Madeira: Sunrise at Pico do Arieiro & Hike Larano trail

Planning a trip to Madeira and looking for a way to enjoy its breathtaking scenery while avoiding the crowds? This tour, rated 4.8 out of 5 based on over 580 reviews, offers an early start to witness a sunrise at Pico do Arieiro, followed by a scenic coastal hike along the Larano trail. It’s a perfect mix of natural beauty, a touch of adventure, and comfort, all in a well-organized package.

While the trip delivers consistently positive feedback, one aspect to keep in mind is the unpredictability of mountain weather—cloud cover can obscure the sunrise, and wind might be brisk. But if you’re an outdoor enthusiast, curious about Madeira’s rugged coastline, or just eager to avoid tourist crowds, this experience could be one of the highlights of your visit.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love natural scenery, are comfortable with a moderate hike, and appreciate guided experiences that include transportation and local insights. It’s not ideal for those with mobility issues or pregnant women, but for most active travelers, it offers an excellent value for a full morning of exploration.

Good To Know

Early start and sunrise views are a major feature, with logistics carefully managed to maximize chances of seeing the sunrise.
Comfortable transportation in a small, group setting—limiting to 8 participants—ensures a more personal experience.
Visiting Pico do Arieiro and the Glass Platform offers breathtaking views and photo opportunities, even when weather isn’t perfect.
A scenic 7 km coastal hike along Larano combines sea cliffs, nature, and a manageable difficulty level, appealing to most hikers.
Guides and transportation receive high praise for their knowledge and reliability, making the day smooth and enjoyable.
The experience is flexible with options like hiking part of the PR1 trail or relaxing near the van, catering to different energy levels.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Experience Overview

This tour is designed to start early, with hotel pick-up approximately 1.5 hours before sunrise. You’ll be transported in an air-conditioned vehicle, with pick-up and drop-off included from Funchal or nearby hotels. The timing is arranged to beat the crowds and catch the sunrise at Pico do Arieiro, one of Madeira’s highest points at 1,818 meters.

Sunrise at Pico do Arieiro

Watching the sunrise from Pico do Arieiro is touted as the tour’s main highlight, and reviews confirm it’s an unforgettable moment. The guides aim to position you well in advance, so you can enjoy a peaceful view, often above a sea of clouds. Weather can be unpredictable, and clouds sometimes obscure the actual sunrise, but travelers still find the experience magical, with many commenting on the dramatic landscape and the cool mountain air. One reviewer noted, “The sunrise was absolutely stunning and the driver timed it perfectly.”

An optional hike along the PR1 trail to the famous “Stairs of Heaven” allows adventurers to get closer to the dramatic cliffs and explore unique geological formations. This segment costs €3 on-site and is about 1.2 km long. Reviewers shared that the hike is manageable, even for those with limited hiking experience, and offers spectacular views. However, timing is crucial—if you decide to hike PR1, you need to return within 45 minutes after sunrise, so your guide can keep everyone on schedule.

The Glass Platform at Guindaste Viewpoint

Next, the group visits the Guindaste Viewpoint, where you can step onto a transparent glass platform. This is a highlight for those wanting Instagram-worthy shots and a sense of floating over the landscape. Reviewers mention how this stop provides a “perfect photo opportunity” and is a chance to soak in the expansive Atlantic views.

Larano Coastal Trail

The final part of the tour takes you on a 7 km coastal hike along the Larano Trail, which takes around 2.5 hours. This scenic hike runs along Madeira’s northeast coast, connecting Machico and Porto da Cruz. The trail offers spectacular sea cliffs, waterfalls, and the chance to observe Madeira’s rugged coastline up close.

Reviewers describe the hike as “moderate” and “not challenging” for most, with some noting that the views and fresh sea air make it a truly memorable experience. The trail’s natural scenery is complemented by informative commentary from guides during the drive, many of whom enhance the experience with insights about Madeira’s geology and flora.

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The Itinerary in Detail

• Pickup in Funchal: You’ll be notified of your exact pick-up time the evening before (around 8:30 PM), with transportation in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle.
• Drive to Pico do Arieiro: The journey takes approximately 45 minutes, giving you a chance to enjoy the scenery and get excited for the sunrise.
• Sunrise at Pico do Arieiro: Expect to spend around an hour here, with the option to hike PR1 or relax and take photos. Many reviews highlight the importance of warm clothing, as mountain winds can be chilly.
• Photo stop at Guindaste Viewpoint: After descending from Pico do Arieiro, you’ll make a quick stop for photos on the glass platform, which is a favorite for capturing Madeira’s breathtaking landscapes.
• Larano Trail: The highlight for nature lovers, this 7 km coastal trek offers incredible ocean vistas and opportunities to see waterfalls and rugged cliffs.
• Return to Funchal: The van drive back takes approximately 35 minutes, with a drop-off at your hotel, leaving you with plenty of time to relax or explore the rest of Madeira.

Additional Details

The tour is designed for active travelers who don’t mind an early start and some moderate hiking. It includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, making logistics hassle-free. The small group size (limit of 8) ensures a more personalized experience, and guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge—many reviews describe guides like Albano, Rosbert, Luis, and Chris as engaging and informative.

Pricing and Value: The tour is priced to include transportation, a guide, and several scenic stops. Extra costs are minimal—€3 for the PR1 trail access—and many travelers feel the experience offers excellent value considering the variety of sights, personal attention, and the quality of the guides.

Practical Tips

What to bring: Pack sturdy hiking shoes, warm layers, and perhaps a hat or beanie for early morning cold. The weather can change quickly in the mountains, so layers are key.
What not to bring: Avoid sandals, flip-flops, food, and alcohol for safety and convenience.
Timing: Be punctual; the early start is essential for catching the sunrise and fitting everything in before midday.
Weather considerations: Mountain weather is unpredictable—cloud cover might obscure the sunrise, but even then, the landscape is still striking. Refunds aren’t available if the sunrise is hidden.

Authentic Reviews & Insights

From the glowing reviews, one consistent theme is the professionalism of the guides. “Albano was a fantastic tour guide—very knowledgeable and looked after us all very well,” says one traveler. Others mention the comfort of the transport, with drivers like Rosbert and Luis earning praise for their safe driving and local insights.

Many reviewers highlight how the trip exceeded expectations. “Watching the sunrise above the clouds was one of the most beautiful moments of our trip,” writes a guest who appreciated the early start and the peaceful mountain atmosphere. The Larano trail earns particular praise for its ease and the stunning vistas—reviewers remark on waterfalls and cliff views making it “worth every step.”

A handful of travelers mention the optional hike to the “Stairs of Heaven” as a fantastic addition, especially for those wanting more adventure. Several note that despite some cloudiness or even snow at Pico do Arieiro (a rare but memorable experience), the overall day was unforgettable.

The Sum Up

This Madeira tour offers a well-rounded experience combining sunrise views, scenic viewpoints, and a coastal hike—all wrapped up in a small-group setting with reliable transportation. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want a taste of Madeira’s dramatic landscapes without long or strenuous hikes, especially if you enjoy early mornings and photography.

The guides’ local knowledge, comfort of the vehicles, and the variety of stops make this tour a strong value for those seeking natural beauty and a peaceful start to their day. While weather can occasionally impact the sunrise, many still find the experience awe-inspiring, and the hike along Larano is an added bonus that captures Madeira’s essence.

Perfect for active, curious travelers wanting a memorable, scenic day that blends adventure with comfort. Expect stunning views, friendly guides, and a chance to see Madeira from some of its most spectacular vantage points.

FAQ

Is hotel pick-up included?
Yes, the tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off within Funchal and Caniço, with the exact time communicated the evening before.

What should I bring?
Sturdy hiking shoes, warm layers, and a rain poncho (limited availability). Pack some water and a camera for photos.

Can I hike the PR1 trail?
Yes, the optional PR1 hike to the “Stairs of Heaven” is available for an additional €3, but you must return within approximately 45 minutes after sunrise.

What is the difficulty level of the hike?
The Larano Trail is considered moderate and suitable for most hikers. The PR1 trail is relatively short and manageable, but timing is important.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with health issues?
It’s best suited for active travelers in good health. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, those with heart problems, or mobility issues.

What happens if the weather is cloudy?
If the mountain clouds obscure the sunrise, the guides do their best to make the most of the scenic views. Refunds are not provided for poor visibility, but many find the landscape still stunning even without the sunrise.

This tour balances natural spectacle, comfort, and a touch of adventure, making it an excellent way to start your Madeira journey with awe-inspiring sights and great memories.

You can check if your dates are available here: