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Must do Hike in Madeira
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Pico do Ariero to Pico Ruivo
This is by far the most popular hike in Madeira, myself i firstly came here to do this hike and after got capture by the beauty Madeira and decide to move here :) While i was hiking this hike i got so emotional that i had a little cry of happiness, such a magical place.
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Length of the hike: 10 km (round trip), prepare yourself for some stairs :)
Difficulty: Difficult
Highlights:
This challenging hike connects two of the highest peaks on the island [...Pico do Arieiro 1,818m and Pico Ruivo 1,861m..].
This hike includes everything and more...Steep ascents and descents, narrow paths with breathtaking views and tunnels, yes tunnels!!
The drops are amazing and you can enjoy the view of the Vally from the highest peaks of Madeira.
The path are very arrow so most of the time is impossible to pass slow groups. If you are a fast hiker, like me, is better if you start this with a chill mindset and soak in the panorama better then try to finish the hike as fast as possible..
Be prepared to go up and down lots and lots of stairs, let's put those steps up..i can assure you it is worth it!!!
Tips from a local
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Every one tries to do this hike for sunrise of sunset, so early in the morning and mid afternoon are the busiest time...
Start hiking after 2PM and it will be less crowded!
Don't expect this hike to be a nice stroll in nature with birds chirping..No,No this is the most popular hike here, so arm yourself with lots of patience and breath in and out :)
I did it in the middle of the day, started around 11am and finished late in the afternoon.
So my Tip is to do the hike itself in the middle of the day and if you want to catch sunrise or sunset to just drive to the main view point!!
The weather in this hike can change drastically and very fast, so be prepare...Bring a change of clothes, rain jacket but also hat and sun cream, you need to be ready for anything :)
Here was warm and sunny...
Here was raining and cloudy...
Same hike less then 5km apart from one point to the other one :)
How to get there
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You can either take a shuttle from Funchal to Pico Do Ariero, lots of companies offer either a drop off to the first pico and pick up at the second one. So you don't have to walk back :)
Or a drop off and pick up at the same Pico.
Check this website to book your bus...
Best option is to rent a car and a scooter so you can drive up there by yourself and take your own time on the hike, without rushing it!
Lots of people do this walk so you can easily find someone to rent a car with you!!
This is the rental i used, is very central and the staff is very nice..
Ready, Steady, GO...
Now you are all set and ready, grab your hiking boots, water, backpack and GOOO...
Enjoy your hike and i hope it will be magical like it has been for me!
xx
Leti
The home for unique & authentic travel
