Pico do Arieiro summit at sunrise above the cloud sea, Madeira

    Third-highest peak on Madeira with road access, renowned sunrise spot above the clouds with 360° views and radar station landmark

    Also known as: Miradouro do Pico do Arieiro, Pico do Areeiro Viewpoint, Ninho da Manta

    1818m

    Altitude

    drive up

    Access

    100m

    Walk

    5m

    Elevation gain

    Yes

    Accessible

    When to Visit

    Timing & Photography

    How to shoot this viewpoint

    • Cloud inversions are common here — typically November through March, best chance on calm mornings after overnight rain.
    • Drone use is prohibited at this spot — check local regulations before flying.

    Orientation

    mixed

    Best Time of Day

    sunrisemorning

    Cloud Inversion

    high

    Drone Flying

    prohibited

    Typical Crowds

    high

    Location

    Viewpoint Map

    Best times to visit

    Full calendar →
    4 best months2 to avoid
    Jan
    Feb
    Mar
    Apr
    May
    Jun
    Jul
    Aug
    Sep
    Oct
    Nov
    Dec

    Photography Kit Notes

    Tripod essential for sunrise long exposures. Wide-angle (14–24 mm) for the cloud-sea panorama. Extra battery — cold rapidly drains charge at 1,818 m. Arrive 30 min before first light.