Ribeira Grande

Tours

The western half of São Miguel island boosts an incredible variety of amazing and varied scenic highlights. This tour offers you the chance to discover the very best of São Miguel on a dazzling 8-hour journey of pure natural beauty! Tour by van in comfort, as part of a small-group, with lots of personal interaction from our top-notch guides. Lunch is included! Start with a visit to Ribeira Grande, one of the most picturesque towns of the Azores and a great example of Azorean architecture. Then discover an amazingly beautiful set of little-known cliffs on the North coast. Move into more interior areas of the island, to reach the gorgeous waterfall of Salto do Cabrito. Drive up to the Fogo Volcano, which contains the most pristine and magical of the crater lakes of São Miguel. The views from the mountain top are breathtaking, allowing you to see a large portion of the island. After a tasty meal to restore your energy levels, head to Sete Cidades, to find out why this is considered by the postcard of the Azores.   End the day in Mosteiros, on the western end of the island, and discover enchanting small islets and natural pools formed in the black lava rocks.

1st Full Day tour to Furnas & Nordeste. (8 hours tour)) 2nd Full Day tour to Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo. (8 hours tour) *The order of days tours may be changed. On the day of Furnas & Nordeste tour, we will have the opportunity to lunch the famous “Furnas Stew”, cooked in volcanic soil for 6 hours and also have the opportunity to see taking out our pot from the interior of the volcanic soil, and all the volcanic manifestations existing there. On the day of Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo tour, lunch will be served as a “Buffet” with different meat and fish dishes. (Full lunch on both of 2 days of activities with starters, drinks, dessert and coffee can be added to your tour when booking) In these 2 days of activitiest, you will have the privilege of having a general view of the most iconic places of the entire “green” island, from which stand out the emblematic viewpoints such as Vista do Rei in Sete Cidades, (winner of the 7 Wonders of Portugal ) or Pico do Ferro, where you can see from the top of the crater one of the most active volcanoes in the Azores archipelago and learn all about its eruptive history with more than 100,000 years. You will also have the opportunity to relax in hot thermal pools, heated by Furnas volcano, at one of the biggest and best Botanical Parks in Europe, Terra Nostra Park. Also the visit to Pineapple and Tea Plantations will be a “must”. In the Northeast area, we will visit the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park with its 5 water mills and its imposing and majestic waterfall, entitled “Véu da Noiva”.

Embark on a journey through Sete Cidades, one of the most stunning volcanic landscapes in the Azores. Morning – Exploring Sete Cidades Travel along the Covoada route, entering the vast caldera of Sete Cidades, a geological wonder formed by volcanic collapse. Stop at Pico do Carvão Viewpoint, where you’ll witness a breathtaking panorama of peaks and the narrowest point of São Miguel Island (just 8 km wide). Pass by the Nine Windows Wall, an old aqueduct that once supplied water to Ponta Delgada. Visit Lagoa das Canárias, a hidden gem surrounded by lush greenery. Stop at the famous Vista do Rei Viewpoint, where King D. Carlos I (1901) once declared, “Yes, this is a view fit for a king.” Explore the largest collapse caldera in the Azores, a nature reserve and geosite, and one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal. Continue to Serrado das Freiras Viewpoint and Lagoa de Santiago, a deep-green volcanic lake nestled in the crater. Walk along the shores of the Blue Lagoon and cross the bridge separating it from the Green Lagoon. Midday – Lunch Break Enjoy a traditional Azorean lunch in the charming village of Sete Cidades. Afternoon – North Coast & Lagoa do Fogo Depart from Sete Cidades towards Cumieira Grande, stopping at Vista da Rainha and driving along a scenic rally route. Pass by the Nine Windows Wall before heading to the north coast. Follow the old riverside road to Santa Luzia Viewpoint (Miradouro do Palheiro) for a spectacular view of the northern coastline. Drive past the historic fort and cross the Eight Arches Bridge in Ribeira Grande. Stop at a local liqueur factory for a free guided tour and tasting of traditional Azorean liqueurs. Continue towards Salto do Cabrito, a picturesque waterfall next to a hydroelectric plant. Pass by the geothermal power plants, remnants of the island’s volcanic energy. Visit the Lagoa do Fogo, one of São Miguel’s most iconic crater lakes. Stop at the main viewpoint and ascend to Pico da Barrosa (875m) for a panoramic view of the island’s north and south coasts. A perfect blend of volcanic landscapes, history, and nature, this tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into the raw beauty of São Miguel.

Explore the volcanic landscape of the Sete Cidades, and the mountain scenery of the Lagoa do Fogo on a full-day sightseeing tour from Punta Delgada. Following a pick-up from your hotel, drive along a scenic road to the Vista do Rei viewpoint. Enjoy panoramic views of the blue and green waters of the two lakes in the crater of the Sete Cidades. Then, continue to different viewpoints before getting close to the banks of the twin lakes. Go to the Mata do Canário, and marvel at the unique flora of the natural park. Drive along the Pico do Carvão road past numerous small lakes, including the “Empadas Lakes.” Get multiple perspectives of the north and south shores of the island of São Miguel. Break for a lunch of typical Azorean food in a local restaurant in the city of Lagoa. Next, explore the city of Ribeira Grande with its unique historic center that dates from the 17th to 19th centuries. Ascend the Pico da Barrosa mountain at the end of your tour and discover the protected natural landscape of the Lagoa do Fogo (Fire Lake). Marvel at the thermal pools, waterfalls, and different types of endangered plants of the area, before your return transfer to Ponta Delgada and a drop-off at your hotel.

Set out on a boat expedition to see sperm whales, the largest of the cetacean family. On this learning adventure, explore the northern coast of São Miguel and its diverse flora and fauna. Discover facts about sperm whales from marine biologists as you look for them in their protected habitat.  Your tour begins with a briefing from marine biologists at the yacht club on the island's northern side. You'll learn about the different species you might see, the whale-watching history in the Azores, and understand how biologists and whale watchers respect the animals. Next, board the boat and set out for the Atlantic waters. Enjoy the beautiful coastal landscape and keep your eyes peeled for marine life. You may see dolphins, Portuguese man-o-war, or turtles on the coast. As you enter the deeper waters of the sanctuary, stay on the lookout for sperm whales.  Finally, return to Rabo de Peixe Harbor. The team of marine biologists will tell you more about the species you just saw. Hear more about the cetaceans, their habits, and their routes to round out your tour.

Immerse yourself in the exhilarating world of surfing with our comprehensive Surfing Program designed for beginners. Whether you're a first-time surfer or simply eager to refine your skills, our step-by-step approach ensures an enriching experience tailored to your needs. Prepare for a thrilling two-hour adventure filled with excitement and learning. Our expert-led session covers every aspect of surfing, ensuring you make the most of your time on the waves. Gain a deeper understanding of ocean knowledge and safety rules as you learn essential principles for navigating the marine environment. Warm up dynamically, preparing your body for action with exercises aimed at enhancing flexibility and reducing the risk of injury. Familiarize yourself with surf equipment and its functions through a comprehensive overview, empowering you to make the most of your surfing experience. Master the art of take-off while still on the sand, laying a solid foundation for success in the water. Develop confidence as you learn how to enter the water gracefully and handle your board with ease. Practice wave-catching techniques in the white water and refine your paddling skills to navigate the waves effectively. With no prior experience required, our experienced instructors will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring a safe and rewarding learning experience. All you need is the ability to swim, and we'll take care of the rest. Join us at either Praia das Milícias or the Areal de Santa Barbara for an unforgettable surfing experience. The exact location will be communicated to you the day before your lesson, ensuring you're fully prepared for the adventure ahead. Enjoy access to top-quality surf equipment, including a board, suit, and leash, to maximize your comfort and performance. Are you ready to catch some waves and experience the thrill of surfing firsthand? Let's surf!

Starting from the parish of Pico da Pedra, take the wheel of a powerful all-terrain vehicle and embark on an exciting journey through São Miguel Island. Cruise along paved roads before venturing onto dirt paths along the picturesque coastline. Guided by our experts, ascend to the highest peaks of the surrounding mountains, immersing yourself in the beauty of the Sete Cidades Volcano. Traverse a mix of thrilling on and off-road trails,. Next, Pico da Cruz offers a viewpoint at 845 meters above sea level. Marvel at the panorama, encompassing the Lagoa Rasa, Lagoa de Santiago, Lagoa Verde, Lagoa Azul, and the entire crater of the Sete Cidades volcano before concluding your tour.

Spend the day exploring the stunning volcanic landscapes of São Miguel's East side along with its coastline on a full-day sightseeing tour from Ponta Delgada. Discover how the Azoreans live inside the Furnas volcano's crater in a small group tour atmosphere. This experience also have a lunch option and is designed to show you the best of East side. ITINERARY: Following a pickup from your hotel or meeting point between 09:00 to 09:20, travel to the gorgeous Santa Iria viewpoint located on north shore where you can admire the magnificent volcanic cliffs that shape the coastline. Next, refresh your adventure with a morning stop and tea tasting at Gorreana Tea Factory, the last 100% natural tea plantations on earth. Contemplate the beauty of the tea plantations undulating through the hills. São Miguel has the only two tea plantations in Europe Venture to the picturesque Nordeste to visit Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park. A watermill museum, cascading waterfalls and experience this Azorean heritage in a magical setting. Next, head to the mystical Furnas Valley, where geothermal wonders await to be amazed by the enchanting charm of this place while seeing fumaroles and bubbling springs, a testament to the island's volcanic soul. Travel to the geothermal area of Furnas (Caldeiras). Marvel as the actives hot springs with boiling waters and mud release steam into the air creating a magical landscape. Furnas is considered to be one of Europe's largest hydropolises due to its wide variety of mineral and thermal springs. One of these, is Terra Nostra Botanical Garden & Thermal pool, appreciated for its medicinal benefits and the beautiful garden. For food lovers who have chosen the tour with lunch option, you will enjoy the most authentic dish in the Azores, Furnas stew, (Cozido das Furnas) which is cooked in volcanic soil and perfectly crafted to tantalize your taste buds. Beverages, dessert and coffee are included. On the picturesque Furnas lake, the magnificent neo-Gothic Nossa Senhora das Vitórias Chapel built on its shore tells a beautiful love story. Start your return passing through Vila Franca do Campo, the former island capital, admiring its beautiful islet, locally known as the Princess Ring Islet. The scenic road through the southern part of the island is the perfect way to end your fantastic island discovery. NOTE: Our tours are relaxed and conducted with true Azorean spirit and usually end between 17.30 and 18.30. Enjoy and feel like you're on vacation :)

Embark on a thrilling adventure with our AdventurePark Canyon tour at Salto do Cabrito. Located near Ribeira Grande, this excursion offers an adrenaline-pumping experience amidst the lush, volcanic landscapes of São Miguel. Begin your journey with a scenic 30-minute hike to the canyoning site, where the excitement truly begins. Navigate through stunning landscapes and rappel down waterfalls up to 16 meters high! Perfect for both beginners and seasoned adventurers, this tour showcases the raw beauty and exhilarating challenges of the Azorean wilderness. Join us at Salto do Cabrito for an unforgettable canyoning experience that blends nature's grandeur with heart-pounding excitement.

The perfect Azores adventure: • One Full Day Tour to Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo (West side) • One Full Day Tour to Furnas & Ribeira dos Caldeirões (East Side) IMPORTANT INFO: • For tax reasons, lunches are not included but available as an add-on. Choose the "West & East Lunch add-on" on your checkout, we'll take care of your reservation and you'll pay for your meal on the spot. • The tour takes place on 2 consecutive days and your first day tour can start by the West or East Tour. The Experience: - On the West Tour, start by visiting a pineapple plantation followed by the most scenic viewpoint in the Azores, the "Vista do Rei" viewpoint on the edge of the volcanic crater, witness the beauty of the blue and green lake. Descend inside the volcano, stop at the "Cerrado das Freiras" viewpoint and Sete Cidades parish. Here you will have free time to explore the picturesque parish, walk along the edge of the lake or enjoy a typical buffet lunch if you have opted for the "Boock Lunch" option. Next, stop at Escalvado viewpoint overlooking the ocean, Ponta da Ferraria and Mosteiros Islets. Departure to the north coast, stop at Santa Barbara black sand beach. Explore Fogo volcano with a stop at the "Lagoa do Fogo" and "Pico da Barrosa" viewpoints. The last one offers wonderful views over the lagoon and the whole western part of the island. Return to the starting point. - On the East side Tour, discover Furnas volcano & Nordeste (Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park) starting with a morning stop at one of the most beautiful viewpoints on the north coast of São Miguel, Santa Iria. Enjoy a tea tasting by visiting one of the only two industrial tea factories in Europe. Admire all the beauty of the tea plantation, traveling through valleys and mountains where goats clean the bushes. This is not just any plantation, it is the last one in the world where no pesticides or fertilizers are used, being 100% natural. Head to the "Parque Natural da Ribeira dos Caldeirões" in Nordeste, here, the nature lives! An old water mill park converted into a Natural Park of great beauty with its enormous waterfalls. In Furnas volcano village, explore the place locally called "Mouth of the Volcano" where you will find hot spring, countless sources of mineral waters and stroll among boiling waters. Stop for a gastronomic adventure and try the “Cozido das Furnas”. Stewed in holes set in the volcanic soil for around 7 hours, this is perhaps the most “unique” dish in the Azores. Don't forget to select the option to book lunch Next, visit the "Parque das Caldeiras" close to the Furnas lake and learn how the locals cook, using holes in the volcanic ground (extra fee 3€ per person) Pass by Vila Franca do Campo, which was the first capital of São Miguel, before its destruction in 1522.