Horta is a fantastic base for exploring the Azores, especially because of its vibrant port, colorful harbor, and proximity to some of the most stunning landscapes on Faial Island. Instead of trying to see everything on your own, taking a guided tour can unlock local secrets, ensure you hit all the highlights, and make your trip smoother. We especially love the Full Day Tour of Faial Island for its comprehensive scope and personalized options, like visiting remote viewpoints or relaxing on beaches – all with a local guide who knows the island inside out. If you’re short on time, the Half-Day Tour around Faial Island offers a quick but memorable snapshot of the caldera, volcanoes, and black sand beaches. For those who want a truly exclusive experience, the Full Day Private Trip Faial or the Full-Day Private Tour offer tailored itineraries and maximum flexibility.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the best options for exploring Faial, whether you want a full deep dive or a quick overview. We’ve included everything from scenic sightseeing to active hikes, and private tours that let you set your own pace. Whether you’re a budget traveler, a family, or an adventure seeker, there’s a tour here that will fit your style.
1. Full Day Tour of Faial Island
This full-day tour of Faial is a solid choice for those who want a detailed look at the entire island. Priced at $165.15 per person, it runs for about 8 hours, including lunch, snacks, drinks, and insurance. What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility—you’re free to add extra stops such as visiting a museum or swimming at a beach, depending on your interests.
The itinerary covers key viewpoints like the Miradouro de Nossa Senhora da Conceição and Miradouro do Cabeço das Pedras Negras, offering sweeping views of Pico, São Jorge, and Graciosa islands. Visitors also explore Praia do Almoxarife with its volcanic black sand, and the Caldeira, a crater with walking trails and stunning scenery. After visiting the Capelinhos volcano—famous for its 1957/58 eruption—there’s time to enjoy the stark beauty of this recent volcanic landscape.
Guides like Kevin and JP are praised for their knowledge and flexibility, especially when weather shifts unexpectedly. One reviewer said, “Kevin rerouted based on the weather to get the best views,” which shows how personalized and adaptive this tour can be.
Bottom Line: This tour appeals to travelers who want a comprehensive, relaxed day exploring Faial with a good guide, a variety of sights, and the chance to customize your experience.
2. Half-Day Tour around Faial Island
For about $91.04 per person, the half-day tour offers a quick, well-rounded introduction to Faial. Lasting roughly 4 hours, it hits the highlights like the Miradouro de Nossa Senhora da Conceição, offering panoramic views of Horta and the eastern coast. It also includes a visit to the Caldeira, a vast volcanic crater about 2,000 meters across, and the Capelinhos volcano—famous for its eruption in 1957/58.
This tour is particularly good if you’re pressed for time or prefer a more relaxed pace. It also features a walk along the Monte da Guia trail, where you can enjoy views of Porto Pim and neighboring islands. Guides like Kevin are praised for their storytelling and local insights, making the brief time feel rich and engaging.
Guests appreciate this tour’s balance of sightseeing and efficiency. One review states, “Our half-day tour was well done, with stops at all the major sights and a friendly guide who shared interesting stories.”
Bottom Line: Designed for travelers with limited time but a desire to see Faial’s top spots, this tour provides a great snapshot without feeling rushed.
3. Full Day Private Trip Faial
At number 3, the Full Day Private Trip of Faial offers a personalized experience for $218.96 per person. This private tour is perfect if you want the flexibility to explore specific sites or engage deeply with local culture. The itinerary is always a surprise, as guides tailor the day based on your interests and the weather.
Highlights include Caldeira do Faial, a natural reserve with lush habitats and stunning views, as well as the Capelinhos Volcano, the most recent eruption site. The guide’s expert knowledge about the island’s geology and flora enriches each stop, making this tour ideal for curious travelers who love learning while exploring.
Reviews point out that guides like Luis are excellent at making the day adaptable and engaging. One traveler noted, “Luis made me feel comfortable during the climb and tailored the experience to my fitness level.” With flexibility, you can include stops that are most meaningful to you, like hidden viewpoints or local eateries.
Bottom Line: The private nature of this tour makes it a top choice for those who prefer an intimate, customizable experience with expert guidance.
4. From Horta: Full-Day Island Tour
For travelers staying in Horta, this full-day tour is designed to explore the island’s lesser-known corners and natural features. With a focus on authenticity and local knowledge, it’s perfect for those who want a hands-on experience of Faial’s landscapes and culture.
This tour emphasizes a mix of fun, responsible driving, and storytelling. It’s suited for travelers who enjoy seeing the island at a relaxed pace, with stops at viewpoints, beaches, and scenic spots. The emphasis is on discovering hidden places that aren’t always on the usual tourist trail, making it ideal for those looking for a more personalized experience.
While specific itinerary details aren’t provided, reviews praise the passionate guides for their engaging and responsible approach, making it a memorable, authentic day out.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want an honest, engaging exploration of Faial with a local guide who values experience over a rigid schedule.
5. Pico Mountain Climbing private tour – with round trip from Faial
For the adventure-minded, this Pico Mountain climbing tour is a standout. At $242.85 per person, it offers private guided ascents with transportation from Faial, scheduled for about 9 hours. This tour is for active travelers who want the challenge of scaling Portugal’s highest peak.
Your guide, Luis, will customize the pace to your fitness level and weather conditions. The climb takes you through volcanic terrain, revealing the island’s geology and flora, with plenty of opportunities for photos and learning along the way. The guide’s experience is crucial, especially given the rugged terrain and changing weather, but reviews show that this private route makes all the difference—one traveler noted, “Luis made me feel safe and reassured, even with questionable weather.”
This tour is best suited for those with a good fitness level and a love of physical challenge. It includes a park fee, so no hidden costs, and the private setting keeps it intimate and flexible.
Bottom Line: For active travelers craving a personal, guided ascent of Pico, this private tour delivers top-notch expertise and a memorable experience.
6. Full-Day Private Tour – Faial Island
If you prioritize privacy and flexibility, this full-day private tour for about $260.46 per person is hard to beat. It allows you to design your own itinerary, seeing all the sites you want at your preferred pace.
Highlights include the Monte da Guia walking trail, offering views of Porto Pim and Horta, and the Miradouro de Nossa Senhora da Conceição with panoramic vistas of Horta and Pico Island. The guide adapts the stops to your interests, whether that’s hiking, photo opportunities, or cultural sites.
Guests appreciate the personalized approach, with one reviewer mentioning, “The guide tailored the day to our interests, making it a very special experience.” This tour is ideal for families or groups wanting total control over their day.
Bottom Line: This is the best choice for travelers who want an exclusive, customized experience with local insight.
7. Faial Island: Personalized tour with Pic Nic
Finally, the Personalized Tour with Pic Nic offers a relaxed, intimate experience for just $68 per person. Led by friendly guide Lúcia, this 4-hour tour is perfect for those who want a laid-back, tailored exploration, including a delicious local picnic.
Highlights include visiting the caldera, volcano, and scenic countryside. The tour’s focus on personalization means you can prioritize sites that interest you most, making it especially good for couples or small groups. Reviewers praise Lúcia’s warmth, humor, and depth of local knowledge—”We learned so much about Faial, and the picnic was delightful,” said one traveler.
This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a low-key, personal experience that combines sightseeing with relaxed dining.
Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups or couples wanting a customized, easygoing day with authentic local flavors.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When picking a tour in Horta, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend exploring, and whether you prefer a group or private experience. For a comprehensive full day with flexibility, the Full Day Tour of Faial Island is hard to beat. If you’re pressed for time but want a good overview, the Half-Day Tour offers a quick, engaging experience.
For those seeking a highly personalized experience, the Full Day Private Trip or the Full-Day Private Tour give maximum flexibility, perfect for families or groups with specific interests. Adventure lovers should consider the Pico Mountain Climbing tour if they’re fit and craving a challenge.
Book early, especially for private and adventure tours, as they tend to fill quickly. Weather in the Azores can be unpredictable, so flexible itineraries or private guides make your day more enjoyable and less stressful.
Final Thoughts
Horta and Faial Island offer a wide range of tour options for every kind of traveler. Whether you want a full day exploring volcanic landscapes, a quick overview of must-see sights, or a private, customized adventure, there’s something for you. The Full Day Tour of Faial is perfect if you want a detailed, guided experience, while the private options give you more flexibility and personal attention.
For active travelers, the Pico Mountain climb promises an unforgettable challenge. Families or couples looking for a relaxed, intimate day should consider the Personalized Pic Nic Tour. Whatever you choose, booking early will ensure you get your spot—and a memorable day exploring this stunning island.
Happy touring, and enjoy your time in the Azores!
