Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo

The reason I initially went to Madeira is the famous Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike, also known as the Pico to Pico hike. It boasts breathtaking views, deep drops, and the iconic Stairway to Heaven near Pico do Arieiro. Without a doubt, the hike remains one of the most beautiful and rewarding hikes I’ve ever done. As the hike grows more popular, especially through Instagram, I’ve noticed that many people come unprepared and later regret it. Don’t worry—after reading the information below, you’ll have everything you need to start the best hike of your life!

The Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike is officially listed as 7 km one way, but in reality, a one-way trip clocks in closer to 10 km (according to my Strava). If you plan to do a round trip, the official distance is about 13 km. That doesn’t sound too challenging yet, right? However, the elevation gain adds a significant level of difficulty, with about 900 meters one way or 1.650 meters round trip. When I did the hike, I was well-trained (I’d recently participated in Belgium’s infamous 100 km Death March), but my knees still took a beating due to the steep elevation changes. Knowing your limits is crucial, and for that reason, we opted not to do the return trip as initially planned.

The elevation gain often comes from steep stairs, but don’t let that deter you. The one-way path is achievable for most people with moderate stamina. Most hikers complete the Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike in 3,5 to 4 hours one way, and about 6 to 7 hours for a round trip. Keep this in mind while planning, as unforeseen circumstances can extend your hike time.

Starting January 1st, 2025, Madeira has implemented a €3 fee for non-residents on some of its most popular trails, including the Pico to Pico hike. This fee helps manage tourist flow and funds trail maintenance and nature conservation. Tickets must be purchased in advance through the Simplifica website, and you’ll need to carry proof of payment, as staff may ask to see it. Failure to present proof could result in a fine.

You can start the trail from either Pico do Arieiro or Pico Ruivo, but I highly recommend starting at Pico do Arieiro. This trailhead features the Stairway to Heaven and offers stunning sunrise views above a sea of clouds. Parking is conveniently located near the trailhead, unlike Pico Ruivo, where the Achada do Teixeira parking lot requires an additional 2.8 km hike along the PR 1.2 Vereda do Pico Ruivo.

Start your hike at least 30 minutes before sunrise, as the parking lot fills up quickly. This timing lets you avoid the midday heat and crowds. Bring a packed breakfast and enjoy it at the Pico do Arieiro viewpoint. The restaurant at the start wasn’t open yet when we arrived, but watching the sun rise above the clouds while eating breakfast made it all worthwhile! Be sure to dress warmly, as temperatures at Pico do Arieiro during sunrise can be very cold. If you’re not an avid hiker or lack good stamina, consider enjoying the sunrise and hiking just to the drop past the Stairway to Heaven before returning. Many visitors with blankets came just for the sunrise and quickly returned to their cars.

There are various ways to arrange transportation for this hike. Many tours will drop you off at Pico do Arieiro and pick you up at Pico Ruivo. However, tours often limit your flexibility compared to driving yourself. If you drive, you can either park at the end of the trail and take a taxi to the starting point, or do the reverse if hiking one way. Note that the drive takes about an hour, so you’ll need to leave very early if you want to catch the sunrise.

If you’re taking a taxi back afterward, expect to pay around €55 – €65. Taxis often wait at the Pico Ruivo parking lot to pick up hikers, so you don’t necessarily need to arrange one in advance. Alternatively, you can book a taxi to pick you up and drop you off at your hotel, saving you the extra trip around the mountains.

Facilities are minimal along the trail. There is a small café at the Pico do Arieiro viewpoint and another at the Achada do Teixeira parking lot, but nothing substantial in between. Along the trail itself, you’ll find a hiker’s hut with basic toilets and a few snacks near the PR 1 and PR 1.2 split. As this is already at the end of the hike close to the last climb to Pico Ruivo, this won’t help you if you’re hungry along the way. Make sure to bring enough food and water to sustain you for the entire hike, as there are no other stops.

Mountain weather can be unpredictable. You’re just as likely to encounter fog and strong winds as you are a beautiful sunrise with a deck of clouds. Check the weather forecast daily at Pico do Arieiro to maximize your chances of good conditions. I recommend using IPMA, Portugal’s local weather service, as it’s more accurate for mountain weather. This was also the recommendation from our hotel in Funchal.

Seeing images of the Stairway to Heaven might raise some safety concerns. Madeira takes trail safety seriously and closes paths if conditions become dangerous. Steep drops are protected by steel cables and rails, and steep stairs often have handrails as well. The trail is well-marked and primarily paved with cobblestones, making it easy to follow. Straying off the path is forbidden due to the risk of cliffs. However, the trail can be uneven, so good hiking shoes are essential. Avoid sandals or flimsy sneakers. Additionally, you’ll encounter tunnels along the way. These are unlit, so bringing a headlamp is crucial for navigating them safely.

Prepare for varying conditions by dressing appropriately and packing the right gear. Here’s a list of essentials to bring:

• Hiking shoes: Sturdy footwear suitable for uneven terrain. Avoid sandals or flimsy sneakers.
• Layered clothing: Sport clothes in layers to adapt to changing temperatures.
• Sunglasses and sunscreen: There’s little shade along the trail, so protect yourself from the sun.
• Rain gear: A poncho or raincoat for unexpected rain showers.
• Backpack: To carry all your essentials comfortably.
• Food and water: Bring more than enough to sustain you for the entire hike, as facilities are limited.
• Headlamp: Essential for safely navigating the unlit tunnels.
• Optional items: Gloves for chilly mornings, a hat for sun protection, and trekking poles for extra stability.

When we hiked, we started in sunshine, encountered fog midway, and ended in a downpour—so be prepared for anything!

Absolutely! The Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike in Madeira is a spectacular adventure. The lush greenery, breathtaking views, and unique landscapes make every step worthwhile. Near Pico Ruivo, you’ll find an eerie spot with white, crooked trees—remnants of a fire years ago—adding a distinct, haunting beauty to this part of the trail. Though challenging, the hike is unforgettable. Arrive early for the sunrise, and you’ll experience one of Madeira’s most magical moments. This is truly the best hike in Madeira, and one you’ll treasure forever!

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