Pico do Arieiro

Madeira's Third Highest Peak

At 1,818 meters (5,965 feet) above sea level, Pico do Arieiro is Madeira's third highest peak. Famous for sunrise views above the clouds and the starting point of the spectacular PR1 hiking trail to Pico Ruivo, Madeira's highest peak.

Bus 801 doesn't reach the summit until well after sunrise. Most visitors take a guided sunrise transfer with hotel pickup (sponsored) More options ↓

How to Get to Pico do Arieiro by Bus

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PR Hiking Fee Alert

Non-residents (ages 12+) must pay a €4,50 entry fee to hike any classified "PR" trail in Madeira. Advance booking with time-slot reservations is mandatory.

Payment must be made online via the official portal before starting your hike.

Pay Online (Simplifica)

Pico do Arieiro is served by Route 801 from Funchal, providing spectacular mountain ridge views:

πŸ’‘ Travel Tip: Dress warmly as temperatures can be 10-15Β°C cooler at the summit. The GIRO card (€1,45) offers significant savings compared to cash fares (€2,00). Download the Madeira Bus app for bus schedules.

What to See at Pico do Arieiro

The summit offers 360-degree panoramic views across Madeira. On clear days, you can see the PR1 hiking trail snaking across the mountain ridges. The visitor center features a cafΓ© and information about the mountain's unique ecosystem.

Best Time to Visit

Early morning for sunrise views above the clouds is spectacular. Clear weather is essential for views. The site is accessible year-round, though winter may bring snow and ice at the summit.

Want to See the Sunrise? Take a Transfer

Other transfer options

Sponsored β€” we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

  • PR1 Transfer: Pico do Arieiro β†’ Pico Ruivo 4.8 Β· 1,900+ reviews

    Hike the full PR1 trail end-to-end without arranging your own pickup from the other side.

    Book
  • Pico do Arieiro ↔ Pico Ruivo: Sunrise or Morning Transfer 4.8 Β· 1,200+ reviews

    Most flexible β€” pick sunrise or a more relaxed morning start. Tends to be the lowest-priced of the three.

    Book

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