Santa Maria, Azores: Private Full Day Jeep Safari
Location: Azores, Portugal
Country: Portugal
Price: $648 per group (up to 8 people)
Duration: 9 hours (check availability for start times)
Supplier: Bootlá – Natureza & Aventura
Thinking about exploring the stunning island of Santa Maria in the Azores? This private full-day Jeep safari offers a chance to see much more than the usual viewpoints—off-road, where the real magic happens. Led by knowledgeable guides, like Joana or João, you’ll navigate rugged terrain, uncover hidden geosites, and learn about Santa Maria’s unique features—all while enjoying the flexibility of a private trip.
Two things we especially appreciate about this tour: first, the chance to venture into landscapes that regular tours rarely reach, like the Mars-like Barreiro da Faneca and the captivating Ribeira do Maloás pillars. Second, the inclusion of local specialties, such as tasting vinho abafado and biscoitos de orelha, makes the experience feel authentic and rooted in local culture.
A possible consideration is the weather—since the tour runs rain or shine, you’ll want to come prepared with comfortable shoes and sunscreen. Also, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, so it’s best suited for those who are mobile and eager for adventure.
This safari is perfect for travelers who love off-the-beaten-path experiences, enjoy scenic drives, and want to learn about Santa Maria’s architecture, geology, and local traditions from a personal guide. If you’re curious about island life beyond the typical lookout points, this tour will delight you with its mix of nature, history, and culture.
Key Points
- Off-road adventure: Explore landscapes inaccessible from standard viewpoints, including geosites and rugged terrain.
- Cultural insights: Learn about Santa Maria’s architecture, history (including Columbus’ stopover), and local traditions.
- Authentic local tasting: Sample vinho abafado and traditional biscoitos de orelha.
- Scenic variety: From beaches to volcanic formations, the itinerary covers diverse natural beauty.
- Private experience: Tailored to your group, with a knowledgeable guide enhancing the journey.
- Weather resilience: Tour runs rain or shine, so preparation is key.
An In-Depth Look at the Santa Maria Jeep Safari
If you’re seeking an engaging way to discover Santa Maria, this full-day Jeep safari offers a deep dive into the island’s character. We found the experience to be a balanced mix of scenic beauty, cultural storytelling, and active exploration, all within a comfortable private setting. Here’s what you can expect from each part of the journey.
Starting Point: Forte São Brás and Anjos
The tour begins with a visit to Forte São Brás, where your guide will fill you in on its historical importance defending the island. It’s a solid start that sets the tone—understanding the island’s strategic value gives context to subsequent sites.
Next, you’ll head to Anjos, famed for its tidal pools and the island’s first church. Here, the setting feels timeless—waves crashing against volcanic cliffs, and a small community proud of its heritage. If you’re a history buff, you’ll enjoy hearing about Christopher Columbus’ memorable stopover, which adds a layer of discovery to the day.
Geosite: Barreiro da Faneca
No one leaves Santa Maria unchanged after visiting Barreiro da Faneca, often called the “Red Desert” due to its Mars-like landscape. The striking, reddish soil and rocky formations create an otherworldly scene. Our guide explained how the area’s unique geology results from ancient volcanic activity and erosion—a real highlight for anyone interested in earth sciences or just wanting a surreal photo backdrop.
Coastal Views and Architectural Pride
Back on the northern coast, you’ll glimpse Ilhéu das Lagoinhas and stop at Santa Bárbara Parish, known for its well-preserved architecture. The locals take great pride in their buildings, which blend traditional Azorean styles with a touch of Portuguese charm. It’s a glimpse into island life that’s both authentic and picturesque.
More Great Tours NearbySão Lourenço and Poço da Pedreira
Driving towards São Lourenço, considered the most beautiful bay in the Azores, you’ll pass an abandoned quarry called Poço da Pedreira. Its dramatic landscape resulted from intense past extraction, creating striking cliffs and formations. It’s a spot that captures how human activity and natural beauty intertwine.
Santo Espírito and Maia
The church of Santo Espírito stands out as the best example of Azorean Baroque-style architecture on the island, with its ornate details and historical significance. Then we move to Maia, a charming bay famed for its vineyard landscapes—perfect for picture-taking and understanding the island’s traditional wine-growing practices.
The Cascata do Aveiro, Portugal’s second-tallest waterfall, offers a refreshing pause. The lush surroundings and cascading water give a peaceful contrast to the volcanic terrain.
Geological Wonder: Ribeira do Maloás
One of our favorite stops was the Ribeira do Maloás area, with its pillow-shaped lava pillars. These formations are caused by horizontal contraction as lava cools—similar in concept to Ireland’s Giants Causeway. It’s a stunning natural sculpture, perfect for wandering and contemplating Earth’s fiery history.
Pico Alto and Panoramic Views
The highlight for many is Pico Alto, the island’s highest point. From here, the panoramic views stretch across the landscape, coastlines, and beyond—weather permitting. Standing atop this vantage point, you understand how diverse Santa Maria really is, from beaches to volcanic craters.
Final Stop: Praia Formosa
The tour wraps up at Praia Formosa, the island’s most popular sandy beach. It’s not just a pretty spot—this beach hosts Portugal’s oldest uninterrupted music festival, Festival Maré de Agosto, since 1984. Relaxing here, with sand beneath your feet and perhaps a local drink in hand, cements the experience as both scenic and culturally meaningful.
Practical Details and Value
The $648 price covers the entire day, a fair deal for a private group of up to 8 people. You’ll get pick-up and drop-off within Vila do Porto, which saves the hassle of transportation logistics. The journey includes off-road experiences in a legendary Land Rover Jeep, making it more than just a scenic drive—it’s an adventure.
The tour’s inclusion of local wine tasting and traditional treats like biscoitos de orelha adds a layer of flavor, quite literally, to the day. The free map of the island is a handy resource to continue exploring on your own.
One thing to keep in mind is the weather—since the tour runs rain or shine, dressing in comfortable shoes, protective clothing, and sunscreen is advisable. The tour is designed to be easy walking, with no more than five minutes on foot at each stop, but it’s not tailored for those with mobility limitations or pregnant women.
Who Should Take This Tour?
If you’re someone who craves off-the-beaten-path adventures, loves learning about geology, architecture, and local traditions, and enjoys tasting regional specialties, this Jeep safari is well-suited for you. It offers a personalized touch, thanks to the private group setting and expert guide, making it ideal for families, couples, or small groups of friends.
Travelers who want to explore Santa Maria beyond the usual viewpoints, seeking a mix of natural beauty and cultural insights, will find this tour rewarding. It’s especially good for those who appreciate comfort, flexibility, and authentic local experiences.
Final Thoughts
This full-day Jeep safari on Santa Maria offers a rich, authentic way to see the island’s most captivating sights, guided by experts who love sharing their knowledge. The combination of scenic geosites, historical insights, and cultural tastings creates a well-rounded experience that’s more about discovery than just sightseeing.
While it’s not the least expensive way to explore, the private setting, off-road adventures, and personal attention provide a level of value that many group tours can’t match. For travelers eager to venture into Santa Maria’s wild heart, this safari makes for a memorable, eye-opening day.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed for groups up to 8, and while not specifically marketed for children, families with children who enjoy light walking and off-road adventures will likely find it enjoyable. However, check with the provider for age restrictions.
What should I bring for the tour?
Comfortable shoes are essential, as well as a hat, sunscreen, and perhaps a light jacket depending on the weather. No large luggage or slippers are allowed.
Will I get wet or dirty during the off-road parts?
While the tour is designed to be comfortable and scenic, off-road driving might kick up some dust or splashes, so dress accordingly.
How long is the drive between stops?
The total tour lasts about 9 hours, with the guide managing the pacing of stops and drives. Expect some longer stretches of driving combined with short walks.
Are there dietary restrictions accommodated?
The tour includes local tastings like vinho abafado and biscoitos de orelha. Specific dietary needs aren’t mentioned, so it’s best to ask ahead if you have restrictions.
Can I book this tour last-minute?
Availability depends on the season and demand. Since you can reserve and pay later, it’s worth checking the dates early to secure your spot.
If you’re ready to get off the usual tourist trail and truly experience Santa Maria’s natural and cultural treasures, this private Jeep safari is a fantastic choice. It’s a chance to see the island’s diversity, learn from passionate guides, and create memories that stand out far beyond the typical postcard views.
You can check availability for your dates here: