Half day Tour From 0 To 1818 Meters To Pico Do Arieiro Sunrise

Starting at 6:00 am in Funchal, this half-day tour offers an unforgettable sunrise experience at Pico do Arieiro, one of Madeira’s highest peaks at 1800 meters. Priced at $57.62 per person, the tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, making it an ideal early morning activity. The tour includes private transportation and pickup service, ensuring a smooth and comfortable start to your adventure.

A highlight is the opportunity to witness Mother Nature’s stunning display of orange and purple hues as the sun rises above the clouds, revealing distant sea and mountain views. The tour is especially praised for its knowledgeable guides who walk you to the best viewpoints and lend extra warmth if needed. It’s a perfect choice for those who appreciate scenic vistas, peaceful walks, and expert guidance, with most travelers booking around 37 days in advance due to its popularity.

Key Points

• Early morning start at 6:00 am for optimal sunrise views from Pico do Arieiro.
• Includes private transportation and pickup, making logistics hassle-free.
• Guides are fluent in multiple languages: English, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese.
• Sunrise viewing occurs at 1800 meters, above the clouds for spectacular scenery.
• Follow-up walk to the Levada de Balcoes, a peaceful, less crowded area.
• Full refund available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance due to weather or change of plans.

From Funchal to Pico do Arieiro in Less than an Hour

The tour departs from Funchal early in the morning, with pickup offered around 4:30 am to ensure arrival at Pico do Arieiro by 45 minutes later. This timing allows travelers to settle into a comfortable spot before dawn, avoiding crowds while enjoying the tranquility of the mountain at sunrise.

The drive up the winding roads of Madeira offers scenic views, and the short journey keeps the experience accessible for most. Once at the viewpoint, the guide leads you to a viewpoint at 1800 meters, where the magic of sunrise unfolds right in front of your eyes. Many reviews highlight how prompt and attentive the guide is, creating a relaxed and enjoyable start to the day.

Witness the Sunrise at Pico do Arieiro’s 1800 Meter Viewpoint

The main attraction is the spectacular sunrise seen from Pico do Arieiro, one of Madeira’s most iconic spots. As the sun rises, orange and purple shades tear through the sky, reflecting on the clouds below and revealing distant sea views alongside the lush green mountains.

The elevated 1800-meter viewpoint offers an unobstructed view of Mother Nature’s artistry. The experience feels intimate and peaceful, thanks to the early hour and the less crowded setting. The guide’s expertise shines here, helping guests find the best spots to capture photographs or simply soak in the view.

Many praise the guides’ knowledge during this part of the tour, emphasizing their ability to suggest the best vantage points and share interesting facts about the landscape.

Discover the Calm of Levada de Balcoes After Sunrise

Following the sunrise, the tour descends to a campsite where the Levada de Balcoes begins. This small and peaceful Levada provides a serene walk away from crowded areas, and is perfect for those seeking tranquility.

The walk along the Balcoes takes approximately 45 minutes, during which visitors enjoy the lush surroundings and the quiet morning ambiance. No admission fee is required, making this stop a cost-effective addition to the tour. The guide ensures the walk is comfortable and suitable for most, offering a chance to reflect on the morning’s stunning natural beauty.

Critically, this part of the tour is praised for its calm atmosphere and scenic appeal, offering a gentle conclusion to a busy morning of sightseeing.

Comfortable Transportation and Multilingual Guides

The tour features private transportation, ensuring a personalized experience from start to finish. The vehicles are comfortable, and the pickup service operates smoothly and punctually.

Guides are fluent in English, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese, providing clear narration and answering questions about Madeira’s landscapes, history, and local flora and fauna. Their knowledgeable and friendly manner enhances the overall experience, making the early start more enjoyable and informative.

Guests often mention the guides’ warm attitude, attention to detail, and help with practical needs such as wrapping up warmly or offering extra layers.

Timing, Booking, and Weather Considerations

Most travelers book this tour about 37 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The tour begins at 6:00 am, with most of the experience completed in about 3.5 hours—perfect for a morning adventure.

The activity is weather-dependent, and cancellations are free if the weather turns poor. In such cases, travelers are offered a different date or a full refund. It’s recommended to dress warmly and be prepared for potentially chilly temperatures at high altitude early in the morning.

Why Choose This Sunrise Tour of Pico do Arieiro?

This tour stands out because of its combination of breathtaking sunrise views and peaceful walk along the Balcoes. The small group size, with a maximum of 6 travelers, offers a personalized experience with plenty of opportunities for photo-taking and questions.

The enthusiastic reviews emphasize the stunning scenery and the knowledgeable guides. Many guests appreciate the prompt service, comfortable transport, and the extra warmth provided by guides, which makes the early start easier.

However, the early morning timing and altitude may not suit everyone, and good weather is necessary for the best experience. Still, this activity offers an exceptional way to start a Madeira day—seeing mountain sunrise and enjoying the serene landscapes on a well-organized tour.

Pico do Arieiro Sunrise and Levada Walk: Final Thoughts

This half-day tour from Funchal offers a stellar early morning adventure, combining spectacular sunrise views from Pico do Arieiro with a peaceful walk along the Levada de Balcoes. For those seeking nature, tranquility, and expert guidance, this experience provides value at $57.62, with the added comfort of private transport and multilingual guides.

It is especially recommended for travelers who are early risers, enjoy scenic vistas, and appreciate small-group tours. The beautiful landscape, combined with the professional service and flexible cancellation policy, makes this a reliable choice for a memorable Madeira morning.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 6:00 am with a pickup scheduled around 4:30 am for the drive to Pico do Arieiro.

How long does the sunrise experience last?
The sunrise viewing from Pico do Arieiro at 1800 meters is the main focus and lasts about 45 minutes to an hour.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation is included, making the trip comfortable and straightforward.

What should I wear for this early morning tour?
Dress warmly, especially for early morning at high altitude, as temperatures can be cool.

Are there any additional costs?
No, the tour price covers transportation, guide services, and the sunrise experience. Food and drinks, like breakfast or coffee, are not included.

Can this tour be canceled if the weather is poor?
Yes, free cancellation is available if the weather conditions cancel the tour—full refunds or rescheduling are offered.

How many people are in each group?
The tour accommodates a maximum of 6 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What makes this tour different from other sunrise excursions?
The combination of Pico do Arieiro’s stunning sunrise and the peaceful walk along Balcoes makes this tour uniquely scenic and tranquil.

Is the guide available in multiple languages?
Yes, guides are fluent in English, Spanish, Italian, and Portuguese.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book around 37 days before to secure a spot, given its popularity.