A Quiet Day on the Island, but Pay Attention to Mountain Regulations
Good news for all travellers: Madeira is reporting no weather warnings, traffic disruptions, or other major incidents today. You can look forward to a peaceful day of exploration. Today’s focus is on practical information for hikers heading to the mountains, specifically concerning the fee system and the current status of the most famous high-altitude trail.
1. Fees and Reservations on PR Trails: What You Need to Know
The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation (IFCN) reminds visitors that since the beginning of 2026, it has been mandatory for all non-resident tourists to purchase an online permit to access the designated hiking trails (PR).
- Who does this apply to? All foreign tourists over the age of 12 who plan to hike on any of the official PR trails.
- What does this mean in practice? You should not enter the trails without a valid digital permit, which can be obtained through the Simplifica portal. Random checks may be carried out.
- What do we recommend? Complete the registration and payment online before you set off on your hike, for example, from your hotel. This will save you potential complications.
2. Partial Closure of PR1: From Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo
The most popular and sought-after mountain trail on the island, the PR1 Vereda do Areeiro ridge walk, is currently subject to significant restrictions. Be prepared for this when planning your day’s activities.
- Who is affected? All hikers who intended to traverse the entire route between Madeira’s third-highest and highest peaks.
- What does this mean in practice? From Pico do Areeiro (1818 m), the trail is only open for 1.2 km to the Miradouro da Pedra Rija viewpoint. Further sections, including the path with tunnels, are completely closed. You cannot reach Pico Ruivo via this route.
- What do we recommend? If your goal is the island’s highest peak, Pico Ruivo (1862 m), choose the safer and fully open alternative route, PR 1.2 Vereda do Pico Ruivo. This trail starts at the car park in Achada do Teixeira and is considerably easier. Save the hike from Pico do Areeiro for another time and enjoy the short walk to the first viewpoint for now.