Azores: Canyoning in Salto do Cabrito

If you’re looking for an activity that mixes adventure, nature, and a splash of adrenaline during your trip to the Azores, canyoning at Salto do Cabrito might just be the highlight you’re after. While I haven’t personally done this tour, I’ve gathered enough details and reviews to give you a clear picture of what to expect. It’s ideal for those who love active pursuits and enjoy being outdoors in lush, volcanic landscapes.

One thing that really stands out is the friendly, knowledgeable guides—they’re praised repeatedly for making you feel safe while having fun. Plus, the setting itself, with waterfalls and green surroundings, makes it a visually stunning experience. On the flip side, it’s a physically engaging activity that requires a moderate level of fitness, so it’s not for everyone. This tour is perfect for adventure seekers who don’t mind getting a little wet and muddy.

What I love about this experience is how it offers a balanced mix of challenge and enjoyment—you don’t have to be a seasoned climber or daredevil to participate. Plus, the option of a zipline and optional jumps adds a fun, extra layer to the adventure. However, if you’re not comfortable with heights or certain physical activities, it’s good to know that some parts are entirely optional. This is a fantastic choice for those wanting to explore Azores’ dramatic scenery in a hands-on way.

Who will love this? If you’re in decent shape, enjoy outdoor activities, and want a memorable, active experience, canyoning here is a strong contender. It’s especially suited for people who appreciate guided tours that combine safety with fun.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Adventure and adrenaline in a beautiful volcanic setting.
• Guides are experienced, friendly, and make safety a priority.
• Activities include rappels, jumps, and zipline options.
• Suitable for most ages and all levels of canyoning experience, but requires a moderate fitness level.
• Cost offers good value considering all equipment, photos, and guides included.
• Not suitable for children under 14 or those with certain health conditions such as back problems, pregnancy, mobility issues, or weight restrictions.

This tour in the Azores takes you to the stunning Salto do Cabrito Waterfall, a prime location near Ribeira Grande and Caldeira Velha. It’s about spending a few exhilarating hours navigating through waterfalls, rocky canyons, and lush greenery, using rappelling, jumping, and ziplining to make your way down the terrain.

The adventure begins with a pickup and a safety briefing, where guides prepare you with all the necessary equipment—harnesses, wetsuits, helmets, and boots. Afterward, there’s about a 30-minute walk to reach the start point, giving you a chance to soak in the scenery and anticipate the fun ahead.

Once at the canyon, the real thrill begins. Depending on conditions and the season, the itinerary can vary, but you’ll usually encounter four to sixteen-meter rappels and have the option to try a zipline and a small jump of around 3 meters. The guides are attentive and ensure everyone is comfortable and safe, which makes a big difference—especially if you’re new to canyoning.

The tour’s starting point is conveniently located at the parking lot near Areal de Santa Bárbara Beach, with a quick transfer to the actual canyoning site. This pre-activity stage involves a safety briefing and equipment fitting, setting the tone for a secure and enjoyable experience.

The walk to the canyon is about half an hour, giving you a gentle warm-up and stunning views of the natural surroundings. This part is also where guides might share some interesting facts about the area’s volcanic landscape, adding an educational touch to the adventure.

Once at the canyon, you’ll encounter multiple waterfalls and rocky features. The main sections involve rappelling down waterfalls between 4 and 16 meters. These descents are often the most memorable parts, especially with the guide’s help to make things manageable and safe—something that reviewers consistently praise.

The optional zipline adds a thrilling element—gliding over the canyon’s lush scenery, which many find to be an exciting highlight. There’s also the possibility of a small jump, roughly 3 meters, which you can opt into or skip if you prefer. This flexibility is appreciated by most, especially since some reviews mention that the activity is challenging but not overwhelming.

You should come prepared with comfortable shoes, swimwear, a towel, and a reusable water bottle. The terrain is often slippery, muddy, and uneven, so good footwear and a decent level of fitness are recommended. The activity isn’t overly technical, but you’ll be walking, climbing, and scrambling on natural, sometimes unstable terrain.

While swimming isn’t mandatory, being comfortable in water helps, especially during rappels and swimming through waterfall pools. If you have back problems or are pregnant, it’s best to avoid this activity—these restrictions are clearly mentioned, and guides prioritize safety.

The experience lasts about four hours, including transportation, safety briefing, and the canyoning itself. The price of around $102 per person covers all equipment, safety gear, photos, videos, and guides. Given the inclusion of professional instruction and safety measures, many reviewers feel it offers good value—especially considering how memorable the actual canyon descent is.

Guides are often praised as the backbone of this tour. Multiple reviews highlight their patience, professionalism, and friendly attitude. They’re experienced, making even nervous participants feel at ease, and are quick to help with technical parts or if anyone feels unsure.

One reviewer said, “The guides were experienced, professional, and engaging,” which is a good reminder that you’re in capable hands. They also help make the experience accessible, offering options to skip jumps or zipline if needed, without compromising the fun.

Many reviews describe the scenery as stunning, with waterfalls, rocks, and greenery creating a postcard-perfect backdrop. The water flows attractively during certain seasons, making the descent even more dramatic. Several mention that the penultimate rappel through the waterfall was the highlight of their trip—truly a ‘wow’ moment.

At $102 per person, this tour might seem like a splurge, but considering everything included—the expert guides, all equipment, photos, videos, and transportation—it feels fair for the quality and safety provided. The 4-hour duration ensures you get a thorough experience without it feeling rushed.

Reviews support this value, with many describing it as “worth every penny” and “the perfect length”—not too long, not too short. If you’re after a unique, active day with professional guidance, this tour definitely fits the bill.

While it’s suitable for most ages and levels, this isn’t a tour for children under 14 or those with certain health issues. If you’re physically active, enjoy nature, and are open to moderate challenges, you’ll find this adventure rewarding. It’s great for travelers who want a hands-on way to discover Azores’ natural beauty and aren’t afraid to get a little wet and muddy along the way.

Canyoning at Salto do Cabrito offers a blend of excitement, stunning scenery, and expert guidance that makes it stand out among outdoor activities in the Azores. It’s a thrilling way to experience the volcanic landscape, with each rappel and zipline providing unforgettable moments. The guides are praised for their professionalism, helping to make even nervous participants feel confident.

This experience is best suited for active travelers who don’t mind getting wet, appreciate natural beauty, and want a tour that emphasizes safety without sacrificing fun. The price reflects good value, considering all the gear, instruction, and photos included, plus the remarkable scenery.

If you’re after a memorable adventure that combines challenge and awe-inspiring views, canyoning here might become one of your favorite Azores memories. Just remember to come prepared, listen to your guides, and enjoy every splash along the way.

Is this activity suitable for children?
No, this tour is not recommended for children under 14. It requires a moderate fitness level and involves physical challenges that may be unsuitable for younger kids.

Do I need to know how to swim?
You don’t need to be a swimmer to participate. Just be comfortable in the water, as some parts involve water contact during rappels and swimming in waterfall pools.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a towel, comfortable clothes, a hair tie, personal medication, a reusable water bottle, and swimwear.

How long does the activity last?
The entire experience lasts around 4 hours, including transportation, safety briefing, and the canyon descent.

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are available if you choose that option and it’s available. The meeting point for the activity is at Areal de Santa Bárbara Beach parking lot.

What level of fitness do I need?
A moderate to good fitness level is recommended. Expect walking on unstable terrain, slippery rocks, muddy slopes, and some uphill/downhill scrambles.

Are there any seasonal considerations?
Yes, the terrain, landscape, and stream flow can change throughout the year, affecting the exact itinerary, jumps, and rappels.

Can I skip the jumps or zipline?
Absolutely. The guides are attentive to individual comfort and will help you opt out of any activity you’re not comfortable with.

Is it safe?
Yes, all guides hold proper accreditation, and safety equipment is included. The guides will give you a thorough safety briefing before starting.

What is the cost and does it include photos?
The tour costs around $102 per person and includes all canyoning equipment, insurance, and photos/videos of the experience.