Terceira Island stands out among the Azores for its lively culture, volcanic landscapes, and a wide array of engaging tours. Unlike other islands that might focus solely on nature or history, Terceira offers a perfect balance of adventure, wildlife, and local flavor. Whether you’re eager to see whales breach the ocean’s surface, explore ancient lava tubes, or enjoy a homemade Azorean meal, this island delivers. We particularly love the Watching whales and dolphins tour for its guaranteed sightings and the E-bike Tour Monte Brasil for its mix of active exploration and stunning views. Each experience offers a genuine taste of what makes Terceira special—personal, memorable, and fully engaging.
Quick Overview
Terceira shines in providing diverse tours and experiences such as wildlife excursions—like whale and dolphin watching—that guarantee sightings, scenic bike rides through volcanic reserves, and cultural activities like traditional home-cooked dinners and private island tours. The list below captures the top options, ensuring every type of traveler finds something to love.
1. Watching whales and dolphins on Terceira Island
This tour is a must for anyone interested in marine life or looking for a once-in-a-lifetime sighting. For around $75.47 per person, you’ll go out on a 3-hour boat trip with a 100%* sighting guarantee. The Azores are famous for their whale populations, including blue whales, Sei whales, and dolphins. What makes this tour stand out is the money-back guarantee if you don’t see at least one species—though, as reviews note, visibility can vary. Guides are knowledgeable, sharing info about local whales and dolphins, making the trip both fun and educational. Many travelers have seen multiple species, including blue whales and dolphins, with one reviewer calling it “super exciting to see them.”
Bottom line: Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts or those wanting a memorable boat adventure with some peace of mind.
2. E-Bike Tour Monte Brasil
For around $45.35, this 2-hour electric bike tour takes you through the lush Monte Brasil, a volcanic forest reserve with panoramic views. The tour climbs to the Cruzinhas monument, offering vistas of Angra do Heroísmo and, on clear days, São Jorge and Pico islands. It’s an active way to explore while learning about the island’s volcanic history and military sites. Guides like James and Andre receive rave reviews for their patience and local knowledge, making it ideal for those who want a light adventure with plenty of photo stops. The bikes are easy to handle, even for beginners, and the scenery is breathtaking.
Bottom line: A great pick for active travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a bit of exercise.
3. Swimming with Dolphins in Terceira Island
Imagine swimming alongside playful dolphins in the open waters—this 2-hour tour costs about $118.68 per person. Departing from Marina de Angra, you’ll first look for pods of dolphins and other marine wildlife. If conditions permit, you’ll get a chance to snorkel with dolphins up close. The small group setting ensures a personal experience, and the guides are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm. The reviews highlight sightings of baby dolphins and close encounters, making it a top choice for marine life lovers. The tour is best suited for active, water-loving travelers who want an intimate interaction with Azores’ marine animals.
Bottom line: An exceptional, once-in-a-lifetime chance to see and swim with dolphins, with the added thrill of snorkeling.
4. 4 Peaks, 4 Volcanoes tour
This 4-hour tour for about $82 explores the island’s volcanic past by visiting lava tubes and Algar do Carvão, a natural volcanic cave. You’ll see four peaks and enjoy striking views of the island’s volcanic landscape. The tour includes a scenic drive and stops at some of the most distinctive geological formations, giving you an in-depth appreciation for Terceira’s fiery origin. It’s well-suited for those who want a blend of education and adventure in a manageable time frame. The small-group format adds a personal touch, and reviews praise the tour for its informative guide and spectacular scenery.
Bottom line: Perfect for geology buffs or anyone curious about volcanic formations, with easy access for most fitness levels.
5. Full day Van Tour
For about $118.68, this 8-hour tour is the best choice for travelers wanting an all-in-one experience. Starting from your hotel, it hits key sites like Monte Brasil, Praia da Vitória, Serra do Cume, and the natural pools at Biscoitos. Relaxed and flexible, the tour includes a delicious lunch and transportation that takes the hassle out of planning. The guide provides insights along the way, and reviews rave about how much they learned about Terceira. It’s ideal for those with limited time but a desire to see the island’s highlights in a day.
Bottom line: Excellent value for a rundown of Terceira’s natural and cultural sights.
6. Segway Tour Monte Brasil
This 1.5-hour adventure costs about $58.11 and is perfect for those who want a fun, interactive way to explore Monte Brasil. You’ll glide along forest trails, learn about the island’s history, and enjoy panoramic views of Angra do Heroísmo. Guides like Andre make it easy and enjoyable, especially for first-time Segway riders. The activity suits all ages, provided you’re comfortable on the machine, and the small group size makes for a personalized experience.
Bottom line: A playful and easy way to see Monte Brasil with minimal effort.
7. The Table is Set – Azorean Home Cooking and Wines
For about $148.23, this 3-hour dinner offers a taste of authentic Azorean cuisine in a local home in Praia da Vitória. You’ll sample regional specialities like slow-cooked Alcatra pot roast, codfish casserole, and local sweets like Amélia cake. Paired with local wines, the experience is as much about learning local customs as it is about eating. Hosts Vitor and his wife create a warm atmosphere, making it ideal for food lovers wanting an intimate cultural experience. Reviews confirm it’s a “bellissima esperienza,” with visitors enjoying the relaxed, friendly setting.
Bottom line: A memorable culinary experience that combines local flavors with genuine hospitality.
8. Terceira Island Private Tour: Full-Day
Pricing around $149.81, this private 8-hour tour offers tailored exploration of Terceira’s highlights. Picked up at your hotel or Lajes Airport, you’ll enjoy flexible stops at Monte Brasil, Serra do Cume, and viewpoints that showcase the island’s natural beauty. The guide customizes the itinerary based on your interests, making it perfect for those who want a personalized experience. Reviewed highly for its convenience and local insights, it ensures you don’t miss the island’s most photogenic spots.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for travelers seeking a private, customized day on Terceira.
9. Ilhéus das Cabras – Boat Trip
This 1.5-hour boat trip costs a variable amount depending on availability. Starting from Marina de Angra, it takes you along Terceira’s coast to explore the Ilhéus das Cabras, famous for volcanic landscapes and lively marine life. The boat is equipped for snorkeling, and the tour includes wildlife viewing, with reports of abundant fish, starfish, and sea urchins. The speedboat makes it a quick, energetic way to see the coast from a different perspective. Ideal for active travelers or families wanting a short, engaging adventure.
Bottom line: An action-packed marine exploration for those wanting a quick yet memorable boat experience.
10. Passagem das Bestas Hike w/Cheese Tasting
This 4-hour trek for about $53 takes you around Caldeira Guilherme Moniz, a stunning volcanic area. The hike covers lava fields, cedar forests, and viewpoints, finishing with a local cheese tasting—perfect for those who love both scenery and culinary delights. The reviews highlight the beauty of the landscapes and the quality of the cheese. It’s suited for active travelers who want a mix of outdoor adventure and local flavors, with moderate difficulty.
Bottom line: A scenic hike combined with a taste of local Azorean cheese.
11. Hiking Trails
Offering flexible durations from 2 to 8 hours, this experience is ideal for explorers wanting to walk at their own pace. You’ll discover the island’s natural landscapes, flora, and fauna with guided stops and photo opportunities. It’s perfect for nature lovers who prefer a personalized itinerary and want to enjoy Terceira’s biodiversity.
Bottom line: A customizable way to explore Terceira’s natural beauty on foot.
12. Full-day tour: The best of Terceira Island
This 8-hour tour covers highlights such as Monte Brasil, Serretinha, Salga Bay, Serra do Cume, and Algar do Carvão. It’s designed to give a rundown of the island’s most scenic and cultural sites. The itinerary includes several stopovers with short walks, making it manageable for most travelers. The reviews reflect strong satisfaction with the guide’s knowledge and the variety of sights, making it perfect for first-timers.
Bottom line: A solid, all-encompassing day designed to give you a full flavor of Terceira.
13. Mystery Tour of Terceira Island
This 7-hour surprise adventure offers an element of intrigue—each stop is a mystery, and the story unfolds as you go. It’s a fun way for curious travelers to explore less-known spots and enjoy unexpected discoveries. The reviews mention the element of surprise and interactive storytelling, making it best suited for adventurous types who don’t mind a little unpredictability.
Bottom line: A playful, interactive way to explore the island’s secrets.
14. Terceira Island: Private Tour and Local Experience
For about the cost of a nice dinner, this tour offers an authentic taste of local gastronomy. Visiting food markets and tasting regional products, you’ll get a real sense of Terceira’s culinary identity. Ideal for food lovers eager to experience everyday life on the island, it’s a relaxed, flavorful way to understand local culture.
Bottom line: A tasty, immersive experience perfect for culinary travelers.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Terceira
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and physical activity level. Wildlife lovers should prioritize whale and dolphin watching, while those wanting a mix of scenery and culture might prefer the full-day private tour. If you love active outings, the E-bike or hiking experiences are excellent choices. For foodies, the home-cooked dinner provides an authentic taste of local flavors. Booking early, especially in peak season, ensures availability for your preferred experience. Think about how much time you want to dedicate—these tours range from quick 1.5-hour adventures to full-day explorations.
In summary, Terceira offers a diverse array of tours that suit every type of traveler—whether you’re after close-up wildlife encounters, scenic outdoor adventures, or authentic culinary experiences. For those seeking adventure, whale watching or snorkeling with dolphins deliver unforgettable moments. History enthusiasts will appreciate the volcanic caves and private island explorations, while food lovers can indulge in local home-cooked meals. We recommend booking ahead to secure your spot on the most popular tours, especially during the busy summer months. With such variety, you’ll surely find the perfect way to experience the real Terceira.