Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo: one of the world's most epic hikes

There are hikes that are simply beautiful. But there are those that stay with you forever—because they make you walk with eyes wide open and a heart beating to the rhythm of the mountains. The hike from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo in Madeira is just such an experience.

Here you don't just walk a path. Here you dance on the back of the clouds, traverse rocky ridges, pass through tunnels carved into the mountains, and climb peaks that touch the sky.

What is the Pico do Arieiro – Pico Ruivo route?

• Length: around 11 kilometres (round trip)

• Hiking time: 5–7 hours depending on your pace

• Difficulty: moderate to high—there are steep ascents, stairs, and narrow paths

The route starts from Pico do Arieiro (1818 m)—the third highest peak in Madeira—and leads to Pico Ruivo (1862 m)—the highest point on the island. The path literally winds along the sharp ridges between the peaks, with breathtaking views of the sea of clouds on both sides.

What to expect along the way?

• Dramatic rocky edges—the feeling of walking on the very spine of the island.

• Tunnels through the mountain—bring a headlamp or torch, as some tunnels are dark and long.

• Endless stairs—descents and ascents that make your legs feel alive, yet give you the most epic views.

• Clouds beneath your feet—on a clear day, you can see the entire island below; on a foggy day, you'll literally float among the clouds.

Best time for the hike

The best months are from April to October when the weather is most stable, though it is also the busiest period. For the most magical experience, everyone advises starting at sunrise, but if you're seeking solitude and silence, that might not be the right timing for you.

After the fires in 2024, the route is closed, but you can still reach some of the most epic views.

How to prepare?

• Wear sturdy mountain boots—the terrain is rocky and uneven.

• Bring enough water and light food—there's nowhere to restock along the route.

• Dress in layers—weather in the mountains changes in minutes, it can be cold even in summer.

• Check the forecast—in very bad weather, the route can be dangerous.

• Headlamp or torch—essential for passing through the tunnels.

Alternatives for a lighter version

If you don't want to do the full round trip, you can arrange a transfer to Achada do Teixeira and hike just the last 3 km to Pico Ruivo from there—a lighter and more accessible option.

The Hike That Changes How You See the World

This route isn't just a walk. It's an experience that leaves marks of awe on your soul. You'll forget the fatigue from the stairs. The ache in your legs—too. But the view, the feeling of flight, the light of dawn over the ocean of clouds—they will stay with you forever.

Join Panic Frame & Travel and let's walk this epic path together—where the sky and the earth embrace, and you become part of this eternal meeting.