Terceira is one of the most lively and diverse islands in the Azores, offering a wide range of experiences that showcase its rugged landscapes, volcanic history, and authentic culture. What makes it stand out is its combination of natural beauty and accessible adventure. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker craving an off-road buggy trip, a nature lover eager for whale watching, or a history buff interested in exploring lava caves, Terceira has it all. For example, the Buggy Tour takes you through forests and open fields, giving you panoramic views and a dose of adrenaline. Meanwhile, the Whale and Dolphin Watching offers a chance to see magnificent marine life in their natural habitat.
This list brings together 15 of the best tours on the island—each tailored to different interests and activity levels. From half-day cave visits to full-day Jeep safaris, we’ve sorted through the options to help you find the one that matches your curiosity, budget, and schedule.
1. BUGGY TOUR – West / Center of the island (off-road)
At number 1, the Buggy Tour offers an exhilarating way to explore the western and central parts of Terceira. This guided off-road adventure in a utility task vehicle (UTV) takes you through forests, open fields, and cobblestone paths, stopping at places like Ribeiras, Santa Barbara, and Raminho. The tour lasts about 2.5 hours and has a perfect mix of scenic vistas and muddy, fun riding. Reviewers love the personalized experience with small groups, and many mention how the driver shared local insights and stopped at cheese factories or grazed cows. The price of around $93 makes it a good value for an active, hands-on experience. If you’re looking for a memorable, bumpy ride that covers a lot of terrain, this is a top choice.
Bottom Line: Perfect for thrill-seekers who want to see diverse landscapes and get their adrenaline pumping while enjoying local flavor.
2. Underground Van Tour (Half Day) | Terceira Island
Number 2 on our list is the Underground Van Tour, a trip into the island’s volcanic caves and underground wonders. This 3-hour journey takes you through the Christmas Cave, Sulfur Furnas, and the Lagoa das Patas leisure area. Due to the Algar do Carvão being temporarily closed for renovation, the tour now includes the natural pools of Biscoitos, which are equally impressive. Visitors rave about the knowledgeable guide Amelia, who conducts the tour in multiple languages, and about the chance to walk through lava tunnels and see sulfur smoke rising from the ground. The price point of about $46 offers excellent value for exploring nature’s underground architecture and volcanic activity.
Bottom Line: Great for those interested in geology, lava tunnels, and volcanic landscapes, especially with a guide who makes it engaging.
3. Island Van Tour (Full Day) | Terceira Island
Number 3 is the Full Day Island Van Tour, which covers the highlights of Terceira in about 7 hours. Starting in Angra do Heroísmo, you’ll visit Monte Brasil, the Cruz do Canario viewpoint, Forte de São Sebastião, and the Serra do Cume caldera. The tour offers spectacular scenery, including panoramic views over the island’s volcanic landscape and coastlines. It’s a comprehensive way to get your bearings and see iconic sights. The guide’s local knowledge shines, with reviews praising his enthusiasm and storytelling. The trip costs about $75, making it a good value for a full day of sightseeing.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a broad overview of the island’s natural and historical sites with minimal effort.
4. Terceira: Algar do Carvão Lava Caves Tour
Number 4 is the Lava Caves Tour of Algar do Carvão, one of the most iconic volcanic sites in the Azores. This 3 to 3.5-hour tour takes you inside the famous lava tube, where you can marvel at stalactites, endemic plants, and the caldera of the Guilherme Moniz volcano. The guide’s expertise makes exploring the underground tunnels both educational and awe-inspiring. Visitors consistently highlight the beauty of the natural caves and the convenience of included transfers. The tour’s price of $51 offers excellent value considering the experience of walking inside a hollow volcano that’s millions of years old.
Bottom Line: Perfect for geology enthusiasts and those wanting to explore a true natural wonder under the island’s surface.
5. Watching whales and dolphins on Terceira Island
Number 5 is the Whale and Dolphin Watching tour, a 3-hour boat trip with a 100% sighting guarantee. The Azores are one of the best places in Europe for marine mammals, and the tour promises to see at least one species—commonly dolphins or whales like sei whales or blue whales. Reviewers describe it as an exciting and emotional experience, with guides explaining marine life behaviors and helping with sightings. The $75 price includes safety gear and a knowledgeable crew. While sightings depend on luck and weather, many travelers leave with incredible photos and stories.
Bottom Line: A must-do for wildlife lovers and those curious about the ocean’s giants.
6. Dining Experience with local family
Number 6 offers a cultural dinner with a local family, blending culinary delights with authentic hospitality. For about $75, you’ll enjoy dishes cooked in a traditional wood-fired oven—flavorful, smoky, and infused with volcanic stones. The experience lasts around 4 hours, and visitors report warmth and genuine connections, sharing stories over homemade wine and traditional recipes like alcatra. It’s suited for travelers interested in regional cuisine and local customs, offering a more intimate look into Azorean life.
Bottom Line: Excellent for foodies and those wanting a heartfelt cultural exchange, perfect for a relaxed evening.
7. Terceira Island: Caves and Craters Tour
Number 7 is a 4-hour tour that focuses on the island’s volcanic craters and caves. It includes visits to the famous Gruta do Natal lava tunnel, and inside Algar do Carvão, the largest crater in the Azores. The guide Elisabete is praised for her friendly, knowledgeable demeanor, making the trip both informative and enjoyable. The tour offers a compact overview of the island’s volcanic features and is well-suited for those interested in geology and natural formations. At approximately $78, it represents a good balance of content and cost.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for travelers eager to explore Terceira’s volcanic origins in a manageable half-day.
8. E-Bike Tour Monte Brasil
Number 8 introduces the E-Bike Tour of Monte Brasil, a 2-hour ride that covers the volcano and forest reserve. This active tour is perfect for those who want a moderate workout combined with great views. You’ll visit panoramic spots like the Cruzinhas monument and pass through military and historic sites. The e-bike makes climbing easier, and reviews mention how the scenery, including Angra do Heroísmo and the island of São Jorge, is outstanding. The $45 price makes it accessible, and the tour suits active travelers who appreciate both nature and history.
Bottom Line: A fun, energetic way to see Monte Brasil with manageable effort and fantastic views.
9. In and Around Terceira Island in a 4X4
Number 9 is a full-day 4×4 tour exploring remote corners of Terceira. With a guide driving, you’ll visit hidden spots, rural roads, and volcanic landscapes, including a barbecue lunch with unlimited wine and beer. The small group (around $160) offers flexibility and personalized attention. Highlights include the ProIslandTour, visiting flora, fauna, and scenic viewpoints. Reviewers love the mix of adventure, comfort, and the chance to see parts of the island inaccessible by regular car.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a comprehensive, comfortable, and tasty day discovering Terceira’s wild side.
10. West Coast Van Tour (Half Day)
Number 10 takes you on a 3-hour tour of the island’s west coast. Starting at Monte Brasil, it includes visits to San Mateo, the first cheese factory, and the Biscoitos tide pools. Reviewers appreciate the regional cheese tasting and the comfortable van ride. The guide’s local insights make it especially rich. For around $52, the trip offers a good mix of scenery, local culture, and relaxation.
Bottom Line: Great for a concise, relaxed introduction to the island’s natural beauty and culinary traditions.
11. Terceira Island: Electric Bike Tour Monte Brasil
Number 11 offers a 1.5-hour electric bike tour of Monte Brasil. With a focus on panoramic views, including the Fortress of São João Baptista, it’s perfect for those short on time but eager for an active experience. Reviewers highlight the helpful guides and stunning scenery, even when weather is foggy. The $44 price point makes it accessible for most travelers looking for a quick, scenic ride.
Bottom Line: A brief but scenic e-bike ride that fits into a busy schedule, with spectacular vistas and easy riding.
12. Terceira: Buggy Tour 4×4 West Side Azores Retreat
Number 12 is a 2.5-hour buggy adventure on the west side of the island. You’ll drive your own all-terrain vehicle over trails, stopping at scenic spots like Pico da Vigia. Reviewers love how fun and accessible the controls are, and how it offers views you typically don’t see. The price for up to two people is around $182 per group, making it an engaging activity for families and friends.
Bottom Line: A lively off-road ride ideal for those wanting a personal, hands-on exploration of Terceira’s wild side.
13. E-Bike Tour West Side | Third Island
Number 13 is a 3-4 hour e-bike tour exploring the west side of Terceira. It includes visits to the fishing parish, coastal viewpoints, and the cheese factory. Reviewers rave about the condition of the bikes and the expert guides. It’s suited for active travelers wanting a longer, scenic ride with cultural stops. For $67, it provides a detailed look at the island’s interior and coast.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who enjoy cycling and want a full, immersive experience with cultural highlights.
14. Ride a Volcano – Go to the Gardens in the Woods
Number 14 combines horseback riding with nature discovery. This 2 hour, 45-minute activity takes you through volcanic landscapes and lush gardens, with reviews praising the competence of guides like Monica and Fabio. It’s ideal for nature lovers and first-time riders alike, as the activity is tailored to experience levels. The price of about $172 makes it a premium experience, but many mention how it’s a memorable way to connect with Terceira’s volcanic earth.
Bottom Line: Great for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy gentle riding and scenic beauty, especially with a knowledgeable host.
15. Jeep Safari Tour – Terceira Island FD
Number 15 is a full-day Jeep Safari, covering natural pools, extinct volcanoes, and viewpoints. The small group and included snacks, wine, and cheese make it a well-rounded adventure. The guide’s commentary and the variety of stops, like the Laurissilva Forest, make it ideal for explorers wanting a comprehensive, flexible day. Reviews emphasize how friendly and informative the guides are, with many noting the scenic vistas and the chance for some walking. The $183 price reflects the full-day experience with personalized touches.
Bottom Line: Excellent for active travelers seeking a full immersion in Terceira’s landscapes with comfort and local flavor.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Terceira
When selecting a tour, consider your physical activity level, your interests, and your schedule. If you love adventure and off-road driving, the Buggy Tour or the Buggy 4×4 West Side are fantastic picks. For nature and geology lovers, the Lava Caves or Caves and Craters deliver authentic volcanic experiences. Travelers interested in marine life should prioritize whale watching, while foodies will enjoy the Dining with a local family.
Budget, time, and fitness are also key: a half-day tour like the West Coast Van suits quick visits, while a full-day adventure such as the Jeep Safari offers comprehensive exploration. Book early, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred activity.
To sum it up, Terceira offers a variety of tours that cater to all kinds of travelers—from the active and adventurous to those seeking cultural and scenic experiences. For a high-energy thrill with scenic views, the Buggy Tour or the Buggy 4×4 provide memorable off-road fun. Wildlife lovers should not miss the whale watching, while geology buffs will appreciate the lava caves. For a more relaxed, cultural evening, a dining experience with a local family makes for a rewarding evening. And for those with limited time, the full-day island tour or mountain e-bike rides maximize your exploration.
Whichever adventure you pick, booking early will help you make the most of your stay on this lively island. With so many options, there’s truly something for all in Terceira.
