Unforgettable Sunrise Hike: Madeira's Pico Areeiro to Ruivo

It was an amazing experience. The views are breathtaking. It is very safe if you stay on the path and follow the guide instructions.

David was very flexible and adaptable as the weather was unfavourable (rain/wind/fog) and we were unable to do the hike. He took us to a different place to try to watch the sunrise, went on another walk with great views, and to a local coffee shop and poncha pub. He still showed us a great time even though we were unable to do the PR1 hike. Would definitely book with David again as we will be back to try the hike again! He made the day positive even though it was disappointing to not do the hike.

David was a gentleman, very knowledgeable, a great and safe driver, accommodating of everyone’s needs and abilities. We captured a phenomenal sunrise and Pico do Aeiro and managed to beat 90% of the crowds for a very enjoyable experience. We couldn’t complete the PR1 trail as it’s partially closed due to wildfires, however we did not lose out. After descending, David took us to a beautiful village for a nice coffee before driving us to complete the remainder of the trail to climb Pico Ruivo -PR1.2 Incredible views and experience. Everywhere we looked was a “wow”. The trail was moderate. Would recommend good footwear - boots ideally or good hiking shoes. The pathway is excellent but it’s very undulating and when you’re tired it could be easy to roll an ankle. We stopped at the cafe on top of Pico Ruivo for a quick refreshment and toilet break before climbing the last 500m to take it 360 views of Madeira, above the clouds. Finally, after descending, David took us to Santana to see the traditional A-framed local houses from times gone by, before returning us safely to our accommodation. 10/10. Highly recommend. David was punctual, knowledgeable, kind, and a fantastic experienced local guide.

Amazing experience, the views were unbelievable. A shame that some of the PR1 trail was still closed, but David was fantastic and you still get to do both peaks still!

Wow, absolutely breathtaking! Kind of tough hikes, but all pathways have stones/ rocks. We have hiked up Pikes Peak in CO USA. This is a must if you are coming to Madeira. Our guide David was awesome too! We went with our 17 & 14 YO. Recommend bringing water bottles to keep in van. Surprisingly chilly. Wasn’t expecting it in July. We had a little bit of drizzle. Bring jacket and pants that you can remove easily. Island can be windy. Didn’t need hiking sticks, but if you’re a little wobbly, might not be a bad idea. 10 out of 10!

It was an early start but worth it … the tour was well planned we saw a stunning sunrise through the clouds. Our guide David was super friendly and knowledgeable and paced everything really well. Thanks for a great tour ….

Amazing sunrise hike with David. Felt perfectly safe hiking the trail at all times. Although we couldn’t do the peak to peak due to the fires David & Nico suggested a fab alternative which we thoroughly enjoyed. Would recommend 😊

David was an exceptional tour guide. Encouraging and attentive to needs of the individuals in our group as hike was challenging in certain areas yet kept us going so we were able to see the sunrise from a beautiful vantage point. He was also well informed of history and culture of the island.

Before I begin my review I just wanted to clarify that I actually went in May of 2024, not June. Nico & David were amazing. Upon their arrival to pick us up, my friend and I were running a bit behind. They had our hotel front desk give us a call to make sure we’d still make the tour instead of just leaving. It’s been a full year later and I still think about this experience often. It is truly one of the best things I’ve ever done in my life 🥹! The views were out of this world, beauty that you’d have to see to really believe. I took so many pictures & videos, but they don’t do it justice. This was our first ever hike and Nico was so patient with us!! He even let us borrow his jacket in the beginning as it was super cold and we were unprepared. Truly a 10/10 experience with a 10/10 crew. I’d definitely do this again and would recommend everyone to do it 💓💓!! Also, I’d recommend bringing mittens for your hands, mine were freezing lol.

The company provided a good alternative hike in spite of the traditional route still being closed. Everything was well organized