Ponta Delgada is a prime destination for hikers and trekkers. The island’s volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and waterfalls offer countless opportunities for outdoor exploration. Whether you’re after a full-day adventure or a half-day hike to scenic viewpoints, this city provides access to some of the most stunning trails in the Azores. We’re particularly fond of Discover and Hike São Miguel Island with Guide because it combines expert local knowledge with visits to waterfalls, Lagoa do Fogo, and Nordeste — perfect for those wanting a comprehensive experience. For a shorter, more accessible option, the Lagoa do Fogo, Hike Salto do Cabrito and Hotsprings offers a half-day trek to thermal springs and volcano views, ideal for a quick but memorable adventure.
In this guide, we’ll explore eleven of the best hiking and trekking tours available in Ponta Delgada. From full-day explorations of volcanic craters to scenic mountain hikes, these options are suited for a variety of interests and fitness levels. Let’s get into what makes each one special.
1. Discover and Hike São Miguel Island with Guide
At number one on our list, this guided tour offers an 8-hour dive into São Miguel’s most iconic sights, including waterfalls, Lagoa do Fogo, and the Nordeste region. Led by a knowledgeable and personable guide, Ruben, you’ll experience the island’s top hiking spots with personalized attention. His background in tourism and his friendly, super social nature ensure you’ll have a fun, informative day. Not only does this tour include visits to natural wonders like Salto do Cabrito and Furnas, but Ruben’s local expertise helps you understand the history and geology behind each spot. With a 5-star rating based on 11 reviews, travelers praise Ruben’s adaptability and the surprises along the way.
Top highlights include waterfalls, the stunning Lagoa do Fogo, and scenic Nordeste. The tour is perfect for travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized experience with a local touch. The price of around $185 makes it a good value considering the length and inclusiveness. Bottom line: If you want a full daily immersion with a friendly guide who knows the island inside out, this trip is hard to beat.
2. Lagoa do Fogo, Hike Salto do Cabrito and Hotsprings
For a half-day adventure, this tour focuses on the stunning volcanic landscapes of São Miguel, including the thermal waters at Caldeira Velha. Starting with a pickup from Ponta Delgada, your guide Samuel will lead you through trails that pass lush forests and volcanic terrain, culminating at the top of Fogo Mountain with sweeping views over Lagoa do Fogo. The tour also includes a soak in thermal springs, making it a perfect mix of activity and relaxation. Samuel’s knowledge of the island’s history and geology makes the experience both educational and engaging, and his flexibility allows for quick adjustments if, say, a hot spring is temporarily closed.
Highlights include the volcanic landscapes, thermal spring baths, and panoramic mountain views. The small group size and inclusion of walking sticks and water add to the value, with a trip cost around $63.60. Reviewers mention Samuel’s professionalism and the lovely variety of scenery—”a great hike on a hot day with frequent breaks.” This tour is ideal for those seeking a shorter, active outing with authentic local insights. Bottom line: It offers a good balance of adventure and leisure, perfect for travelers with limited time.
3. Lagoa do Fogo, Hike Janela do Inferno
If you want a guided hike that takes you to some of São Miguel’s most dramatic views, this 4.5-hour adventure is a winner. It’s perfect for those who prefer to leave the navigation to an expert — no need to study maps or worry about getting lost. Your guide will lead you through tunnels, forests, and viewpoints overlooking Lagoa do Fogo, with plenty of stops for photos and rest. This tour emphasizes the natural beauty and offers great photo opportunities, especially at the Janela do Inferno viewpoint, where the landscape opens up to spectacular vistas.
Highlights include the panoramic views of Lagoa do Fogo, forest trails, and informative commentary on the landscape. Bottled water is provided, making it easy to stay hydrated. With a price of $64, it’s a solid choice for travelers who want a shorter, scenic hike with expert guidance. Reviewers comment on Samuel’s ability to make the hike feel Indiana Jones-worthy, with shade, countryside, and ocean views adding to the appeal. Bottom line: It’s a well-rounded, manageable trek for those wanting a taste of São Miguel’s rugged scenery.
4. Sanguinho hike, Salto do Prego Waterfall and Furnas hot springs
This 7-hour guided tour covers a variety of scenic highlights, including the famous Salto do Prego waterfall and the volcanic landscapes of Furnas. The focus is on exploring a mix of waterfalls, abandoned villages, and volcanic rock formations, all with expert guidance to ensure you don’t lose your way. The tour also teaches you about the island’s geology and history, making each stop more meaningful. It’s a full day of discovering São Miguel’s outdoors, with plenty of photo ops along scenic viewpoints.
Highlights include the impressive waterfall, volcanic terrain, and the chance to learn about local history. The tour’s price is roughly $86.76, and reviews praise the guide’s storytelling and the variety of sights. It’s best suited for travelers who want an engaging, full-day experience with an emphasis on natural beauty and cultural insights. Bottom line: If you’re after a comprehensive day exploring waterfalls and volcanic landscapes, this tour delivers.
5. Full Day Hiking Faial da Terra (Min. 2 persons)
For around $95, this full-day tour combines visits to Salto do Prego waterfalls, along with a walk through Sanguinho village and the lush valley of Faial da Terra. It starts with a stop in Povoaçao to taste the local sweet ‘Fofas’, then ventures into exotic vegetation on a trail that leads to the waterfall, where swimming is optional. The journey continues through a levada (irrigation channel) to the village of Faial da Terra, revealing the island’s rural charm and natural beauty. The guide shares stories about the landscape and local traditions along the way, with a scenic picnic lunch included.
Highlights include the waterfalls, traditional village life, and the lush, exotic flora. Reviewers mention the challenging start but praise the guide’s helpfulness and the rewarding scenery. This tour is suited for active travelers comfortable with steep sections and interested in a mix of nature and local culture. Bottom line: It’s a full, immersive day perfect for those wanting a varied experience combining waterfalls, village life, and scenic hiking.
6. Discover and Hike São Miguel with Rúben
At number six, this 8-hour small-group tour features a personalized exploration of São Miguel’s lesser-known spots. Led by Rúben, the tour focuses on hidden waterfalls, lush forests, and secret volcanic areas that aren’t on the typical tourist map. The small group size (max six) allows for tailored experiences and plenty of opportunities for photos. Rúben’s enthusiasm and local knowledge shine, making the hike both fun and educational. He also ensures you’re well-fed afterward with a delicious lunch.
Highlights include the chance to discover off-the-beaten-path locations and enjoy a relaxed, intimate atmosphere. The reviews indicate the guide’s dedication and the beautiful landscapes encountered. The price makes it a valuable experience for those who prefer personalized attention and a more authentic feel. Bottom line: This is perfect for travelers who want a private, tailored hiking day with insider knowledge.
7. Sete Cidades: Twin Lakes, Serra Devassa Hike & Mosteiros
This full-day trip combines a hike around the famous twin lakes and volcanic vistas with a visit to the coastal town of Mosteiros. For around $293 per group, it offers a comprehensive experience with multiple scenic stops. You’ll begin with a 2-hour hike exploring the volcanic scenery, then enjoy photo stops at Grota do Inferno and Vista do Rei. Part of the day includes a picnic lunch overlooking the lakes, then a visit to natural lava rock pools at Mosteiros for swimming.
Highlights include the viewpoints of Lagoa das Sete Cidades, the rugged west coast with lava pools, and a pineapple plantation tour. It’s ideal for travelers seeking a full day of varied landscapes and stunning vistas. The itinerary’s length and diverse stops make it great value, especially for couples or small groups. Bottom line: This tour offers a rich combination of hiking, sightseeing, and relaxing by natural pools.
8. Full Day Hiking Trail Sete Cidades and Ferraria
For around $75.60, this 8-hour hike explores some of the most beautiful spots in Sete Cidades. The trail includes panoramic views of lakes and volcanic craters, with guided commentary on the legends and geology of the area. After the hike, you can relax in the natural thermal waters of Ferraria, where warm Atlantic waters offer a soothing end to the day. The tour’s moderate difficulty makes it accessible for most active travelers.
Highlights include the scenic lakes, volcanic landscape, and thermal pools. While reviews are limited, the price and itinerary suggest excellent value for a full-day outdoor experience. It’s best suited for those who want a comprehensive hike with a relaxing thermal bath at the end. Bottom line: A balanced option offering natural beauty, cultural stories, and a relaxing soak.
9. Full Day Hiking Trail Waterfalls in Lomba de São Pedro
This trail takes you along the north coast, through forests and streams to waterfalls. The 8-hour guided trek is perfect for those wanting to explore São Miguel’s lush, green scenery with waterfalls as the main attractions. The tour includes a visit to the oldest tea plantation in Europe, where you can enjoy a cup of local tea. The walk offers a mix of adventure, scenic views, and cultural insights, making it a well-rounded experience.
Highlights include waterfalls, tea plantation visits, and the chance to learn about local flora and fauna. The tour costs about $75.31, which is reasonable given the full-day length and diverse experiences. Reviewers highlight the enchanting waterfalls and the knowledgeable guides. Bottom line: Ideal for nature lovers wanting waterfalls and some cultural flavor on a single day.
10. Full Day Hiking Trail Janela do Inferno + Caldeira Velha
This 6-hour tour focuses on the volcanic base of Água de Pao, combining the Janela do Inferno hike with a soak in the famous Caldeira Velha thermal pools. It’s perfect for travelers interested in volcanic landscapes and relaxation. The trail offers unique natural features, including lush vegetation and endemic fauna, culminating in a thermal experience at Caldeira Velha, where you can soak in warm pools or enjoy the waterfall.
Highlights include volcanic scenery, thermal pools, and the chance to see endemic plants and animals. The price of roughly $87.27 makes it a good deal for a half-day tour with a thermal bath. Reviewers mention the enthusiastic guides and the memorable scenery. Bottom line: If volcanic landscapes and thermal relaxation appeal, this tour hits the mark.
$87.27 per person
11. Sete Cidades, Hike Serra Devassa and Boca do Inferno
Last on our list, this 4.5-hour hike offers spectacular views from one of the highest points on the island. The trail combines mountain, valley, and lagoon scenery, culminating at the famous Boca do Inferno viewpoint where you can see the full caldera rim. It’s perfect for travelers who want a shorter, high-impact hike with impressive vistas and dramatic landscapes. The review is limited but enthusiastic, indicating it’s a memorable, scenic outing.
Highlights include breathtaking views of Sete Cidades, lava rock formations, and endemic vegetation. The affordable price around $63.97 makes it accessible for many. Bottom line: A shorter but scenic hike that showcases some of São Miguel’s most iconic landscape features.
$63.97 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Hike
When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, fitness level, and interests. For a comprehensive full-day with personal insights, Discover and Hike São Miguel Island with Guide offers a thorough experience. If you prefer a shorter, scenic adventure, Lagoa do Fogo, Hike Salto do Cabrito and Hotsprings provides a quick yet memorable outing. For those wanting to explore volcanic craters and thermal pools in one day, the Full Day Hiking Trail Sete Cidades and Ferraria is excellent.
Booking early is advisable, especially in high season (spring to early fall), to secure spots on popular tours. Think about your preferred level of activity—more challenging hikes like Sanguinho or Janela do Inferno suit active travelers, while shorter walks fit those with limited time or fitness.
In summary, Ponta Delgada offers a range of guided hikes suited for all tastes — from full-day explorations of volcanic lakes to half-day waterfalls and thermal springs. Whether you want to challenge yourself with a mountain trek or enjoy a relaxed walk with scenic views, there’s a perfect hike waiting. For maximum enjoyment, book your tour in advance, pack comfortable shoes, and get ready for some of the most stunning landscapes in the Azores.