The afternoon ends
on top of the world.

What awaits you

The afternoon light on Pico do Areeiro has a unique quality. The low sun illuminates the ridges from impossible angles, creating dramatic shadows and a palette of colours no filter can replicate.

You depart in the late afternoon, with time to wander around up there at your own pace. Your guide shows you the lesser-known viewpoints, shares stories about the island and helps you capture the finest moments.

As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky transforms into a canvas of orange and red. One of Europe's most beautiful sunsets — and you are right there.

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. The way back to the van is at dusk or after dark. It is not suitable at all for guests with reduced mobility, wheelchairs or pushchairs.

How it works

1. Pick-up, in the late afternoonWe 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 sunset 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 and the walk to the viewpointWe arrive about an hour before sunset. We park and I guide you on foot to the viewpoint, about 600 metres on uneven ground and steps, with time to settle in and take photos in the golden light.
4. SunsetWe stay until shortly after the sun has gone down, with stories about the island. With luck the sky turns orange and red above the ridges, but the weather in the mountains changes quickly and the view cannot be guaranteed. The way back to the van is at dusk or after dark. We do not provide torches, so the torch on your phone is the easiest option.
5. The drive backWe drive down and drop you off. The whole experience lasts about 3 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, and the temperature drops quickly once the sun goes down. 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