Azores: Guided Hiking Tour Salto do Prego – Sanguinho

If you’re eyeing a day filled with lush scenery, volcanic wonders, and a touch of history, this guided hiking tour on São Miguel might be just what you need. We haven’t done this exact trip ourselves, but based on reviews and details, it sounds like a well-rounded experience that balances outdoor adventure with cultural touches.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it offers a genuine connection to the island’s natural environment — from waterfalls and orchards to ancient forests. Plus, the chance to explore the ruins of Sanguinho, an abandoned village, adds an intriguing historical layer. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the tour involves several hours of walking, which might be a challenge if you’re not used to hikes or have mobility concerns.

This experience is especially suited for active travelers who want to see a variety of scenery in one day. If you enjoy exploring on foot, learning about volcanic activity, and relaxing in thermal springs at the end of the day, this tour checks many boxes.

Key Points

• Scenic hike through forests and orchards with views of waterfalls and volcanic features.
• Visits to the Salto do Prego waterfall for a quick swim or relaxing break.
• Exploration of Sanguinho, an abandoned village with ongoing restoration, offering a glimpse into the area’s past.
• Volcanic activity observation at fumarolic fields, hot springs, and cold springs.
• Relaxing in thermal baths such as Terra Nostra Park or Poça da Dona Beija at day’s end.
• Guided experience with expert local guides who understand the landscape and history.
• Includes transport, picnic lunch, and hiking poles — making it practical and well-organized for most participants.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

Your day begins with pick-up at one of five convenient locations around São Miguel, including Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, Caloura, Ribeira Grande, and Capelas. The transport is included, which takes about 75 minutes to reach the hiking area in Faial da Terra. This setup means you won’t have to worry about navigating or parking; instead, you can relax and soak in the scenery during the ride.

The Hike to Salto do Prego

Once in Faial da Terra, the adventure kicks off with a gentle walk along a stream and through forested areas. The trail is described as moderate, making it accessible for most people with a decent level of fitness. We loved the way the guide leads the group through trees and over wooden bridges, creating a peaceful atmosphere that’s perfect for disconnecting from everyday stresses.

The highlight of this part is the Salto do Prego waterfall, a spot that’s often called a hidden paradise. The waterfall features a natural pool, ideal for a quick swim or simply soaking up the surroundings. One reviewer mentioned, “Salto do Prego is a hidden paradise,” which speaks volumes about the untouched charm of this place. Expect to spend around 2.5 hours on this segment, including breaks for photos and relaxation.

Visiting Sanguinho, a Village Frozen in Time

After enjoying the waterfall, the trail takes you back in time as you head toward Sanguinho. This abandoned village was once home to local inhabitants but was left behind decades ago. Today, it’s undergoing restoration, giving visitors a chance to see a piece of history and imagine what life was like there.

Walking through Sanguinho, you’ll notice the echoes of the past—stone houses, old pathways, and panoramic views of the valley and ocean beyond. One guest described it as “walking back in time,” and the experience adds depth and context to your day in nature.

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The Volcanic Connection

As you move through the landscape, your guide will point out volcanic features like fumaroles and hot springs, offering a close-up look at the island’s geothermal activity. These fields are fascinating because they show volcanic processes in action, and the hot springs are perfect spots to imagine how the island’s volcanic earth continues to bubble beneath the surface.

Lunch and Rest

A picnic lunch is included, allowing you to refuel after the morning’s hike. The meal provides a break and an opportunity to chat with other travelers or enjoy some quiet contemplation amid nature.

Afternoon Visit to Furnas

Post-lunch, the tour heads to Furnas, one of São Miguel’s most popular spots. Here, you’ll stop to see the fumarolic fields and steaming vents. It’s an active volcanic zone, so expect to see clouds of steam rising from the ground, which is both impressive and somewhat surreal.

You’ll also have some free time to explore, take photos, or do some shopping. The day ends with an option to relax in thermal waters—either at Terra Nostra Park or Poça da Dona Beija. Keep in mind, entrance tickets to these hot springs are not included, so budget accordingly.

The Real Value of the Tour

At $97 per person, this tour offers a mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. You’re getting guided transportation, a picnic meal, hiking poles, and a well-structured itinerary that covers key natural and historical sights. The guides are described as knowledgeable, which makes a significant difference in enriching the experience and helping you understand what you’re seeing.

One reviewer shared, “Tiago was incredibly knowledgeable and gave us a fantastic day,” highlighting the value of having an expert guide to deepen your understanding of the landscape.

What Makes It Stand Out

The combination of active hiking with cultural insights makes this tour appealing for those who want a well-rounded day on São Miguel. The stop at the abandoned village adds a storytelling element, while the volcanic features connect you to the island’s fiery heart. Ending the day with a soak in thermal waters turns a good day into a memorable one.

Possible Drawbacks

The hike involves around 2.5 hours of walking, which might be tiring if you’re not used to activity or have mobility issues. Weather can also influence the experience; rain could make the paths slippery or alter the scenery, so a windbreaker and rain gear are recommended. Also, since the hot springs aren’t included in the price, it’s worth considering whether you want to budget for that if you plan to indulge.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re active and enjoy outdoor exploration, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of nature, history, and volcanic phenomena. The guided aspect makes it accessible, as you’ll learn from someone who knows the landscape intimately.

Note that it’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, or those with serious health issues like heart or joint problems. Families with children should consider their child’s endurance for walking and outdoor exposure.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off are included at or near your accommodation, making logistics straightforward.

How long is the hike?
The main hike to Salto do Prego takes about 2.5 hours, with additional time for stops, photos, and breaks.

Are the thermal baths included?
No, entrance tickets to the thermal springs are extra. You can choose to relax at Terra Nostra Park or Poça da Dona Beija after the tour.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, rain gear, sun protection, swimwear, towel, water bottle, and a waterproof bag are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While no specific mention of children, the moderate hike and outdoor focus suggest it’s best for older children or active teens; always check with the provider if you’re bringing young kids.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

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

Final Thoughts

This guided hike on São Miguel offers a genuine taste of the island’s natural and volcanic beauty, balanced with a touch of history through Sanguinho. It’s well-organized, with the kind of knowledgeable guides that can really enhance your understanding and appreciation of the landscape. The inclusion of transport, a picnic, and hiking poles makes it a convenient choice for active travelers looking for a full-day adventure.

If you’re after a mix of scenic hiking, volcanic sights, and a bit of local history, this tour is a solid pick. Just be prepared for some walking and variable weather — and you’ll come away with a richer sense of what makes São Miguel so unique.

Additional Info

• Languages: Portuguese, Spanish, English
• Group size: Small or private groups available
• Price: $97 per person
• Duration: 8 hours
• Not suitable for: Pregnant women, mobility-impaired, or those with serious health issues

This experience is perfect for travelers who want an active, insightful day in the Azores, especially if they’re eager to explore volcanic landscapes and enjoy a relaxing thermal bath at the end.

You can check availability for your dates here: