How to Plan Your Pico Ruivo Hike Tour in Madeira

If you’re looking for an unforgettable adventure in Madeira, the Pico Ruivo Hike is an excellent choice. This tour takes you on a hike through mountain paths that are only accessible by foot. Along the way, you’ll enjoy stunning views of lush vegetation and search for bright birds like the Madeira firecrest. Don’t miss the opportunity to capture pictures of the famous “Stairway to Heaven” path, a highlight of this tour. To make your experience hassle-free, this tour also includes hotel pickup and drop-off, food and drinks, and a knowledgeable guide. Please note that this tour is not suitable for children under 16 years, pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, people afraid of heights, or people with vertigo or recent surgeries.

Highlights

• Marvel at the sun rising over Madeira from the summit of Pico Do Arieiro
• Hike at your own pace through mountain paths that are only accessible by foot
• Enjoy a hassle-free transfer from your accommodation in Funchal or Caniço
• Admire lush vegetation and search for bright birds like the Madeira firecrest
• Capture pictures of the famous “Stairway to Heaven” path

What to Expect

The tour begins with a convenient pickup service from your hotel in Funchal or Caniço. From there, you’ll travel to Pico Do Arieiro, the starting point of the hike. As you hike the mountain paths, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the island, including the sunrise over Madeira from the summit of Pico Do Arieiro. The hike is suitable for people of all hiking abilities, and you’ll be able to hike at your own pace. The terrain is rugged, so it is essential to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring water and snacks. Along the way, your guide will provide information about the surrounding flora and fauna. After hiking through the mountain paths, you’ll arrive at Pico Ruivo, where you’ll have the chance to capture pictures of the famous “Stairway to Heaven” path. This staircase is one of the most popular photo spots on the island and is truly a sight to behold. The tour comes to an end with a transfer back to your hotel in Funchal or Caniço.

How to Book

Booking your Pico Ruivo Hike Tour is easy. Simply visit the GetYourGuide website and follow the instructions to book your tour. Remember to wear comfortable hiking shoes, bring water and snacks, and don’t forget your camera for capturing breathtaking photos.

Frequently Asked Questions about Madeira

Madeira is a beautiful island situated off the northwest coast of Africa, bordered by Morocco and Western Sahara. It is famous for its lush green forests, stunning views, sweet wine, and friendly locals. If you are planning to visit Madeira, you probably have some questions. In this FAQ, we will try to provide you with answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about Madeira.

1. What is the best time to visit Madeira?

Madeira enjoys a mild and pleasant climate all year round, making it an ideal destination for holidaymakers throughout the year. But the best time to visit Madeira depends on what you want to do during your trip. If hiking and exploring nature is your thing, then the best time to visit Madeira is in the spring or autumn, when the weather is cool and the landscape is green and vibrant. But if you are looking for a beach holiday, then the summer months are the best choice.

2. How to get to Madeira?

The main international airport of Madeira is Cristiano Ronaldo Madeira International Airport (FNC), which is located about 20 km from the capital city, Funchal. You can reach Madeira by direct flights from many European cities. Alternatively, you can take a flight to Lisbon and then take a connecting flight to Madeira. Ferries also operate from the nearby port cities of Portugal.

3. What are some of the things to do and see in Madeira?

Madeira is full of natural wonders, so if you are an outdoor enthusiast, there are plenty of hiking trails, walking paths, and other outdoor activities to enjoy. Some of the top attractions of Madeira include the Levada Walks, the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, the Cabo Girao skywalk, the Sao Vicente caves, and the Pico do Arieiro mountain. You can also explore Madeira’s capital city, Funchal, which is home to many museums, galleries, and historic landmarks.

4. What is the local cuisine of Madeira like?

Madeira is famous for its delicious and unique food, which is heavily influenced by Portuguese, African, and Caribbean cuisines. Some of the must-try dishes in Madeira include espetada, which is a skewered meat dish, bacalhau, which is salted cod, and bolo do caco, which is a type of bread. Madeira is also renowned for its sweet wine, which is made from grapes grown on the island.

5. What are some of the beaches in Madeira?

Madeira is not known for its beaches, but there are a few lovely coastal spots where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the sea. Some of the top beaches in Madeira include Praia Formosa, which is a rocky beach, and Calheta Beach, which is a man-made sandy beach. The best choice for beach lovers, however, is the nearby island of Porto Santo, which boasts nine kilometers of golden sand beaches.

6. What are some of the cultural events and festivals in Madeira?

Madeira is famous for its vibrant cultural scene, and there are several festivals and events that take place throughout the year. One of the most popular is the Carnival of Madeira, which is held in February and features colorful parades, music, and dancing. Other major events include the Atlantic Festival, the Wine Festival, and the Flower Festival.

7. What are some of the best accommodation options in Madeira?

Madeira has a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and taste. If you are looking for luxury, there are many high-end hotels and resorts in Madeira, such as the Belmond Reid’s Palace and the Quinta da Casa Branca. If you are on a budget, you can find many affordable guest houses and hostels in Madeira.

8. Is it safe to travel to Madeira?

Madeira is a very safe and welcoming destination for travelers. Petty crime can occur in touristic areas, but it is generally safe to walk around in the evening. The local authorities are very responsive and helpful to tourists, and the locals are friendly and eager to help.

Book Your Tour Now

We hope that this FAQ has provided you with some helpful information about Madeira. Madeira is a special destination with so much to offer, and we encourage you to visit and explore this beautiful island yourself. Don’t forget to try the local cuisine, hike the island’s many trails, and enjoy the stunning views. Happy travels!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Madeira

Madeira is truly a paradise for travelers from all over the world. From its stunning landscapes to its rich Portuguese culture, Madeira offers a long list of things to do and see. To make your trip to Madeira more enjoyable and memorable, here are some tips on how to spend your time as a tourist in Madeira.

1. Visit the Lavadas

The Lavadas are a unique feature of Madeira, which is a network of ancient irrigation channels. These channels were built to supply water to crops and fulfill the needs of the islanders. But nowadays, these channels have become some of the most iconic attractions for tourists to explore. Walking along the Lavadas trails, you will enjoy the refreshing nature, humid forests, breathtaking views, and even some historical landmarks along the way. The most popular Lavada walks include ‘Levada do Caldeirão Verde’ and ‘Levada do Rei.’

2. Explore the Beaches

Madeira is blessed with some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. These beaches have crystal clear waters and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Some of the top beaches to visit while in Madeira include ‘Calheta Beach’ and ‘Porto Santo Beach.’ Calheta Beach is an artificial sandy beach with clear water and shaded areas. The beach is perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Porto Santo Beach, on the other hand, is a long stretch of golden sand, which is a bit far from Madeira Island but easily accessible by ferry or plane. The beach is perfect for a peaceful day-out and water activities like snorkeling or sailing.

3. Discover the Island’s Food Scene

A trip to Madeira is incomplete without trying out the local food. Madeira has a unique food culture that is a mix of Portuguese and Afro-Brazilian influences. Some of the top must-eat foods include ‘Espetada,’ ‘Bolo do Caco,’ and ‘Lapas Grelhadas.’ The ‘Espetada’ is a typical Madeira dish that consists of beef or pork, marinated in garlic and salt, and grilled over an open flame. ‘Bolo do Caco’ is a round-shaped bread made with sweet potato and traditionally served with garlic butter. Lastly, ‘Lapas Grelhadas’ is a dish made of grilled limpet, which is a type of local seafood.

4. Observe the Local Festivals and Traditions

Madeira is well known for its year-round festivals and celebrations that reflect the island’s rich culture and traditions. Some of the most popular festivals that happen in Madeira include ‘Festa da Flor,’ ‘Madeira Wine Festival,’ and ‘Festa da Sé.’ ‘Festa da Flor’ is an annual spring festival, which celebrates the blooming of the flowers. During this time, the streets of Funchal (capital of Madeira) are decorated with colorful flower carpets. The ‘Madeira Wine Festival’ is another event that celebrates the production of local wine, where visitors can taste wine and participate in grape treading.

5. Visit the Botanical Gardens

Madeira is a top destination for nature lovers, and the Botanical Gardens are a must-visit attraction. The Botanical Gardens feature a diverse collection of plants, flowers, and trees from all over the world. The garden was first established in 1960, and since then, it has become one of the most visited tourist spots. It is home to several exotic flora species, including orchids, cacti, and bromeliads. Visitors can enjoy walking on the garden’s several trails, admiring the greenery, and taking in the panoramic views of the city.

6. Encountering Marine Life

If you’re a fan of marine life, then Madeira is the right place to be. With its crystal clear waters, marine life thrives in Madeira. You can take a trip from Porto Santo Island or Funchal for dolphin and whale watching. There are about 29 species to be found in Madeira’s surrounding waters including; dolphins, whales, orcas, and turtles.

Book Your Tour Now

Madeira is a dream destination for any traveler seeking adventure or relaxation. From its beautiful beaches to its breathtaking natural landscapes and vibrant culture, Madeira has something to offer everyone. Now that you know some of the top things to do while on the island, plan your trip to Madeira and make it a trip of a lifetime. Don’t forget to try out the local food and participate in the festive events to experience the true culture of Madeira.