Full-Day Faial da Terra + Nordeste from Ponta Delgada

Key Points

• Full-day adventure combining walking, sightseeing, and nature immersion on São Miguel Island
• Visit Faial da Terra, a small village with relics of an abandoned settlement undergoing restoration
• Swim in Salto Do Prego waterfall, enjoying crystal-clear waters in a secluded setting
• Viewpoints at Ponta do Sossego and Vista dos Barcos offer Instagram-worthy coastal scenery
• Ribeira dos Caldeirões Park features waterfalls over 40 meters high, perfect for nature lovers
• Includes a picnic lunch, guide, walking sticks, and hotel transfers for a smooth, organized experience

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Discovering Faial da Terra’s Charm and History

The tour begins at Futurismo Azores Adventures, where participants meet just before departure. After a brief check-in, a van ride of approximately 80 minutes takes visitors across São Miguel’s landscape to the small village of Faial da Terra in the southeast. This quaint location, belonging to Povoação, offers a glimpse into local life and history. The walk lasts about 2.75 hours, exploring the village, the abandoned Sanguinho settlement, and the lush surrounding woods.

The abandoned village of Sanguinho is a key highlight. It has been deserted since the early 70s and is now undergoing a restoration process. Visitors walk through the old streets, observing relics from a bygone era alongside the modern development efforts. The trail continues through a dense, vibrant forest with short uphill and downhill sections, framing picturesque views of the natural environment.

Salto Do Prego Waterfall and Its Refreshing Dip

The walk leads to the Salto Do Prego waterfall, a secluded spot where visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim in the clear waters near the cascading fall. This area provides a peaceful setting for a break and a chance to cool off before continuing the journey. After the swim, a delicious picnic lunch is served amidst scenic surroundings, offering sandwiches, cake, fresh fruit, water, and juice.

This combination of active trekking and relaxing stops makes for a balanced experience. The picnic allows time to appreciate the natural beauty and recharge for the next leg of the tour.

Scenic Viewpoints in Nordeste with Famous Coastal Cliffs

Post-lunch, the tour vehicle takes visitors to multiple viewpoints along the coast of Nordeste. The stops at Ponta do Sossego and Vista dos Barcos are especially popular for their striking landscapes and colorful floral displays. These locations are frequently shared on social media for their dramatic cliffs, lush greenery, and panoramic ocean views.

The landscapes at these viewpoints are considered some of the most flower-rich areas in Europe, with high cliffs adorned by vibrant blooms. Visitors can pause here to take photos, admire the scenery, and enjoy the fresh sea air.

Ribeira dos Caldeirões Park and Its Towering Waterfalls

The final stop of the day is at Ribeira dos Caldeirões Park, a protected area filled with waterfalls and lush vegetation. The park’s most prominent feature is a waterfall over 40 meters high, which visitors can observe and photograph. The park’s tranquil atmosphere allows for moments of reflection amid the sounds of cascading water and the sights of surrounding nature.

This park wraps up the tour’s focus on São Miguel’s natural beauty, rounding out the day with a peaceful stroll through one of the island’s most scenic spots.

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Practical Details and Tour Logistics

This 7-hour tour operates with a small group limitation of 8 participants, ensuring personalized guidance. The included services feature a nature guide, walking sticks, and a stop at Povoação village for refreshments. The tour also provides a picnic lunch with sandwiches, cake, fruit, water, and juice.

Participants are picked up and dropped off at their Ponta Delgada hotel, streamlining logistics. The tour departs from Futurismo shop at Portas do Mar if staying outside Ponta Delgada, and check-in occurs 10 minutes before the scheduled start time.

Physical Requirements and What to Bring

The tour suits those with comfortable shoes and clothes, as walking involves some uphill and downhill stretches. Visitors should bring water, snacks, sunblock, a swimsuit, and a towel to enjoy the waterfall swim. Large luggage or bags are not permitted on the tour, and it isn’t suitable for children under 8 or those with mobility impairments.

The Guides and Overall Experience

Guides are described as friendly and knowledgeable, with some reviews highlighting specific guides’ engaging storytelling and helpful tips. The pace and scenic stops make this experience accessible for active travelers who appreciate a mix of adventure and relaxation. The tour’s 4.6-star rating from 9 reviews indicates strong satisfaction, especially regarding the natural beauty and guide expertise.

How This Tour Differs from Other São Miguel Excursions

Compared to other full-day options like visiting Lagoa do Fogo or Sete Cidades, this tour emphasizes rarely visited villages and lesser-known waterfalls. The mix of hiking, sightseeing, and swimming offers a balanced day immersed in nature, with the added charm of exploring abandoned and restored villages.

Final Thoughts on the Full-Day Faial da Terra + Nordeste Tour

This tour offers a rich combination of cultural and natural highlights on São Miguel Island. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the scenic stops provide fantastic photo opportunities. The inclusion of a picnic lunch adds comfort to the active day.

While the physical activity level may be challenging for some, the overall experience suits those eager to see hidden corners of the island and enjoy waterfalls and panoramic views. The guides’ friendliness and expertise further enhance this memorable day out.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 7 hours from start to finish.

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at Ponta Delgada hotels are included, with a van ride of about 80 minutes to the starting point.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes and clothes, water, snacks, sunblock, a swimsuit, and a towel.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not recommended for children under 8 years or for people with mobility impairments.

Are meals included?
Yes, a picnic lunch with sandwiches, cake, fruit, water, and juice is provided.

Where does the tour start?
The main meeting point is Futurismo Azores shop at Portas do Mar or your hotel if within Ponta Delgada.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak English and Portuguese.

What makes this tour different from other São Miguel excursions?
It focuses on hidden villages, waterfalls, and scenic coastal viewpoints, offering a blend of hiking, swimming, and cultural exploration.

Is this tour physically demanding?
It involves some uphill and downhill walking, so comfortable shoes and a reasonable fitness level are recommended.

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