About this experience
Climb to Portugal's highest point for a breathtaking adventure. Hike through pristine landscapes, leading to a stunning 360° view at the summit. A natural scenery like never seen before!
Highlights
- Marvel at the natural beauty of native vegetation and geological structures
- Learn more about this majestic mountain and the intriguing island of Pico
- Climb safely to the summit with a Certified Pico Mountain Guide
- Admire the spectacular panoramic views at 2351 metres above sea level
What's included
- Certified Pico Mountain Guide
- Mount Pico Natural Reserve access fee
- Hiking poles
- Allianz® Personal Accident Insurance
- Certificate
How to use
- Show Mobile Ticket
- At Redemption Counter
What to expect
This adventurous activity begins at the Mountain House where you will meet your guide and receive a safety briefing before starting the climb. The climb to the summit takes you through lush, verdant native vegetation and merges into great geological structures. Along the way, you will learn more about the flora and geology from your guide.
The first part of the hike is a perfect indication for the rest of the climb. If you encounter difficulties here, your guide may advise you to stop the hike for your own and the group's safety. Gradually, the terrain turns into a steep slope where good physical fitness is essential. The 3-hour hike to the crater goes over different types of terrain, from mud to solid rock and eventually changing to loose rock and sand. The last 15 minutes of the climb to the top (Piquinho) require using your hands for more stability.
Feel invincible when you reach the top of this challenging mountain. See and appreciate the immensity. Depending on the weather, it is possible to see all the islands of the central group. And even with cloudy weather, it is a rewarding climb.
After a final impression of Piquinho, the descent is started. This mountain can be very difficult to descend, especially for inexperienced hikers. The guide will give you tips to handle the terrain better. The descent takes about 3-4 hours and follows the same path as the ascent. It is the most challenging part of the hike.
The hike ends at the mountain house.
Participants should be capable of ascending approximately 300 meters in altitude per hour.
Route specification
Distance: 8km
↑ 1100m ascent ↓1100m descent
Maximum height: 2351m
Minimum height: 1250m
Time: 8 hours
Difficulty level
Physical effort: 3
Technical difficulty: 2,5
Difficulty levels:
1 – easy
1,5 – easy / medium
2 – medium
2,5 – medium / difficult
3 – difficult
Things to note
- Rain gear
- Sunglasses
- Food
- Hiking shoes
- Daypack
- Weather-appropriate clothing
- Water
- Sunscreen
Terms & conditions
Good physical preparation is essential for a successful climb. Not suitable for people with a sedentary lifestyle.
It's mandatory to wear hiking boots or hiking shoes with a good grip on the sole. The Natural Park will refuse hikers access to the mountain reserve if they do not have the appropriate footwear.
This activity is weather-dependent and can be cancelled just before the activity starts.
In case you have a drone, you must register at ANAC website (Portuguese Civil Aviation Authority).
When booking, please provide us with your name, date of birth and nationality so that we can make a reservation in the mountain house for you. Since there is a daily limit on the number of people who can climb the mountain, it is important that we receive this information along with your booking so that we can make the registration as soon as possible.