- Pico do Arieiro - This hike begins at Pico do Arieiro, located at 1818 meters above sea level, within a short distance we come upon the Ninho da Manta (Buzzard’s Nest) belvedere. From this platform where this bird of prey is supposed to have bred, one can see the valley of Fajã da Nogueira, where some Manx shearwater (Puffinus puffinnus) breed, São Roque do Faial and a large part of the Central Mountain Range.
- Live commentary
- Insurance
- Bottled water
- Lunch
Embarking at Pico do Areeiro, elevated at nearly 1818 meters, we traverse towards Madeira’s zenith, Pico Ruivo, standing tall at a rough altitude of 1861 meters.
One can savour the picturesque vistas of Madeira, spread across the central mountainous stretch, which are unquestionably awe-inspiring.
The exclusive breeding domain globally for the Zino’s petrel (Pterodroma madeira), a native species, and regarded as Europe’s most critically compromised seabird, can be found here.
The region is dominated by high-altitude vegetation, chiefly by Centenary endemic Urzes, these colossal trees, were present even before the exploration of Madeira.
Navigating around Pico das Torres through a sharp incline of steps cut into the rock and further descent is required to reach Pico Ruivo. The ascent to the Pico Ruivo shelter is considered the hardest segment of this route. However, the motivation of attaining the island’s pinnacle powers us forward.
Close to the Pico Ruivo shelter, we launch onto a footpath, leading us to Achada do Teixeira, our journey’s end point.
- Not recommended for travelers with severe vertigo.
- Not recommended for travelers with claustrophobia (tunnels).
- Not recommended for children under 10 years old
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
