FAQ
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.
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 don’t buy a souvenir at Tripix Azores Office, can I purchase it later?
Yes, we can ship Tripix Azores and Mount Pico Azores merchandise worldwide when requested and paid in advance.
If I’m travelling alone, can I join in the activities?
For Solo Travelers a fee is applied only in cases where we don’t have a group formed for the pretended activity yet. If a booking is made and the fee is applied, it is reimbursed in case we can join other people for the same activity. The minimum for all activities is 2 participants.
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.
How soon / fast should I book the guided climb to Mount Pico or other activities?
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 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.
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 happens if the activity is canceled due to weather conditions, especially during peak season?
During the peak season (May to September), if the activity is canceled due to weather conditions, Tripix Azores cannot guarantee rebooking for prior or later dates. However, efforts will be made to minimize impacts. The paid amount can be used for an alternative activity, subject to availability. If preferred, a refund will be processed within 15 business days.
What happens if I do not send the participants’ details for the Mount Pico climb?
The booking is only considered complete once the personal details of each participant are submitted. If the details are not provided in time, Tripix Azores cannot guarantee registration at Mountain House, and no refund will be issued.
What are the physical and health requirements to participate in activities like Bike, Hike, Cave, and SUP?
Participants must be in good physical condition and have good coordination. Specific requirements:
• SUP: Must know how to swim
• Cave: Must not have claustrophobia
For adults over 65 years old, Tripix Azores may require a physical exertion test and a medical certificate.
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.
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.
Where is the meeting point for Tours and other activities by Tripix Azores?
The meeting point is at the Tripix Store in the village of Madalena, in front of the Madalena Maritime Terminal. For tours in Faial or São Jorge, the meeting point will be at the respective Passenger Maritime Terminals (Horta or Velas). Alternatively, a pick-up from accommodations can be arranged upon prior request, subject to availability and additional cost.
Important: Ferry tickets for tours in Faial or São Jorge are not included in the tour price. They can be arranged upon prior request, subject to an additional cost.
What are the benefits of climbing Mount Pico with a guide?
• Safety: The guide knows the terrain and mountain conditions.
• Sustainability: The guide follows responsible tourism practices to preserve the environment.
• Experience: Guides share knowledge about the region’s flora, fauna, and history.
• Risk prevention: The guide is trained to handle emergencies.
• Time management: The guide adjusts the pace of the climb to ensure everyone reaches the top on time.
• Appropriate equipment: The guide ensures all participants are properly prepared.
What are the schedules for Tripix Azores activities?
Schedules are indicative and may vary due to factors such as weather conditions, transportation timetables, or governmental restrictions. The exact meeting time and location will be confirmed by email no later than the day before the activity. A tolerance of 15 minutes applies; after that, it will be considered a “No-Show”.
Full-day activities start at 09:00 am and have an average duration of 7 to 8 hours.
Half-day activities may be scheduled either in the morning (starting at 09:00 am) or in the afternoon (starting at 01:00 pm), depending on guide availability, and typically last between 3 and 4 hours.
What happens in case of bad weather?
In case of bad weather, Tripix Azores may cancel activities, as adverse conditions could compromise participants’ safety. During the peak season (May to September), availability is limited, and rebooking for earlier or later dates cannot be guaranteed, although every effort will be made to minimize the impact.
If the activity is canceled, the amount paid can be applied to an alternative activity (subject to availability).
If preferred, a refund will be issued within 15 business days, with an 8€ retention fee for reservation management, as stipulated in our cancellation policy.
How can I make a complaint or provide feedback?
If you have any complaints or feedback, you can contact Tripix Azores via the email or phone number provided on the website.