Faial Island: Horseback Riding (3 Hrs – Experienced Riders)

Faial Island boasts breathtaking landscapes, making it an ideal destination for adventurous travelers. Those seeking an exhilarating outdoor experience can embark on a 3-hour horseback riding tour tailored for intermediate and experienced riders. Departing daily from Cedros village, this tour promises scenic vistas, historical insights, and an intimate encounter with the island’s unique ecosystem. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or nature enthusiast, this excursion offers a chance to learn about Faial’s captivating beauty from a unique perspective.

Good To Know

• Scenic 3-hour horseback riding experience on Faial Island for intermediate and experienced riders, with options for walking, trotting, and cantering on moderate trails.
• Tour departs daily from Cedros village with half-day morning and afternoon options, and includes an introduction to horses and riding exercises.
• Explore the island’s dramatic cliffs, quaint farmhouses, and lush vegetation while gaining insights into its history, culture, and natural features from knowledgeable guides.
• Participants must be at least 10 years old, with a maximum weight limit of 209 lbs, and proper attire is required (no shorts, skirts, or open-toe shoes).
• Tour operates rain or shine, and meals and drinks are not included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Activity Overview

Experience scenic horseback riding on Faial Island for those with riding experience.

The 3-hour activity costs $141.20 per person and is limited to 9 participants. Intermediate and experienced riders can enjoy walking, trotting, and cantering on moderate trails.

The tour is conducted in English and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Riders under 14 must be accompanied by a paying adult, and the maximum weight limit is 209 lbs.

Proper attire, such as long pants and closed-toe shoes, is required. The activity operates rain or shine, and meals or drinks aren’t included.

Tour Details

The horseback riding tours on Faial Island depart daily at 08:45 AM and 2:00 PM from Cedros village.

Riders can choose between a Half Day Morning Trail or a Half Day Afternoon Trail. All gaits are included – walk, trot, and canter along a moderate trail.

Participants will get an introduction to the horses and riding exercises during the tour, which also provides a guided exploration of the island’s history and nature.

The tours operate rain or shine, and no meals or drinks are included. Gratuities for the guides are recommended but not mandatory.

Scenic Views

During the horseback riding tours, you will be treated to breathtaking landscapes, including dramatic cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, quaint old farmhouses, and picturesque villages.

The trail winds through lush vegetation, offering glimpses of the island’s natural beauty. Riders will have the opportunity to admire the striking contrast between the deep blue waters and the verdant hills.

The guided tour provides insights into the history and unique features of Faial Island, allowing participants to gain a deeper appreciation for the environment they’re exploring.

Learning Opportunity

While exploring the scenic landscapes of Faial Island on horseback, participants can also gain valuable insights into the island’s history and natural features.

The guided tour provides a learning opportunity, as the knowledgeable guides share information about the region’s rich cultural heritage and diverse flora and fauna.

Riders will learn about the island’s volcanic origins, the traditional farming practices, and the unique ecosystem that thrives in this remote Atlantic setting.

This educational element enhances the overall experience, allowing visitors to deepen their appreciation for the island’s natural and cultural wonders.

More Great Tours Nearby

Horse Riding

Although participants have the opportunity to experience various gaits during the horseback riding tour, the program is designed for those with at least some prior riding experience.

The trail options include:

• Walk

• Trot

• Canter

• Moderate trail

Riders will receive an introduction to the horses and trail, as well as guidance on riding exercises.

The tour give you an engaging and scenic horseback riding experience, allowing participants to appreciate the natural beauty of Faial Island while practicing their skills under the supervision of experienced guides.

Participant Requirements

To participate in the horseback riding tour on Faial Island, riders must meet certain requirements.

Riders must be a minimum of 10 years old, and those under 14 must be accompanied by a paying adult. There’s also a maximum weight limit of 209 lbs (95 kg).

Riders must be at least 10 years old, with under-14s accompanied by a paying adult, and a weight limit of 209 lbs (95 kg).

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 15 or pregnant women. Proper attire is required, including long pants and comfortable shoes. Shorts, skirts, sandals, and flip-flops aren’t allowed.

The tour operates rain or shine, and no meals or drinks are included.

Preparation and Recommendations

Riders should come prepared for the horseback riding tour on Faial Island. The tour operates rain or shine, so dressing appropriately is important.

Participants should wear:

• Long pants to protect their legs

• Comfortable, closed-toe shoes for grip and support

• No shorts, skirts, sandals, or flip-flops are allowed

• Bring a light jacket or layers, as the weather can be changeable

While meals and drinks aren’t included, riders have access to the PÁTIO Lounge and Wi-Fi before and after the tour.

Gratuities for the guides are recommended but not mandatory.

Meeting Point

The meeting point for the horseback riding tour on Faial Island is at the front desk of the PÁTIO Ecolodge. This convenient location serves as the departure point for the scenic trails across the island. Before setting off on the excursion, participants can check in with the tour guides and ensure they have all the necessary gear and information.

| Meeting Point Details | |

| — | — |

| Location | PÁTIO Ecolodge front desk |

| Address | Cedros Village, Faial Island |

| Directions | Detailed directions provided upon booking |

| Check-In Time | 15 minutes prior to tour start |

| Parking | Limited on-site parking available |

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Helmets Provided During the Horseback Riding Tour?

Yes, helmets are provided for participants on the horseback riding tour. The tour operator ensures all necessary safety equipment is available for a secure and enjoyable riding experience.

Can I Bring My Own Horse on the Tour?

No, riders cannot bring their own horses on the tour. The experience provides horses for the guided horseback riding activity. Participants must ride the horses supplied by the tour operator.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

There are no explicit restrictions on photography during the tour. However, riders should be mindful not to disrupt the group or endanger themselves or their horses while taking pictures.

Do I Need to Have Prior Horseback Riding Experience?

No, prior horseback riding experience is not required. The tour is suitable for experienced riders, with all riding gaits including walk, trot, and canter on a moderate trail.

Will There Be an Opportunity to Purchase Souvenirs or Local Products?

The tour does not include any opportunities to purchase souvenirs or local products. However, participants can access the PÁTIO Lounge at the meeting point, which may offer some shopping options.

The Sum Up

Explore Faial Island’s breathtaking landscapes on a 3-hour horseback riding tour designed for experienced riders. Enjoy walking, trotting, and cantering along moderate trails showcasing dramatic cliffs, picturesque villages, and lush vegetation. Learn about the island’s rich history and unique ecosystem while riding, with a maximum of 9 participants ensuring an intimate experience. Proper attire and a weight limit of 209 lbs apply.

You can check availability for your dates here: