Sunrise at Pico do Arieiro with PR1 “Stairway to Heaven” & PR3 – Vereda do Burro

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  • Sunrise at Pico do Arieiro with PR1 “Stairway to Heaven” & PR3 – Vereda do Burro

Begin your journey before dawn with comfortable transport to Pico do Arieiro (1,818 m), where the dark sky is about to burst into colors. As you wait for the sunrise, the landscape comes alive – clouds are painted pink, gold, and orange, creating a celestial spectacle over the mountains.

After this magical moment, the hike starts along the PR1 trail, leading to the legendary “Stairway to Heaven”, a dramatic succession of steps carved into the rock, winding across narrow ridges. The path leads you to Ninho da Manta, a natural viewpoint with breathtaking panoramas.

The route then follows the PR3 – Vereda do Burro, a gentler downhill trail towards the Ecological Park Reception Centre in Funchal, passing high-altitude landscapes and the historic Poço da Neve, an igloo-shaped icehouse built in 1813 to store snow.

With Hiking Transfers, transportation is ensured, making the experience seamless, safe, and unforgettable.

  • Sunrise above the clouds: a breathtaking spectacle painting the horizon in golden and pink tones.
  • 360° panoramic views: on clear days, both north and south coasts, the Desertas Islands, and even Porto Santo.
  • Stairway to Heaven: one of Madeira’s most iconic images, steps carved along a narrow ridge.
  • Ninho da Manta: a viewpoint overlooking Fajã da Nogueira Valley, home to rare bird species.
  • High-altitude vegetation: heather, broom, and other resilient species.
  • PR3 – Vereda do Burro: a tranquil descent towards Funchal’s Ecological Park.
  • Poço da Neve: historic 19th-century icehouse once used to preserve food and make ice cream.
  • Views over Curral das Freiras: one of Madeira’s most emblematic valleys.
  • Sea of clouds: frequent phenomenon where clouds remain trapped in valleys, creating a surreal visual effect.
  • Two official trails in one: the famous PR1 and the serene PR3, combined in a single adventure.
  • Arrive early: being there before dawn secures the best spot for sunrise.
  • Dress in layers: temperatures at sunrise can drop to 6–10 °C.
  • Sturdy footwear: PR1 requires grip, PR3 includes long descents.
  • Sun protection & water: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and at least 1.5 L of water.
  • Weather caution: fog may reduce visibility, though the “sea of clouds” is equally spectacular.
  • Stay on marked trails: some tourists have been caught wandering into restricted areas of PR1.
  • Our service includes comfortable roundtrip transport from select areas (Funchal (anywhere), Caniço, and Câmara de Lobos (City Center). For different locations please contact us before booking.
  • Pick up Location: Choose the nearest option to your Hotel, then we will confirm the exact location with you by WhatsApp
  • Pickup Time shown online is for reference only, and may vary by season but we wil confirm the exact pick up time by WhatsApp. Make sure your contact details are up to date.
  • It is a Self-Guide Walk but we´ll provide all the instructions you need
  • 3€ Government Fee – IFCN (Forest Department) – you can paid on the moment of the hike or use the official website ( Not Included )
  • Small groups, maximum of 8 guests – Shared transfer
  • Not recommended for people with vertigo or fear of heights.
  • Not suitable for guests with back, knee, or joint problems.
  • Not Suitable for Children under 12 years old

Conquer Madeira's highest peaks on this unforgettable journey.

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Hiking Transfers – Comfortable Transportation Guaranteed

Our service includes safe round-trip transport with hotel pick-up and drop-off. Whether you are an enthusiastic hiker or a curious explorer, this is a serene and inspiring way to discover Madeira’s wild and authentic side.

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