Sanguinho hike, Salto do Prego Waterfall and Furnas hotsprings

Exploring São Miguel’s natural beauty can sometimes feel overwhelming—lush landscapes, volcanic craters, and waterfalls at every turn. That’s where this guided tour shines: it simplifies the experience, ensuring you see the most captivating sights without the stress of navigation or planning. For around $87, you get a full day of hiking, scenic viewpoints, and relaxing hot springs, all led by knowledgeable guides like Samuel Rego, who clearly love sharing their island’s treasures.

What I find particularly appealing about this tour is the combination of outdoor adventure and authentic local insights. The walk along the north coast to Povoação offers stunning cliffside views, while the visit to the abandoned Sanguinho village provides a glimpse into the island’s past. Plus, stopping at Salto do Prego waterfall means you’ll get postcard-worthy photos, and the chance to cool off beneath a cascading waterfall. The Furnas hot springs add a relaxing end to the day, giving you a taste of local wellness traditions.

One potential consideration is the moderate physical fitness level required. While the tour is accessible for most, some parts are more vigorous than a casual walk—so if you’re not used to hiking, it’s worth noting. Also, the tour’s success hinges on good weather; cancellations due to rain are possible, although the operator offers rescheduling or refunds. The price offers good value considering the mix of guided exploration, transportation, and the impressive sights you’ll visit.

Key Points / Takeaways

• Expert Guides Enhance the Experience: Guides like Samuel make the trip more engaging with their local knowledge and flexibility, especially if plans need adjusting.
• Spectacular Photo Opportunities: From viewpoints along the north coast to the Salto do Prego waterfall, you’ll want your camera ready.
• Authentic Azorean Stops: Visiting Povoação, the first settlement on the island, offers a glimpse into local history and culture.
• Balanced Schedule: The tour combines hiking, sightseeing, and relaxation, making it a well-rounded day.
• Convenience Included: Pickup from your accommodation and a mobile ticket make the experience stress-free.
• Limited Group Size: With a maximum of 99 travelers, you’re part of an intimate group, but still large enough to enjoy a social atmosphere.

Exploring São Miguel’s Natural Wonders with Ease

This tour sets out from Ponta Delgada at 9:00 am, heading north along the coast before veering inland toward Povoação. As someone who loves both nature and local stories, I appreciated how the guide enriches the walk with commentary about the island’s volcanic features and history. The entire experience lasts about seven hours, making it a full but comfortably paced day.

The Itinerary begins with a scenic drive to the starting point, where your guide will lead you on a trail that starts and ends in Faial da Terra. Along the way, you’ll encounter the rugged beauty of São Miguel—rock formations, lush greenery, and dramatic cliffs that seem to drop straight into the Atlantic. The route is designed to showcase the island’s diverse volcanic landscape without overwhelming you physically.

Sanguinho and the Abandoned Village

The highlight for many is hiking into the Sanguinho area—an old village abandoned many years ago, now a peaceful spot dotted with traditional stone houses and lush surroundings. Guides like Samuel often share stories about how the village was once inhabited, giving you a tangible sense of the island’s history. The peaceful atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for photos and quiet reflection. A review mentions that Samuel was attentive and careful, ensuring everyone could do the hike safely, which reassures those concerned about the terrain.

Salto do Prego Waterfall

Next, the tour visits the Salto do Prego Waterfall, a favorite among visitors for its stunning vertical drop and the cool spray that beckons you to dip your feet or even wade beneath the cascade. Many reviews highlight how accessible and picturesque this stop is. One reviewer raved about the “beautiful waterfall,” noting that Samuel’s driving and guiding made this highlight even more memorable. It’s a great spot for a snack or a quick dip, especially on warm days.

Scenic Viewpoints and Village Breaks

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy several viewpoints along the north coast, where the rugged coastline meets the Atlantic. These stops are perfect for taking in the scenery and snapping photos. You’ll also get a chance to visit Povoação, the island’s first settlement, which offers a snapshot of local life and history. The small village provides a welcome break and an opportunity to sample local delicacies or just soak in the atmosphere.

The Volcanic Landscape and Hot Springs

After the inland exploration, the tour proceeds to the volcanic area of Furnas. Here, you’ll see bubbling fumaroles and steaming hot springs, classic to São Miguel. Many reviews mention the Furnas hot springs as a relaxing conclusion—ideal for unwinding after a day of walking. The opportunity to experience these thermal springs firsthand adds a layer of local authenticity to the tour.

Price and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $86.76 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive day out, with guided hikes, transportation, and access to some of the island’s most photogenic and historic sites. Considering that it’s booked around 320 days in advance, it’s clear that many travelers see the value in this well-organized experience. The guide’s attentiveness and the chance to explore both scenic and cultural highlights make the cost worthwhile, especially for those who prefer not to navigate solo or rent a car.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for active travelers who enjoy the outdoors and want a guided, informative approach to exploring São Miguel. If you’re comfortable with moderate physical activity and appreciate scenic views, you’ll feel right at home. It’s also perfect if you’re traveling with others who want a manageable, organized day that covers a lot of ground and offers authentic local insights.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a rich blend of hiking, sightseeing, and culture, making it an excellent choice for those who want to see São Miguel’s natural beauty without the hassle of planning every detail. The guides’ local knowledge and flexibility add real value, especially when weather or schedule adjustments are needed. You’ll leave with stunning photos, a better understanding of the island’s volcanic landscape, and a sense of connection to its history.

While it requires some physical effort and is weather-dependent, the overall experience provides a satisfying and authentic taste of the Azores. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a memorable outdoor adventure, this tour hits most marks.

If you’re seeking a well-organized, enriching day out that combines scenic hikes, local history, and relaxing springs, this experience is a solid investment. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy guided tours with expert commentary and who want to see the most striking parts of São Miguel comfortably and safely.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, pickup is offered from your accommodation, and the tour includes transportation throughout the day.

What’s the physical level required?
A moderate level of fitness is recommended, as the tour involves walking and hiking on natural trails.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, including stops, walking, and sightseeing.

Are there any food or drink stops included?
The tour mainly focuses on sightseeing and hiking, but there are opportunities to enjoy local scenery and possibly some snacks along the way.

What kind of guide will I have?
Guides like Samuel are praised for their attentiveness, local knowledge, and flexibility, making the experience more enjoyable and informative.

This guided Sanguinho hike, Salto do Prego Waterfall, and Furnas hot springs tour offers a well-rounded look at São Miguel’s diverse landscapes. It’s designed for those who want an active, authentic adventure led by knowledgeable guides, ensuring you see the island’s best without the stress.