São Miguel Island: Chasing Waterfalls in the Azores Tour

Traveling to São Miguel and looking for an adventure that combines nature, activity, and a touch of relaxation? This “Chasing Waterfalls” tour offers an energetic way to see some of the island’s most breathtaking sights in just a single day. Designed for folks who love to be on their feet and explore, this experience stands out for its scenic trails, natural pools, and diverse stops.

What we really like about this tour is its ability to pack so much into one day—six waterfalls, a picnic, a visit to tea plantations, and even water mills—without feeling rushed. Plus, the fact that it’s conducted in a comfortable, air-conditioned 9-seater van makes the long day more enjoyable. The only consideration? It requires a moderate level of fitness, given the hiking involved. But if you’re active and eager to see the island’s wild side, this one’s a winner.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want an authentic, outdoor-focused experience on São Miguel. If exploring nature’s waterfalls and enjoying an adventurous day sounds appealing, then read on. We’ll walk you through what to expect, what makes it special, and a few honest pointers so you can decide if it’s right for your trip.

Key Points

• Designed for active travelers with moderate fitness levels needed for hiking trails.
• Visiting six waterfalls in one day, with shorter, scenic routes to maximize sightseeing.
• Includes a picnic lunch and visits to water mills, beaches, and tea plantations—more than just waterfalls.
• Small group size (limited to 8) for a more personalized experience.
• Comfortable transportation in an AC-equipped van for the entire day.
• Flexible pick-up and drop-off options from key towns like Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, and Ribeira Grande.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering São Miguel’s Waterfalls: What This Tour Offers

If waterfalls are your thing, you’ll love how this experience showcases six of the island’s most stunning cascades. Each waterfall has its own personality, offering diverse scenery—some cascade into natural pools perfect for a quick swim, others plunge dramatically from high cliffs, all set against lush, vibrant greenery.

The Trail and Hike Experience

The tours are curated to follow shorter, scenic trails, meaning you get to enjoy the beauty without extensive trekking. Our impression is that the paths are all manageable, even for those who aren’t seasoned hikers, but it’s good to be prepared for some steep sections. The trails weave along streams and through dense foliage, giving you a real feel for the island’s natural richness.

Waterfalls and Natural Pools

Swimmers will especially appreciate the chance to dive into natural pools. The water is cool and clear, inviting a refreshing dip. The fact that the tour includes stops at natural pools adds a layer of fun and relaxation—imagine cooling off after a hike, surrounded by lush greenery with waterfalls cascading nearby.

A Mix of Attractions

Beyond waterfalls, the tour touches on other interesting sights: water mills, a lovely beach, and even a visit to a tea plantation—a unique feature of São Miguel. These stops offer a break from the physical activity and an opportunity to learn about the island’s diverse landscape and history.

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The Picnic and Lunch

A picnic lunch is included, which we find is a thoughtful touch, giving you fuel for the day’s adventures. It’s a good way to relax and chat with your fellow travelers amidst nature.

The Transportation and Group Size

Travel is in a comfortable, air-conditioned 9-seater van, which makes a difference during warm days and long drives between stops. The small group size—limited to 8 people—ensures a more intimate, personalized experience, allowing your guide to tailor the day a bit more and answer questions.

Pick-up and Drop-off Details

Pick-up is available from Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, and Ribeira Grande—no need to worry about extra transportation costs. The pickup times start at 9:00 in Ponta Delgada and a bit later in Ribeira Grande, so planning accordingly is key.

The Guide and Overall Experience

Based on reviews, the guide plays an important role in enhancing the experience. One traveler from Germany mentioned that “our guide Catia was an excellent driver and explained everything very well.” This personal touch appears to make the day smoother and more informative, especially when navigating the winding trails and scenic viewpoints.

A highlight from the review is how “the paths were very beautiful and sometimes steep, but all manageable,” which affirms that the trails are well-chosen for most active travelers. The overall tone suggests a well-organized day that balances adventure with comfort.

Pricing and Value

At $95 per person, this tour offers a solid value, considering it includes transportation, a picnic lunch, and all the stops. For a full day of exploration, this price is quite reasonable, especially given the small group size, which tends to increase the quality of the experience. If you’re someone who loves active outdoor days, it’s a worthwhile investment for a memorable day out.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re into hiking, waterfalls, and natural scenery, this tour is a natural fit. It’s particularly suited for travelers who stay active on vacation and want to see a broad swath of the island’s natural beauty without spending days on long treks. The inclusion of water pools and a picnic makes it a perfect choice for those who like a mix of adventure and relaxation.

However, it’s not ideal for very young children under 5, people with mobility issues, or anyone who isn’t comfortable with moderate hiking. The physical aspect is manageable but should be considered.

Final Thoughts

This “Chasing Waterfalls” tour on São Miguel is a fantastic choice for active travelers seeking a full immersion in nature. The combination of scenic waterfalls, natural pools, and other sights like tea plantations offers a well-rounded, outdoor-focused day. It’s designed for those who want to move, explore, and enjoy some of the most beautiful spots the island has to offer—all while traveling in comfort and small groups.

For the cost, you get a well-organized, engaging experience that’s worth considering if waterfalls and lush landscapes top your bucket list. You’ll leave with great photos, refreshed from swimming in cool pools, and with a deeper appreciation for São Miguel’s natural diversity.

FAQ

How many waterfalls will I see on this tour?
You’ll visit six waterfalls during the day, each set in different beautiful locations.

Is the hike difficult?
The trails are described as shorter and scenic, with some steep sections that are manageable for most active travelers. A moderate fitness level is recommended.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable hiking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and a swimsuit and towel if you want to swim in the natural pools.

Are meals included?
Yes, a picnic lunch and drinking water are part of the tour, so you won’t need to worry about finding food during the day.

What is the group size?
The tour limits participants to 8 people, making it more personal and flexible.

Where do I get picked up?
Pick-up and drop-off are available from Ponta Delgada, Lagoa, and Ribeira Grande.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not explicitly family-oriented, it’s suitable for active travelers and older children who can handle some moderate hiking.

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

In essence, if you’re after a day filled with stunning waterfalls, lush scenery, and a touch of adventure, this São Miguel tour hits the spot. Just pack your raincoat and hiking shoes, and prepare for a memorable day exploring the island’s wild side.

You can check availability for your dates here: