Terceira Island: Caves and Craters Tour

Explore the volcanic beauty of Terceira Island in the Azores with the Caves and Craters Tour offered by TuriAzores. Priced at $78 per person and lasting approximately 4 hours, this tour guides you through some of the island’s most iconic geological sites, including a giant crater, a lava tunnel, and inside an active volcano. The tour departs from Angra do Heroísmo and Praia da Vitória and provides a comprehensive look at Terceira’s natural wonders, making it an ideal choice for those eager to see the island’s volcanic landscape up close.

The tour stands out for its detailed visits to famous caves like Gruta do Natal and Algar do Carvão, as well as panoramic views from the Serra do Cume. Though it covers a lot in just four hours, the focus on geological features and spectacular scenery ensures a memorable experience. With positive reviews praising the guides’ knowledge and the tour’s value for money, this outing is recommended for anyone interested in nature and volcanic formations, but it is not suitable for those with limited mobility.

Key Points

• Duration: The tour lasts 4 hours, starting in the afternoon at 14:00.
• Price: At $78 per person, it includes admission fees to Algar do Carvão, Furnas do Enxofre, and Gruta do Natal.
• Highlights: Visit the largest crater from Serra do Cume, explore the lava tube of Gruta do Natal, and step inside the empty volcanic cone of Algar do Carvão.
• Guides: Knowledgeable guides like Elisabete, Kris, Tanya, and others lead the way, providing detailed insights into the sites.
• Physical Requirements: The tour is not suitable for people with limited mobility; comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and swimwear are recommended.
• Flexibility: You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before and reserve now, pay later for added flexibility.

You can check availability for your dates here:

From the Meeting Point to the Top of the Volcano

The tour begins with pick-up at your accommodation in Angra do Heroísmo or Praia da Vitória at 14:00. After meeting your guide, the first stop is the Serra do Cume, where you enjoy expansive views of the green agricultural landscape and the largest crater on the island. This panoramic spot sets the tone for the geological richness of the tour and offers a perfect photo opportunity.

From there, the journey takes you inland to explore Terceira’s volcanic heart, emphasizing the island’s craters, hills, and volcanoes. The guide explains the formation of each feature, making the scenery both beautiful and educational. The schedule allows enough time to appreciate the vast landscape and understand how volcanic activity has shaped the island.

Visiting the Gruta do Natal Lava Tube

A major highlight is the visit to the famous Gruta do Natal, a lava tube that formed naturally over time. Passing through its long passages, visitors get a rare glimpse into the underground volcanic world. The guided walk through this natural cave provides insight into lava flow processes and the formation of volcanic tunnels. The admission fee is included, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

This site is particularly appreciated for its unique geological features and the depth of information provided by the guides. The cool interior contrasts nicely with the daytime heat, offering a refreshing break and a memorable underground adventure.

Inside Algar do Carvão: The Volcano’s Interior

The highlight of the tour is the inside of Algar do Carvão, a natural volcanic chimney and former volcano cone. Visitors are led into the empty volcanic crater, walking through spectacular passages and observing stalactites, stalagmites, and other volcanic formations. The admission fee is included in the tour price.

While Algars do Carvão has been temporarily closed for construction since October 20th, the site remains a natural wonder when accessible. It’s known for its impressive geological formations and the chance to stand inside a volcanic cavity formed over thousands of years. The visit here is a visual feast and provides a vivid understanding of volcanic activity.

Fumaroles and Sulfur Fields at Furnas do Enxofre

Next, the tour takes you to the Furnas do Enxofre, a fumaroles field where you see sulfur pits and fumaroles emitting gases from the earth’s crust. This site highlights geothermal activity and is a fascinating look at volcanic gases escaping through the landscape.

The guides explain the processes behind fumaroles and sulfur deposits, making the visit both educational and visually striking. The site’s sulfur aroma and steam emissions are an authentic reminder of Terceira’s active volcanoes.

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Scenic Views from Serra do Cume

The tour includes a stop at Serra do Cume, the highest point on the island, where you enjoy breathtaking views of agricultural terraces and the surrounding landscape. The green hills sprawling below create a panoramic backdrop that many consider the highlight of the trip.

This stop allows for photo opportunities and the chance to appreciate Terceira’s natural scenery. The view from the top of the crater is a perfect way to appreciate the scale and beauty of the island’s volcanic terrain.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The tour starts at 14:00 with pick-up at your accommodation, making it easy to join without worrying about transportation. It ends back at the same meeting point, offering a convenient round trip. The tour is conducted in multiple languages, including English, French, Portuguese, and Spanish, with live guides providing engaging commentary.

Comfortable shoes and warm clothing are advised, especially since some sites involve walking through caves and steep passages. Travelers should also bring swimwear and a towel to enjoy the natural pools if time permits, but food and drinks are not included.

Limitations and Accessibility

This tour is not recommended for people with limited mobility due to the nature of the stops, particularly the caves and volcanic terrain. While the visit to Algars do Carvão is a major attraction, it is currently closed for construction, which may affect the experience for visitors wanting to see inside the volcano.

With a rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 122 reviews, the tour consistently satisfies guests with knowledgeable guides, well-organized stops, and great value. The flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance offers peace of mind for travelers planning their schedule.

Exploring Terceira’s Volcanic Wonders: Final Thoughts

The Caves and Craters Tour presents a comprehensive look at Terceira Island’s volcanic landscape within a manageable four-hour window. It is ideal for geology enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those curious about volcanoes and caves. The inclusion of admission fees simplifies the experience, and the enthusiastic guides enhance the learning and enjoyment.

While it may not suit those with mobility issues or guests hoping to explore inside Algar do Carvão at this time, the tour offers spectacular views, educational stops, and professional guidance. Its high review score and positive feedback indicate it remains a popular choice for exploring Terceira’s natural volcanic marvels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pick-up at your accommodation in Angra do Heroísmo or Praia da Vitória is included, and the tour ends back at the same meeting point.

What should I bring?
Travelers are advised to bring comfortable shoes, warm clothing, swimwear, and a towel. Food and drinks are not included.

Is the tour accessible for people with limited mobility?
No, the tour is not recommended for those with limited mobility because of the nature of the caves and terrain.

Are the entrance fees included?
Yes, the tour includes all admission fees for Algar do Carvão, Furnas do Enxofre, and Gruta do Natal.

What are the tour start and end times?
The tour starts at 14:00 and lasts approximately 4 hours. It finishes back at the starting point.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance. You can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

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