Hiking Faial da Terra + Van Tour Nordeste

If you’re visiting the Azores and looking for a way to experience the island’s raw beauty, this Hiking Faial da Terra + Van Tour Nordeste offers a pretty fantastic option. Promising around 7.5 hours of outdoor adventure, it combines moderate trekking through lush landscapes with visits to some of the island’s most striking coastal viewpoints and waterfalls. Best of all, it’s limited to small groups, which means you’ll get a more personalized experience.

What immediately caught our attention are a couple of key highlights: first, the chance to wander through dense woodland and explore the abandoned village of Sanguinho—a site that has been deserted since the 70s but has since been brought back to life with rebuilt houses. Second, the stop at the Salto do Prego waterfall, where the scenery is so stunning you’ll want to pause and soak in the views. The only downside? It’s a moderately challenging walk, so it’s not ideal if you’re after a leisurely stroll or have mobility issues. But for those who love nature and physical activity, this tour hits quite a few marks.

If you’re someone who enjoys outdoor adventures, appreciates beautiful scenery, and prefers small-group tours for a more intimate experience, this trip might be just what you’re after. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want a solid mix of activity, history, and scenic vistas without feeling rushed.

Key Points

• Small group size (limited to 6) ensures a more personalized experience.
• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easier.
• Moderate hiking distance of around 5 km, suitable for those with some fitness.
• Visits abandoned and revitalized villages, adding a touch of history.
• Stops at spectacular viewpoints and waterfalls, perfect for photography.
• All weather conditions are accommodated, so dress accordingly.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

This tour kicks off early in the morning, with pickup from your hotel in Ponta Delgada. From there, you’re transported to the starting point of the hike, which is an excellent way to avoid the hassle of organizing transport yourself. The small-group setup—capped at 16 travelers, but typically smaller—means you’re not lost in a crowd, and the guide’s insights feel more personal.

The Hike to Sanguinho

The core of this experience is the moderate hike to Sanguinho, an abandoned village that’s been partly revitalized. We loved the way the guide shared stories about why the village was deserted in the 70s, adding a layer of context to the walk. The trail winds through dense, green woodland, where you might spot native plants and listen to bird calls. The trail itself is about 5 km, so it’s attainable for most people with a moderate fitness level.

One reviewer, Tiffany, called it a “very enjoyable tour” and appreciated passing by abandoned homes and lush nature. She noted that the walk was about 5 km and considered moderate, which is a fair assessment. This part of the tour is fantastic for those who enjoy history, photography, or simply the tranquility of nature.

The Salto do Prego Waterfall and Picnic

After the hike, you’ll stop at the Salto do Prego waterfall, which is a real highlight. The waterfall is impressive and offers an ideal setting for a relaxing picnic lunch. The guide typically prepares a picnic that you enjoy al fresco, taking in the sounds of rushing water and the greenery around you. For those interested in swimming, Sofia noted it’s possible to swim at Salto do Prego, making this an even more memorable spot.

Coastal Viewpoints and Scenery

Post-lunch, the tour moves along to some breathtaking viewpoints, including Ponta do Sossego and Vista dos Barcos. These spots are famous for their vibrant green cliffs and expansive vistas of the Atlantic. The views are the kind that make you want to snap dozens of photos—and you will, because they’re truly spectacular. For many, these coastal stops are the highlight of the day, offering a chance to see the rugged beauty of São Miguel’s coast.

Ribeira dos Caldeirões Park

The final scenic stop is at Ribeira dos Caldeirões Park, home to a majestic waterfall over 40 meters tall. It’s an incredible sight—imposing and powerful—and a fitting end to the day’s explorations. The park’s lush surroundings and the impressive cascade make it a favorite among travelers, with Tiffany praising the “beautiful nature and waterfalls”.

Practical Details

The tour runs every day, starting at 9:00 am, with hotel pickup included. The full-day experience lasts approximately 7.5 hours, so be prepared for a day filled with activity. The price of around $92.55 per person reflects the inclusivity of lunch, transportation, and the guide’s expertise. Considering the personalized small-group experience and the variety of sights, this is quite reasonable.

The tour is suitable for those with moderate physical fitness—you should be comfortable walking for a few hours, but the trail isn’t overly strenuous. Children are welcome when accompanied by an adult, making it a good choice for families with active kids. And since the experience operates rain or shine, dressing appropriately—layers, waterproofs, sturdy shoes—is advisable.

What the Reviews Tell Us

The 7 reviews all give this experience a near-perfect score, averaging 4.9 out of 5. Many reviewers highlight the stunning views as a major draw, with Pamela describing it as a “fantastic tour” and Sofia appreciating the easy, enjoyable nature walk that allows for relaxation while learning about the local flora and fauna.

Sofia also mentions that the hike offers the chance for some swimming at Salto do Prego, which is a lovely bonus if time allows. Tiffany pointed out the abandoned homes and lush scenery as memorable highlights, emphasizing the tour’s ability to combine history and nature seamlessly.

The guide’s knowledge and friendliness are also appreciated, making the whole experience more engaging and engaging.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This hiking and sightseeing experience is a great fit if you’re looking for an active day out that still offers plenty of opportunities to relax and admire beautiful scenery. It’s perfect for nature lovers, curious about local history, or anyone wanting a break from more structured or crowded tours. The small-group setting and attentive guide make it a more personal journey—something you’ll likely savor rather than just check off a list.

While it’s not suited for those with mobility issues or who prefer very relaxed, flat walks, it’s an excellent choice for travelers who enjoy moderate hikes in stunning environments. The inclusion of a picnic lunch at Salto do Prego and visits to iconic viewpoints round out the experience, making it a full day of exploration and natural beauty.

Overall, if you want a well-rounded, scenic, and active tour that highlights some of São Miguel’s best features, this trip offers excellent value, memorable sights, and a chance to connect with the island’s natural and historical stories.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can join if they are accompanied by an adult. Just be aware that the hike is moderate and might be best suited for kids comfortable with some walking.

What should I wear?
Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, dress in layers and wear sturdy shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.

How long is the hike?
The hike to Sanguinho is about 5 km, considered moderate in difficulty, and takes you through lush woodland and historical sites.

Does the tour include lunch?
Yes, lunch is provided, typically a picnic at Salto do Prego, giving you a chance to relax amidst beautiful scenery.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Futurismo Azores Adventures, Marina Portas do Mar in Ponta Delgada, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 16 travelers, with most reviews mentioning small groups around 6, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Is it weather-dependent?
While the tour runs in all weather, it’s best to be prepared for rain or sun, so dress accordingly.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start, allowing flexibility if your plans change.

How is the guide?
Reviews highlight the guide as friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, making the experience more engaging.

What’s the overall value?
Considering the included transportation, lunch, small-group setting, and scenic stops, many find it to be a good value for a full-day adventure in São Miguel.

If you’re craving a day of active exploration with breathtaking views, history, and nature, this tour strikes a good balance. It’s a chance to see some of São Miguel’s best features without feeling rushed, and with the guidance of knowledgeable hosts, you’ll leave with more than just photos—you’ll carry stories and memories of the island’s quiet, natural beauty.