Stairway to Heaven: Pico do Areeiro in Madeira Island

If you’re dreaming of a day filled with dramatic mountain vistas, challenging hikes, and unforgettable scenery, then the “Stairway to Heaven” tour on Madeira Island deserves a spot on your bucket list. It’s a full-day adventure that takes you from lush ecological parks to the third-highest peak of the island, with plenty of scenic viewpoints, historic stops, and a strenuous climb or two thrown in for good measure.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances natural beauty with the thrill of physical challenge, all led by knowledgeable guides who clearly know their way around Madeira’s rugged terrain. That said, it’s not for everyone—be prepared for a tough trek, and make sure your fitness levels are up for the task. This tour is ideal for active travelers who want a genuine sense of accomplishment and some of the island’s most impressive views.

A possible consideration is the physical demand; the hike involves steep ascents, numerous stairs, and uneven terrain. If you have mobility issues or health concerns, it may not be suitable. Still, if you’re eager for an authentic hiking experience with expert guidance, this tour offers incredible value—especially when you consider the included transportation, insurance, and the chance to explore Madeira’s wild side.

This experience best suits those who love hiking, scenic photography, and discovering local natural landmarks with a group. It’s also great for travelers comfortable with altitude and looking for a full-day outdoor adventure. Now, let’s get into the details that make this trip memorable and worth considering.

Key Points

Stunning Views: Expect panoramic vistas from Pico do Areeiro and other viewpoints, with dramatic mountain ranges and sweeping coastlines.
Expert Guides: Guides like Martha and Carlos are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, enhancing the experience with local insights.
Challenging Hike: The trail involves steep inclines, stairs, and uneven terrain, suitable for those with good fitness levels.
Well-Organized: The tour includes pickup and drop-off, transportation, and insurance, providing convenience and peace of mind.
Authentic Experience: Stops at Poço da Neve and viewpoints like Ninho da Manta deepen your understanding of Madeira’s natural beauty.
Value for Money: At $52 per person, the tour offers an immersive, guided outdoor adventure with expert support and scenic highlights.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with pickup from one of 43 designated locations in Funchal, including luxury hotels like Reid’s Palace and The Cliff Bay, making it easy to join. The entire day involves about 1 hour of transfer to Madeira’s scenic spots, with a comfortable drive that sets the tone for what’s to come. The transportation component is straightforward and reliable, with guides waiting promptly and attentive to timing, which is critical for a full-day hike.

The Ecological Park of Funchal

Your adventure kicks off at the Ecological Park, a peaceful haven boasting a variety of landscapes and lush greenery. Here, you’ll get your first taste of Madeira’s natural charm by walking along the PR3 Vereda do Burro trail. The trail’s peaceful atmosphere, combined with fresh mountain air, makes it a great way to warm up and set your expectations high.

Historic Poço da Neve

Next, you’ll visit Poço da Neve, an old ice storage site that’s more than just a relic—this spot offers spectacular views over Funchal harbor and the Atlantic. It’s a brief stop but a highlight for those interested in local history and photography. Reviewers like Michaela mention that guides like Martha are especially helpful and friendly, making the experience more personal.

Ascending Pico do Areeiro

The real thrill begins as you approach Pico do Areeiro (1818 meters), the island’s third-highest peak. From here, the views are simply breathtaking, with jagged mountain peaks and the vast ocean stretching into the horizon. This section of the hike is where the guides’ expertise shines—navigating steep terrain safely, sharing insights about Madeira’s geology, and offering tips to make the ascent smoother.

The Miradouro do Ninho da Manta and Pedra Rija

From Pico do Areeiro, you’ll visit Ninho da Manta, a renowned viewpoint where you’ll want to have your camera ready. Travelers like Johanna note that the guides are attentive and care about safety and comfort, making sure everyone gets a good view and a quick photo. Then, your trail takes you toward Pedra Rija Viewpoint, known for its challenging climbs and spectacular vistas.

The Famous Stairway to Heaven

The “Stairway to Heaven” is not just a catchy name—it’s an actual part of the trail that involves steep stairs and demanding ascents. While tough, it’s also the highlight for many, offering panoramic views from the top that are well worth the effort. Reviewers describe this as the most challenging part but also the most rewarding. The steepness and stairs can be daunting, but guides like Martha and Carlos are praised for their attentiveness, ensuring safety and encouragement throughout.

Returning to Pico do Areeiro

After summiting, you’ll descend and circle back to Pico do Areeiro, where a short rest and refreshments may be available. The entire hike on the PR1 Vereda do Areeiro is approximately 2 to 3 hours of walking, but with breaks and scenic stops, the full trek takes about 6 hours overall.

Scenic Drives and Final Stops

The tour isn’t only about walking. The scenic drives through Madeira’s mountain landscapes add to the overall experience, with photo stops at key viewpoints like Ninho da Manta and Pedra Rija. The day wraps up with a comfortable drive back to Funchal, allowing you to reflect on the day’s adventures.

What to Expect on the Day

You should prepare for a challenging hike with numerous ups, downs, and stairs. Proper footwear is a must—preferably hiking shoes—and bring layers, as mountain weather can shift quickly. The tour includes a guided walk, so you’ll be in capable hands, and insurance provides peace of mind.

Guides like Martha and Carlos are specifically mentioned for their friendliness, attentiveness, and local knowledge, which can turn a tough hike into an enjoyable experience. Their tips and encouragement help many travelers, especially during the most demanding parts.

The tour generally involves around 7 hours, including transportation, hiking, and sightseeing stops. It’s a full day, so be prepared for an early start and a return in the late afternoon. The group size tends to be manageable, allowing guides to give personalized attention.

The Physical Challenge

The hike is rated challenging—it’s roughly 7 km of walking but with significant elevation changes and stairs. Some reviewers, like Michaela, mention how the trip was “very beautiful but challenging,” especially the steep ascent to the Stairway to Heaven. It’s definitely suited for active travelers with good fitness levels.

The Weather and Safety

Since the tour is at high altitude, weather can change abruptly. Guides will decide whether conditions are safe to proceed, and cancellations or route adjustments are possible. It’s wise to bring rain gear and warm clothing, just in case. As one reviewer noted, the guides prioritize safety, which is reassuring for those unfamiliar with mountain hiking.

The Value of This Experience

At $52 per person, this tour offers a great value considering the scope of the experience. It includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, insurance, and multiple scenic stops—all bundled into one affordable package. The guided component is especially valuable for those unfamiliar with Madeira’s terrain, as the guide ensures safety and shares insights about the landscape and local history.

Compared to solo hikes or self-guided tours, this experience provides structure, safety, and expert support, making it accessible even for those who might otherwise be hesitant about tackling such rugged terrain.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is perfect for outdoor lovers, active travelers, and nature photography enthusiasts looking to see Madeira’s mountains from a different perspective. It’s ideal if you want a full-day, guided experience that combines scenic driving, historical insights, and a strenuous but rewarding hike.

However, it’s not suitable for families with young children, pregnant women, or travelers with mobility issues or health problems. The physical demands mean it’s best for those comfortable with challenging terrain and altitude.

If you’re after a relaxed day or have limited mobility, this tour might not be the best fit. But if you thrive on adventure, love mountain scenery, and want to challenge yourself, this is a standout experience that delivers.

FAQs

How long is the entire tour?
The full experience lasts about 6 hours, including pickup, transportation, hiking, and sightseeing.

What is the starting time?
Check availability directly, as starting times can vary. The tour runs daily with flexible options.

Are meals or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. It’s recommended to bring refreshments, especially since the hike can be demanding.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 8 due to the physical challenge involved.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, supportive hiking shoes are essential. Dress in layers, and bring rain gear, sunscreen, and a jacket.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is insurance included?
Yes, coverage is provided according to Portuguese law, ensuring peace of mind during your adventure.

Will I see sunrise or sunset?
This tour is typically a daytime activity. For sunrise experiences, different options are available.

Final Thoughts

The “Stairway to Heaven” tour on Madeira offers an authentic, physically engaging way to experience the island’s stunning mountain scenery. With knowledgeable guides, spectacular viewpoints, and a challenging but rewarding trail, it’s a fantastic choice for those who love outdoor adventures and want to get off the beaten path.

While it’s definitely not for everyone—particularly those with limited mobility or who prefer relaxed sightseeing—it offers a true sense of achievement and awe for active explorers. The combination of scenic drives, historic stops, and a memorable climb makes this a full-day experience packed with natural beauty and personal triumph.

If you’re prepared for the physical effort, value expert guidance, and crave breathtaking views, this tour will leave you with stories to tell and memories to cherish long after you’ve descended from Madeira’s heights.