What is Pico Ruivo?
Pico Ruivo sits in Madeira's rugged central mountain range, surrounded by volcanic peaks, deep valleys, and steep ridges. Unlike many of the island's scenic viewpoints, the summit can only be reached on foot, making the journey part of the experience.
From the summit, you can look across Madeira's mountainous landscape, complete with jagged ridgelines and green valleys stretching towards the coast. Reaching Pico Ruivo is about more than standing on Madeira's highest summit – it's a chance to experience the island's beautiful interior from one of its most impressive vantage points.
Why Pico Ruivo is a highlight for walkers
After several days walking through Madeira's green valleys, along levadas and beside the coast, reaching the island's towering mountains feels like a natural progression. Pico Ruivo provides a change of scenery and a greater sense of adventure.
Hiking through Pico Ruivo at the end of the tour also means you've had time to settle into the rhythm of walking in Madeira. Earlier routes introduce the island at a gentler pace before the terrain becomes more rugged. This contrast makes the final ascent feel even more rewarding.
Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo: what makes the route special?
The PR1 Vereda do Arieiro is one of Madeira's most spectacular mountain routes, linking three of the island's highest peaks: Pico do Arieiro, Pico das Torres, and Pico Ruivo. The trail crosses the rugged Central Massif, with steep climbs, rocky ridges, and tunnels along the way.
Rather than being a straightforward ascent, the route rises and falls between the peaks before the final climb towards Pico Ruivo. Mountain conditions can change quickly, and access to the PR1 can be affected by weather, trail conditions, or safety restrictions. The route available on the day will therefore depend on the latest conditions.
How difficult is the Pico Ruivo walk?
While Pico Ruivo is the most challenging walk on our Madeira itinerary, it's manageable for walkers who are comfortable with regular uphill and downhill walking. We grade the tour as moderate, but be mindful that this particular section may not be suitable for those with a fear of heights.
To get a sense of where Pico Ruivo sits in terms of difficulty, here is an overview of the different route types:
| Route difficulty |
Route |
What to expect |
| Leisurely |
Levada walks |
Generally gentler as they follow relatively even paths through forests and valleys |
| Moderate |
Coastal walks |
A mix of terrain, with some steeper sections and changes in elevation, but generally less demanding than the mountainous routes |
| Moderate to challenging |
Pico Ruivo and mountain trails |
Steeper climbs and descents, uneven terrain, steps, and some exposed sections |
Terrain, steps, tunnels, and exposed paths
Walking Madeira's mountain trails is very different from following a level levada path. Around Pico Ruivo, you can expect a mixture of stone-paved paths, uneven volcanic rock, steep steps, and narrow sections along the mountain ridges.
Be aware that some parts of the trail are exposed with steep drops beside the path. There are also short tunnels cut through the rock, adding another distinctive feature to the route. Good footwear is essential, particularly for the more challenging trails.
Why mountain weather matters in Madeira
As mentioned earlier, the weather can change quickly in Madeira's mountains, especially at higher elevations. A clear morning in the valleys can suddenly give way to cloud, wind, or rain on the peaks, which can then affect visibility, underfoot conditions, and the safety of more exposed areas.
Flexibility of route choice is key. Your
tour leader will assess the latest weather and trail conditions before setting out and may alter the planned route if conditions make a particular route unviable.
What to pack for Madeira’s mountain trails
For mountain walks, it's worth keeping your daypack light but still ensuring you have everything you'll need for several hours on the trail.
Essential items include:
- Water: bring enough for the day, particularly as there may not be reliable opportunities to refill along the mountain routes.
- Food and snacks: pack a lunch and energy-boosting snacks such as fruit, nuts, and cereal bars.
- Sun protection: sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are necessary even when the mountains are cloudy (UV rays can still reach you and exposure can increase at higher elevations).
- Small first-aid kit: useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Walking poles: these are optional but can be helpful if you need extra support on steep climbs and descents.
How Pico Ruivo fits into a Madeira walking itinerary
Our
Madeira walking itinerary starts with coastal and levada routes, before moving through Madeira's UNESCO-protected Laurel Forest and into the island's more varied landscapes. The walks gradually become longer in distance, with more elevation and exposed sections, so you can build up to more challenging terrain later in the trip.
After the final levada walk, there's a free day in Funchal before the walking resumes from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, nicknamed 'the stairway to heaven'. The exact route is determined by your tour leader according to the conditions on the day. This will be the most demanding but rewarding walk across varying terrain, and the perfect way to end your tour in Madeira.
Why walk Madeira’s mountain trails with a guide?
Walking with an experienced tour leader adds more reassurance on Madeira's mountain trails. They know the routes, understand the landscape, and can help you appreciate what you're seeing, from the island's volcanic geology to the plants and wildlife.
Their local knowledge is critical in the mountains where conditions can change quickly, as they'll need to adapt the route depending on what's happening on the day. Your tour leader will always prioritise your safety and comfort, allowing you to fully enjoy the trail and views.
