I can very well understand why Dan advises against the tour. The path is long, exposed, there are a lot of people on the way and it is often very damp and slippery. So why should I go that way? Is it because of the view? I think it's because of the trail itself. Only if I see the path as my real goal, then I should go. I have walked many interesting paths in the mountains in my life. But always treated it very respectfully. I also reversed many paths because it became too dangerous, the weather changed or the terrain became too difficult for some reason. My highlight when I was young was the way over the via ferrata to the Zugspitze (Germany's highest mountain) and back in one day. There were a lot of people on the way and it was very exhausting, on the way back we were alone, but that was also dangerous. I can still remember the journey in every detail. It was the most intense experience with nature. So, if that's what you really want, do this tour, but do it responsibly.
Great video! A bunch of good recommendations. Be prepared and don't do the hike when the weather is dangerous. My only addition to this video is this... freezing, windy, cloudy conditions with low visibility can still be beautiful and nobody else will be on the trail. You won't get the expansive views, but it is such an epic experience. Just stay in the beginning - don't go far out there - you don't want to get into a dangerous situation or get lost. We were happy to be there with no crowds. It was a calm in the storm lol.
Thanks for watching Ben really appreciate it! I love hiking up in bad conditions for the same reasons. I just noticed on this hike even with bad weather it was still very busy! You just have to leave very early to beat the crowds.
@@DanEscapes de nada. When you binge watch Madeira videos as much as I do, you really appreciate the good quality content. I bounce from so many videos. haha. Obrigado!
I've done this hike a few times, starting from Pico Areeiro to Pico Ruivo and back, and I've done with my 5 years old on my back the entire trail... And all the gear in a backpack!!
What's the best start point when you re dependent on bus/bolt? We re going there on 12/19 March and do the hike for the first time. Any advice/tips are welcome
This hike is another example that social midia has the power to destroy places. I'm a local and can't go to some hikes anymore in my own island. Because everthing is getting so crowded. This is very sad and should be controled.
There are organised group trips with guides which I used. Not sure I’d recommend it as you’re definitely restricted by the slowest member of the group. You definitely need to have a certain level of fitness. It’s not a gentle stroll. If you get it right however, weather wise, the views are spectacular.
Any advice on best ways to check the weather? I know there are webcams but if we are leaving while it's dark seems like that might not be much help. Any other recommendations to pick a good day to go?
I was just using google and mainly checking the cloud coverage. There’s a good one called windy.com which is a bit more accurate. Mainly just look for clear coverage, that way you will get an amazing sunset. Even if there are some clouds will make it more dramatic, definitely no rain though. When you looking at going?
@@DanEscapes thanks so much! We have a drop off/pick up scheduled for January 13th. I figure the tour company will have a good way to view conditions… or I’m hoping so at least. But this is very helpful!!
I think it was around 2-3 hours there depends if you stop a lot to take photos like I did and maybe a little quicker on the way back as we were rushing to get back to the car.
We started the hike from Pico do Arieiro before sunrise. Was dark when we started and because it was January sunrise was later on compared to the summer months.
Depends on the weather, it should be warm so bring sun protection but equally it could be covered in cloud. Just check the weather report and pick the best day with no cloud coverage because the views are amazing. Also leave very early if you want to beat the crowds and and watch the sunrise.
thank you for your video and understand your advices ,,but adventure is about what its coming forward with sometimes don t espected what its coming,, ,be there many times different weathers as snow ,very windy and lots rains and hot days see a most different ages between 10 till 80 or more,, ,suprise how much h the people when get that goal? or just curiosity for some??..obvious that trail isn t for many people principal they don t like walk or no be prepare, or even health issues...any way, thank ,for your good advice for people no go without be able bring the right gear ,make sense...advice checking the weather, double check with someone or even hotel where you going that day ,don t bring lot weigth in your bag, bring just food ,drink, and bar dark chocolate, ,important have some sugar as you burning for that walk and sure your phone full charge ,and good internet, bring some light gear for to different weather cold or rain, ,boots its the best for you ok as support your balance your feet,...never use your headphones when you walk as you need be alert of the natural sound ,its always something drop ,as stones or rock, you need be alert..
100% agree, I’ve done plenty of hikes in zero visibility and long scrambles up the side of the mountains and had no idea if we were going in the right direction. With this hike because it’s a pre built path for me it did t feel exciting enough. The views were so incredible though that I forgot about it and was just looking around. When we were going back though the clouds rolled in and it quickly came back to me that the pathway wasn’t too exciting and got very slippery in the wet, hence good foot wear. I guess there’s always the hope that it could blow over and clear up when you get to the top. To be honest if I never had any of the views I would have definitely enjoyed the walk, but because I saw how beautiful the scenery was and hiking back I was let down not seeing the views again. I also want to highly recommend going super early to avoid the crowds, the pathway was very narrow and on the way back there were sections where you had to wait a while for big groups to go past. It will be a very popular hike so will always be crowded! Plus the sunrise was amazing! Would love to watch sunset and hike back with the stars above, on a clear night!
Would you say just climbing to the top of Pico Ruivo is doable? I don't think I could do the hike from Ruivo to Arieiro so was thinking that the hike up to Ruivo would be doable for someone of medium fitness and also a little freaked out by heights.
It is hard to say, The route is shorter if you start from Achada Do Teixeira but I havent tried that route so cannot comment on how steep or exposed it is, they say it's 2.8 km one way so 5.6km in total. I know it's a popular place to start from as the hike we did is very long and challenging. Id say you can go with a tour group ideally to watch the sunrise so there will be less people on the trail and more peaceful or if going alone leave early and take your time, still worth bringing good equipment (waterproofs, boots etc) as weather can change quickly. Still might be worth going to Pico Arieiro as you can park up there and wonder around to watch the sunrise. Are you thinking of joining a tour or going with anyone?
You can start from Achada do Teixeira, the hike is about 1h to 1h15m, there is no climbing, and only the end gets a bit steeper. Just get to starting point early... like 9am, otherwise it gets very busy and you can't find a parking spot.
My main concern is the endurance. I exercise a few times a week, nothing super intense. The farthest I’ve ever hiked was 8.5 miles with maybe just a few hundred feet of changing elevation so little concern about the altitude and elevation change. Also, a few parts of this hike seem very anxiety inducing for me lol So, if you plan to do the hike there and back then the total would be 12 miles, correct ?
The hike is actually close to 7 miles there and back so distance will be fine. But the elevation change can be very difficult and steep in places. I’d say take your time and go at your own pace, I’ve been hiking and climbing mountains for a few years so even though it’s tough in places I can power through. I’d say if you find a good weather window your mind will be taken away from the hike because the views are amazing, it became a struggle on the way back when the cloud rolled in. Tbh I’m pretty numb to some of the drop offs from climbing on the side of the cliffs but can imagine if you’re not used it some of the sheer drops can cause some anxiety. The route is pretty well maintained and has hand rails to hold in places. A lot of the drops are early on in the hike so if you don’t feel comfortable, there’s no shame in turning back. Still get amazing views from the Pico do Arieiro. Hope this helps and let me know if you have any other questions and how you get on
It can be done as long as you have a good weather window. This was done in January! You definitely want a clear day as the views are amazing! I’m not sure if it is PR1 or PR1.2
We went at the end of January, still good weather on the south of the island, colder when you go higher up. You’ll love it out there, what you got planned?
@@DanEscapes Yeah. So it's not bad, and it might be better for me. I plan to hike and fly with a paraglider if there is sun and light wind. I am coming on 01.03
I plan to walk some nice tours, catch some sunrises and sunsets. I'm also looking for some nice vantage points. I'm staying for 5 days, I guess it will be enough for the first time.
As it’s a well trodden path the rock is very polished. I was slipping as well and had very good hiking shoes on. I recommend checking the forecast on multiple weather apps before you go just make sure it’s a clear day. Sorry it was a bad experience, that’s why I wanted to make this video to make sure people did it on the correct day.
I can very well understand why Dan advises against the tour. The path is long, exposed, there are a lot of people on the way and it is often very damp and slippery. So why should I go that way? Is it because of the view? I think it's because of the trail itself. Only if I see the path as my real goal, then I should go.
I have walked many interesting paths in the mountains in my life. But always treated it very respectfully. I also reversed many paths because it became too dangerous, the weather changed or the terrain became too difficult for some reason.
My highlight when I was young was the way over the via ferrata to the Zugspitze (Germany's highest mountain) and back in one day. There were a lot of people on the way and it was very exhausting, on the way back we were alone, but that was also dangerous. I can still remember the journey in every detail. It was the most intense experience with nature.
So, if that's what you really want, do this tour, but do it responsibly.
Great video! A bunch of good recommendations. Be prepared and don't do the hike when the weather is dangerous. My only addition to this video is this... freezing, windy, cloudy conditions with low visibility can still be beautiful and nobody else will be on the trail. You won't get the expansive views, but it is such an epic experience. Just stay in the beginning - don't go far out there - you don't want to get into a dangerous situation or get lost. We were happy to be there with no crowds. It was a calm in the storm lol.
Thanks for watching Ben really appreciate it! I love hiking up in bad conditions for the same reasons. I just noticed on this hike even with bad weather it was still very busy! You just have to leave very early to beat the crowds.
@@DanEscapes de nada. When you binge watch Madeira videos as much as I do, you really appreciate the good quality content. I bounce from so many videos. haha. Obrigado!
I've done this hike a few times, starting from Pico Areeiro to Pico Ruivo and back, and I've done with my 5 years old on my back the entire trail... And all the gear in a backpack!!
That’s a tough job doing it with a 5year old on your back? Did you have a good harness?
@@DanEscapes without any harness.
@@mauriciogoncalves4605what gear did you use for 5 years old?? I want to take my daughter too.
Nothing special, just remember to take a hat, plenty of water, toilet paper and snacks. A trekking pole is a must.
What's the best start point when you re dependent on bus/bolt? We re going there on 12/19 March and do the hike for the first time.
Any advice/tips are welcome
This hike is another example that social midia has the power to destroy places. I'm a local and can't go to some hikes anymore in my own island. Because everthing is getting so crowded. This is very sad and should be controled.
There are organised group trips with guides which I used. Not sure I’d recommend it as you’re definitely restricted by the slowest member of the group. You definitely need to have a certain level of fitness. It’s not a gentle stroll. If you get it right however, weather wise, the views are spectacular.
Any advice on best ways to check the weather? I know there are webcams but if we are leaving while it's dark seems like that might not be much help. Any other recommendations to pick a good day to go?
I was just using google and mainly checking the cloud coverage. There’s a good one called windy.com which is a bit more accurate. Mainly just look for clear coverage, that way you will get an amazing sunset. Even if there are some clouds will make it more dramatic, definitely no rain though. When you looking at going?
@@DanEscapes thanks so much! We have a drop off/pick up scheduled for January 13th. I figure the tour company will have a good way to view conditions… or I’m hoping so at least. But this is very helpful!!
Well deserved a video, I would have a trip this June to Madeira. could you tell me about the duration round trip for hiking?
I think it was around 2-3 hours there depends if you stop a lot to take photos like I did and maybe a little quicker on the way back as we were rushing to get back to the car.
Quick question, you hike to pico ruivo for the sunset? Or didymium watch the sunset at pico do areeiro?
We started the hike from Pico do Arieiro before sunrise. Was dark when we started and because it was January sunrise was later on compared to the summer months.
how about hiking on june ?
Depends on the weather, it should be warm so bring sun protection but equally it could be covered in cloud. Just check the weather report and pick the best day with no cloud coverage because the views are amazing. Also leave very early if you want to beat the crowds and and watch the sunrise.
thank you for your video and understand your advices ,,but adventure is about what its coming forward with sometimes don t espected what its coming,, ,be there many times different weathers as snow ,very windy and lots rains and hot days
see a most different ages between 10 till 80 or more,,
,suprise how much h the people when get that goal? or just curiosity for some??..obvious that trail isn t for many people principal they don t like walk or no be prepare, or even health issues...any way,
thank ,for your good advice for people no go without be able bring the right gear ,make sense...advice checking the weather, double check with someone or even hotel where you going that day ,don t bring lot weigth in your bag, bring just food ,drink, and bar dark chocolate, ,important have some sugar as you burning for that walk and sure your phone full charge ,and good internet, bring some light gear for to different weather cold or rain,
,boots its the best for you ok as support your balance your feet,...never use your headphones when you walk as you need be alert of the natural sound ,its always something drop ,as stones or rock, you need be alert..
100% agree, I’ve done plenty of hikes in zero visibility and long scrambles up the side of the mountains and had no idea if we were going in the right direction.
With this hike because it’s a pre built path for me it did t feel exciting enough. The views were so incredible though that I forgot about it and was just looking around. When we were going back though the clouds rolled in and it quickly came back to me that the pathway wasn’t too exciting and got very slippery in the wet, hence good foot wear. I guess there’s always the hope that it could blow over and clear up when you get to the top. To be honest if I never had any of the views I would have definitely enjoyed the walk, but because I saw how beautiful the scenery was and hiking back I was let down not seeing the views again.
I also want to highly recommend going super early to avoid the crowds, the pathway was very narrow and on the way back there were sections where you had to wait a while for big groups to go past. It will be a very popular hike so will always be crowded! Plus the sunrise was amazing! Would love to watch sunset and hike back with the stars above, on a clear night!
Would you say just climbing to the top of Pico Ruivo is doable? I don't think I could do the hike from Ruivo to Arieiro so was thinking that the hike up to Ruivo would be doable for someone of medium fitness and also a little freaked out by heights.
It is hard to say, The route is shorter if you start from Achada Do Teixeira but I havent tried that route so cannot comment on how steep or exposed it is, they say it's 2.8 km one way so 5.6km in total. I know it's a popular place to start from as the hike we did is very long and challenging. Id say you can go with a tour group ideally to watch the sunrise so there will be less people on the trail and more peaceful or if going alone leave early and take your time, still worth bringing good equipment (waterproofs, boots etc) as weather can change quickly. Still might be worth going to Pico Arieiro as you can park up there and wonder around to watch the sunrise. Are you thinking of joining a tour or going with anyone?
You can start from Achada do Teixeira, the hike is about 1h to 1h15m, there is no climbing, and only the end gets a bit steeper. Just get to starting point early... like 9am, otherwise it gets very busy and you can't find a parking spot.
My main concern is the endurance. I exercise a few times a week, nothing super intense. The farthest I’ve ever hiked was 8.5 miles with maybe just a few hundred feet of changing elevation so little concern about the altitude and elevation change.
Also, a few parts of this hike seem very anxiety inducing for me lol
So, if you plan to do the hike there and back then the total would be 12 miles, correct ?
The hike is actually close to 7 miles there and back so distance will be fine. But the elevation change can be very difficult and steep in places. I’d say take your time and go at your own pace, I’ve been hiking and climbing mountains for a few years so even though it’s tough in places I can power through.
I’d say if you find a good weather window your mind will be taken away from the hike because the views are amazing, it became a struggle on the way back when the cloud rolled in.
Tbh I’m pretty numb to some of the drop offs from climbing on the side of the cliffs but can imagine if you’re not used it some of the sheer drops can cause some anxiety. The route is pretty well maintained and has hand rails to hold in places. A lot of the drops are early on in the hike so if you don’t feel comfortable, there’s no shame in turning back. Still get amazing views from the Pico do Arieiro.
Hope this helps and let me know if you have any other questions and how you get on
@@DanEscapes super helpful, thank you so much !
Awesome video!! Can these hikes be done in mid December? This hike is PR1 or PR1.2 ?
It can be done as long as you have a good weather window. This was done in January! You definitely want a clear day as the views are amazing! I’m not sure if it is PR1 or PR1.2
What month did you go? I'm going at the beginning of March 🤞🏻🌴
We went at the end of January, still good weather on the south of the island, colder when you go higher up. You’ll love it out there, what you got planned?
@@DanEscapes Yeah. So it's not bad, and it might be better for me. I plan to hike and fly with a paraglider if there is sun and light wind. I am coming on 01.03
I plan to walk some nice tours, catch some sunrises and sunsets. I'm also looking for some nice vantage points. I'm staying for 5 days, I guess it will be enough for the first time.
I cried during this hike, it was raining non stop and super slippery & dangerous, lots of people fell! There are no gates so quite dangerous 🥲
As it’s a well trodden path the rock is very polished. I was slipping as well and had very good hiking shoes on. I recommend checking the forecast on multiple weather apps before you go just make sure it’s a clear day. Sorry it was a bad experience, that’s why I wanted to make this video to make sure people did it on the correct day.
Thank you 👍👍👍👍 for video
Thank you for watching! 🙏🏻
It’s tough but worth it!
100% worth it if you got good weather and no crowds
Tough but worthwhile
Was an amazing hike!!
Shocking that there were clouds in the winter time...c
I know right, how dare they show!
Awesome video ❤
Thank you 🙏🏼
Ascending and descending on a mountain how shocking 😂
Sometimes you go up and sometimes you go down. Technically it was more of a traverse.
Good video, annoying clickbait title though.
Thanks for watching and sorry about the title? Have you been or are you going to Madeira?
Everytime i see an adult on youtube begging for likes and subscribe i don't like and subscribe
Thanks for liking and subscribing!