Full Day Private Trip Faial

If you’re planning a trip to the Azores and want to see the highlights of Faial without the hassle of figuring everything out on your own, this full-day private trip might just be what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the glowing reviews and comprehensive itinerary suggest it offers a rich, flexible, and engaging way to experience the island’s natural beauty and geology.

What we really love about this tour is its personalized nature—being private means the guide can tailor stops based on weather and your interests. Plus, the inclusion of local guides who love sharing their knowledge about Faial’s history, flora, and volcanic activity makes the experience feel authentic and insightful.

On the flip side, a possible consideration is the price—at around $220 per person, it’s an investment, but one that seems to pay off in terms of quality and flexibility. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a thorough, comfortable overview of Faial with the option to customize elements like swimming or short hikes.

If you’re someone who enjoys learning about geology, loves scenic drives, or simply wants an easy way to see several of Faial’s key sights with local expertise, this private trip could be a great fit. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate a mix of cultural storytelling, natural beauty, and leisurely exploration.

Key Points

• Private tour offers flexibility to adapt stops based on weather and preferences.
• Guides are passionate and knowledgeable, sharing insights on Faial’s volcanic history and local culture.
• Includes a traditional lunch, adding cultural flavor and convenience.
• Stops at top natural sites like Caldeira do Faial, Capelinhos Volcano, and beaches.
• Offers the chance for swimming or short hikes if conditions permit.
• A full 8-hour experience that covers diverse landscapes and geological highlights.

Why Choose This Tour?

This full-day trip is designed for those who want a comprehensive yet relaxed exploration of Faial. You’ll travel comfortably in a private vehicle, which means no rushing from place to place with large crowds. Instead, you get to enjoy a more personalized experience, with the guide focusing on the areas that interest you most.

The itinerary is always a surprise, which keeps things fresh and engaging. While the stops are pre-planned, the actual sequence and focus can shift depending on weather or your preferences, making each trip somewhat unique.

You’ll begin with a visit to the Caldeira, a volcanic crater known for its ecological diversity. Here, the high altitude provides incredible views and a chance to understand the island’s volcanic origins. The Caldeira has been a protected natural reserve since 1972, and many visitors find it one of the most striking parts of Faial.

Next, you’ll head to Capelinhos Volcano, the island’s most dramatic geological feature. The volcano erupted for over a year in the late 1950s, transforming the landscape and leaving behind an almost lunar scene. It’s a powerful reminder of the island’s volcanic activity and a favorite for visitors seeking impressive scenery.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Caldeira do Faial

This natural reserve has been protected for over 50 years, serving as a key site for understanding the island’s geological makeup. The interior of the caldera is a mix of humid habitats, mud, and flooded areas, which makes it a hotspot for biodiversity. As you stand at the rim, you’ll get sweeping views of the island and the Atlantic beyond. The guide will share insights into how this volcanic collapse formed and its significance in Faial’s landscape.

Visitors have said that the bio-diversity here is impressive, and the high altitude offers a different perspective compared to lower coastal areas. It’s reasonably accessible and worth spending a couple of hours exploring. Best of all, admission is free, so you get a lot of value from this stop.

Capelinhos Volcano

This is where the tour really highlights Faial’s volcanic history. The eruption from 1957-58 was both dramatic and recent, creating a landscape that looks more like a moon landing than an island. The scenic beauty of Capelinhos is undeniable, whether you’re gazing at the rugged lava flows or walking along the coastline.

Many reviews mention how this site left a lasting impression. One traveler noted the scenic beauty and uniqueness, describing it as a recent volcanic feature that’s still striking. The guide’s stories about the eruption add context, making the visit both educational and awe-inspiring.

Monte da Guia

This volcanic cone rises sharply from the sea, offering twinned craters and a Dune system called Entre Montes. It’s a great spot for photos, with views over the Atlantic and the island’s coast. The guide might share stories about its formation and ecological importance, especially for nursery fish habitats like the Caldeirinhas.

You can enjoy a short walk here, and the landscape offers a more rugged, untouched feel. It’s a quick stop but packed with geological interest and photo opportunities.

Praia da Faja

On the north coast, this small beach is a mix of volcanic lava and dark sands. It’s popular with surfers, thanks to the good sea conditions, and the surrounding cliffs are covered in lush Laurissilva vegetation. The lava flow from the 17th-century eruption created this bay, adding historical significance to its natural beauty.

Visitors have noted how scenic this spot is, with some choosing to take a quick dip or just relax by the water. The small port carved into lava flows is a highlight, exposing geologic treasures like olivine xenoliths.

Varadouro

This little coastal resort is steeped in history as a summer retreat for wealthy families from Horta. Today, the natural basalt pools are a big draw, especially in summer when the waters are warm (around 22°C). It’s a relaxing spot to unwind, watch the waves, and maybe even dip your toes in.

The pools are formed by lava reaching the sea, creating a unique environment that’s both scenic and comfortable for swimming. Several visitors have enjoyed this break, describing it as a peaceful, beautiful spot.

Praia do Almoxarife

This long, black-sand beach is considered one of the best in the Azores. It’s a place where history and nature come together—Joss van Hurtere landed here in 1465, and the area was historically inhabited by small communities. The surrounding greenery frames the beach beautifully, making it perfect for a walk or a quick swim.

The beach is known for its scenic setting and historical significance. Visitors often mention its peaceful vibe and the striking contrast between dark sand and lush greenery.

Transportation and Duration

You’ll travel comfortably in a private vehicle, allowing ample time at each stop without feeling rushed. The tour lasts about 8 hours, starting at 9:00 am, and includes a traditional lunch—a real bonus if you want to experience local flavors without searching for a restaurant. The flexibility to customize stops like swimming or a short hike adds a personal touch that large group tours often can’t match.

Price and Value

At roughly $220 per person, this tour may seem on the premium side, but considering the personalized experience, expert guides, and comprehensive itinerary, many travelers find it to be worth the investment. The tour’s reviews support this, with guests describing their guides as knowledgeable and engaging, and highlighting the diversity of sights covered.

Practical Info and Tips

• The tour includes pickup, so check your meeting point in Horta beforehand.
• It’s suitable for most travelers, with most activities being accessible and not overly strenuous.
• If you’re interested in swimming, just ask your guide—most stops are flexible.
• Weather can influence the experience, so be prepared with appropriate clothing and sun protection.
• Since it’s a private tour, you can request some flexibility—whether that’s more time at a favorite site or skipping a stop if you prefer.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, flexible day exploring Faial’s highlights. It’s great for those interested in geology, natural scenery, or local culture, and who prefer a private guide to enrich the experience. It also suits those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, learning, and the chance to dip into the ocean if they choose.

If you’re traveling with a family or a smaller group that appreciates a customized approach, this tour will meet those needs comfortably. However, if you’re after a quick snapshot of the island or prefer independent exploration, it might feel a bit too comprehensive or costly.

FAQ

Is this a full-day tour?
Yes, it’s approximately 8 hours long, starting at 9:00 am, with multiple stops around Faial.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes a traditional lunch, providing a chance to enjoy local cuisine without needing to find a restaurant yourself.

Can I customize the stops?
Since it’s a private tour, the guide can adapt the itinerary to weather conditions and your preferences, including optional activities like swimming or short hikes.

What sights are covered?
Key stops include Caldeira do Faial, Capelinhos Volcano, Monte da Guia, Praia da Faja, Varadouro, and Praia do Almoxarife.

Is admission to the attractions included?
Yes, the main sites like Caldeira and Capelinhos do not charge an entry fee, so the cost is mainly for the guided experience and transport.

Is it suitable for families or children?
Most travelers can participate, and stops include areas where kids can run around. Always check with the provider if you have specific needs.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and perhaps a swimsuit if you want to swim. Weather can change, so layer accordingly.

Is this tour good for people interested in geology?
Absolutely. The guides love sharing their knowledge about Faial’s volcanic features, making it ideal for geology buffs.

How many people are in the group?
Since it’s a private experience, only your group will participate, providing a personalized atmosphere.

What’s the cost per person?
The price is around $218.96 per person, which offers an intimate, flexible, and informative day on Faial.

This private tour on Faial offers a well-rounded look at the island’s volcanic origins, scenic spots, and local culture. It’s especially suitable for those who value expert guidance, flexibility, and a relaxed pace. Whether you love geology, beautiful scenery, or just want a hassle-free way to see the best of Faial, this experience seems to deliver on those promises.