Faial Island is a treasure for hikers. Its dramatic volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and expansive calderas make it a top spot for outdoor enthusiasts. What sets Faial apart is how accessible its rugged terrain is—whether you want a private descent down a volcanic crater or a gentle walk along an old water channel. We’re particularly fond of the Caldeira do Faial Descent for its combination of geological wonder and guided support, and the Private Half-Day Hike around the Caldeira for a more relaxed, yet equally stunning experience. Both tours offer a deeper look into the island’s volcanic origins, with knowledgeable guides at your side. For those who enjoy walking through forests and crossing tunnels, the Private hike along the Levada provides a uniquely lush perspective on Faial’s natural beauty.
Below, we’ll introduce the top three hiking tours that cover everything from challenging descents to easy caldera walks and scenic levada trails. Whether you prefer a private, guided experience or a more leisurely exploration, there’s a perfect trek waiting for you on Faial Island.
1. Caldeira do Faial Descent – private hiking tour
At number one, we highlight the Caldeira do Faial Descent, a private tour that explores one of the island’s most striking geological features. This tour dives into the volcanic crater, a natural reserve since the 1970s, which is open only with a certified guide to protect its delicate landscape. The descent involves some scrambling and careful footing, but your guide will help you navigate the challenging terrain safely.
What makes this tour stand out is the expert guidance and the inclusion of the Faial Natural Park fee in the price, saving you time and hassle. The tour lasts about 5 hours, giving you plenty of time to appreciate the unique geological formations and volcanic history. Complimentary hiking poles are available, which makes navigating the uneven terrain easier. The private format means you can hike at your own pace, asking questions, and focusing on the parts that interest you most. This experience is ideal for those with some hiking experience who want an in-depth, guided adventure.
Bottom line: If you’re after a challenging but rewarding descent into Faial’s volcanic heart, this private guided tour offers safety, convenience, and expert insight all in one package.
2. Private Half-Day Hike around the Caldeira
Second on our list is the Private Half-Day Hike around the Caldeira, a more relaxed way to experience Faial’s volcanic crater. This tour focuses on the collapsed volcanic cone that dominates the landscape, with a trail that’s generally easy and suitable for most fitness levels. The hike takes about 2 to 3 hours and offers sweeping views of the crater walls, lush vegetation, and the surrounding landscape.
What makes this tour appealing is the round-trip transport from Horta, included in the price, which simplifies logistics. The guide personalizes the experience, allowing you to go at your own pace, stop for photos, or ask about the island’s geology. Unlike the descent tour, this option is less strenuous, making it perfect for families or travelers who want to see the caldera without tackling steep or technical terrain. Guests have praised the guide’s local knowledge, with one saying, “A hike through the clouds. Our guide made the trip even better.”
Bottom line: This tour offers a manageable, personalized way to explore Faial’s iconic caldera, with the advantage of easy transport and a private guide.
3. Private hike along the Levada
Finally, the Private hike along the Levada gives you a different perspective—walking along an abandoned water channel through forests, across bridges, and through tunnels. This trail is accessible and scenic, making it ideal for first-timers or those wanting a gentler hike. The guide ensures you stay on track, especially through the wetter sections and tunnels, so there’s no worry about getting lost.
The tour lasts about 4 hours and includes pickup and drop-off from anywhere on Faial Island. This flexibility is a big plus, especially if you’re staying outside the main town. The trail itself offers lush greenery, with opportunities to see native flora and maybe some local birdlife. Because it’s a private tour, you get personalized attention and can tailor your pace to your comfort. One reviewer noted that “hiking with a guide made it so much easier to navigate the tunnels and wet sections.”
Bottom line: This Levada trail is perfect for a relaxed, scenic walk with a guide who keeps you on track, ideal for nature lovers and families.
$110.07 per person
How to Choose the Right Faial Hiking Tour
When deciding among these options, consider your fitness level, interests, and time constraints. If you’re after an in-depth experience of Faial’s volcanic crater with some scrambling involved, the Caldeira do Faial Descent is the top choice. For a more leisurely, personalized caldera walk, the Private Half-Day Hike around the Caldeira fits well. To explore lush forests and tunnels, the Levada hike offers a peaceful, accessible outing.
Budget can also influence your choice. The Caldeira descent is the most extensive and priced accordingly, but it includes important park fees. If you prefer a shorter, less intense experience, the half-day caldera walk or the Levada trek provide excellent value. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time and guide.
Final Thoughts
Faial Island offers a variety of hiking options that showcase its volcanic origins and natural beauty. From the challenging descent of the Caldeira do Faial to the relaxing walk around the crater, and the forested trails of the Levada, there’s something for every level. For a truly immersive experience, consider the private tours—they provide personalized attention and flexibility that group tours often lack.
For most travelers, starting with the Private Half-Day Hike around the Caldeira offers a balance of stunning views and manageable effort. If you’re craving adventure and geological insight, the Caldeira do Faial Descent is unmatched. And if you want a gentle walk through forest tunnels, the Levada trail is a delightful choice.
Be sure to book early, especially if traveling in peak season, to secure your preferred tour and guide. With so many options, you’re sure to find a hike that makes your time on Faial memorable and fulfilling.