do Teixeira.

How to get to Achada do Teixeira?

If you're planning to hike the entire route from Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo and onto Achada Do Teixeira, it's best to utilize the transfer service. This service takes you to your desired location, so you don't have to worry about leaving a rented car in the parking area at 1818 meters. This option is both easier and more economical.

Another alternative is to take a taxi, which can be booked for a specific time but at a much higher cost.

What time is sunrise at Pico do Areeiro?

The time of sunrise varies throughout the year; it's earliest at 7:00 a.m. and latest at 8:20 a.m. The stunning colors of the sunrise will surely put every traveler in an excellent mood for the hike to Pico Ruivo.

Hiking without a guide on Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo

The entire route is safe and doesn't require the presence of a certified guide for assurance. However, it's advisable to exercise caution and be vigilant, as with any trekking activity.

Hiking without a guide is possible because:

• The trail is well-maintained, safe, and clearly marked. There's a low chance of getting lost as long as you follow the marked path.

• Hundreds of people hike the trail daily, so you're never truly alone in the mountains of Madeira.

• You can team up with other tourists using the same transfer service if you seek companionship.

How to get to Pico do Areeiro? Summary

• Transfer Service: Hiking without a guide allows for unhindered sightseeing. Transfers are available three times a week, either once or twice a day at various times.

• Car Rental: Offers the freedom to travel at any time but is cost-effective for groups of 5 or more, as transportation costs can be split.

• Organized Tour: Ideal for those who need organizational support but be prepared to adapt to the guide's pace.

• Taxi: The most expensive option, but allows travel at any time. However, you need to pre-arrange a specific pick-up time at the summit