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.

How to Get to Pico do Arieiro by Bus

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PR Hiking Fee Alert

As of 2025, non-residents (ages 12+) must pay a €3 entry fee to hike any classified "PR" trail in Madeira. Starting in 2026, this fee increases to €4.50.

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

Pay Online (Simplifica)

Pico do Arieiro is served by Route 56 from Funchal, providing spectacular mountain ridge views:

Funchal ↔ Santana via Pico do Arieiro

Stops at the Pico do Arieiro summit. Perfect for high-altitude hiking and views.

💡 Travel Tip: Dress warmly as temperatures can be 10-15°C cooler at the summit. The GIRO card (€1.95) offers significant savings compared to cash fares (€2.50). 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 café 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.