3 Days Excursion in Terceira island

Planning a trip to the Azores? Our 3-day guided excursion on Terceira Island offers an excellent blend of hiking, natural sights, and local flavor, all for around $256 per person. Led by knowledgeable guides, this small-group adventure promises a mix of landscapes—from volcanic craters to lush forests—and cultural insights that enrich your visit.

Two features we particularly love are the variety of hikes, each tailored to different fitness levels, and the inclusion of entrance tickets and lunches, removing the hassle of planning as you go. The chance to walk through volcanic tunnels and enjoy panoramic views from Serra do Cume makes this a truly memorable experience.

One consideration is the moderate to hard difficulty level of some hikes, like the Mistérios Negros trail, which might not suit all travelers, especially those with mobility issues or low fitness levels. This tour best suits those who enjoy active days and nature, and who want to see the island beyond its typical tourist spots.

If you’re after an authentic, immersive experience on Terceira—especially if you appreciate guided hikes, local cuisine, and scenic viewpoints—this tour is a solid choice. It balances adventure with comfort and offers a window into the island’s volcanic origins and thriving local culture.

Key Points

Varied hiking experiences across volcanic landscapes, forests, and coastlines.
All transportation and entrance tickets included, simplifying logistics.
Small group size (limited to 8 participants) for a more personal experience.
Local guides fluent in multiple languages to enrich your understanding.
Comfortable meals and beverages provided across the three days.
Suitable for active travelers with no major health issues or mobility restrictions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Terceira in Depth: What You Can Expect

When you sign up for this three-day adventure, you’re signing on for a well-rounded taste of Terceira’s natural beauty and cultural charm. Each day is carefully planned to balance outdoor activity with stops at some of the island’s most iconic sites. We’ll walk through each day’s highlights, with insights into what makes each stop special—and how it fits into your overall experience.

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Day 1: Volcanoes, Lava Tunnels, and Forests

Your first day kicks off with a moderate to hard hike along the Mistérios Negros trail. This 3-hour trek takes you deep into the island’s volcanic heart, walking over rugged volcanic rock and through a lush cryptomeria forest. The trail’s name, meaning “Black Mysteries,” hints at the volcanic terrain’s dark, intriguing appearance. We loved how the guide explained the geological history in simple terms, making it easier to appreciate the landscape’s origins.

After the hike, lunch in a local restaurant gives you a taste of Azorean cuisine—robust, hearty, and welcoming. Then, the day continues with visits to Gruta do Natal, a network of lava tunnels that gives a glimpse of volcanic activity underground. The Furnas do Enxofre fumarolic field** offers a pungent, bubbling landscape of geothermal activity, and Algar do Carvão, an extinct volcano with a fascinating interior, provides a surreal walk into volcanic history. Entry tickets are included, which makes this day stress-free and more affordable.

Day 2: Coastal Views, Waterfalls, and Panoramas

The second day leans into the island’s stunning north coast. The Baías da Agualva trail is an easy 2.5-hour linear walk along the coast, where you’ll enjoy views of green fields meeting the turbulent sea. The landscape here feels pristine, with salt air and wildflowers in abundance—perfect for those craving gentle outdoor activity with spectacular scenery.

In the afternoon, the tour visits Parque das Frechas, a lush park with a waterfall—ideal for a picnic lunch (included). Later, you’ll ascend to Serra do Cume, where the panoramic view of the island’s largest crater is breathtaking. Many reviews praise this spot as one of the best viewpoints in the Azores, offering a sweeping vista of patchwork fields and volcanic terrain.

Day 3: Hills, Endemic Vegetation, and Volcanic Pools

The final day features a moderate hike through Rocha do Chambre, a 3-hour trail through the island’s interior and northern hills. Expect views of rolling hills, endemic plants, and volcanic formations. The guide’s commentary helps you understand the landscape’s geological and botanical significance.

After lunch, the tour heads to Biscoitos, famed for its volcanic vineyards and natural swimming pools. The volcanic rock pools are perfect for a relaxing dip, and the vineyards offer a fascinating look into how grapes thrive in volcanic soil—something many travelers find memorable.

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Practical Details and Value

This tour covers a lot in just three days—hiking, sightseeing, and cultural experiences—making it excellent value. The price of $256 includes all transportation, entrance tickets to key sites, and lunches with beverages each day. Having these logistics taken care of allows you to focus on enjoying each moment rather than worrying about planning.

The small group size (up to 8 participants) promises more personalized attention from your multilingual guides. Travelers have noted the guides’ deep knowledge and friendly attitude as a highlight—making the experience both educational and fun.

However, keep in mind the difficulty levels of some hikes. The Mistérios Negros trail, in particular, is considered moderate to hard, which might be too challenging for those with mobility issues or low fitness. The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or anyone with respiratory, heart, or back problems, so plan accordingly.

Transportation is included, which simplifies logistics—no worries about navigating rental cars or public transport. The tour starts at your hotel, port, or airport, with a guide waiting to pick you up, making the start seamless.

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What We Loved

One of the best aspects is the diverse scenery packed into a short timeframe. From volcanic tunnels and forests to coastlines and panoramic mountains, you’ll see a cross-section of Terceira’s landscapes. The guides’ local insights add depth, turning sightseeing into storytelling.

Another highlight is the well-organized logistics—everything from tickets to lunch is handled, allowing us to relax and enjoy every moment while focusing on the scenery and conversation.

A Few Considerations

The tour’s focus on active hiking means it’s not suitable for everyone. Those with limited mobility or health concerns should consider their fitness and the trail difficulties. Also, the Algar do Carvão has been under construction since October 2023, which could affect the visit, but this is a temporary situation.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This guided excursion is ideal for adventurous travelers who love exploring on foot and are eager to see the most remarkable landscapes of Terceira. It suits those comfortable with moderate physical activity and who want a comprehensive, guided overview of the island’s volcanic and natural sites.

If you’re short on time but want a broad spectrum of what Terceira has to offer—geological wonders, scenic views, and local culture—this tour packs a lot into three days. It’s perfect for curious, active travelers who appreciate guided insights and don’t mind a vigorous schedule.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, all transportation between sites is included, making logistics simple and stress-free.

Are the lunches provided vegetarian or vegan?
The tour includes lunches with beverages, but specific dietary preferences aren’t detailed. It’s best to check with the provider if you have special needs.

What are the group sizes?
Groups are limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personal, engaging experience.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the tour is generally geared toward active adults, families with children comfortable with hiking might enjoy it. Check the difficulty levels before booking.

Do I need to bring hiking gear?
Yes, sturdy hiking shoes and comfortable clothes are recommended for the outdoor activities.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are entrance tickets to sites included?
Yes, tickets for Algar do Carvão and Gruta do Natal are included in the price.

Is there a possibility of bad weather?
Like any outdoor activity, weather can affect the experience. Check the forecast and be prepared for rain or wind.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day tour in Terceira offers a carefully curated look at the island’s volcanic landscape, natural beauty, and local culture. It’s a fantastic option for travelers who enjoy guided hikes, scenic viewpoints, and learning about geology through an active, engaging itinerary. The combination of well-organized logistics, local guides, and stunning sights makes it a compelling choice for those wanting a rundown of Terceira.

If you’re seeking a balanced mix of adventure and culture in a small-group setting, this tour is a strong contender. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate authentic experiences and don’t mind a bit of physical activity. For anyone eager to see some of the most scenic and geological highlights of the Azores in just three days, this excursion provides great value and memorable moments.