Pico Alto Santa Maria
Santa Maria's highest volcanic peak, offering sweeping island views and intriguing abandoned military bunkers. A challenging hike awaits!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best views, less fog
Pico Alto Santa Maria
Best Time
Best views, less fog
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Santa Maria's highest volcanic peak, offering sweeping island views and intriguing abandoned military bunkers. A challenging hike awaits!
"You can see all the island from here!"
Check the Weather First! ☁️
Fog can completely obscure views. Check forecasts before you go for the best experience.
Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed 🥾
The trail can be very muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof boots are a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Island Views
Summit
Witness breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Santa Maria Island from its highest point.
Abandoned Military Bunkers
Near the summit
Explore intriguing remnants of military history scattered across the volcanic landscape.
PRC 02 SMA Hiking Trail
Base of Pico Alto
Embark on a challenging 6.2 km circular trail with significant elevation gain.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer Pico Alto: Your Essential Prep
Timing Your Pico Alto Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Check the Weather First! ☁️
Fog can completely obscure views. Check forecasts before you go for the best experience.
Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed 🥾
The trail can be very muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof boots are a must.
Consider a Guide for the Trail 🗺️
While not always mandatory, a guide can be helpful for navigation and safety on the PRC 02 SMA trail.
Bring Water & Snacks 🍎
There are no facilities on the trail, so pack essentials for your hike.
Tips
from all over the internet
Check the Weather First! ☁️
Fog can completely obscure views. Check forecasts before you go for the best experience.
Sturdy Hiking Boots Needed 🥾
The trail can be very muddy, especially after rain. Waterproof boots are a must.
Consider a Guide for the Trail 🗺️
While not always mandatory, a guide can be helpful for navigation and safety on the PRC 02 SMA trail.
Bring Water & Snacks 🍎
There are no facilities on the trail, so pack essentials for your hike.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the incredible panoramic views from Pico Alto, calling it the highest point with vistas of the entire island. The abandoned military bunkers add a unique historical element. However, the PRC 02 SMA hiking trail is noted as strenuous and can be extremely muddy, requiring proper gear and preparation.
"The highest point in Santa Maria Island. It was really nice since you can see around most of the island:)"
Hiroki Nagasawa
"You can see all the island from here"
Alan Martin
"Pico Alto is the highest mountain in Santa Maria. From here, in good weather, you can enjoy a view of the entire island. This is the historic site where, on February 8, 1989, the pilots of a Boeing 707-331B flew into the fog-shrouded Pico Alto mountain. The accident killed all 144 people on board; it is the worst aviation accident in Portugal.
From here, you can also start the PRC 02 SMA hiking trail, which is 6.2 km of hilly terrain. It's very strenuous, as the last two kilometers involve a 220-meter climb."
Tom PLETSCHETTE
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Pico Alto is accessible by car. There's a parking lot near the summit, which is the starting point for many hikes. The drive offers scenic views of the island.
Yes, Pico Alto is the highest point on Santa Maria and is generally well-signposted. Follow signs for 'Pico Alto' or 'Miradouro Pico Alto'.
Public transport options to Pico Alto are limited. Renting a car is the most convenient way to reach the mountain and explore the surrounding areas.
The roads leading to Pico Alto are paved and generally in good condition, offering beautiful island scenery along the way.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entrance fees or tickets required to visit Pico Alto Santa Maria. It's a natural attraction open to the public.
Pico Alto is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, visiting during daylight hours is recommended for safety and views.
The PRC 02 SMA hiking trail and other paths around Pico Alto are free to access. No admission fees apply.
Yes, Pico Alto can be visited in winter, but be prepared for potentially colder weather and more challenging trail conditions due to mud.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can enjoy panoramic views of the island, explore abandoned military bunkers, and hike the PRC 02 SMA trail.
The trail is considered strenuous, with a significant climb in the last two kilometers. It can also be very muddy.
There are no facilities like restrooms or shops at the summit or along the hiking trails. Come prepared.
On a clear day, you'll have stunning 360-degree views of the entire island of Santa Maria, including the coastline and interior.
Solo hiking is possible, but it's advisable to inform someone of your plans and be cautious, especially on the PRC 02 SMA trail due to its difficulty and potential for mud.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit offers incredible panoramic shots. The abandoned bunkers also make for unique and atmospheric photos.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be beautiful for landscape photography, but clear weather is paramount for capturing the island views.
A wide-angle lens is great for the panoramic views. Consider a sturdy tripod if you plan for sunrise/sunset shots. A waterproof camera bag is wise due to potential mud.
No specific restrictions are in place for photography at Pico Alto. However, always be respectful of the natural environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider focusing on the panoramic views from the summit and exploring the accessible areas around the bunkers. If you do attempt a portion of the trail, ensure children have appropriate footwear, as it can be very muddy.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Adventure Seekers
While some experienced hikers opt to go without a guide, many Redditors suggest considering one for safety and navigation, especially if the weather is unpredictable.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Hiking the PRC 02 SMA Trail
While the trail offers a rewarding experience and a chance to immerse yourself in the island's natural beauty, be prepared for a strenuous workout. The terrain is hilly throughout, and the final ascent requires good stamina. Planning your visit during the dry season can help mitigate the mud factor, but always check local conditions before setting out.
For those who complete it, the trail offers a unique perspective of Santa Maria's diverse landscapes. It's a chance to push your limits and earn those spectacular summit views. Remember to carry sufficient water and snacks, as there are no amenities along the route.
The Volcanic Landscape and Its History
These bunkers serve as a reminder of the island's strategic importance. While the natural scenery is the primary draw, these man-made structures offer a stark contrast and a glimpse into the past. Exploring them can be a fascinating detour during your visit.
It's also important to acknowledge the tragic history associated with Pico Alto. In 1989, a Boeing 707 crashed into the fog-shrouded mountain, resulting in the loss of all 144 lives on board. This event is a somber part of the mountain's history and a reminder of the powerful forces of nature and aviation risks.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit