Most Riders Use the Shuttle from the Parking to the Peak
More than 8,000 people have taken the bus to Pico do Aieiro so far this year, according to data from Horários do Funchal, the company operating the service. About 60% of passengers used only the short shuttle between the designated parking area and the peak. The remaining passengers traveled from Funchal. That’s more than 55 people every day.
The company’s president, Alexandre Gonçalves, told local radio that interest in the public transport service was lower during the winter months. In January, there were 1,397 passengers; in February, the number rose slightly to 1,479. March saw a drop to just 475 users, due to bad weather and poor conditions for hiking. However, interest picked up again in April, with more than 2,600 passengers.
Route Change May Improve Passenger Numbers
Gonçalves believes that May will see even more passengers. But for the number to continue growing, he says the route from Funchal must be improved. One proposal is to change the first bus stop to the Monumental area, closer to many hotels. This would make it easier for tourists - even those who rent cars - to leave their vehicles in central Funchal and take the bus to the peak instead. This change could help reduce traffic near Pico do Arieiro, which is a common problem during high season.
Company Hopes to Raise Ticket Prices
Horários do Funchal has plans to increase the price of the bus ride, currently set at 3,00 € when departing Funchal and 1,20 € when starting at CAM Florestal, though the company is waiting for approval from the Regional Government. Gonçalves did not share what the new price would be but said the change is necessary to keep the service running well.
A Growing Interest in Eco-Friendly Travel
The bus route to Pico do Areeiro is seen as an environmentally friendly option for accessing one of Madeira’s most popular viewpoints. By encouraging tourists to leave their cars in the city, Horários do Funchal aims to protect the natural area while still giving visitors easy access to hiking trails and scenic views.
Source: RTP Madeira
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