Note: If the route is closed due to landslides, other natural factors, or safety reasons, the hiking route may be partially or fully diverted to an alternative path.
This walk connects two of the highest peaks of Madeira Islands, this is a stunning walk, involves tunnels, and some steep ascents and descents, with fabulous views of the central core of the mountains.
Along the way, we find various caves dug out of the volcanic tuff where the cattle took refuge and which served as shelter for the shepherds; we can also see various birds, some of the more important ones being species restricted to Macaronesia, the canary (Serinus canaria), Berthelot’s pipit (Anthus berthelottii madeirensis) and the plain swift (Apus unicolor), as well as other subspecies found only in the Madeira archipelago: the Madeira rock sparrow (Petronia petronia madeirensis), chaffinch (Fringilla coelebs madeirensis), and the firecrest (Regulus ignicapillus madeirensis).
For those who enjoy plants, this area is known as a high-altitude heath and is marked by the presence of various endemisms of Madeira, which include the Madeira violet (Viola paradoxa), Madeira grey heather (Erica madeirensis), the rock orchid (Orchis scopolorum), and the Madeira kidney (Anthyllis lemanniana).
Near the Pico Ruivo shelter, you will find footpath PR 1.2, which leads to Achada do Teixeira. At Achada do Teixeira you can see “Homem em pé” (Standing Man), a basalt rock formation found on the way down the slope after you pass the shelter at Achada do Teixeira.
A fee between €4 / €11 per person must be paid directly to the Madeira Regional Government’s official authority. Payment is made at the start of the walk at the ticket booth located at the trail entrance.
- Duration: Full Day (09H to 16:30H)
- Walking Time: 4 H
- Distance: 9 Km
- Difficulty: Difficult
Important Notice Regarding Pick-ups and Transport:
- Please note that pick-ups are available within Funchal city centre and the main tourist hotel area
Some areas, including pedestrian zones, historic streets in Funchal, and locations with restricted access for the type of transport we use, may not be suitable for direct pick-up
If your accommodation is located outside our pick-up area or in a restricted-access zone, please provide us with your full accommodation address so that we can direct you to the nearest available meeting point in Funchal - Our activities are usually operated in groups of around 16 participants. However, during peak seasons, the type of transport may be adjusted and the number of participants per group may increase, depending on availability and logistical requirements
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