Flores Island in the Azores stands out for its dramatic landscapes, abundant waterfalls, and tranquil lagoons. Unlike many other destinations, Flores is a showcase of raw natural beauty, where the landscape feels both untouched and alive. Whether you’re drawn to waterfalls or scenic viewpoints, the island offers a variety of tours that satisfy different preferences. We especially love the opportunity to experience hiking through lush trails or relaxing at waterfalls, which are some of the most memorable moments you can have here. The guided tours often include local insights, making your visit both enriching and personal.
For travelers who want a deep dive into Flores’ highlights, options like boat cruises, waterfalls, and scenic drives stand out. To get a full picture, check out the full-day guided tour, which combines many of these experiences in one day. Below, we present the best tours available, helping you choose based on your interests, budget, and time.
1. Flores Island: Full-Day Guided Tour
At number 1 on our list, the Flores Island: Full-Day Guided Tour offers an immersive experience exploring the island’s most remarkable landscapes. For $95 per person, you’ll spend about 7 hours with a certified local guide, covering highlights such as the 7 Lagoons, island viewpoints, waterfalls, and historic sites. This tour is tailored to ensure you see the best of Flores with comfort and depth — ideal if you’re short on time but want a rundown.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexible itinerary, including stops for photography, short walks, and a lunch break (refeição não incluída). The multilingual service (Portuguese, English, Spanish, French) makes it accessible for diverse travelers. The guide’s local expertise and the comfortable transport mean you won’t be rushing, and if weather conditions are poor, they even offer a free reschedule. Reviewers praise the guide’s knowledge and friendly attitude, with a 4.9/5 rating from 86 reviews.
Bottom line: This tour is perfect for those wanting a well-rounded, hassle-free day exploring Flores’ top sights with insider knowledge.
2. Full Tour – Discover Flores – the Island of Your Dreams
The Full Tour – Discover Flores is a slightly longer, more relaxed 8-hour experience costing $85 per person. It emphasizes a calm, unhurried pace that suits travelers looking to absorb the island’s beauty without feeling rushed. This tour highlights waterfalls and the enchanting Ribeiro do Ferreiro, famous for its unique, clear waters and lush surroundings.
The itinerary includes stops at multiple viewpoints such as Miradouro dos Caimbros, Ilhéu Furado, and Lagoa Negra, allowing plenty of time for photos and short walks. The tour also features scenic drives on less-traveled roads, giving you a genuine feel for Flores’ landscape. Recent reviews mention how the guide, Renata, made the trip memorable with her friendly, informative style and personal recommendations—one caller said, “Thanks to Renata for our wonderful experience!”
This trip is ideal if you prefer a more relaxed pace and want to maximize your scenic stops, including a swim at a waterfall natural pool if the weather permits. It’s best suited for travelers who want a flexible yet structured day exploring the island’s highlights.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a peaceful, scenic overview with personalized touches and plenty of photo opportunities.
3. The Best of Flores: Private Customized Experience
While not listed in your data, a private custom tour can be a fantastic option for families or groups seeking a tailored experience. You could combine highlights like boat cruises, hiking, and waterfalls based on your pace and interests. This option is ideal if you want to focus on specific sites, such as the Lagoa das Lajes or scenic viewpoints. Usually, private tours offer more flexibility and the chance to ask the guide to focus on special interests.
How to Choose
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend on the island, and your main interests. If you want a comprehensive day tour that covers many highlights with expert guidance, the Full-Day Guided Tour is a solid choice. For travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace and focus on scenic views and waterfalls, the Discover Flores tour offers excellent value.
Plus, if you want to tailor your experience, look into private options that can customize your stops or include activities like snorkeling or waterfall swimming. Early booking is recommended, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred dates.
Final Thoughts
Both tours offer distinct ways to experience Flores: the full-day guided tour guarantees you see a lot with a knowledgeable guide, while the more relaxed Discover Flores tour emphasizes scenic stops and personal enjoyment. For travelers pressed for time or wanting a structured overview, the guided day tour is ideal. If you prefer a leisurely exploration, the Discover Flores option might suit you better.
For those seeking a more personalized adventure, private tours could be a great fit, allowing flexibility and focus on your specific interests. Whatever your choice, Flores offers unforgettable landscapes that reward those who venture beyond the usual. Book early, prepare for stunning views, and enjoy your exploration of this remarkable island.
