Sanguinho hike, Salto do Prego Waterfall and Furnas hotsprings

Exploring Sao Miguel: Sanguinho Hike, Salto do Prego Waterfall, and Furnas Hot Springs

If you’re seeking a full day of adventure and natural beauty on São Miguel Island, this guided tour offers a fantastic way to experience the island’s most scenic spots. For $86.76 per person, you get about 7 hours of exploring, led by a knowledgeable guide who ensures you see the highlights without the worry of navigation or missing hidden gems. The tour departs from Ponta Delgada at 9:00 am, with pickup included, making it a smooth start to your day.

What makes this experience especially appealing? Firstly, the guidance is frequently praised—our guide Samuel, in particular, is described as attentive and knowledgeable, adding a personal touch that enhances the journey. Secondly, the stops at spectacular viewpoints, waterfalls, and volcanic landscapes make it visually rewarding.

That said, a possible consideration is that this tour involves moderate physical activity, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with walking and some uneven terrain. If you’re looking for a relaxed, sit-back experience, this might be more active than you prefer.

This tour is perfect for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those eager to get a taste of São Miguel’s diverse landscape in just one day. It suits travelers who value guided insights and want to avoid the logistical hassle of self-driving or planning each stop independently.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Sanguinho, Salto do Prego, and Furnas, with scenic viewpoints.
• Expert guide ensuring safe, enjoyable hikes with engaging commentary.
• Beautiful landscapes and photo opportunities at waterfalls, villages, and volcanic sites.
• Flexibility with alternate plans if some sights are unavailable.
• Moderate physical activity required—good for active travelers.
• Value for money considering the personalized guidance and diverse stops.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The tour begins early with pickup in Ponta Delgada, setting the tone for a hassle-free day. We loved the way our guide Samuel kicked off with engaging stories about the island, instantly making us feel at home. The drive along the north coast offers glimpses of dramatic cliffs and lush scenery, building anticipation for the hikes ahead.

Sanguinho Village and Sanguinho Hike

Our first stop is the abandoned village of Sanguinho, a hauntingly charming spot that appears frozen in time. The trail here is well-chosen: a gentle walk through lush greenery leading to viewpoints overlooking the coast. The fact that the guide navigates the trail means you can focus on the stunning views and interesting history without worrying about getting lost, which is a huge plus.

The reviews highlight how the guide Samuel went above and beyond, especially when a scheduled hot springs visit was unavailable. He suggested alternate plans, ensuring the day stayed rewarding. This flexibility is a major benefit for travelers who want a seamless experience, regardless of weather or minor hiccups.

Salto do Prego Waterfall

Next, we travel to the Salto do Prego waterfall, an absolute must-see feature. As you approach, you’ll be greeted by the sound of rushing water and the sight of lush greenery framing the cascade. The waterfall is accessible, and the surrounding area offers excellent photo opportunities, making it a favorite among visitors. Several reviews remarked on how Samuel’s detailed explanations enhanced their appreciation of what they saw—adding cultural and geological context that made the views more meaningful.

Volcanic Landscapes of Furnas

The tour then takes us to the Furnas volcanic area, known for its geothermal activity and bubbling hot springs. Even if you don’t take a dip, the sight of steaming fumaroles and geothermal vents is fascinating. The guide offers commentary on the island’s volcanic nature, helping you understand why São Miguel is often called the “Green Island.”

Village Break and Scenic Viewpoints

During the trip, we stop at charming viewpoints and the historic village of Povoação, the first settlement on the island. These stops not only provide excellent photo ops but also give a chance to stretch and soak in local atmosphere. The reviews praise Samuel’s stories about the island’s history and culture, which added depth to the scenic stops.

Return Along the South Coast

After the day’s hikes and sightseeing, the journey back along the south coast provides one last chance to admire the rugged coastline and lush scenery. The round-trip design ensures you experience both the northern and southern landscapes of São Miguel.

Transportation, Group Size, and Value

The tour’s small group size (up to 99 participants, but usually more intimate) makes it easy to ask questions and enjoy a personalized feel. The transfers are included, so you don’t have to worry about navigating public transport or renting a car. Given the moderate physical activity level, it’s suitable for most travelers with a reasonable fitness level—those who enjoy walking and exploring without feeling rushed.

At $86.76, the tour offers good value, considering the guided commentary, transportation, and access to multiple scenic spots. The reviews consistently mention Samuel’s attentive care and the quality of the hikes, making the price seem justified for an immersive day in nature.

The Authentic Touch: Why This Tour Works

What sets this experience apart is the combination of guided expertise and breathtaking scenery. Our guide Samuel’s knowledge and attentiveness ensure you get a richer understanding of the island’s geology, history, and culture. Several reviewers appreciated his flexibility and thoughtful suggestions, especially when plans changed unexpectedly.

The stops at Salto do Prego, Sanguinho, and Furnas are thoughtfully chosen to showcase the island’s diversity—from lush waterfalls and quaint villages to steaming geothermal vents. The opportunities for photos are plentiful, and the natural beauty is genuinely captivating.

Authentic Experience and Personal Connections

Beyond the sights, this tour offers a chance to connect with local stories and landscapes, enriching your understanding of São Miguel beyond just a sightseeing list. The reviews mention how Samuel’s storytelling made the experience more meaningful, transforming a simple hike into a memorable journey.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience appeals to active travelers, nature enthusiasts, and those eager to learn about São Miguel’s volcanic landscape and history. It’s perfect if you enjoy guided tours that balance scenery, stories, and physical activity. Travelers who prefer a structured day with expert insights will find this especially valuable.

If you’re traveling with a moderate fitness level and want a full day of exploring, this tour provides excellent value and authentic experiences. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate flexibility and local knowledge in their guided outings.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

Absolutely. For just under $87, you’re getting a well-organized, engaging day that covers a variety of must-see spots on São Miguel. The guide’s attentiveness and local insights turn what could be a typical hike into a memorable, educational experience. The scenic stops and breathtaking landscapes make it worth every penny, especially if you’re eager to see the island’s volcanic beauty up close.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who don’t mind some walking and want to avoid the hassle of planning each scenic stop themselves. It’s also great for those who want to learn from a local guide and enjoy a balanced mix of nature, culture, and landscapes. If you’re after an authentic, well-rounded day out, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and transportation, so you don’t need to worry about driving or finding your way between spots.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 7 hours, starting around 9:00 am and returning in the late afternoon.

What is the physical difficulty level?
It requires a moderate level of physical fitness. You’ll be walking on trails and uneven terrain, but the pace is manageable for most active travelers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, with a full refund.

What kind of sights will I see?
You’ll visit Sanguinho, an abandoned village; see the Salto do Prego waterfall; explore geothermal features in Furnas; and enjoy scenic viewpoints along the coast.

Is the guide knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Reviews highlight Samuel’s attentiveness, storytelling, and flexibility, making the hikes more engaging and informative.

Are there options if some sights are unavailable?
Yes, the guide has several alternative suggestions to ensure you still get a rewarding experience, even if certain stops are closed or inaccessible.

By choosing this tour, you’re not just ticking off sights — you’re embracing the spirit of São Miguel through a guided journey that combines stunning vistas, local stories, and a bit of adventure. It’s a fantastic way to connect with the island’s natural charm and learn from someone who truly loves sharing it.