Full-Day Faial da Terra + Nordeste from Ponta Delgada

Full-Day Faial da Terra + Nordeste from Ponta Delgada is a well-rounded way to experience some of the most stunning and lesser-known sights of the Azores. For $94 per person, you get a full day of walking through lush forests, abandoned villages, and breathtaking coastline views, guided by local experts who know how to show off the best of São Miguel. The tour lasts around a full day, including stops for lunch and plenty of time to soak in the scenery.

Two things we really love about this experience: first, the chance to walk through Sanguinho, an abandoned village with relics of the past and ongoing restoration—imagine stepping into a place frozen in time but also seeing its future. Second, the waterfall swim at Salto Do Prego offers a refreshing break in crystal-clear waters, a highlight that many reviews emphasize as a memorable moment.

A potential consideration is that the tour involves some uphill and downhill walking, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate hiking. It’s not ideal if mobility is a concern, but if you’re eager for an active day in nature, this tour fits the bill beautifully.

This experience is perfect for travelers who crave authentic, scenic adventures away from crowded spots, especially those who appreciate guided insights into local history and nature. If you’re looking for a combination of gentle hiking, spectacular views, and a taste of rural Azorean life, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Authentic walking tour through lush forests, scenic viewpoints, and abandoned villages
• Includes a swim at Salto Do Prego waterfall for a refreshing break
• Guided by knowledgeable locals who share insights into the area’s history and natural features
• Lunch in nature with a picnic amidst beautiful surroundings
• Limited group size for a more personalized experience
• Suitable for active travelers comfortable with some uphill walking

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring São Miguel’s Natural Wonders in Detail

What’s Included and How the Day Unfolds

This tour offers a fantastic balance of walking, sightseeing, and relaxing in nature, all wrapped up in a manageable day from Ponta Delgada. Your guide, Helena, who gets high praise from past travelers, will meet you at the designated shop, ready to lead you through some of the Azores’ most picture-perfect scenery.

The day begins with a walk down a steep, narrow road toward the tiny, abandoned village of Sanguinho. This spot is especially intriguing because it’s in the midst of restoration—so you’ll see crumbling stone houses alongside newly built structures, a fascinating glimpse into the revival of local heritage. As one traveler described, Helena’s tips made the journey even more enjoyable, highlighting her deep knowledge about the island.

Sanguinho and the Dense Forest Walk

Walking through Sanguinho, you’ll get a real sense of rural Azorean life of decades past. The trail then continues through lush, dense woods filled with vibrant vegetation and flowers. The short up-and-down stretches might be a challenge for some, but the scenery makes every step worthwhile. We loved the way the guide explained the local plants and history—it’s not just about the views, but about understanding what makes this island so special.

The Waterfall Experience at Salto Do Prego

After about an hour or so of walking, you’ll reach Salto Do Prego, a secluded waterfall setting where many travelers find a highlight in the chance to swim amongst crystal-clear waters. Imagine soaking in a natural pool beneath a roaring cascade—it’s one of those magical moments that sticks with you. Many reviews emphasize how much they enjoyed taking a dip here, with one traveler noting, “the waterfall was beautiful and I recommend taking a bathing suit so you can dive and enjoy the water.”

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Scenic Coastal Viewpoints of Nordeste

Once refreshed, the tour continues along the coast of Nordeste, often called “the flower capital of Europe” for its incredible variety of blooming plants. Two notable viewpoints—Ponta do Sossego and Vista dos Barcos—offer sweeping vistas of high cliffs, lush greenery, and sometimes even distant ocean vistas. These sites are Instagram favorites for good reason, with vibrant flowers and dramatic cliffs providing perfect photo opportunities.

Ribeira dos Caldeirões Park

The final stop takes you to Ribeira dos Caldeirões, a park famous for its waterfalls—some over 40 meters high. Here, you can appreciate the raw power of nature and breathe in the fresh mountain air. This is a peaceful spot to reflect on the day and enjoy the natural music of rushing water.

The Value of This Tour

The cost of $94 includes transportation, a local guide, walking sticks, and a picnic lunch. The included lunch is simple but satisfying: a sandwich, cake, fruit, water, and juice—enough to keep your energy up without feeling burdened. The tour also offers hotel pickup and drop-off in Ponta Delgada, making logistics straightforward.

What really makes this tour stand out is the combination of guided insight and free exploration. The guide’s local knowledge enriches the experience, helping you understand the history of abandoned villages and the ecological significance of the lush landscape.

While the tour is quite active, it’s not overly strenuous, making it accessible for most healthy travelers. Just be aware that luggage or large bags are not allowed, and comfortable shoes are a must.

The Experience in Perspective

Based on reviews, many travelers found the tour to be well-organized and engaging. Claudia praised Helena as a “fantastic guide,” and Nicole appreciated the active exploration as a great way to see the island’s natural beauty. The waterfall swim and scenic viewpoints consistently receive glowing mentions, emphasizing how memorable and refreshing these moments are.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who want an authentic look at São Miguel’s rural and natural side. If you’re comfortable with moderate hiking and want to avoid crowded tourist spots, this tour offers a peaceful, immersive day. It’s perfect for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those keen to learn local stories from knowledgeable guides.

Those with mobility challenges might want to consider the walking intensity, but if you’re fit and eager for adventure, you’ll find this tour both rewarding and enriching. It’s also a great option for visitors who prefer guided experiences that combine activity with relaxation.

Final Thoughts

In total, the Full-Day Faial da Terra + Nordeste tour offers a generous slice of São Miguel’s natural beauty, history, and tranquility. You’ll explore abandoned villages, enjoy swimming in waterfalls, and marvel at coastal vistas—all within a comfortable, well-organized package. The guided element ensures you gain insights into the island’s ecology and history that you might miss on your own, making it a good value.

While it’s not suited for travelers seeking a leisurely, car-based trip or those with mobility issues, for active explorers eager to get off the beaten path, this tour strikes a fine balance of adventure, scenery, and storytelling. If you’re ready for a full day in the wild, this experience will leave you with lasting memories of São Miguel’s lush, vibrant landscapes.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour runs approximately a full day, starting in the morning and returning in the late afternoon, including multiple stops and walking periods.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers guided walking, transportation, walking sticks, and a picnic lunch. It also includes a stop in Povoação for refreshments.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 8 years old, likely due to the physical activity involved and walking terrain.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring comfortable shoes and clothes, water, snacks, sunblock, a swimsuit, and a towel for the waterfall swim.

Can I join if I don’t want to swim?
Absolutely. Swimming is optional, and you can enjoy the scenery and walk without getting into the water.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
Please inform the tour operator about any dietary needs when booking, so they can accommodate your requirements.

Are hotel pickups available outside Ponta Delgada?
Yes, for accommodations outside Ponta Delgada, the meeting point is the Futurismo shop at Portas do Mar.

What is the group size?
While not specified exactly, the tour tends to be small to medium-sized, providing a more personalized experience and easier interaction with your guide.

Whether you’re after stunning scenery, a meaningful walk, or a refreshing swim, this tour promises a full day of natural discovery to remember.

You can check availability for your dates here: