Transfer to Picos da Madeira – Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo

Exploring the Picos da Madeira: A Complete Guide to the Transfer to Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo

If you’re dreaming of high-altitude vistas, cloud-walking adventures, and breathtaking scenery, the transfer tour to Madeira’s iconic peaks offers an accessible way to tick those boxes. This experience, offered by Levadas In and Out, combines comfortable transportation with self-guided hikes at the island’s highest points—Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo. Rated a perfect 5.0 based on seven reviews, it’s clearly a favorite among nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

What we really love about this tour is the convenience. No worries about navigating tricky mountain roads or parking—your transport is arranged from the start, giving you more time to enjoy the views. Plus, the opportunity to walk over the famous “Stairway to Heaven” and stand at the highest point of Madeira makes this a memorable experience. That said, a possible consideration is that it’s designed for those with moderate physical fitness—so it’s not suited for complete beginners or those with mobility issues. This tour is perfect for travelers who want authentic mountain scenery with minimal hassle, ideal for adventure-minded visitors who appreciate comfort and clarity.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Expect spectacular vistas from Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo, including the chance to walk over clouds.
• Convenient Transport: The tour includes pick-up and drop-off, eliminating logistical stress.
• Self-Guided Walks: You’ll explore at your own pace, passing iconic sites like the “Stairway to Heaven.”
• Authentic Experience: With small groups (max six) and clear instructions, you get personal attention.
• Value for Money: At $57.88, it’s an accessible way to experience Madeira’s high peaks without the expense of private guides.
• Limited Duration & Flexibility: Around 6 hours, making it a manageable half-day adventure.

The Itinerary: A Deep Dive into the Mountain Marvels

Starting Point: Pico do Arieiro

Your day begins at Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak, accessible via a scenic drive arranged by your guide. We loved the way the tour operator, Levadas In and Out, emphasizes comfort with punctual pickup and a comfortable vehicle. Ming_H, one reviewer, appreciated that even with only two participants, the trip ran smoothly, praising timely pickup and clear instructions. The early start at 9:00 am is perfect to beat the crowds and enjoy the cooler mountain air.

The Walk to “Stairway to Heaven”

From Pico do Arieiro, you can embark on a self-guided walk that includes passing through Ninho da Manta, a notable cliff formation, and the famous “Stairway to Heaven,” a ladder-like structure that seems to ascend directly into the sky. The views from here are truly spectacular—breathtaking panoramas of rugged peaks and deep valleys, often shrouded in clouds, giving the illusion of walking over the sky itself.

The “Stairway to Heaven” is a highlight, especially if you’re into unique photo ops or just want to say you’ve walked what looks like a ladder to the heavens. The route is well-marked and offers multiple viewpoints, making it ideal for those wanting to appreciate Madeira’s rugged terrain while enjoying a moderate hike.

Continue to Achada do Teixeira

After exploring the initial trail, transportation takes you to Achada do Teixeira, where you can begin your walk up to Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s tallest peak. This route is less steep than the initial climb and offers a different perspective of the island’s dramatic landscape.

Reaching Pico Ruivo

Standing at Pico Ruivo, you’ll notice how the mountain’s rugged summit dominates the skyline. The views from here are truly exceptional—panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys, often with clouds swirling below, creating a surreal atmosphere. One reviewer pointed out the magical feeling of being on top of the world and literally walking over the clouds, which is a pretty accurate description of the experience.

Return Journey

Once at Pico Ruivo, your guide will arrange for a pickup at Achada do Teixeira to return you comfortably to the starting point. This seamless logistics setup means you can focus solely on enjoying the scenery rather than stressing about timing or navigation.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The Views

The primary draw is the breathtaking landscape—from jagged peaks to cloud cover that often seems close enough to touch. The “Stairway to Heaven” is an Instagram-worthy highlight, but the real reward is the sense of being on top of the world, surrounded by islands, clouds, and sky.

The Convenience

No need to worry about traffic, parking, or complicated routes—your transportation is included, and the tour is designed to run smoothly within a 6-hour window. The small group size, limited to six travelers, offers a more personalized experience, and the punctual pickup at 9:00 am helps maximize your time on the trail.

Authentic, Self-Guided Exploration

While it’s not a guided hike with a guide leading every step, the clear instructions and well-maintained routes make it accessible. The self-guided aspect allows you to enjoy the landscape at your own pace, taking in views and snapping photos without feeling rushed.

Value for Money

At around $58 per person, the tour offers excellent value. It includes bottled water, a crucial perk in the mountain environment, and the transportation logistics are a significant convenience that adds to the overall experience.

The Small Group Dynamic

With a maximum of six travelers, you get a cozy, intimate atmosphere, which many reviewers appreciated. Ming_H’s experience of a tour with just her and the driver highlights the flexibility and personal touch that smaller groups can offer.

Practical Considerations & Tips

Timing is key—the tour starts at 9:00 am, so plan to arrive a little early. The guides emphasize respecting the scheduled time for the walk, especially because the tour includes multiple participants. Ming_H noted the importance of adhering to the schedule, as the guide has the right to leave if travelers are late.

Physical fitness: The tour is suitable for those with moderate fitness levels. The hikes are not overly strenuous but do involve some elevation and uneven terrain. Review your own comfort with walking in mountain environments before booking.

Weather: Always prepare for variable mountain weather. Even in summer, it can be cool and windy up high, and clouds can obscure views unexpectedly. The tour is dependent on good weather, and if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What to bring: Besides bottled water, pack a light jacket, comfortable hiking shoes, sunscreen, and a camera. The views are worth capturing, and you’ll want to be prepared for changing conditions.

The Authentic Experience: A Blend of Comfort and Adventure

This tour strikes a good balance between adventure and comfort. You get the thrill of walking among clouds and standing atop Madeira’s highest peaks, with the security of transportation and small-group intimacy. The self-guided aspect gives you freedom, while the clear instructions help you navigate the trails confidently.

Many reviewers, like Ming_H, appreciated the punctuality and professionalism of the transport and the route’s well-maintained paths. Despite some challenges like wildfire cancellations in the past, the tour runs smoothly when weather cooperates, and the landscapes are always stunning.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a self-directed mountain adventure with minimal planning fuss. It suits those with moderate fitness levels who enjoy scenic hikes and are eager to experience Madeira’s high peaks. It’s also perfect if you prefer a small, intimate group rather than large guided tours, and value comfort and punctuality.

If you’re looking for a structured guided hike with a guide explaining every detail, this might not be your best fit. However, if you’re comfortable with self-guided walks, enjoy breathtaking scenery, and want to avoid the logistical headache of mountain driving, this tour hits the mark.

The Sum Up

In summary, this transfer tour from Madeira’s Funchal area to Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo offers a well-rounded experience for those eager to see the island’s mountain highlights without the hassle of planning every detail. The convenience of transportation, combined with the opportunity to walk over clouds and stand atop Madeira’s highest point, makes it a worthwhile choice.

The small group size ensures a personalized touch, and the stunning viewpoints are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression. For travelers who appreciate a mix of scenic exploration, authentic mountain terrain, and straightforward logistics, this tour offers exceptional value.

While weather conditions can sometimes impact visibility, the overall experience is likely to be memorable—especially for lovers of natural beauty and panoramic views. If you’re ready to enjoy Madeira’s lofty summits with ease and comfort, this tour is worth considering.

FAQ

What is the starting time for the tour?
The tour begins at 9:00 am, so it’s best to arrive a little early to ensure timely pickup and preparation.

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation to Pico do Arieiro and from Achada do Teixeira back to the start point is included, offering a stress-free experience.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 6 hours, allowing plenty of time for the hikes and sightseeing.

Can I do the hikes at my own pace?
Yes, the walks are self-guided, so you can enjoy them at your own speed, provided you stick to the scheduled times.

What should I bring?
Bring bottled water, comfortable hiking shoes, a light jacket, sunscreen, and a camera for capturing the views.

Is this tour suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
It’s recommended for those with moderate fitness levels. The terrain involves some elevation and uneven paths, which might not be suitable for everyone.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is dependent on good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This detailed overview should help you decide whether this Madeira mountain adventure aligns with your travel style. With awe-inspiring scenery, hassle-free logistics, and a small-group vibe, it’s an excellent way to experience the island’s majestic peaks.