Madalena in 1 Day for Friends - Summit of Pico (Piquinho) — 2,351 m
In Collaboration with GOclimb Azores. Updated on January 30, 2026.
A full-day guided climb to Portugal's highest point (Piquinho) with certified guides from GOclimb Azores. Physically demanding 7-hour round-trip hike across volcanic terrain with panoramic Atlantic views. Meet at Casa da Montanha in Madalena.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with GOclimb Azores, inspired by the tour Pico Mountain Climb: Portugal’s Highest Point - 2351 meters. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Summit of Pico (Piquinho) — 2,351 m
- Certified local mountain guide
- Natural Reserve entrance included (admission & insurance)
- Unique volcanic landscapes and Atlantic panoramas
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day guided hike to the summit of Montanha do Pico (Piquinho). Includes safety briefing, ascent & descent, and a post-hike celebration back in Madalena.
Meet at Casa da Montanha — check-in & safety briefing
Arrive at Casa da Montanha (Mountain House) for group check-in, paperwork verification (ID/passport), gear check and a short safety briefing with your certified guide. Please arrive 15 minutes early.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive 15 minutes early to drop off any non-essential items in the safe area and to fill water bottles — guides will check mandatory ID/passport here.
- If you need walking poles, let the guide know at check-in — poles are available to borrow but stock is limited.
- Restroom available at the meeting point — use it before departure (trail facilities are minimal).
Short transfer / walk to the trailhead and final gear check
A brief transfer or guided walk from the Mountain House to the official trailhead of Montanha do Pico. Guides confirm group pacing, share route expectations, and complete the Natural Reserve entrance formalities.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear your hiking boots for this short transfer — the ground at the trailhead can be uneven and rocky.
- Keep a small daypack with snacks and windproof layers accessible; guides will advise on layering before the ascent.
- Photograph your starting point — the lava fields near the trailhead make a great before/after comparison.
Guided Pico summit hike (Ascent, summit break at Piquinho, descent)
Official guided ascent of Montanha do Pico to the Piquinho summit and return. The round-trip is approximately 7 hours including short stops; expect steep sections, uneven volcanic scree and spectacular Atlantic views from the top.
Tips from local experts:
- Pace as a group — rest at marked viewpoints and rotate who carries group snacks/first aid to keep energy steady.
- On clear days, head slightly east on the summit ridge for the best multi-island panoramic photos — sunrise/sunset lighting can make dramatic shots even at midday.
- Weather on Pico can change quickly; stow electronics in a waterproof pocket and keep an extra warm layer handy for summit wind chill.
Return transfer to Madalena port and cool-down
Short drive back to Madalena/Porto da Madalena. Time to change socks, freshen up and enjoy a short debrief with your guide about the route and local geology.
Tips from local experts:
- Change into dry socks as soon as possible to avoid blisters and chill — pack a small towel and spare socks in your top-level of the pack.
- If anyone needs basic first aid (blisters, sore knees), tell the guide — they carry a mountain first-aid kit and advice for recovery.
- Ask your guide about nearby points of interest (whale-watching departures, local wineries) — they can advise on evening options for the group.
Post-hike celebration — local snack or drink at Porto da Madalena
Relax with a well-deserved snack or drink by the port. Enjoy local flavors — share small plates and swap summit photos with the group.
Tips from local experts:
- Order shareable plates (local cheese, limpets or octopus if available) to refuel as a group — it’s sociable and cost-effective.
- Try a glass of Pico wine if you want to toast the climb — it’s a local specialty and pairs well with seafood.
- Find a seat on the seafront terrace for sunset views over the channel — great place for group photos and a relaxed wind-down.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 4 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | 2 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 3 |
| Total Places | 3 |
| Activities Types | Attraction, Transfer, Outdoor, Meal |