Criacao Velha is a fantastic spot for exploring the natural beauty and unique traditions of Pico Island. What really makes it special for tours is the combination of UNESCO-listed vineyards, volcanic landscapes, and local culture. We especially love the Pico Wine Tours for their immersive taste of the island’s 500-year-old winemaking tradition, and the 1-day jeep tour for its broad coverage of Pico’s stunning scenery and geological surprises. Whether you’re into wine, adventure, or learning about earthquake history, Criacao Velha offers memorable experiences. If you’re considering your options, this guide will help you choose the best tour for your interests.
Quick Overview
In our list, you’ll find a mix of wine-focused experiences, like the Pico Wine Tours, which combine tastings with visits to lava tubes and local cellars, as well as adventure-packed jeep tours such as the 1-day jeep tour on Pico, featuring scenic drives, hiking, and earthquake simulations. Lastly, there’s a budget-friendly wine and vineyards tour that offers a shorter, more guided look at Pico’s vineyards. Below, we detail each to help you pick the right one.
1. Pico Wine Tours
At number 1, the Pico Wine Tours stands out with its in-depth exploration of Pico’s renowned wine history—spanning over 500 years. This full-day experience takes you to unique spots like vineyard protected landscapes, lava tubes, and a local wine cooperative, which are highlights of the island’s wine production. The tour’s main appeal is the chance to taste wines in truly one-of-a-kind settings—imagine sipping local vintages surrounded by the vines, inside a lava tube, or in the midst of a vineyard landscape. The guide, Jose, earns high praise for tailoring the experience to your interests, sharing detailed stories about the decline and rebirth of Pico’s wine industry and its connection to local life.
This tour also includes visits to the Whale Museum, and stops at the scenic Rola Pipas and Rilheiras. Priced at $250 per person, it’s a bit of an investment but delivers a comprehensive, immersive look at Pico’s wine and volcanic environment. The reviews highlight how personalized and informative the tour is, with guests appreciating the local knowledge and hidden spots only locals know. It’s ideal for wine lovers and those curious about volcanic landscapes combined with cultural stories.
Bottom Line: If you want a full-day, hands-on experience that combines wine tastings, volcanic geology, and local history, this tour offers excellent value for its detailed itinerary and personalized approach.
2. 1-day jeep tour on the island of Pico – Azores
At number 2, the 1-day jeep tour provides a dynamic way to see Pico’s landscape in all its rugged glory. This tour is perfect if you prefer a flexible, scenic adventure that covers a variety of natural sights. In just 8 hours, you’ll visit Capitão Lagoon, Lago do Caiado, Lagoa Seca, and explore fantastic forest trails amid the UNESCO vineyards. The highlight is the chance to see geological features and volcanic craters up close while enjoying the ease of a comfortable jeep excursion.
A unique feature is the earthquake simulator, where you get to experience the last two major earthquakes in the Azores. The included regional lunch at a local restaurant adds to the authentic feel. The guide, Filip, is praised for his friendliness, knowledge, and ability to adapt the stopovers to weather conditions—when rain limited lagoon views, the group was taken to a brandy brewery for tastings instead.
This tour is best suited for active travelers who want to see diverse landscapes without strenuous effort. Costing around $250, it’s a good value considering the range of sights and experiences packed into the day. Reviewers love how it exceeds expectations, especially when weather is less than ideal, and appreciate the local insights.
Bottom Line: For a comprehensive, outdoor exploration of Pico’s volcanic terrain, forests, and cultural sites—all with a friendly guide—this jeep tour is a top choice.
3. Pico Island: Wine and Vineyards Tour with Tasting
Finally, at number 3, the Pico Island: Wine and Vineyards Tour with Tasting offers a shorter, budget-friendly experience for those wanting a taste of Pico’s wine culture. For $59 per person, this 3-hour guided tour concentrates on the UNESCO-listed vineyards of Criacao Velha, visiting a wine cooperative and a local winery. You’ll learn about the unique vineyard landscape—characterized by carefully terraced vines that adapt to volcanic soils—and get a chance to sample some local wines.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a quick but authentic introduction to Pico’s wine-making tradition. The visit to the wine cooperative provides insight into the process, and the tasting session allows you to appreciate what makes Pico wines special—typically their minerality and balance influenced by volcanic soil. The itinerary is straightforward, focusing on the core of Pico’s wine heritage without the lengthy sightseeing.
Reviewers note that this tour offers good value for its price, especially for those on a tighter schedule. It’s perfect if you prefer a more relaxed pace and want to learn about Pico’s wine history without committing a full day.
Bottom Line: If your main interest is wine and you prefer a shorter, affordable experience, this tour delivers a focused look at Pico’s vineyard landscape and wine culture.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When deciding which tour fits you best, consider your priorities: If you’re passionate about wine and want an in-depth, personalized experience, the Pico Wine Tours is an excellent choice. For scenic adventure and geological highlights, the jeep tour offers a broad, active exploration. If you’re on a budget or short on time, the wine and vineyards tour provides a quick, meaningful taste of Pico’s viticultural tradition.
Think about your physical activity level—jeep tours involve some walking and hiking, while wine tours tend to be more relaxed. Also, check the weather forecast, especially during rainy seasons, as some outdoor stops might be affected. Booking early is wise, particularly in high season, to secure your preferred time slot.
In summary, Criacao Velha offers a range of engaging tours suited to different interests and budgets. For a detailed, cultural deep dive, the Pico Wine Tours is hard to beat. For a full-day exploration of the island’s landscapes and geological surprises, the jeep tour will not disappoint. And if you want a quick, affordable intro to Pico’s wine heritage, the wine and vineyards tour is perfect.
No matter which you pick, booking in advance helps ensure you get the experience you want. These tours highlight the richness of Pico Island—whether through vineyards, volcanic scenery, or local stories—and are sure to leave you with lasting memories.