Mountain House

Climbing Mount Pico is a must do if you have the chance. It is a great and challenging experience. Check the weather forecast to climb on a clear day if possible. The views are stunning. The trails are very rough and you must bring good shoes, hiking boots are highly recommended especially for climbing the top.
Since there are limited slots, it might be a good idea to reserve beforehand. We could not find any available slots on the website, but when we arrived at 8am, we were still able to go.

Climbing Mt. Pico is a really nice experience and even for an experienced hiker something very special. The Mountain House is your starting point. Make sure that you reserve a spot for the climb since the number of people who can go up in one day is limited.
Once you are there you will get a GPS tracking device for your safety and some basic instructions. They will check if you have enough water, adequate shoes etc.
The price of the permit is also your insurance if something happens to you and you need Mountain rescue.

Some of the critics here think the price is to high: I believe It is not, the fee probably helps to operate the Mountain house, the toilet, etc. and covers any costs of a mountain rescue. It also ensures that the trail is clean. Also i do not think it is unfair that the locals from the island go up for free... why not? It is their mountain and they go up more often than the people who are here for only one time in their life. Also it is probably a fair price for professional service and an insurance.

The trail is very well marked, but remember this is mountain terrain and not a stroll in the park ;-)

It was an amazing experience trekking and climbing on the Pico mountain. It is quite difficult one but very satisfying when you reach the top. The view is spectacular

This is where the climb to Mt. Pico starts. Friendly staff will brief you and give a GPS device in case in get lost. They will also produce you a "certificate" upon your return. Please note that one must reserve their hike in advance. The staff won't do it for you and, since there's no mobile internet up there, you won't be able to reserve your hike on using your phone. So, make the reservation BEFORE showing up.
The hike itself is short but steep and for the most part there will be no well defined trail, so one will need to figure out the best route from one post to another. The descent is harder and takes longer, so make sure you have enough time. Other than that, it's pretty straightforward and suitable for most healthy adults. Also, pack some warmer clothes as it gets colder once you get past 2k.

Great check in.
Highly qualified workers that explain to you all the details and security for a safe trip up the mountain Pico. The mountain house also has a bar so one can replenish energy for the climb.
Bathrooms are also available.
Recommended.

The hike was great and the people who work at the Mountain house are very kind and helpful. Don't forget to book your slot in advance and good luck.

Arrived at 6am for first come first serve tickets (no reservation). Easy check in process. Proceeded without guide - one is not needed if you’re a mildly experienced hiker with the right gear. Lucked out with amazing clear skies (was clear in the morning) and only faced clouds and fog on the way down. Up and down in 6 hours with a 1 hour lunch break.

They have some food, trackers, if you want up the Mountain. They sell the Tickets and guides. There is a toilet and small info about pico.
Good choice!

This hike should be illegal - how dangerous it was, but it is so much fun!

The view is amazing if you find a good weather!
We didn’t manage to do the trail path since we were on a short holiday, but be prepared to call them in order to find an available slot (rules for Covid).

Modern base station with useful information and friendly staff. Also has a little Café to drink something before or after the hike.

You start the hike up Mount Pico from here. Views driving up there are insanely beautiful so even if you don't do the hike, it's worth the drive up there.

Do not miss your opportunity to climb Pico mountain. All weather is included in one climb. Sun, wind, rain, fog and sometimes even snow.

Friendly Staff.
The place is the support house for the hiking trail to Pico Mountain, it is mandatory to stop here to register yourself for the climb.

Oh my gosh, what a day to remember a lifetime.
One of the best places to make the most enchanting photographs, when it's not cloudy ofcourse. Even to the first crater you got an outstanding view over Pico Island. This is possible for everybody, even without walking boots and guide.
To go to the top, we did without guide and without experience. It's possible, but a guide will definitely give you the best advise and motivation to keep going.
What a day to be alive!

Compliments to all the staff at the mountain house, and everybody involved in the management and maintenance of the mountain. Incredible experience

Mount Pico!!!

You have to be strong to take it.
We didn’t made it!!!

Start early!!!!!

They offer a GPS system to monitor your climbing to the top and security is a major issue here. As the weather at Pico Mountain is unstable, you can always call in advance to know if it is possible to go up. Staff are nice!

Incredible experience. Start early, bring 1.5L of water, sunscreen, and dress for the weather.

Staff is friendly and the trail is pretty well marked (considering people had to haul those wooden markers up).

Some comments I did not see elsewhere: 1) there is now aclarar parking area; 2) you can and should call the Casa da Montanha to know weather conditions for your day and future days; 3) there is an inexpensive option for persons who want to do just the first part of the trail which lasts 20-30 minutes; it costs 2 euros per person but is still quite strenuous for someone older and for children but if you take your time all can do it (and you DO NOT NEED A GUIDE FOR THIS PART); 4) take poles ABSOLUTELY more for coming down than going up; there are a limited supply for rent; 5) the trails is mostly on lava which means if you fall it can be painful (especially on way down) and there are big steps for the first 500 meters so watch out if you have bad knees; 6) it is perfect ankle twisting territory especially on way down so if you have ankle high boots and hard soles it is better (again pokes will really help here); 7) you also need to take water with you but there are bottles for sale; you need warmer clothing layers and a rainproof layer whatever the weather forecast says; 8) the road down to and up from Sao Caetano is accessible but not in great condition (avoid if raining heavily); 8) gloves are advisable as the lava can be cutting on the skin when using your hands to balance and leverage during your climb (ordinary garden or light-weight gloves will do); 9) the cafe is closed while the casa us being renovated (works should finish in September)