Full Day Scenic tour Nordeste and Povoação and waterfalls

Experience the Best of São Miguel’s Nordeste and Povoação with an Exciting Full-Day Quad Tour

This full-day scenic tour offers an adventurous way to discover the east side of São Miguel in the Azores. For $85 per person, travelers spend 7.5 hours exploring stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and viewpoints. The tour begins at ANC Azores Holidays, where an experienced guide leads you through a carefully curated itinerary filled with natural beauty and cultural highlights.

What makes this tour special is the opportunity to drive a quad through diverse terrains—from paved roads to dirt tracks—taking in spectacular sights like Ponta do Sossego and Ponta da Madrugada. Along the way, you visit Nordeste, a charming village, and enjoy a local lunch that showcases typical Azorean cuisine. The strength of this experience lies in its mix of active exploration and scenic stops, making it ideal for those seeking adventure and authentic landscapes. On the downside, participants need a valid driver’s license and should be prepared for basic safety requirements, including signing liability waivers and providing a credit card deposit.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: This full-day tour costs $85 per person and lasts approximately 7.5 hours.
• Quad Driving Adventure: You get to drive a quad across varied terrains, with options for paved and dirt roads.
• Natural Highlights: Visit breathtaking viewpoints like Ponta do Sossego, Ponta da Madrugada, and the Salto do Cavalo lookout.
• Waterfalls and Parks: The Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park features a large waterfall and lush scenery.
• Cultural and Scenic Stops: Explore Nordeste, a picturesque village, and enjoy photo stops and guided walks at each location.
• Includes essentials: The package covers quad rental, helmets, fuel, lunch, personal insurance, and a guide.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point at ANC Azores Holidays

The tour begins at ANC Azores Holidays, where guests are equipped with helmets and safety instructions. The journey kicks off with a scenic drive to Areal de Santa Bárbara Beach, a perfect spot for photos and a brief walk. The beach offers views of the Atlantic and a chance to stretch before heading inland.

The starting location serves as a practical point to assemble before venturing into the island’s east coast, with transportation options varying based on group size—either a 9-seat van for up to 8 people or a larger bus for groups up to 22.

Scenic Stops at Santa Bárbara Beach and Santa Iria Lookout

The first scenic stop at Areal de Santa Bárbara Beach allows visitors to take photos of the rugged coastline and feel the ocean breeze. A brief guided walk lets you appreciate the natural surroundings.

Next, the Santa Iria Lookout offers sweeping scenic views overlooking the coastline and countryside. At this point, travelers can take in the expansive landscape and snap memorable photos. Both stops last around 15 minutes, giving enough time for quick exploration without rushing.

Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park: Waterfalls and Nature Trails

The Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park stands out as a highlight, with scenic views of a massive waterfall and lush greenery. This stop includes a guided tour and a 30-minute walk along nature trails, allowing for close-up views of the cascading water and vibrant flora. The park is a prime spot for nature lovers, offering photo opportunities and a peaceful atmosphere.

Exploring Nordeste: Village Charm and Views

The village of Nordeste is a focal point of the tour, known for its traditional Azorean charm and stunning viewpoints. Here, visitors enjoy a lunch featuring local, typical food, in addition to photo stops and guided scenic walks. The one-hour stop offers a chance to explore the small community, learn about local life, and soak in the panoramic vistas.

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Ponta da Madrugada and Ponta do Sossego: Iconic Lookouts

Following Nordeste, the tour stops at Ponta da Madrugada and Ponta do Sossego lookouts. These 20-minute stops feature spectacular views of the coastline, cliffs, and ocean horizon. The guided walks here help visitors appreciate the dramatic landscape and capture stunning photos.

Povoação: Historic Village and Cultural Insights

The historic village of Povoação provides a 20-minute break for sightseeing, photos, and a quick walk through the town. Known as the first settlement on São Miguel, Povoação offers a glimpse into local Azorean culture and architecture, enriching the overall experience.

Salto do Cavalo Lookout: Final Scenic Stop

The tour concludes with a 15-minute stop at Salto do Cavalo lookout, renowned for its breathtaking views of the coastline and ocean. This stop wraps up the scenic journey, leaving visitors with memorable vistas and a sense of accomplishment after a full day of adventure.

Practical Details: What’s Included and What to Prepare

The tour package includes everything needed for a smooth experience: quad rental, helmets, fuel, lunch, personal insurance, and a guide. The lunch features local Azorean dishes, offering a taste of regional cuisine.

Participants should bring passport or ID, a valid driver’s license, and comfortable shoes. The tour emphasizes safety—a $500 credit card deposit is required, and all drivers must sign a liability waiver. Rain jackets and sunglasses are not included, so packing these items is advisable.

Physical Requirements and Accessibility

This adventure requires driving skills with a valid license in Portugal. The activity is not suitable for wheelchair users, children under 2, or under 7 years old. Participants should be comfortable on uneven terrain and prepared for an active, outdoor experience.

Flexibility and Weather Considerations

The tour’s date may be changed due to weather or road conditions at no extra cost. This flexibility ensures safety and optimal sightseeing conditions, common in outdoor Azores adventures.

Why Choose This Quad Tour in São Miguel

The Full Day Scenic tour Nordeste and Povoação and waterfalls is perfect for adventure seekers who want more than just scenic drives. The quad riding element makes it stand out, offering a hands-on experience of the island’s varied terrains. The stops at waterfalls, viewpoints, and historic villages guarantee a well-rounded day of exploration and cultural insight.

The guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, with one notably mentioning Pedro as an amazing guide who knows the island well. The well-organized stops and local lunch add to the overall value, making this tour a memorable way to see the best of São Miguel’s east side.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the tour?
The tour costs $85 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 7.5 hours.

What is included in the price?
The price covers quad rental, helmets, fuel, lunch, personal insurance, and a guide.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, the activity is not suitable for children under 2 or 7 years old.

Do I need a driving license?
Yes, all drivers must present a valid driver’s license in Portugal.

What should I bring?
Bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and warm clothing. Rain jackets and gloves are not included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, the date can be changed based on weather conditions or road status at no extra cost.

Is the activity suitable for people with mobility limitations?
No, the activity requires driving and is not suitable for wheelchair users.

What is the guide like?
The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, with reviews highlighting Pedro’s expertise and enthusiasm.

This full-day adventure offers a blend of thrilling quad rides, spectacular viewpoints, and cultural visits, making it an excellent choice for those eager to explore São Miguel’s natural beauty with a practical, well-organized tour.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby