Complete Guide to Climbing Mount Pico – Essential Tips and Information

**Montanha do Pico** is located on [Pico Island](https://byacores.com/en/pico-island/), being the highest point in Portugal and the third highest in the Atlantic, with an altitude of 2,351 meters. It is part of a natural reserve aimed at the preservation and conservation of its entire environmental area.

It is an excellent option for those who enjoy adventure and excitement, making it indispensable in your travel itinerary.

Book your guided hike up Montanha do Pico online

Montanha do Pico, of volcanic origin 750,000 years ago, offers tourists a magnificent view of the surrounding nature. The blend of the blue sky, blue water, and all the green vegetation results in an indescribable beauty.

Those who reach the top of the mountain will be able to observe a central crater of the volcano, known as Pico Grande. Inside this crater is a 70-meter deep lava cone, called Pico Pequeno or Piquinho, which emits fumaroles. Its last eruption occurred in 1718.

Pico à Vista
Fotografia de Ana Cris

But be careful: before adding Montanha do Pico to your itinerary, check below for some tips and precautions that should be taken by all interested in this adventure and visit.

### Step-by-Step Guide to Climbing Montanha do Pico
Climbing Montanha do Pico is not an easy task. It is an adventure that requires physical preparation and many precautions, considering the difficulties encountered along the way.

Initially, you must make a mandatory stop at the [Casa da Montanha](http://parquesnaturais.azores.gov.pt/pt/pico/o-que-visitar/centros-de-interpretacao/casa-da-montanha). This is where you will get all the necessary information and support for the climb, as well as the registration required by the Regulation of Access to the Natural Reserve of Montanha do Pico.

The approximate time, both to ascend and descend, is 3 to 4 hours (on average, it may vary depending on the group’s size and/or each person’s preparation), as the route has an average of 7,500 meters. Therefore, it is essential to be in good physical condition and prepared to walk for several hours.

Children under 16 years old can only do the hike if accompanied by their parents or a responsible adult. It is also worth mentioning that there are fees to climb Montanha do Pico; see more details below.

Montanha do Pico
Fotografia de Claudia Prata

### Essential Equipment for the Montanha do Pico Adventure
The recommended equipment for climbing Montanha do Pico generally includes comfortable and appropriate boots or sneakers for trails, light and fresh clothes (preferably fresh trousers instead of shorts), a windproof raincoat (optional), food and drink (preferably water), sunscreen, and of course, a camera to capture every moment.

Due to significant sun exposure during the day and on the climb, it is also recommended to use a scarf or hat to avoid scalp burns.

If you plan to climb or descend at night, don’t forget to bring a flashlight. If you are staying overnight, bring sleeping materials. The equipment is essential for your safety; without it, climbing Montanha do Pico is not possible.

Piquinho do Pico
Fotografia de Cátia Almeida

### Weather Forecast and Safety Tips for Climbing Montanha do Pico
A very important tip is to check the weather forecasts and the information provided by the guides before heading to Montanha do Pico.

The guides know the region well and understand the actual conditions to complete the trail without any danger. It is also possible to do the hike in winter, provided that the real conditions for the climb are verified, without causing complications and risks to visitors.

It is recommended to climb Montanha do Pico in seasons with better visibility and without adverse conditions, such as in summer.

### Opening Hours
– From May 1 to September 30: 24 hours;
– From April 1 to April 30 and October 1 to October 31:
– Monday – Thursday: 08:00 – 20:00
– Friday: 08:00 – 23:59
– Saturday: 00:00 – 23:59
– Sunday: 00:00 – 20:00
– From November 1 to March 31: 08:00 – 18:00 (Closed on January 1 and December 25)

### Costs and Fees for Climbing Montanha do Pico: What to Expect
**Climbing Fees**
– Climb to Furna Abrigo: 5€
– Climb to the Crater: 15€
– Climb to Pico Pequeno/Piquinho: 25€
– Overnight in the Crater: 10€
– Residents of the Autonomous Region of the Azores: free

*Price and fee information was reviewed on January 4, 2024.*

Each visitor is provided with a tracking device. Upon delivery, it is possible to choose to pay a fee of 30€ for a liability waiver.

In case of non-return or damage to the device, the costs to be paid are as follows:
– Non-return of GPS with waiver fee: 270€
– Non-return of GPS without waiver fee: 300€
– Damage to GPS without waiver fee: 300€

### How to Book Your Climb to Montanha do Pico: Complete Guide
Given the daily limit on climbs to Montanha do Pico and the high demand for this activity, we recommend [booking your climb](https://www.getyourguide.pt/reserva-natural-da-montanha-do-pico-l127893/caminhada-de-7-horas-na-montanha-do-pico-e-piquinho-2351-metros-t558992/?partner_id=SD0KIZJ&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=post_subir_montanha) in advance to ensure your spot.

Visit the [website](http://servicos-sraa.azores.gov.pt/gamp/) created specifically for this purpose, where you can also get more information.

Therefore, if you love adventure and are passionate about beautiful landscapes, don’t miss climbing Montanha do Pico. It is a unique and incredible experience!

### Activity Packages Including Montanha do Pico:
> Climb Montanha do Pico with a guide included, [click here](https://www.getyourguide.pt/reserva-natural-da-montanha-do-pico-l127893/caminhada-de-7-horas-na-montanha-do-pico-e-piquinho-2351-metros-t558992/?partner_id=SD0KIZJ&utm_medium=online_publisher&cmp=post_subir_montanha)

### Video of the Climb to the Mountain

**See also:** [Tourism Companies in the Azores](https://

byacores.com/en/business/tourism/)

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**Acknowledgments**
– Daniela Padrão for some tips on Climbing Montanha do Pico.