Gretchen Stuppy Carlson
If there is one hike you have to do in Madeira it is the Pico do Arieiro, and the best time to do this hike is for sunrise. This is also probably the most popular hike on the island and while it’s a hike you need to do there are many other awesome hikes on the island (like the Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço (PR8) or the Levada do Caldeirão Verde. This was one of the most crowded hikes we’ve done in our life but we still loved it.
Below – I’ll share our photos from our sunrise hike as well as the hiking details and our experience.
Quick Look at Pico do Arieiro, Madeira
Distance: 2.4 miles
Elevation: 1500 feet
Difficulty: Difficult
This trail was only partially opened when we visited, so it's best to check All Trails for recent reviews.
There is a large parking lot that fills up very quickly for sunrise so plan to arrive early in the morning. The hike is along a well packed trail but there are several areas with drop offs on either side – this hike, especially in low light is not for the faint of heart.
The trail begins at Pico do Areeiro (1818 m), crosses Pico das Torres (1851 m) and ends at Pico Ruivo (1862 m).
Details of the Pico do Arieiro Trail, Madeira
Planning your Route
Most people do this hike as an out and back – which takes about 3.5 hours. Since the trail was closed after the first 1.2 km when we did the hike we did this as an out and back. It is possible to hike the trail as a point to point when the trail is open- you can start at Pico do Arieiro and finish the hike at Achada do Teixeira. You will need to arrange a taxi for this.
The Hike
The trail starts at the signed PR1 at Pico do Arieiro. If you don’t want to hike at all this is a great viewpoint. From here the trail descends downward onto the ridgeline with some large steps and ledges. The entire trail is scenic.
The trail descends on the ridge between two steep valleys with several areas with stairs and narrow sections. We recommend hiking out for about 20 minutes before looking for a spot to watch the sunrise. The views are stunning in every direction and there is often a cloud inversion in the morning making the island look like it’s floating in the clouds.
When the trail reopens, the next section includes some short tunnels (about 4-5). They are short but dark so bring a light. From here the trail ascends to Pico Ruivo steeply.
Things to Know about Pico do Arieiro, Madeira
Watching the Sunrise
This is a very popular place to watch the sunrise – plan to arrive an hour or so before sunrise so you have time to park and walk at least part of the trail before the sun comes up. If you don’t get a parking spot in the upper lot, the lower lot adds a lot of walking time to the hike.
It’s best to bring a headlamp or flashlight for the hike in the dark as there are stairs and drop offs. Many people used their phones although this is less ideal.
When you find a place to sit and watch the sunrise, make sure to look both towards the sunrise and in the oppoitve direction – it is really a stunning island.
What to Bring/Wear?
- Headlamp/torch + spare battery (tunnels & early starts)
- Sturdy hiking shoes (grippy soles)
- Windproof/rain shell, warm mid-layer (temperatures drop at altitude)
- Water (≥1 L) and lunch/snacks
- Sunglasses, hat, sunscreen
- Phone with offline map or paper map, power bank
- Small first-aid kit
Safety Tips
Check the weather the morning of your hike — fog and low clouds can limit visibility and make exposed sections trickier. If it’s stormy it is best to postpone.
Bring light. There are several short tunnels that have uneven footing – bring a light for these tunnels.
Be conservative with the turnaround time. Start early and give yourself plenty of time for the hike.
If you fear heights, consider alternatives. The ridge has exposed views and staircases; while safety cables exist on many exposed parts, it’s not the best route for severe vertigo.
