Madeira: Pico Ruivo Mountain Walk & Heather Forest Trek

Walk Pico Ruivo: Ancient Forest & Island Views from the Top

You walk 10 kilometers to Madeira's highest peak through ancient heather forest and dramatic rock formations, with a professional guide managing the pace and timing. Hotel pickup from Funchal is included, as is the guide. You bring your own picnic and prepare for changing mountain weather. If conditions close the trail, you get a reschedule or refund.

Step-by-step itinerary

Explore Madeira's highest peak and forest

• Walk near Vereda do Pico Ruivo
• Explore oldest heather forest
• Reach Pico Ruivo summit
• Enjoy breathtaking island views

The experience

"How high does this actually go?" someone asked on the path up, and the guide just smiled: Pico Ruivo is 1,861 meters, the highest point on Madeira, and you're walking to it. The trail starts from Pico do Arieiro and moves through terrain that shifts as you climb: rock formations that look like they're trying to touch the sky, then into the oldest heather forest on the island, where trees have been standing for hundreds of years, older than the island's discovery itself. The whole walk is about 10 kilometers, and it's not a casual stroll. You need solid fitness and proper hiking boots with grip because the surfaces are uneven and the weather can turn fast.

The heather forest near Vereda do Pico Ruivo is the real heart of this mountain walk. These ancient trees are hundreds of years old, and walking through them feels like stepping into something that's been here far longer than any of us. Your guide will point out the unique plants that only grow at this altitude, and depending on the season, spring especially, you'll see wildflowers scattered through the forest. The views from Pico Ruivo itself, when you reach it, stretch across the whole island. It's not a quick summit-and-go. The guide sets the pace, and you have time to actually stand there and take it in.

You'll need to bring your own small picnic. There's nowhere to buy food once you're on the mountain, so pack something that travels well. The tour includes hotel pickup from Funchal and drop-off afterward, which means you don't have to figure out how to get to the trailhead yourself. If the weather turns bad (and mountain weather can be unpredictable), the operator will offer you an alternative date or a full refund, so you're not gambling on conditions you can't control. Just be ready for anything: bring layers, water, and the right shoes.

What’s included

Hotel or pre-arranged meeting point pickup and drop-off in Funchal, a professional guide for the entire 10-kilometer walk, and access to Pico do Arieiro and the heather forest trail leading to Pico Ruivo. You arrange and carry your own picnic for the day.

Before you book

Days and timesWednesday and SaturdayDeparts at 08:30

Book up to2h before

AgesAdult (12 and older) · Child (5 to 11 years) · Infant (under 5)

GroupUp to 16

Live guideEnglish, Spanish, French, German and Portuguese

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Paid on site€ 10.50

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Demanding physical levelInfant seats availablePets welcomeNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Lido Tours

Is this one for you?Right for experienced hikers with strong fitness who want to reach Madeira's highest peak and walk through ancient forest in one outing. Plan for a full day on the mountain with uneven terrain and exposure to weather. That's what makes the views and the forest walk possible.

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English, Spanish, French, German and Portuguese.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (5 to 11 years); Infant (under 5).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How long is the Pico Ruivo mountain walk?

The walk is 10 kilometers total, typically taking most of a day depending on pace and weather conditions.

What fitness level do I need?

A high level of physical fitness is required. The terrain is uneven, there's elevation gain, and the walk involves sustained effort over several hours.

Is the walk suitable for people with fear of heights?

No, it's not recommended for travelers with fear of heights or vertigo, as the trail includes exposed sections and high-altitude views.

What should I bring?

Hiking boots or sports shoes with good grip, layers for changing weather, water, and a packed picnic. There are no shops on the mountain.

Is pickup included?

Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Funchal.

What happens if the weather is bad?

If the tour is canceled due to poor weather, you can choose an alternative date or receive a full refund.

Can pregnant travelers do this walk?

No, it's not recommended for pregnant travelers due to the physical demands and terrain.

Are there any age restrictions?

Service animals are allowed, and specialized infant seats are available, but the walk itself requires high fitness and is not suitable for very young children.