Madeira: Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo Self-Guided Hike & Transfer

Summary

Freedom to hike Madeira’s peaks with easy transfers and sunrise views

You’ll start with an early pickup in Funchal for a sunrise transfer up to Pico do Arieiro, then hike at your own rhythm toward Pico Ruivo through wild mountain scenery. Enjoy small moments with locals along the way before your return transfer brings you home tired, happy, and maybe a little changed.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the air at Pico do Arieiro to feel so sharp that early — almost stings your nose, but in a good way. Our driver barely said a word on the winding road up from Funchal, just pointed out the first orange streaks over the mountains. I was still half-asleep, honestly, but when we stepped out at the top, it was like someone turned the world’s contrast all the way up. There’s this moment where you’re above the clouds and you can smell wet rock and wild thyme. I tried to take a photo but it didn’t really get it, you know?

The best thing about this self-guided hike is just…nobody’s rushing you. The trail from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo isn’t easy (my knees are still mad), but you get to move at your own pace. Sometimes I stopped just because a patch of moss looked soft or because some local hikers passed us with these huge smiles — one of them even offered us some kind of homemade cake (bolo de mel?) which was sticky and sweet. I probably had sugar on my face for an hour after that.

We finished at the Ecological Park of Funchal where our ride back was waiting — honestly, I was relieved not to have to think about buses or anything complicated. The driver asked if we saw any mountain goats (we didn’t), then let us nap all the way back into town. My legs were jelly but my head felt clear in that way only a long walk gives you. Still think about those clouds sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Self-guided hike with transfers

• Receive pickup time and weather forecast
• Get picked up at accommodation in Funchal
• Transfer to Pico do Arieiro (1.5 hours)
• Begin self-guided hike from Pico do Arieiro
• Hike from mountain to mountain at own pace
• Transfer from Ecological Park of Funchal back
• Drop off at accommodation in Funchal or Caniço

Top questions

How long does the transfer from Funchal to Pico do Arieiro take?

It takes around 1.5 hours including pickups.

Is pickup included for hotels outside Funchal?

No, pickup and drop-off are only available in Funchal and Caniço areas.

What languages does the driver speak?

The service is available in English and Portuguese.

Can infants join this hiking tour?

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller during transfers, but hiking may not be suitable for them.

Is lunch included on this self-guided hike?

No meals are included; bring your own snacks or food for the trail.

How difficult is the hike from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo?

The hike requires at least moderate physical fitness; it's not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Are there guides on this tour?

No guide joins you on the trail; it's a self-guided experience with transfers provided.

What’s included

Your day includes roundtrip hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle between Funchal (or Caniço) and both trailheads — no need to worry about transport logistics before or after your self-guided mountain hike.