The sun rises
above the clouds.

What awaits you

You depart before dawn, on a roughly 40-minute drive to Pico do Areeiro at 1,818 metres. When you arrive, the horizon is dark and starry. Gradually, the first light of dawn appears through the mist wrapping Madeira's ridges.

When the sun breaks the horizon, below you lies an ocean of clouds bathed in gold. It is one of those moments that stays with you forever.

Your guide accompanies you throughout — sharing the island's history, the unique geology of these mountains and the best tips for capturing perfect photographs.

What this experience is, and is not

This is a viewpoint experience, not a hike. It involves about 600 metres of walking in total, on uneven ground and steps, in the dark at the start. It is not suitable at all for guests with reduced mobility, wheelchairs or pushchairs.

How it works

1. Pick-up, before dawnWe collect you at your accommodation or, where the street is closed to cars, at a nearby meeting point we agree with you. The exact time follows the sunrise and is confirmed after you book.
2. The drive upAbout 40 to 45 minutes on winding mountain roads. If you are prone to motion sickness, let us know.
3. Arrival in the darkWe park and I guide you on foot to the viewpoint, about 600 metres on uneven ground and steps. We do not provide torches, so the torch on your phone is the easiest option.
4. First light and sunriseWe stay at the top for around two hours, from before sunrise until shortly after, with time for photos and stories about the island. With luck, a sea of clouds lies below you, but the mountain makes its own weather and this is not guaranteed.
5. The drive backWe drive down and drop you off. The whole experience lasts about 3.5 hours.

What's included

• Pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation
• A guide with you the whole way
• Maximum group of 8 guests
• Comfortable electric vehicle

Not included

• Food and drinks. There is no café or restroom open at the viewpoint at that hour, so please plan ahead before pick-up.
• The Stairway to Heaven hike (PR1): the tour stays at the Pico do Areeiro viewpoint and does not include trails
• Tips

Good to know

• It is much colder at 1,818 m: around 10 degrees less than in Funchal, and often windy. Bring a warm jacket, long trousers and closed, comfortable shoes. Gloves and a hat help.
• If the forecast is clearly poor, we will contact you the day before and you can choose a new date (within 5 days) or a full refund.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before.
• Guided in English and Portuguese.

Practical information