Pico Mountain is the highest point in Portugal and the third-largest in the Atlantic, at 2,351 meters above sea level, and is part of a nature reserve that aims to preserve its environmental areas.
The climb to Pico Mountain is one of the extraordinary experiences everyone should have, and it is essential to your Vacations in Pico.
Pico Mountain is 750,000 years old and volcanic in origin. It offers tourists a magnificent view of the surrounding nature.
The mixture of the blue of the sky with the blue of the water and all the green of the vegetation is summed up in an indescribable beauty.
Although it is not technically difficult, it is a climb that requires adequate physical condition and the necessary precautions.
Children under 16 may only ascend the mountain if accompanied by a parent or an adult tutor.
Pico Mountain: The ascent
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The ascent begins at Casa da Montanha, a compulsory stopping point at around 1200 m, where information on the geology, biology, history, and climate of Pico is available, either in informative panels or in a video shown in the auditorium.
In addition, it is at Casa da Montanha that the ascents are recorded and controlled, as well as to ensure that the maximum carrying capacity of the mountain is not exceeded (there is a maximum carrying capacity of 320 visitors per day, as well as simultaneously – between 120 and 200 people – which may require a waiting period until the elevator is authorized).
Pico Mountain – the climbing
The average duration of the climb is around 3 to 4 hours (speed and effort must be managed to avoid too much acceleration of the cardiovascular rhythm).
Those who climb to the top of the mountain can observe a central volcanic crater called Pico Grande. The interior of this crater consists of a lava cone 70 meters deep, called Pico Pequeno (Small Pico) or Piquinho, which emits fumaroles. Its last eruption occurred in 1718. If the weather permits, you will be able to admire the neighboring islands of Faial, São Jorge, Terceira, and Graciosa.
Pico Mountain: The descent
The descent also lasts an average of 3 to 4 hours, so it is important to descend at least 4 hours before sunset.
In total, the trail has a length (round trip) of about 7,600 m (3,800 m from the base to the summit) and a difference in elevation of 1,100 m, which is marked by 45 wooden markers. (numbered and painted with two red and yellow rail marking lists).
Pico Mountain: The recommended equipment
The recommended equipment for climbing Mount Pico is:
- booting suitable for trails
- light, and cool clothing
- a raincoat (the weather can change very quickly)
- food
- drinks
- and sunscreen.
When you go up or down at night, you cannot forget to take a flashlight.
If you stay overnight, bring sleeping gear.
It is allowed to set up a tent in the mountain crater, but only for one night.
Pico Mountain – the descent
Pico Mountain: Opening hours
01 – 30 April
Monday to Thursday > 08h00 – 20h00
Friday opens at 08h00 and remains open until Sunday at 20h00, without interruption.
01 May – 30 September
Opened 24/7
01 – 31 October
Monday to Thursday > 08h00 – 20h00
Friday opens at 08h00 and remains open until Sunday at 20h00, without interruption.
01 November – 31 March
Everyday > 08h00 – 18h00
Closed > 24 December
Pico Mountain – View from the top
Companies that make the Ascent to the Mountain
Currently, it is not mandatory to go up with a guide; you can go up without one on the official website.
To do so, you must make a reservation: RESERVATION WITHOUT GUIDE
The terrain you will find varies between earth, rock, gravel, and mud. The vegetation is low and usually grows only along the trail.
There are 47 wooden markers along the trail. The last landmark is located inside the crater and indicates the trail to Piquinho.
The weather conditions in the mountains are extreme and change rapidly, especially with the sudden appearance of fog and rain, which makes recognizing the path very difficult.
In case of fog, you can quickly lose sight of the landmarks, so you should be extra careful to avoid getting lost.
When you pass a landmark, you must find a new landmark within the next 30 minutes. If this does not happen, it will have left the trail. The advice is to return to the previous landmark and resume the path until you find a new one.
The average temperature at the top of the mountain is 10 degrees lower than that at sea level. On a very hot day, you won’t find any shade, and on a cold day, it could be cold.
As you can see, both in terms of the terrain and the climate, it is easy to find yourself in difficulties, so it is advisable not to make the climb without the presence of a registered guide.
In addition to safety, having someone who knows everything about the mountain will make your experience much more unforgettable.
Several companies offer services to Pico Mountain.
Some of these companies are our partners, so if you use one of them, you will not only be hiring a company with credits signed in the service, but you will also have access to an exclusive discount.
All of our partner companies are certified and offer quality service, helping the ascent to the Mountain run smoothly and in a familiar, intimate environment, making the experience even more unique.
To find out about partner companies and get a discount, visit our page dedicated to My Azores Home partners.
Visit each partner company, as each offers different services.
To find out about the partner companies for your ascent to Pico Mountain, click on the button below:
Climbing Pico Mountain – credits to MoreReenaHart
Not everyone can, wants, or has time to climb Pico Mountain.
For these, the contemplation of its splendor can be done by the many photos that can be taken from almost the entire island.
There are a few places on the island where the mountain is not visible.
Therefore, you are likely to be able to take photos of various locations, always with the mountain in the background.