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Beautiful Vereda do Pico Ruivo hike to Madeira’s highest peak
Do you like mountains, stunning views, and a hiking challenge? Then hiking Pico Ruivo, the highest peak on Madeira, should be on your bucket list.
There are two routes to reach the summit: the famous PR 1 Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo trail and the shorter PR 1.2 Vereda do Pico Ruivo.
In this guide, we’ll focus on the PR 1.2 route, the easier and shorter way to reach the top, while also sharing some tips for the more challenging PR 1 hike. We tackled this trail after hiking the PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde and were blown away by the scenery along the way.
But there’s one more thing that surprises most visitors: getting to the trailhead is actually another challenge of the hike. The start and end points are different, public transport is limited, and many hikers end up stranded if they don’t plan ahead.
Important: after the large wildfire in August 2024, parts of the area are still recovering. The Pico Ruivo trail system has reopened in April 2026 with new rules: hikers must now book a time slot and pay a small access fee, and some sections may still be restricted.
Let’s take a closer look at this stunning hike and what you need to know before climbing Madeira’s highest mountain.
What to expect on the PR 1.2 Vereda do Pico Ruivo trail
The Madeira PR 1.2 hike is the easier route to the top and is also shorter. If you’re short on time or want to avoid the more challenging PR 1 trail, this hike is for you!
- Start location: Achada do Teixeira Parking lot: here
- Distance: 2.8 kilometres (1.74 miles) one way (5.6 kilometres/3.5 miles for a round trip)
- Time: 1.5–2 hours round trip
- Difficulty: Easy–Moderate
- Elevation gain: 260 m
- Transport: Car, transfer or tour required
- Facilities: Cafe + bathrooms near the summit
- Restaurants: Yes, the Casa de Abrigo do Pico Ruivo cafe and the Achada do Teixeira at the car park
- Dogs allowed: Yes
- Tunnels: No (The PR 1 does have tunnels!)
What is the Pico Ruivo Madeira?
The highest mountain on Madeira Island, Pico Ruivo, is 1.862 meters (6,109 feet) above sea level. The Pico Ruivo is the most famous hike on the island, and you can access the peak via a series of well-marked trails, including the PR 1.2 Madeira Vereda do Pico Ruivo trail.
Along the way, hikers can enjoy the island’s natural beauty, including the Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and unique flora and fauna that are endemic to Madeira. If you love stunning natural landscapes and lush forests, add this hike to your wish list!
There are two main routes to reach Pico Ruivo: the PR 1 Vereda do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo and the PR 1.2 Madeira trail. At Pico Ruivo’s summit, you can enjoy the best views! There is a small platform where you can take a break to soak it all in.
On a clear day, it is possible to see as far as the neighbouring island of Porto Santo, which is located approximately 40 kilometres (25 miles) to the northeast. If you enjoy hiking, Pico Ruivo is a must-see on Madeira Island!
Best way to hike Pico Ruivo
The easiest way to hike Pico Ruivo is by booking a tour with transport from Funchal. The trail starts high in the mountains and the start and end points are different, which makes the logistics surprisingly tricky if you don’t have a car.
Recommended options:
- Guided sunrise group tour with transport
- Private sunrise hike to Pico Ruivo with transport
- From Funchal: hiking transport to the trailhead
Alternative options:
- Taxi transfer
- Rental car
- Bus + taxi
Pico Ruivo hiking fee
Starting January 1st, 2025, Madeira will implement an access fee for non-residents aged 12 and over on certain PR (recommended routes) hiking trails. This initiative aims to preserve the island’s natural beauty and support trail maintenance. Since January 1st, 2026, you also need to reserve a time slot.
Hikers can pay the fee in advance through the Simplifica portal or via QR codes available at the start of applicable trails. It’s important to carry proof of payment during your hike, as authorized staff may request it. Residents of Madeira and children under 12 are exempt from this fee.
Madeira hiking update: mandatory trail reservations
From January 1st, 2026, some popular hiking routes in Madeira, including parts of the Laurissilva Forest, require a mandatory time-slot reservation. Learn how to make Madeira trail reservations (step-by-step guide).
Why this matters
The system helps reduce overcrowding and protect nature, while keeping Madeira’s levadas and viewpoints enjoyable for everyone.
What hikers need to know:
- You must reserve a time slot before entering selected trails
- Capacity is limited per time slot
- Booking is done via the official SIMplifica platform
- Tourists and non-residents do not need to create an account
- A payment is required at the time of booking
- If a slot is full, you can choose another time the same day
- Only Madeira residents qualify for resident tickets
Madeira PR 1.2 Vereda do Pico Ruivo
The easiest way to hike Pico Ruivo is by following the Achada do Teixeira to Pico Ruivo hiking route. You can drive up the mountain until you reach the Achada do Teixeira parking lot. You can park your car here and start following the trail.
The trail is easy to follow, but there are some forks along the way. Ensure you have a good GPS or the WalkMe Madeira or AllTrails App installed. We walked back in the dark, so it was easy to get lost at that time! The apps were super easy to follow in the darkness.
Vereda do Pico Ruivo is the most popular route to the top, as it’s also the easiest. The footpath is in excellent condition, and although you’re hiking further up, it’s very doable. Slow and steady for the win!
It’s a point-to-point hiking route with absolutely stunning views along the way. You may shed a tear or two when overlooking the cloud-covered mountains! I certainly did! The scenic route follows the mountain ridge to the top, a journey of only 2.8 kilometres (1.74 miles) one way.
There are plenty of shelters to stop at along the way and even a small mountain hut. At Casa de Abrigo do Pico Ruivo, you can enjoy a snack and drink, but unfortunately, it was closed when we passed. The path is steeper uphill from the hut onwards, but you’re nearly at the summit. The last portion of the trail will take only another 5 to 10 minutes!
💡 Tip! Click here to check the current status of the trails, as some might be closed.
Enjoy the panoramic views over the valley of Ribeira Seca and make the final push to the summit. Some parts toward the highest peak are pretty steep, and if you’re afraid of heights or suffer from vertigo, you might feel a bit on edge.
Some paths have railings, so you can hold on to something. This part is the hardest part of the Pico Ruivo levada hike.
PR 1 Vereda do Arieiro – Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo
If you’re up for a challenging hike, the PR 1 Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo route is perfect! On this hike, you will conquer the three highest peaks of Madeira: the Pico do Arieiro, Pico das Torres and Pico Ruivo. The way to Pico do Arieiro is easy, as you can drive uphill. But the hike from there to Pico Ruivo is a demanding one.
The PR 1 starts at the parking lot (32°44’05.6 “N – 16°55’43.2” W on Google Maps), follows along the Ninho da Manta Ridge, and crosses Pico das Torres. The Arieiro hike is also the route that passes the famous “Stairway to Heaven” in Madeira. After several tunnels, you’ll join the PR 1.2 Madeira route at Casa de Abrigo do Pico Ruivo, the restaurant near the summit of Pico Ruivo.
The trail is 12.1 kilometres out-and-back (7.5 miles) long and takes between 5 and 6 hours to complete. This route also contains some high drops, and although the path is in excellent condition with many railings and some metal stairs in place, if you suffer from vertigo, it might be best to avoid it.
The start of this route is pretty flat and downhill. But then you’ll hit Pico das Torres, a steep climb up. This is the hardest part of the trail, and you’ll need a certain fitness level for walking this route. You can do this yourself, but many people take a tour with a guide.
Thankfully, there are many tours available to complete this hike. Once you reach the summit, you’ll also need to go back. A round trip to the Arieiro parking lot is very challenging. Hence, most hikers walk to the car park at Achada do Teixeira. But if your car is at the top of Pico do Arieiro, you’ll need transport back.
🥾 🚌 Book your Shuttle for a Sunrise Hike at Pico do Arieiro here
A tour will avoid this issue, but you can also book just transportation between the two points. You can make the return leg if you’re fit and up for it. But please note that the way back to Pico do Arieiro is primarily uphill and steep and not for the faint-hearted! This is why many follow the one-way route to the car park at Achada do Teixeira.
Tip!
If you don’t want to explore the full Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike, discover the shorter routes to Miradouro do Juncal or Miradouro do Ninho da Manta. These viewpoints are much quieter than the ones at the car park, and the views over the mountains are breathtakingly beautiful!
Useful Madeira hiking Apps
One of the best ways to track where you are is the WalkMe Madeira App. The app provides GPS locations, routes, reviews, and further information about specific hikes. It’s available for a small fee, but it’s worth the bucks! Especially when you go on more than one hike on your own, the WalkMe Madeira App is a must.
🥾 Another must-have app is AllTrails, which covers plenty of hikes in Madeira and the rest of the world! I use AllTrails for many other hikes in Portugal too!
What should you bring on route to Pico Ruivo?
The weather in Madeira can be very unpredictable, even more so at this altitude. Wear layers, wear good hiking boots, and bring enough water and food. If you decide to follow the Vereda do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, be extra prepared.
Bring a headlamp or torch, as you will come across several tunnels. If you hike around sunrise and sunset, you should also bring a good light source to avoid getting lost!
Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat are other recommendations. And a camera, of course, to capture this beautiful place! To sum it up, here are some essential items to be fully prepared on your hike to Pico Ruivo:
- Appropriate footwear: Wear comfortable, sturdy, and well-fitting hiking shoes or boots that provide good support and traction.
- Appropriate clothing: Dress in layers and wear clothing suitable for the Pico Ruivo weather conditions, such as a waterproof jacket, rain cover or sun hat.
- Backpack: Bring a bag to carry all your gear and supplies, including water, food, and extra clothing.
- Water: Bring plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially on longer hikes.
- Snacks and food: Bring energy-rich snacks to keep you fuelled during your hike, such as trail mix, fruit, energy bars, or sandwiches.
- Navigation tools: Bring a map and a compass, the WalkMe Madeira App or a GPS device to navigate and stay on track.
- First aid kit: Bring a basic kit with bandages, antiseptic, and other essentials.
- Sun protection: Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a sun hat to protect your skin and eyes from the sun’s harmful rays.
- Emergency whistle and light: Bring an emergency whistle and a headlamp or flashlight in case you get lost or need help.
Remember to always research the trail and Pico Ruivo weather conditions before heading out. Let someone know where you are going and when you expect to return.
Remember to take out health insurance!
Hiking is all fun and game, but accidents can happen! Whenever I travel, I take out health insurance with HeyMondo. Not only for injuries, but also my equipment, transport, and luggage are covered. As a Discover Portugal reader, you’ll receive a 5% discount on a policy!
The Pico Ruivo webcam
At the time of writing, there is no webcam at Pico Ruivo Portugal, but you can check the one at Pico do Arieiro. And although anything can change in the cloud-covered mountains, you’ll have an idea of the views on the day. It would be a shame if you came all the way to be surrounded by clouds! Click here to check the current situation at Pico do Arieiro.
Where is the starting point of Vereda do Pico Ruivo?
The route starts here, close to the car park at Achada do Teixeira. The GPS location is 32°45’53.5 “N 16°55’16.1” W.
Flora and fauna at Madeira Pico Ruivo
Nature in Madeira is pretty unique in some places, and the same goes for Pico Ruivo. Species that you’ll see along the way are the Erica platycodon maderincola (broom heather) and Erica arborea (molar heather). You’ll also spot many birds, such as the Madeira firecrest and Madeiran chaffinch. The surroundings of the mountain are part of the Natura 2000 Network.
Pico Ruivo for sunrise or sunset
You can climb the mountain during sunrise or sunset for an extra memorable hike to the Pico Ruivo summit. Some tours set out at this magical hour, but always bring a torch or lamp for your safety. Watching the sunrise or sunset from Pico Ruivo is a breathtaking and unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression on anyone visiting the island of Madeira.
How to get to Pico Ruivo by car?
To get to the car park at Achada do Teixeira, you’ll drive a beautiful road up with many bends and some hairpins. The road towards Pico Ruivo starts in Santana, and Achada do Teixeira is the endpoint.
The drive takes 15 to 20 minutes from Santana or 1 hour from Funchal. Please note that the road leading up to Achada do Teixeira is narrow and winding and may be challenging to drive for those unfamiliar with mountainous terrain.
Additionally, the road may be closed during inclement weather, such as heavy rain or fog. So, checking the current road conditions before starting your journey is always best. Hiring a car is the best way to discover Madeira and its stunning hiking locations.
Check the banner above to compare car rental prices and book your trip with DiscoverCars. We hire cars with them all over Portugal and have had the best experience.
Pico Ruivo parking
Achada do Teixeira is a popular starting point for an easy hike to the summit. The car park is entirely free. You’ll also spot a café, restaurant, and gift shop in the car park. Please note that the car park is pretty big, but parking spaces may be limited, especially during peak season or weekends.
Tip!
Near the car park, you can also visit Homem em Pé (translates to standing man) before you start your hike. The rock formation is about 12 meters tall and looks like a formation of men.
How to get to Pico Ruivo by bus?
There is no bus service or public transportation to Achada do Teixeira. The best way to get there is by car, guided tour, taxi, or booked transfer. You can, however, take a bus from Funchal to Santana. This journey takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Book a tour to hike Madeira’s tallest mountain
Booking a tour to hike Pico Ruivo is an excellent option for those who want to explore this beautiful hiking trail with the help of a knowledgeable guide.
Especially the Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo is an incredible hike that requires some physical condition, and having a guide can make the experience easier and more enjoyable.
Some guided tours offer the PR 1.2 Madeira hike, but as this one is relatively easy, more tours are available for the PR 1 hike.
If you don’t have a rental car and don’t want to go back-to-back from Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, a guided tour or transport is the way forward. The tour companies typically provide transportation to and from the trailhead and an experienced guide who will lead you on the hike.
Besides, booking a tour to climb Pico Ruivo can be a great way to experience this challenging but rewarding trail and learn more about the local flora, fauna, and culture from an expert guide.
Other Pico Ruivo hikes
Besides the PR 1 Vereda do Arieiro and the Pico Ruivo route, there are some other trails to discover. Examples are PR 1.3 Vereda da Encumeada (11.2 km 5–6 hours) and PR 1.1 Vereda da Ilha (10.6 km 4-5 hours).
What else can you see around Pico Ruivo?
After (or before) you hike to the top of Pico Ruivo, you can visit Santana, a small town mainly known for its A-framed houses. Before or after your hike, visiting the Casas Típicas de Santana in the town centre is excellent. The houses were traditionally used as shelters for farmers and are now preserved as a cultural heritage site.
At Parque Temático da Madeira, you’ll find an interactive experience showcasing Madeira’s history and culture and the traditional market, where you can sample local products such as Madeira wine, honey, and embroidery.
Other easy trails in Madeira
As the Madeira PR 1.2 trail is pretty short, you could add another walk on this day. Parque Florestal das Queimadas is very close, and you can hike the Levada do Caldeirão Verde. This journey is more extended; combining the two walks will be over 25 kilometres in one day. This trail, however, is pretty much flat and easy to follow.
And although Pico do Arieiro is very close to Pico Ruivo, driving there will take you well over an hour! If you decide to go to the other peak, you can stop in Ribeiro Frio and check out the view at Levada dos Balcões.
If you fancy a very different type of trail, you should check out Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço. This coastal walk offers breathtaking views over the east coast of Madeira.
🥾 Here are some much-loved hiking tour options, including transfers:
Hotels in Madeira
Madeira is a popular tourist destination, so there are many hotels to choose from in the region. The island offers many accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses.
Many of the luxury hotels are located in the Funchal area, the capital of Madeira, which is known for its charming streets, restaurants, and nightlife. But you can also stay in a rural accommodation, such as a farmhouse or a vineyard.
These accommodations offer a more rustic experience, with opportunities to explore the island’s natural beauty and learn about local traditions and culture. The map below showcases all available accommodations for your trip to Madeira.
Below, I also outlined three beautiful accommodations near Pico Ruivo.
📍Affordable mountain stay: Casa do Ribeiro Frio is perfect for hikers! The accommodation is around the corner from the PR 11 and in the middle of the tallest mountains. You can use the kitchenette, and all rooms have private bathrooms with showers.
📍Mid-range gem: Solar de Boaventura offers a comfortable stay with garden views and a tasty breakfast. Dip in the indoor pool to relax your muscles, or visit the spa.
📍Luxury in nature: A stay at Terrabona Nature & Vineyards is more than beautiful! The accommodations match the surrounding landscape, including a swimming pool and stunning garden.
FAQ
How long does it take to walk to Pico Ruivo?
If you hike the PR 1 trail from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, it will take 5 to 6 hours to complete. The PR 1.2 trail is shorter and will take around 1.5 hours. This trail starts at Achada do Teixeira and is the easiest way to climb Pico Ruivo.
Is Pico Ruivo a hard hike?
The Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo route is challenging! There are some steep uphill inclines and tunnels along the way. If you want to climb Pico Ruivo but follow an easier route, the PR 1.2 Vereda do Pico Ruivo hiking is perfect. Go at your own pace to reach the top and enjoy the island’s highest point!
What is Pico Ruivo in English?
Ruivo means red-haired or ginger-haired. Pico Ruivo, therefore, translates to the red-haired peak.
What is the Pico Ruivo height?
Pico Ruivo is the tallest mountain in Madeira, standing 1,862 meters (6,109 feet) above sea level.
When is the Pico Ruivo trail reopening?
The Pico Ruivo trail has been closed since the 2024 wildfires, but is set to reopen in April 2026. The reopening is coinciding with the Madeira Island Ultra Trail (MIUT).
Are you planning on hiking the Pico Ruivo trail?
Pico Ruivo is the highest peak in Madeira, standing at 1,862 meters (6,109 feet) above sea level, and is a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts, offering stunning views of the Laurissilva Forest and unique flora and fauna endemic to Madeira.
The summit has two main routes: the challenging PR 1 Vereda do Arieiro hike to Pico Ruivo with steep inclines and the easier PR 1.2 Vereda do Pico Ruivo mountain hike. You’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of Madeira, and these two trails are the favourite hikes for many travellers.
When visiting Madeira Island in the future, we will definitely hike the longer PR 1 trail! We loved seeing the sunset, but the sunrise would be equally beautiful. Before heading out, ensure that you check the weather conditions before the walk.
Other things to do in Madeira, Portugal:
- 30 best things to do in Madeira Island Portugal
- 30 Amazing things to do in Funchal Portugal
- Discover the beautiful Monte Palace Madeira gardens
- Ride the toboggan in Madeira, one of the coolest commutes in the world
- Visit Santana in Madeira and discover beautiful Santana Madeira houses
- How to make Madeira trail reservations (step-by-step guide)
- Beautiful Vereda do Pico Ruivo hike to Madeira’s highest peak
- Enjoy beautiful views at PR11 Levada dos Balcões in Madeira
- Beautiful PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde: A Madeira must-do
- The stunning PR6 Levada Das 25 Fontes and Risco Waterfall
- Beautiful Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço Hike in Madeira
- Discover Walks Madeira – hike some fabulous trails
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