Pico Ruivo Hike with Madeira Adventure Kingdom in Madeira
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical shape with moderate hiking experience.
Overview
Climb Madeira’s highest peak with Madeira Adventure Kingdom and get sweeping views, lush flora, and rugged mountain terrain on this memorable 3-hour hike. Perfect for adventure-seekers looking to conquer the landscape’s commanding heights.
Achada do Teixeira / Pico Ruivo
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a memorable 3-hour hike from Achada do Teixeira to Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s highest peak at 1862 meters. This moderately challenging trail rewards you with breathtaking panoramic views of the island's stunning mountain range, offering a unique sensation of walking on clouds. Perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking adventure!
Duration
3 Hour
About
This walk is an alternative for those who want to reach Madeira’s top in a more accessible way (Pico Ruivo 1862m).
This course starts at Achadas do Teixeira and it goes for approximately 6km. This is not an easy path, but it is not as demanding as if you would start at Pico do Areeiro. It is more than 300 meters going up, as well as coming down, giving a total of 3 hours walking.
All this trail is integrated in the Natura 2000 Network, an European network of great importance regarding nature. Throughout this walk, you will be able to see the central mountain range of Madeira (Paul da Serra, Encumeada, Pico do Areeiro e o Pico Ruivo).
Here, the vegetation is mostly composed of trees of extreme resistance, like the Urze (Erica arborea), which can sustain the strong winds and weather variations known to this area. The vast majority of these trees are centennial others, predate Madeira’s discovery.
After going for around 3km, we get to Pico Ruivo (1862m), where you will be dazzled with great views that can only be seen from up there, from the highest point in Madeira. One of the best things about this walk, is the feeling of walking on clouds, a unique and incomparable experience.
Duration: approximately 3 hours. Distance: 6 Km. Highest point: 1862m. Lowest point: 1542m. Location: Santana. Difficult: Moderate. Days: Saturdays.
Includes: Official Mountain Guide, transport and insurance (Required by Portuguese law)
Extras
Picnic - Ham n Cheese Sandwich 10€ Picnic - Chicken Sandwich 12€ Picnic - Chicken Salad 12€ Picnic - Tuna Sandwich 12€ Picnic - Tuna Salad 12€ Picnic - Veggie 15€
All of the packs come with: Bottle of water, juice, fruit and chocolate
Adventure Tips
Start Early for Best Views
Begin your hike in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and clearer panoramic views without crowds.
Wear Layers and Sun Protection
Weather can change quickly in high altitudes; pack layers and sunscreen to stay comfortable and protected.
Bring Water and Snacks
Stay hydrated and energized with plenty of water and light snacks, especially if you're pushing for the summit.
Check Weather Conditions
Avoid hiking in poor weather—cloud cover and rain can make trails slippery and obscure views.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Madeira chaffinch
- Blue rock thrush
History
Pico Ruivo has long been a symbol of Madeira’s rugged landscape, historically used as a navigation point for sailors.
Conservation
Trail maintenance by local guides and efforts to preserve endemic flora help keep this mountain environment pristine.
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Adventure Hotspots in Funchal
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Hiking boots
Sturdy, supportive footwear for varied terrain and rocky paths.
Sun protection
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are crucial at higher altitudes where UV exposure is stronger.
Layers clothing
Wear moisture-wicking and insulating layers to adapt to changing mountain weather.
Water and snacks
Keep hydrated and energized for the ascent and descent.