Sanguinho Trail Full-Day Walking Tour with Lunch

Exploring São Miguel’s natural beauty doesn’t have to mean just staring at the coast or visiting hot springs. This Sanguinho Trail Full-Day Walking Tour offers a chance to really get out into the island’s lush interior, uncovering a forgotten village, and enjoying the countryside in a way that few other experiences do. With a manageable 6 km (about 3.7 miles) of moderate terrain, it’s perfect for those in decent shape looking for an active day packed with authentic scenery and local flavor.

What I really appreciate about this tour is how it combines nature, history, and food into one accessible package. The highlight for many, including several reviewers, is the walk to the Salto do Prego waterfall, where you’ll find a perfect spot for a swim or just relaxing with a picnic. Plus, visiting Povoação, the first settlement of São Miguel, adds a layer of cultural grounding that makes the day more meaningful. And, let’s not forget that everything is handled smoothly—small group size, comfortable transportation, and knowledgeable guides like Paulo, who’s been praised for his professionalism and patience.

One potential consideration is the physical demand—while most of the walk is classified as moderate, it may be a stretch if you’re not used to hill walking or uneven terrain. Also, the tour runs rain or shine, so good weather gear is recommended. For those who prefer a more leisurely day or have mobility issues, this might not be your best choice. Still, for active travelers eager to combine outdoor adventure with learning, this tour offers a genuine, high-value experience.

Key points / Takeaways

• Authentic hiking experience: The 6 km trail offers a balanced challenge, with beautiful views and a chance for a swim at the waterfall.
• Small group size: Only up to 8 travelers, making for a friendly, personalized atmosphere.
• Expert guide: Guides like Paulo earn praise for their professionalism, patience, and knowledge of local history and environment.
• Cultural visit to Povoação: The island’s first settlement provides a grounding historical context and a chance to explore local life.
• Beautiful scenery: Expect sweeping views, lush greenery, and the impressive Salto do Prego waterfall.
• Good value: At around $86.82, the price includes transportation, lunch, and a full day of activities—many reviews emphasize the quality and authenticity of the experience.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect from Start to Finish

Starting in central Ponta Delgada at 9am, you’ll hop into a climate-controlled, small-group van that makes for a comfortable ride. The journey kicks off along the south coast, with a brief stop at Povoação, the island’s first settlement. This quiet village, with its humble square and simple charm, offers a glimpse into Azorean life that’s worth a short exploration and a bathroom break, before heading further inland.

Next, you’ll move on to Faial da Terra, where the trail begins. The drive itself is scenic, with views of the coast and countryside, setting the tone for the day. Once you start walking, you’ll ascend gently, with about 35 minutes of uphill effort bringing you into the old Sanguinho village—a tiny, abandoned settlement that feels like stepping back in time. Several reviews praise the opportunity to walk through a landscape dotted with old stone houses and cobblestone paths that seem untouched for decades.

As you wander through Sanguinho, your guide will share stories about its history and the flora and fauna unique to the Azores. Expect to see local plant species and perhaps spot some birdlife. The walk takes you past sweeping views, with the lush landscape stretching in all directions, making it easy to see why this trail is rated as the “number one trail” by some reviewers.

The highlight of the day is reaching Salto do Prego, a stunning waterfall where you’re encouraged to relax, take photos, and if you like, enjoy a swim. The guide often arranges a picnic lunch here, with tasty local fare that travelers rave about—fresh, simple, and satisfying after the walk. Several guests note the lunch’s quality, often mentioning the delicious food and even the chance for tapas or a refreshing drink.

After resting and recharging, the group heads back down toward the coast, passing through Furnas parish briefly before taking a scenic route along the north shore for a different perspective of the island’s landscapes. The return to Ponta Delgada is typically around 5 or 6 pm, wrapping up a full, engaging day outdoors.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For roughly $87, you’re getting a full-day adventure that combines guided nature walking, cultural exploration, and local cuisine. Unlike many tours that focus solely on sightseeing, this one immerses you in the landscape and history, making it especially appealing if you want a more genuine sense of São Miguel. Since all logistics—transport, lunch, and guiding—are included, it simplifies planning and offers peace of mind.

The small group setting means you’ll have more interaction with your guide, often praised for their patience and knowledge. Many reviewers mention how personable Paulo and other guides are, making the experience feel less like a tourist trap and more like a day out with friends who happen to know a lot about the island.

Who Will Love This?

This tour is ideal if you’re physically active and eager to see a side of Azores that many visitors miss—an old village, lush valleys, and waterfalls. It’s suited for travelers who are comfortable walking on uneven terrain and who appreciate a mix of nature and history. Families with children in good shape will find it manageable and enjoyable, especially given the potential for a swim and picnic.

If you’re looking for a laid-back, relaxing day without much physical effort, this might not be your best bet. But for those seeking a balance of adventure, culture, and delicious local food, it’s a top-notch choice.

Price and Logistics: A Well-Structured Day

At $86.82 per person, this experience provides excellent value. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided walk, lunch, and transport in a comfortable air-conditioned van. The small group size (a maximum of 8 travelers) ensures a more intimate experience and better interaction with guides.

The tour departs at 9 am from central Ponta Delgada, with pickups available at additional costs outside the city. The moderate 8-hour duration makes it suitable for travelers with a full day to spare, and the weather is no obstacle—tour operates rain or shine. Be prepared with appropriate clothing, especially waterproof gear if rain is forecasted.

Authentic Experiences and Tips

The reviews highlight the quality of the guides and the food—many mention the delicious picnic lunch and the friendliness of the staff. One reviewer notes that the guide is lively and patient, making the walk enjoyable even for different hiking abilities. Another praises the “crisp air” and the “truly honest nature trail,” emphasizing how authentic and unspoiled this experience feels.

A good tip is to wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a towel or swimsuit if you hope to take a dip at the waterfall. Also, since the tour is popular and booked about a month in advance, plan ahead to secure your spot.

Summary

This Sanguinho Trail full-day tour delivers a well-rounded experience that combines moderate hiking, scenic vistas, historical insight, and local cuisine. It’s perfect for active travelers who want to see more than just the coast, exploring a forgotten village and enjoying the island’s lush environment. The guides are praised for their professionalism, turning what could be just a walk into a memorable adventure.

If you’re after a day that blends nature, culture, and good food—without feeling rushed or overwhelmed—this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s not the cheapest option, but the quality of guided experience, small group intimacy, and authentic scenery make it a smart investment in your Azores visit.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children? The tour is best suited for those in moderate physical condition, including children who can handle walking on uneven terrain. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

What is included in the price? The tour price covers transportation, a guided walk, lunch, and hotel pickup and drop-off within Ponta Delgada.

What should I wear? Comfortable walking shoes are essential, and dress appropriately for weather conditions—bring rain gear if needed. A towel or swimsuit may be advisable if you want to swim at the waterfall.

How long is the actual walking? The trail is approximately 6 km (about 3.7 miles), rated as moderate difficulty, with some uphill sections and uneven terrain.

Are there any optional activities? Yes, you can choose to swim in the waterfall pool, which many guests enjoy after the picnic.

What if the weather is bad? The tour operates rain or shine. If weather conditions are severe, the tour may be canceled for safety, and you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

This tour stands out for offering a genuine taste of Azorean life and landscape, perfect for travelers eager to stretch their legs and their knowledge. With friendly guides, scenic stops, and authentic local food, it makes for a memorable day out on São Miguel.