Santa Maria, the oldest of the Azores islands, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich history that makes touring here an especially rewarding experience. Unlike some islands that rely heavily on their scenic views, Santa Maria’s tours reveal the island’s hidden details—whether it’s the white sand beaches, the arid Barreiro da Faneca, or the off-road trails. We love the variety of options, especially the immersive jeep safaris and walking tours that get you close to the island’s authentic charm. If you’re craving a deeper understanding of local life, the Santa Maria – Walking Tour Guide is a great way to connect with the landscape.
What makes Santa Maria truly special for tours is its mix of natural and cultural sights that aren’t always accessible via larger coach trips. For example, the Excursions / Van Tours / Sightseeing explore unique geological formations and waterfalls, perfect for those who want a balanced day of education and scenery. Meanwhile, the Santa Maria Fullday Excursion highlights panoramic viewpoints and local crafts. Below, we’ve compiled a detailed look at these five top tours—each one offering a different way to experience Santa Maria.
1. Excursions / Van Tours / Sightseeing
This tour is perfect if you want to see Santa Maria’s most iconic sights in one day. It lasts about 8 to 9 hours and includes stops at the Dalberto Pombo Environmental Interpretation Centre, where you’ll learn about the island’s geological and biological diversity in an interactive setting. The center is housed in a reconstructed historic building and offers insights into the naturalist Dalberto Pombo’s work. The tour then heads to the Barreiro da Faneca, a semi-desert landscape of yellow-reddish clay that looks like Mars—an absolute must-see for geology fans.
Further highlights include Ribeira do Maloás, where you can enjoy the waterfall and lush surroundings. The tour is highly rated, with a full 5.0/5 from 10 reviews, and the price of $126.40 per person reflects a comprehensive experience. Visitors praise the flexibility and depth of knowledge, especially the personalized attention from guides like Marco, who can tailor the trip to your interests. The tour’s strength lies in passing through unique landscapes that tell the story of the island’s formation and natural history.
Bottom line: If you want a full-day, well-rounded experience with educational stops and stunning scenery, this tour offers great value and an intimate feel.
2. Santa Maria Fullday Excursion
For around $103.72 per person, this full-day tour balances sightseeing with cultural highlights, making it ideal for travelers who want to maximize their day without rushing. The tour kicks off at the Forte de São Brás, a 16th-century fortress that protected against corsairs and offers views of the island’s second volcano formation. Next, the Miradouro São Lourenço provides a panoramic view of one of the most beautiful bays in the world—a perfect photo stop.
Another highlight is the Barreiro da Faneca, which looks like the surface of Mars with its volcanic ash landscape. The tour also visits the Handicraft Cooperative Santa Maria, where local artisans keep traditions alive through pottery, baked goods, and crafts. Rated 5/5 from 10 reviews, travelers appreciate the passionate guides and the authentic experiences. The tour emphasizes local culture and natural beauty, giving a well-rounded impression of the island.
Bottom line: This tour is a perfect choice if you’re after a culturally rich yet scenic experience with plenty of opportunities for photos and interaction. It balances history, landscape, and local crafts beautifully.
3. Santa Maria Island Jeep Safari Full Day Tour
If you’re craving an off-road adventure that unlocks Santa Maria’s hidden corners, this jeep safari is for you. Lasting about 9 to 10 hours, it offers a different perspective on the island, visiting remote spots inaccessible by regular vehicle. The tour includes the Forte de São Brás, where you learn about the island’s defenses, and the Baia dos Anjos, with its tidal pools and historic church. A key feature is the Barreiro da Faneca’s Martian landscape, which is both surreal and stunning.
What sets this safari apart is the focus on interpretation of natural and cultural features, with guides sharing insights about history, flora, fauna, and geology. The tour also visits Santa Bábara Parish, renowned for its architecture, and the abandoned Poco da Pedreira quarry with exceptional views of São Lourenço Bay. Rated 5/5 from 8 reviews, travelers rave about Henrique’s knowledge and personable style, making the off-road experience both fun and educational.
Bottom line: If you’re comfortable with longer days and want a more adventurous tour that dives into off-the-beaten-path spots, this jeep safari delivers memorable experiences and great storytelling.
4. Bike Rental
For travelers who enjoy self-guided exploration, renting a bike is a flexible, eco-friendly option. Costing only $21.99 per group, it’s an affordable way to see Santa Maria at your own pace from 1 to 30 days. Good bikes are crucial, and the company offers well-maintained bicycles capable of covering the entire island, including mountain trails and coastal paths.
Cycling allows you to stop where you want, linger in scenic spots, and enjoy the quiet, fresh air. This option suits active travelers who want to customize their itinerary and avoid large groups. The reviews mention professionalism and quality equipment, making it a reliable choice for independent explorers.
Bottom line: If you’re comfortable cycling and want ultimate flexibility, renting bikes provides a personal way to learn Santa Maria’s landscapes and hidden nooks.
5. Santa Maria – Walking Tour Guide
For an up-close, intimate experience, this 4-hour walking tour offers a chance to discover Santa Maria’s natural beauty actively. Walking along official trails and less-known paths, you can see the island’s flora, fauna, and traditional architecture with expert guidance. This tour emphasizes slow, contemplative travel—ideal for those who enjoy a relaxed pace and want to connect deeply with their surroundings.
Reviewed positively by three travelers, the guide’s approach makes the outdoor experience safe and enjoyable while providing insights into the local environment and traditions. The $67.10 per person price makes it an affordable way to learn about Santa Maria’s landscape without being rushed or overwhelmed.
Bottom line: If walking is your preferred way to explore, this tour offers a meaningful, slower approach to experiencing Santa Maria’s true essence.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. If you want a comprehensive day packed with sightseeing and culture, the Santa Maria Fullday Excursion is a solid choice. For adventure lovers craving off-road exploration, the Jeep Safari delivers that thrill. Meanwhile, independent travelers and active explorers will appreciate bike rentals and the walking tour, which allow for personalized pacing and discovery.
It’s wise to book early, especially during peak season, to ensure availability. Think about the types of landscapes you want to see—both the Mars-like terrain of Barreiro da Faneca and the panoramic views from Miradouro São Lourenço—and match your choice to your interests and energy levels.
Final Thoughts
Santa Maria offers a surprising diversity of tour options. Whether you prefer a full-day sightseeing adventure, a cultural walk, or an off-road jeep safari, there’s a fit for everyone. For those wanting a balanced introduction to the island, the Excursions / Van Tours / Sightseeing is hard to beat. If you’re after something more adventurous, the Jeep Safari promises memorable off-road experiences.
For independent travelers, the bike rental or the walking tour provide flexible ways to explore at your own pace. Remember, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these fantastic experiences. Santa Maria’s charm lies in its natural beauty and authentic charm—so pick your adventure and enjoy all that this beautiful island has to offer.
