Pico do Arieiro Sunrise Hike Santana and North Coast Tour

Start with sunrise at Pico do Arieiro, then follow your guide along a scenic section of PR1 to the famous Stairway to Heaven. Continue through the forest to Balcões, explore Santana’s traditional houses, and discover a waterfall and sweeping north-coast views. What makes our day special is the pace. We leave time to enjoy the scenery, take photographs, ask questions, and pause over coffee. With a small group and a flexible itinerary, the day can unfold naturally, with adjustments for weather and local conditions. Optional experiences include the Rocha do Navio cable car, lunch with the group, and traditional Madeiran drinks at São Cristóvão, all at an additional cost. PR1 and PR11 trail entry fees, water, snacks, and raincoats are included. Allow approximately 10–11 hours, including pickup and drop-off.

1. 1

   Pico do Arieiro

   45 min

   Watch the first light of day illuminate Madeira’s highest mountains. Take in the sunrise from Pico do Arieiro, often above a spectacular sea of clouds, while your guide helps you find the best viewpoints and photo locations.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   1.5 hours

   Follow your guide along a scenic section of Madeira’s famous PR1 trail to the iconic Stairway to Heaven viewpoint. Walk between dramatic mountain peaks, stop for photographs, and learn about the island’s volcanic landscape. The route may be adjusted according to weather and trail conditions.

3. 3

   Ribeiro Frio

   30 min

   Stop at a local café in Ribeiro Frio for coffee and a light breakfast. You can enjoy it at the café or take something to go and have a picnic at the final viewpoint of the next walk. Food and drinks are available for purchase at your own expense.

4. 4

   PR11 Vereda dos Balcoes

   1 hour

   Enjoy an easy guided walk along the PR11 trail through Madeira’s lush Laurisilva forest. Reach the famous Balcões viewpoint for panoramic views of the island’s highest mountains and watch the curious endemic birds that often approach visitors.

5. 5

   Stop 5

   1 hour

   Enjoy sweeping views of Madeira’s north coast at Rocha do Navio. Take an optional cable car ride down the cliffs to explore the peaceful coastal farmland and admire the ocean scenery. Cable car tickets cost €8 per person and are not included in the tour price. The ride is subject to weather conditions and operating availability.

6. 6

   Casas Tipicas de Santana

   30 min

   Join your guide for a leisurely stroll around Santana’s traditional thatched-roof houses. Learn about their distinctive triangular design and Madeira’s rural way of life, with time to take photographs and browse local crafts.

7. 7

   Santana

   1 hour

   Enjoy some free time to explore Santana at your own pace, or join the group for lunch at a local restaurant suggested by your guide. Discover traditional Madeiran dishes and relax before continuing along the north coast. Lunch and drinks are optional and not included in the tour price.

8. 8

   Stop 8

   1 hour

   Discover Água d’Alto waterfall with your guide. Pause to admire the cascading water and surrounding greenery, enjoy the sounds of nature, and take photographs before continuing along Madeira’s north coast. Access depends on weather and local conditions.

9. 9

   Arco de Sao Jorge

   Pass by

   Travel through one of Madeira’s oldest road tunnels still in use, near Arco de São Jorge. Experience a piece of the island’s historic coastal route as your guide explains how these tunnels connected isolated villages across Madeira’s rugged landscape.

10. 10

    Stop 10

    30 min

    Relax at São Cristóvão with sweeping views of Madeira’s north coast. Try traditional Madeiran drinks, such as poncha, while your guide introduces you to the island’s local flavours and drinking traditions. Drinks are optional and purchased at your own expense.

• Service animals allowed
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.