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Night Climb to the summit of Mount Pico in the Azores

4.6

(9)

Night Climb to the summit of Mount Pico in the Azores
Mount Pico in the Azores
Mount Pico in the Azores
Mount Pico in the Azores
Mount Pico in the Azores

Climb to the summit of Mount Pico and experience sunrise on top of a mountain in this unforgettable night Climbing with Matteo or another experienced guide from Tripix Azores. 

Group

1 Day

May - Oct

High

All levels


Highlights

  • See the sunrise over the ocean from the summit of Mount Pico
  • Scale the highest mountain in Portugal
  • Challenge yourself physically in nature

Description

Join us on a night ascent where we’ll reach the summit of Mount Pico. This is a unique experience that you’ll remember forever.

Mount Pico is the highest mountain in Portugal. Climbing it during the day is challenging enough – at night, it’s even more challenging. It’s awesome fun, though!

We’ll set off at around 2 am with our flashlights in the darkness and start climbing. We’ll be with you every step of the way to make sure that you’re safe and having a good time. Around dawn, we’ll get to the top of the mountain. The stunning views of the sun rising over the ocean will be our reward for all our hard work. We’ll also get views of five surrounding islands.

This trip lasts around 10 hours in total, so you’ll be back at midday.

This is an experience of a lifetime. Book now, and we’ll be waiting for you!

If you’d prefer to ascend Mount Pico during the day, be sure to check out our day trip, too.

Price includes

  • Guiding fee
  • Personal insurance
  • Trekking poles

Price details

  • Includes
  • Professional & Certified Mount Pico Guide
  • Mount Pico Natural Reserve access fee
  • Crampons (Winter)
  • Informative Climb Manual
  • Allianz® Personal Accident Insurance
  • Climbing Certificate of Achievement
  • Petzl® headlamp for each participant
  • Not Included
  • Transfers (Round trip transfers from Tripix Office at Madalena to Mountain House available upon
  • request and subject to availability)
  • Meals (Lunch Box available upon request). If requested, confirmed information about the meal type (regular, vegetarian, vegan, or any dietary restrictions) must be provided at least 72 hours before the activity. We cannot guarantee any adjustments with shorter notice, and no refunds will be issued in such cases.
  • Important Information
  • Meeting point at the Mountain House
  • Damaged equipment fee: Headlamp - €50 each.
  • In case you have a drone, you must complete this FORM selecting the option "[PICO01] Reserva Natural da Montanha do Pico."
  • All participants must be in good physical condition and have motor coordination. Please inform Tripix Azores of any physical restrictions, including issues with lower limbs, vertigo, mental health, heart problems, asthma, diabetes, pregnancy, or other health conditions.
  • Participants should not have gone diving 24 hours before the climb.
  • Sedentary individuals and adults over 65 years old may be required to provide a medical certificate.
  • We recommend physical and mental preparation in advance.

Meeting point

We'll meet in Madalena

Details

Disclaimer

Please note: Booking last minute or close to the trip date does not guarantee availability, as we do not control the permits at the Mountain House.

Attention: Participants must not have gone diving within the 24 hours prior to the Mount Pico climb. The omission of any relevant information is the sole responsibility of the participant, and Tripix Azores reserves the right to refuse participation without refund or liability for any issues that may occur during or after the activity.

More info

The ascent of Montanha do Pico is a demanding mountaineering activity and should not be taken lightly, though it provides a highly rewarding experience. The level of difficulty varies from Medium to High depending on the type of climb selected:

  • Day Climb: Medium to High difficulty, with an average duration of 7 to 9 hours;
  • Night Climb: High difficulty, typically lasting between 10 and 12 hours;
  • Overnight Climb: Very High difficulty, with an estimated duration of 22 to 24 hours.

This activity requires technical skills, solid physical conditioning, and good motor coordination. It is strongly recommended for active individuals, as those with a sedentary lifestyle may find the climb considerably more challenging.

The route is steep, uneven, and lacks a clearly defined trail, consisting of hardened lava formations and loose rocks. The one-way distance is 4 km, with an elevation gain of 1,100 meters, starting at Casa da Montanha (1,230 meters above sea level) and reaching the summit of Montanha do Pico – Piquinho (2,351 meters above sea level). The total round-trip distance is 8 km, with a cumulative elevation gain of 2,200 meters.

Climbs are organized in groups, with a maximum of 12 participants per guide, and include:

  • Reaching the highest point of Montanha do Pico – Piquinho, at 2,351 meters (7,713 feet);
  • Guidance by a certified and professional Montanha do Pico guide;
  • Entrance fee to the Montanha do Pico Natural Reserve;
  • Personal accident insurance;
  • Use of hiking poles.

The Night Climb also provides a Petzl® headlamp for each participant.

The Overnight Climb includes a backpack with a The North Face® tent (shared by 2 or 3 people), a The North Face® individual sleeping bag, a Sea to Summit® inflatable sleeping pad, and a Petzl® headlamp. Participants are responsible for carrying this equipment themselves.

Recommendations for children and seniors: Children under 10 years old and adults over 65 who do not engage in regular physical activity are advised to join private group climbs.


FAQs

When will I receive my refund?

The refunds are directly processed through the Explore-Share team. The refunds will only be processed after the date of the activity. Usually 24 hours after the date of the activity, Explore-Share sends an e-mail to Tripix asking if the activity has been carried of not. After Tripix answers it was not completed, justifying the reason, the Explore- ShareTeam will make the arrangements to refund the client as soon as possible.

How soon / fast should I book the guided ascent of Mount Pico?

During the peak season (May to September), demand for mountain climbs is particularly high. We recommend booking well in advance to secure your spot and ensure availability on your preferred date. Overall, regarding all activities: late requests might not be answered due to limited availability.

What should I bring for the Mount Pico climb?

Participants must follow the guidelines in the PDF information provided by Tripix Azores.

It is essential to bring:

• Appropriate equipment (in good condition)

• Sufficient food and water for the activity

Tripix Azores reserves the right to deny participation if the equipment is not in good condition, and no refund will be issued.

What personal mountain equipment should I take with me?

We advise:

  • suitable mountain boots and comfortable, warm and waterproof clothing: a first layer in lycra, a second layer in polartek and a third water and wind proof layer;
  • hat or a winter cap,
  • gloves,
  • sunscreen and sunglasses with UV protection
  • hiking backpack (20/40lts).

We provide hiking poles.

The above listed equipment is obligatory for a good and safe practice of the climb. We will not permit climbers wearing sneakers and jeans. If you don’t follow precisely this information, you won’t be allowed to do the climb with us!

What is the minimum and maximum age to climb Mount Pico?

Children under 10 years old are advised to do this activity in a private group. The same applies to adults over 65 years old and who are not used to mountaineering activities or to trails with accentuated slope; depending on the cases, we reserve the right to request an effort test and medical certificate to guarantee the health conditions to perform the activity.

What is included in the price I'm paying?

✔ Professional & Certified Mount Pico Guide

✔ Mount Pico Natural Reserve access fee

✔ Hiking poles

✔ Individual Headlight

✔ Crampons (Winter)

✔ Informative Climb Manual

✔ Allianz® Personal Accident Insurance

✔ Climbing Certificate of Achievement

What is the schedule to climb Mount Pico? How long does it take?

The climb lasts 10 to 12 hours (4-5 hours to go up, and the same to go down).

During the summer season the start is at 6am and you get back at around 3pm. During the winter season it's starts at 8am and finishes around 5pm. You should be at the meeting spot at least 15 minutes before the starting time of your climb. The activity will start no later than 30 minutes after the stipulated time for the meeting point in the Mountain House.

What are the physical and health requirements to participate in the Mount Pico climb?

To participate in the Mount Pico climb, participants must be in good physical condition, have good coordination, and preferably have experience with steep trails. Tripix Azores does not accept participants with a sedentary lifestyle.

Additional requirements:

• Adults over 65 years old are advised to undergo a physical exertion test and obtain a medical certificate confirming their suitability for mountaineering activities.

• Participants must inform Tripix Azores before booking if they have any of the following:

• Physical restrictions (e.g., recent surgeries, especially on lower joints)

• Fear of heights

• Heart problems, respiratory issues (asthma, sensitivity), diabetes, or pregnancy

• Mental or psychological restrictions

Important: Participants should not have engaged in diving within 24 hours before the activity.

Are there specific dates when activities aren’t running/being operated?

Tripix Azores operates year-round; however, depending on the time of year, there may be limited availability from certain local producers or museums. Please note that museums are closed on Mondays throughout the year. Wine tastings are also unavailable on Sundays and public holidays during the peak season (June to September), and closed on weekends and holidays during the low season (October to May). We make every effort to schedule tours that include these visits on alternative dates.

During the low season, Tripix Azores — like many tour operators — scales back its operations. Weekend tours will only run with a minimum of four participants. If fewer than four people register, the tour will not proceed as scheduled. In this case, you may choose to reschedule or upgrade to a private tour so that the activity can take place.

All activities are subject to weather conditions.

What is the best time to climb Mount Pico?

The climb to Mount Pico can be done year-round, weather permitting. However, the best conditions are usually found between May and September, which correspond to the high season and the summer months (June, July, and August). We strongly recommend booking in advance, especially during this peak period. Even though the weather tends to be more favorable at this time of year, we always suggest keeping alternative dates in mind while on Pico, in case the climb needs to be rescheduled.

Outside the high season, conditions can be more variable, but climbs are still possible — often offering a quieter, more authentic experience on the mountain, with fewer people and a different perspective of the landscape.

If I’m not experienced, or if this is my first mountain experience, can I still join the climb to Mount Pico?

Yes, it is not required to be an experienced hiker to climb mount Pico although it is important to have a good physical condition. The participant must be in good physical condition, have motor coordination, and preferably have experience on steep trails. Participants with a sedentary lifestyle may not undertake the Mount Pico Climb activity. For a first mountain experience we advise starting with a Pico Day Climb.

Where is the meeting point for the Mount Pico climb?

The meeting point is directly at Mountain House. If transportation is needed, a transfer can be arranged from the Tripix Store in the village of Madalena, subject to availability and additional cost.

What happens if I do not have the necessary physical preparation during the Mount Pico climb?

After 30 minutes (maximum 1 hour), the guide will assess the participant’s physical condition. If the guide determines that the participant does not have the necessary preparation, they will be excluded from the activity for the safety of the group. No refund will be issued if excluded due to physical issues or voluntary withdrawal.

What are some recommended accommodations near our adventure location?

We understand that finding the perfect place to stay is an essential part of your adventure experience. To help you with this, we’ve curated a list of three highly recommended hotels that offer comfort, convenience, and a touch of local charm. These accommodations are well-suited for adventurers looking to relax and rejuvenate after an exciting day of exploration
The Lince Nordeste Country & Nature Hotel Nordeste Portugal
Hotel Quinta do Furao Nordeste Portugal
Hotel Avenida Nordeste Portugal

About the guide

Guide profile image

-Tripix

4.9

(30)

Tripix Azores is a team of certified local guides with 10+ years of experience. Specialized in Mount Pico climbs and outdoor tours, we focus on safety, authenticity, and sustainable tourism, ensuring every climb and hike is an enriching experience.

Languages

Portuguese | Italian | English


Reviews with photos

One of the greatest highlights of my trip to the Azores. Taking the guided night climb was the best idea. I appreciated not having to care about the access, the insurances, the walking poles and the lamp. 

There was no one else in the trails but our small group. We quickly became very friendly with each others. We only met other people at the summit during the sunrise. 

Our guide Bruno immediately learned our name and asked very regularely how we were doing. He was fun and friendly, but also very caring and gave us advices in the trickiest part of the hike. He really had a paternal caring energy with us. 

I would have like a bit more general info during the hike about the island, the volcano, the flora etc... (especially during the way down when there was light) but he answered all my questions so that's fine. 

The pace was slow and careful. I could have go a bit faster on the way up, but this pace ensured our safety and prevented me from swetting :P At first I felt the walking poles were useless, but on the way down, they became essential! 

Tripix provided very detailed informations about the climb and the required gear and clothing. Even if I found the climb easier than expected, do not understimate it and bring lots of water (I drank 3.5 liters). Also, do not underestimate how cold it's gonna get at the summit. I am canadian and I definitely needed my coat, gloves, dawn hat and scarf!

No need to talk about the magnificient scenery. We saw shooting stars on the way up, crazy sunrise with the perfect amount of clouds afar, and great views on the way down. 5

What people are saying about this trip

Célia

Emma

We had an incredible time hiking to the summit of Mount Pico at sunrise. The views were absolutely breathtaking and well worth the early start. Our guide, Matteo, was fantastic, extremely friendly, knowledgeable, and well-prepared. He made sure we felt safe and comfortable throughout the entire hike, getting us to the top and back without any issues. We highly recommend this experience to anyone visiting the Azores!

Davide

NAYAN

Matteo, our guide is a wonderful person. Very professional and friendly. I am thankful to him for being so kind to us, and making this hiking safe and enjoyable for us. Wishing him all the best. Nayan

Amra


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