The Madeira Archipelago is situated between latitude 32º22’20" and 33º7’50" with its longitude between 16º16’30W and 17º16’38"W. The island of Madeira has a surface area of 459 square miles (741 km2), (35 miles long and 13 miles wide). The island is 310 miles from the African coast and 620 miles from the European continent, which is the equivalent of a 1 hour 30 minute flight from Lisbon. The archipelago, discovered by the Portuguese in 1418, is made up of the islands of Madeira, Porto Santo and the uninhabited islands of Selvagens and Desertas.

Getting There

Madeira can be reached from any of the major European airports. There are some charter flights that flight directly to the island. Or you can flight to Lisbon first and after 1 hour 30 minute flight you will land in Madeira International Airport.
To climb Pico do Cidrão you should go by car to Pico do Areeiro, Madeira's third highest mountain. Here you will find a parking lot, a bar and souvenir shops. It serves as base for a very nice hiking trail to Pico Ruivo (the highest mountain of Madeira). This trail is perfectly secured since otherwise it would be very exposed. The trail follows the ridge between Pico Areeiro and Pico do Gato. In this trail you should pass in Miradouro da Manta, a nice place to stop and admire the view. After this you should continue in the same trail. Before seeing a big descent you should take another trail in your left. Then it’s an uphill until the summit. From Pico do Areeiro to the summit of Pico do Cidrão you will take approximately 40 min. For returning the same trail is advised.

Red Tape

No permits or parking fees needed

When To Climb

You can climb this mountain all the year. Gloves recommended, warm clothing and wind protection are essential in winter

Camping

You are not aloud to camp in the area. Camping only with a special permission from Ecological Park of Funchal. But there’s no need for camping.