Private Guided Tour: Pico do Areeiro & Pico Ruivo

Private Guided Tour to Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo: A Personalized Madeira Experience

This 7-hour private tour offers an in-depth exploration of Madeira’s iconic highlands, focusing on Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo. Operated by Levadas In and Out, the tour boasts a 4.8-star rating and promises a customizable experience with a local guide in a private group of up to 6 participants. It is designed for visitors eager to enjoy spectacular viewpoints, natural scenery, and personal attention throughout the day.

The tour begins with pick-up options from six locations including Funchal, Machico, Canical, Santa Cruz, Caniço, and Câmara de Lobos, ensuring convenient access. Transport is included, making the journey comfortable as you travel between sites, with flexible departure times tailored to your group’s schedule. While access to Pico Ruivo via Pico do Areeiro may be temporarily limited, the tour includes two visits in one day so no highlights are missed.

This experience is ideal for anyone looking for a flexible, guided discovery of Madeira’s highest peaks with stunning views and personalized stops. It’s worth noting that children under 12 and those under 4 ft 4 in (135 cm) are not suited for this tour. With transport, guide insights, and scenic stops included, it offers a convenient way to enjoy Madeira’s natural beauty without the hassle of self-driving.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private, customizable 7-hour tour of Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo
• Transport and guide included, with flexible departure times
• Up to 6 participants, ensuring personalized attention
• Stunning viewpoints and photo stops at hidden locations
• Tourist taxes included in the price, no extra fees
• Suitable for those with comfortable shoes, camera, and weather-appropriate clothing

Starting at Your Doorstep: Pickup and Departure Flexibility

The tour begins with pickup from six key locations: Caniço, Machico, Canical, Funchal, Santa Cruz, and Câmara de Lobos. The pickup times are adjustable, allowing your group to start at a time that suits your plans. Once onboard, a van takes you on a one-hour drive to Pico do Areeiro.

This flexible pickup system ensures a smooth start no matter where you’re staying in Madeira. The convenience of door-to-door pickup plus comfortable transportation means you can relax and look forward to the day’s adventures from the moment you’re collected.

Exploring Pico do Areeiro with a Local Guide

Upon arriving at Pico do Areeiro, the guided tour of about 1.5 hours begins. The local guide explains the significance of this highest accessible point on the island, standing at 1818 meters. You get to enjoy sweeping views of Madeira’s rugged terrain, with plenty of photo opportunities at scenic viewpoints.

The guide’s insights help you understand the geological features, flora, and fauna that make this mountain landscape unique. The walk is accessible but offers plenty of photo moments—an excellent chance to capture the vast, open vistas that stretch across the island.

The Drive to Pico Ruivo and Its Highlights

After exploring Pico do Areeiro, a one-hour drive takes you to Pico Ruivo, Madeira’s highest peak at 1862 meters. The guided tour at Pico Ruivo lasts approximately 2.5 hours, during which you can expect to walk along well-maintained trails and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views.

This part of the tour emphasizes natural beauty, with many hidden viewpoints and opportunities for stunning photographs. The local guide shares fascinating details about the mountain’s geology, ecosystems, and how the landscape has evolved over time.

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Scenic Stops and Photo Opportunities Along the Way

Throughout the day, the tour offers multiple viewpoints and stops that showcase Madeira’s diverse scenery. These locations are selected to provide spectacular photo moments and quiet spots away from crowds. Because the itinerary is flexible, the guide can accommodate your preferences for more time at certain viewpoints or spontaneous photo stops.

The stops are designed to highlight Madeira’s natural wonders, from cloud-covered peaks to lush valleys. These hidden viewpoints are often overlooked by larger tours, giving your group a more intimate experience with the island’s landscape.

Returning and Drop-Off Options in Multiple Locations

After a full day of exploring, a one-hour drive back takes you to your chosen drop-off location. The tour concludes with drop-offs at Machico, Funchal, Canical, Caniço, Câmara de Lobos, or Santa Cruz—matching the initial pickup points.

This convenient drop-off system ensures you can continue your Madeira adventures or head straight to your accommodation without additional hassle. The private nature of the tour means you can also request customized drop-off times if needed.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain, along with a camera for capturing vistas. Sunscreen, water, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, especially since mountain weather can change quickly. The tour is not suitable for children under 12 or those under 135 cm tall, due to walking requirements and safety considerations.

The tour’s flexibility allows for adjustments in pace and stops, so communicate your preferences to the guide. Since tourist taxes are included, there are no additional charges at viewpoints or parks.

The Value of a Private, Expert-Led Experience

This tour offers a personalized alternative to larger group excursions. The local guide’s knowledge enriches the experience, providing context and stories you won’t find on standard tours. The private setting assures a more relaxed pace, perfect for photographers or nature lovers.

The inclusion of transport, guide, and scenic stops makes this a convenient and comprehensive way to see Madeira’s highest mountains. Its 7-hour duration balances a thorough exploration with comfortable pacing.

Limitations and Considerations

While the tour is full of spectacular viewpoints, the access to Pico Ruivo via Pico do Areeiro may be temporarily restricted, but the tour compensates by offering two visits in one day. This flexibility ensures you won’t miss key highlights even if access is limited.

The tour also excludes children under 12 and those under 135 cm, so families with younger children should seek alternative options. Weather conditions can influence walking routes and stops, so being prepared with suitable clothing is important.

Why Choose This Tour for Your Madeira Adventure

This private guided tour excels in providing a tailored, scenic journey through Madeira’s mountain peaks. The expert local guide adds depth to the experience, making the highlands more meaningful and memorable. Its flexibility and private nature make it an ideal choice for groups seeking personalized attention and breathtaking views away from busier tourist spots.

For those who value comfort, customization, and the chance to capture Madeira’s natural beauty with expert insights, this tour offers excellent value in a 7-hour package. The scenic highlights combined with personalized stops ensure a fulfilling day in the island’s rugged landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
Transport, a local guide, and tourist taxes are included. No additional fees are required at viewpoints or parks.

Can I customize the departure time?
Yes, departure times are adjustable to fit your group’s schedule.

What locations does the tour pick up from?
Pickup is available from Caniço, Machico, Canical, Funchal, Santa Cruz, and Câmara de Lobos.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 12 or those under 135 cm tall.

How long is the guided tour at Pico do Areeiro?
About 1.5 hours, focusing on the highest accessible point with sweeping views.

How long is the guided walk at Pico Ruivo?
Approximately 2.5 hours, including walking along trails and viewpoints.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, camera, sunscreen, water, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Are there stops for photos?
Yes, numerous hidden viewpoints and scenic stops are included to capture stunning photos.

What if the access to Pico Ruivo is restricted?
The tour includes two visits in one day to ensure you see key highlights regardless of access limitations.

How does the private aspect benefit me?
It allows for a relaxed, tailored experience, with the guide focusing entirely on your group’s interests and pace.

This 7-hour private tour to Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo delivers a personalized, scenic, and insightful journey through Madeira’s highest sights, perfect for those seeking flexibility and breathtaking vistas.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby