Ascend Madeira’s highest peak, Pico Ruivo, as the day fades and the stars emerge. This guided sunset hike combines regional flavors, dramatic landscapes, and a night descent under a starry sky.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a reasonable level of fitness to handle a 6km round-trip hike with elevation gain and some steps.
Wildlife
History
Pico Ruivo has long served as a natural landmark for local communities and bears cultural significance as Madeira’s highest point, attracting hikers since the early 20th century.
Conservation
The region is protected under Madeira’s nature reserves, with strict trail management to preserve fragile ecosystems and endemic species.
Hit the Road Madeira
Ascend Madeira’s highest peak, Pico Ruivo, as the day fades and the stars emerge. This guided sunset hike combines regional flavors, dramatic landscapes, and a night descent under a starry sky.
Hit the Road Madeira is a guided-tour operator based in Madeira, Portugal, offering a curated selection of outdoor and cultural experiences across the island. Specializing in sunrise and sunset hikes, 4x4 coastal and interior tours, levada walks, culinary evenings, and private sightseeing, the company connects visitors with Madeira’s dramatic landscapes and local traditions.
Hit the Road Madeira provides a range of options from short half-day 4x4 sunrise excursions to full-day private tours and multi-hour hikes, including routes to Pico Ruivo and Pico do Arieiro, Levadas such as Levada dos Tornos and Caldeirão Verde, and coastal visits to Camera de Lobos. Several experiences emphasize local food and drink: an Espetada cooking evening and a Tasca tour showcasing poncha and regional snacks.
Private itineraries include personalized pick-up and drop-off, tailored pacing, and dedicated vehicles for comfort and flexibility. Photo-friendly sunrise experiences feature guided access to hidden viewpoints and professional photography on select departures. Safety and local knowledge are embedded in guided hikes and 4x4 drives through Madeira’s varying terrain. The operator highlights small-group and private formats to reduce crowding and enhance personalized discovery. Booking details, exact durations, and accessibility options vary by tour and are provided at reservation; on-request customizations are available for private departures. This operator focuses on authentic, place-based exploration of Madeira’s mountains, levadas, coasts, and cuisine, delivering memorable, guided experiences across the island.
Local guides adapt itineraries to weather and season, recommend photography spots, and share cultural insights about Madeiran flora, history, and traditional gastronomy for every visit today.
Tours Offered
15 tours
Varied hikes, 4x4, culinary experiences
Private Options
Available
Private pick-up and vehicles offered
Sunrise & Sunset
Multiple tours
Hikes and 4x4 tours at golden hours
Guided Experiences
Guided hikes & tours
Local guides and photography options
Secure a sunrise hike, private tour, or culinary evening — availability varies by season.
Bring layered clothing for temperature changes
Temperatures drop significantly after sunset; pack warm layers to stay comfortable on the summit and descent.
Use sturdy, reliable hiking shoes
The trail includes rocky steps and uneven terrain, requiring solid footwear for stability and comfort.
Carry enough water and snacks
Hydration and energy are key during the 6km hike, especially as refreshments beyond the bakery stop are limited on the trail.
Follow guide instructions carefully during night descent
Navigating steep, narrow paths by headlamp requires focus—stick with the group and respect safety guidelines.
Warm jacket
Necessary for staying warm during the cooler summit and nighttime descent.
fall
Headlamp
Provided by guides but bring your own as backup for navigating in the dark.
Hiking boots
Offers grip and ankle support on uneven volcanic terrain.
Water bottle
Hydration is crucial during the moderate effort hike.