Praia da Vitoria is a fantastic base for exploring Terceira Island in the Azores. Its strategic location, charming town atmosphere, and access to diverse landscapes make it ideal for different types of tours. Whether you’re after a rundown of the island’s sights, an active outdoor experience, or something in between, you’ll find options that suit your style. We particularly like the Terceira Island Highlights Tour for its all-encompassing approach and the Mistérios Negros Hiking Trail for those who want to truly feel the island’s volcanic soul. Plus, the Kayaking tour offers an exciting way to see the coast from the water, perfect for adventure lovers.
If you’re wondering which tour to pick, consider how much time you have and what interests you most—culture, scenery, or outdoor activity. Each tour offers a different window into Terceira’s landscapes and culture, ensuring there’s something memorable for everyone.
Quick Overview
In this list, you’ll find a variety of tours: a full-day Highlights Tour that hits all the major sights, a half-day Mistérios Negros Hiking Trail for nature lovers, a Half-day tour to Serra do Cume and East Coast perfect for a quick overview, and an Experienced Kayaking adventure for active travelers. Each offers a different perspective on the island’s natural beauty and culture.
1. Terceira Island Highlights Tour – Azores
At number 1, the Terceira Island Highlights Tour is a well-rounded way to see the island in one day. For around $92.69, this full-day guided experience takes you to key sites like the Algar do Carvão, a volcano with an impressive underground chamber, and the Biscoitos natural swimming pools, perfect for a quick dip. The tour also includes visits to Monte Brasil and Serra do Cume, where panoramic views across lush volcanic landscapes are breathtaking.
What sets this tour apart is its carefully curated itinerary, including a traditional Azorean lunch and cheese tasting—offering a taste of local flavor. The small-group format ensures a more personal experience, with plenty of opportunities for questions and photos. The guide is often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the day both educational and fun. Plus, hotel pickup and round-trip transport are included, making logistics one less thing to worry about.
Bottom Line: This is an excellent choice for travelers who want a comprehensive, hassle-free day filled with scenic views, local cuisine, and iconic sites. It’s especially good if you’re pressed for time but want to see as much as possible.
2. Mistérios Negros Hiking Trail – Terceira Azores
Number 2 on our list is the Mistérios Negros Hiking Trail, which offers approximately 4 hours of guided exploration along the island’s coastal and mountain tracks. Priced at about $45.86 per person, this tour is perfect for those who want to get active and experience Terceira’s volcanic landscapes firsthand.
During the hike, you’ll encounter natural lakes, rugged rocky beaches, and unusual rock formations. The guide shares insights about the island’s flora, fauna, and volcanic history, making the walk both scenic and educational. The trail is rated easy to moderate, suitable for travelers with reasonable fitness levels. The small group size means plenty of attention from the guide and a more intimate experience.
Reviewers highlight the guides’ energy and storytelling skills, with one describing the tour as “an amazing hike” that combined natural beauty with engaging commentary. It’s ideal for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy moderate physical activity and want to avoid the typical tourist spots.
Bottom Line: If you’re looking for a half-day adventure that immerses you in nature and leaves you with memorable views, this hike hits the mark. Just pack good walking shoes and your sense of curiosity.
3. Half-day tour: Sierra del Cume and East Coast
Number 3 is the Half-day tour: Sierra del Cume and East Coast, designed for quick but rich sightseeing in about 3.5 hours. For a reasonable price, this tour takes you from Angra do Heroísmo to the Serra do Cume viewpoint, famous for its patchwork of fields that looks like a giant quilt.
Starting with a panoramic view of the bay, the guide then leads you to several viewpoints, including Salga Bay and Serretinha, each offering stunning vistas of the island’s coast and volcanic crater landscapes. The tour also includes a visit to the Church of São Sebastião, adding a cultural touch. It’s a great way to see different facets of Terceira without a full-day commitment.
Guests praise the guide’s friendly demeanor and the well-chosen stops, even under less-than-ideal weather conditions. The tour is best suited for travelers short on time but eager for a layered look at the island’s natural and cultural highlights.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a concise overview of Terceira’s most scenic viewpoints, especially if you’re short on time but want a meaningful experience.
4. Kayaking – Experienced Level
Last but not least, the Kayaking tour offers an 8-hour aquatic adventure. Priced at $122, this activity takes serious water fans on a paddle around the island’s coast, exploring from the water’s perspective. It’s best suited for those with some paddling experience, as it’s not a beginner’s outing.
This tour is about covering all the coastal areas of Terceira, providing a unique view of the cliffs, coves, and beaches that are often hidden from land. You’ll need to bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, and towel, as plenty of time is spent paddleboarding, swimming, and soaking up the scenery. The long duration makes it a full-day commitment, perfect if you want an active, memorable experience.
While reviews highlight the fun of exploring the coastline in a small-group setting, it’s advisable for confident paddlers who are comfortable with a full day on the water. Expect a mix of paddling, relaxing, and enjoying the stunning coastline.
Bottom Line: For adventurous travelers with paddling skills, this tour offers a chance to see Terceira from a fresh angle—water level—and spend the entire day on the coast.
$122 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
Picking the best tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and available time. If you want a thorough introduction to the best sights and local cuisine, the Highlights Tour is ideal. For those who prefer a nature-focused experience, the Mistérios Negros Hiking Trail is a great pick. If your schedule is tight but you still want a rich overview, the Half-day Serra do Cume and East Coast tour fits perfectly. And for adventure lovers, the Kayaking trip offers a full day of exploring from the water.
Consider your physical condition—hiking and kayaking require some stamina. Also, think about your budget—these tours range from budget-friendly to more premium experiences. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Praia da Vitoria offers a variety of tours that showcase the island’s volcanic landscapes, dramatic coastlines, and local culture. For a comprehensive day, the Highlights Tour is hard to beat. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the Mistérios Negros Hiking Trail, while those with limited time can enjoy a quick but rich experience with the Half-day tour. Finally, water lovers should consider the Kayaking adventure for a full immersion into the island’s coast.
No matter your choice, booking early ensures you secure a spot on these popular excursions. Each offers a different way to enjoy Terceira’s remarkable scenery, so pick what fits your style and get ready for a memorable Azores visit.