Stairway to Heaven Pico do Areeiro in Madeira Island
Description
Embark on an adventure through Madeira’s breathtaking landscapes, starting in the Ecological Park of Funchal, surrounded by lush greenery and diverse terrain. The trail leads to Poço da Neve, offering unique views over Funchal harbor. Continue along the PR3 Vereda do Burro trail to the majestic Pico do Areeiro, the island’s third-highest peak. From here, the path guides you to the stunning Miradouro do Ninho da Manta, where you’ll witness Madeira’s rugged beauty. Then, head to Pedra Rija viewpoint, another breathtaking stop. Next, tackle the challenging yet rewarding “Stairway to Heaven,” where the ascent promises awe-inspiring vistas. After conquering this iconic climb, return to Pico do Areeiro to complete your hike. This route is perfect for seasoned hikers and nature lovers, offering some of the most spectacular views Madeira has to offer. Experience the island's wilderness and let it captivate your soul!
Tour Options
Itinerary
Begin your adventure at Pico do Arieiro, through the diverse terrains of Funchal Ecological Park, immersing in rich vegetation and endemic wildlife along the way.
Make a brief stop at Poço da Neve, an historical site once used for ice production, offering a unique glimpse into Madeira’s past amidst natural beauty.
Madeira’s third highest peak, where sweeping panoramic views await to take your breath away right from the start.
Where the rugged cliffs offer awe-inspiring views over the valley—perfect for reflection and photos
Pause at Miradouro Pedra Rija for a quick photo session against the backdrop of Madeira’s dramatic landscape and azure skies, after passing "The Stairway to Heaven"
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
Pickup is included for guests staying at the designated hotels. We advise you to be ready and waiting in the hotel reception area 10 minutes before your scheduled pickup time. Our guides will wait approximately 5 minutes for each guest. Look out for our vans, which can be either white (smaller) or grey (larger). We strive to ensure a smooth and timely start to your adventure, though external delays can occur. If that happens, you will be updated on the day. One day before the activity, we may adjust the pickup time for your convenience.
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- Health and Fitness: This tour involves a 4 hour challenging hike with numerous ups, downs, and stairs. It requires a high level of fitness and is not suitable for individuals with severe health issues or limited mobility.
- Rain or Shine: This tour is subject to the unpredictable weather conditions typical at high altitudes. We will proceed as long as it's safe to do so. However, due to rapidly changing weather, we may need to cancel or make an alternative hike if conditions become too hazardous. Your safety is our priority.
- Cancellation Policy: No refunds are provided for cancellations made within 24 hours of the activity's start time
- Breakfast: Ensure you have a hearty breakfast before embarking on the activity to keep your energy levels high throughout the hike.
- It might be possible to buy food and drinks before the hike, but this is not guaranteed. Please bring your own refreshments and do not count on purchasing them along the way
- Multilingual Guide: Your tour may be led by a guide fluent in multiple languages. While we do our best to provide a guide who speaks your preferred language, this is not always guaranteed. In such cases, the tour will be conducted in English.
Reviews(35)
Absolutely incredible. Loved Martha!! She had such great energy. Handled the different speed levels of the group wonderfully. Would highly recommend. Great communication- prompt pick up.
We had a wonderful day with Nadia, she was very attentive, knowledgeable and considerate of everybody in the group. The walk was challenging, especially in the heat, but there were many opportunities to stop for a break and no sense of rushing so we could go at our own pace. The views are very rewarding and the hike was very memorable. Definitely one to do with a guide if you are wanting to hike up instead of driving.
First, our host, Nadia greeted us warmly. Pickup was on time. She explained everything well on the drive up. She noted all of the best viewers and stopped at perfect moments (when we were exhausted) to give us great history of the area/island. It was a very tough hike at times (for me, 45 y/o male, average fitness). Lots of steep uphill climbs. Ultimately the payoff was at the end. You will be walking in the clouds.
We had an amazing time on this hike! It was a highlight of our trip. Our guide Daria and driver were knowledgeable and organised. Would definitely recommend this experience.
Dear Juno, Thank you for your wonderful review! We’re delighted the Stairway to Heaven hike was a highlight of your trip and that Daria and our driver helped make the experience so enjoyable. At Madeira Adventure Kingdom, your satisfaction is our top priority. Thank you for your recommendation, and we hope to welcome you back to Madeira soon! 😊🌿
Not for casual walkers quite steep and good footwear needed as rocky in most places , bring protein snacks and water
Dear Julie, Thank you for your great review! We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed the incredible views on the Stairway to Heaven hike. We also appreciate your helpful advice for future hikers regarding suitable footwear, water, and snacks, as preparation can make the experience even more enjoyable. At Madeira Adventure Kingdom, customer satisfaction is always our top priority, and we’re thrilled that the adventure left such a positive impression on you. We hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable experience in Madeira soon! 😊⛰️🌿
Everything was as scheduled , our guide was great, middle section of the hike was the most challenging. Well worth it
Dear client, Thank you for your fantastic review! We’re delighted to hear that everything ran smoothly and that you had such an amazing time on the Stairway to Heaven hike. It’s great to know that your guide helped make the experience enjoyable and that the challenge of the middle section was well worth it in the end. At Madeira Adventure Kingdom, customer satisfaction is always our top priority, and we truly appreciate your kind feedback. We hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable adventure in Madeira soon! 😊⛰️🌿
Condition is advantageous :-) We were there in May, and it is advisable to bring a thick jacket, gloves, etc.
Liebe Viola, vielen Dank für Ihre 5-Sterne-Bewertung und Ihren hilfreichen Tipp! Es freut uns sehr, dass Sie die Stairway to Heaven Tour am Pico do Areeiro genossen haben. Die Bedingungen in den Bergen können selbst im Mai überraschend kühl und windig sein, daher ist Ihr Hinweis auf warme Kleidung sicherlich hilfreich für andere Wanderer. Bei Madeira Adventure Kingdom steht die Zufriedenheit unserer Gäste immer an erster Stelle, und wir hoffen, Sie bald wieder zu einem weiteren unvergesslichen Abenteuer auf Madeira begrüßen zu dürfen! 😊⛰️🌿
I award 5 stars because of Martha and the great information she told us. She was very punctual and professional during the hike. With 3 stars I would have rated the sky staircase, as very touristy. It is a pity that you can travel by car to the summit and the sky staircase to be climbed afterwards becomes very touristy. Notwithstanding everything.
Liebe Petra, vielen Dank für deine ehrliche und ausführliche Rückmeldung! Es freut uns sehr, dass du mit Martha so zufrieden warst und ihre Pünktlichkeit, Professionalität sowie die interessanten Informationen während der Wanderung besonders geschätzt hast. Deine lieben Worte geben wir sehr gerne an sie weiter 😊 Wir verstehen auch deinen Eindruck bezüglich des hohen Besucheraufkommens an der „Himmelstreppe“. Gerade diese bekannte Route zieht viele Besucher an, besonders zu bestimmten Tageszeiten. Umso mehr freut es uns, dass du die Wanderung und die Aussicht trotzdem als sehenswert empfunden hast. Bei Madeira Adventure Kingdom steht eure Zufriedenheit immer an erster Stelle, und wir hoffen, dich bei einer unserer anderen, ruhigeren Wanderungen wieder begrüßen zu dürfen! 🌿
Marta was an amazing guide! It was challenging but we stopped along the way for water breaks and to take pictures of the amazing views.
Dear Jacqueline, Thank you so much for your lovely review! We’re delighted to hear that Marta made such a positive impression and helped make the hike both enjoyable and manageable. It’s great to know the breaks along the way gave you time to take in the incredible views and fully enjoy the experience. At Madeira Adventure Kingdom, your safety and satisfaction are always our top priorities, and we truly appreciate your kind feedback. We hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable adventure in Madeira soon! 🌿
I did not know that I could suffer from altitude sickness at Pico de Areeiro, but that is what happened to me :-( I am super sensitive, so I think most people who suffer from altitude sickness do not yet get it here. Unfortunately, I was feeling very dizzy and could not take the trip. I stayed at the café while others (my husband included) took the trip. My husband really enjoyed the trip. Martha was great at taking care of us.
Dear Maarit, Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us. We’re sorry to hear that you weren’t feeling well and couldn’t continue the hike, but we’re glad that Martha was there to take good care of you and that your husband was still able to enjoy the experience and the incredible views. Mountain conditions and altitude can affect everyone differently, and we truly appreciate your openness in sharing this with future travelers. At Madeira Adventure Kingdom, your safety and well-being are always our top priorities. We hope to welcome you back for another adventure in Madeira that feels more comfortable for you! 🌿
