Discover the breathtaking landscapes of Southeast São Miguel on the Full-Day Faial Da Terra + Nordeste tour from Ponta Delgada. This seven-hour adventure takes you through lush forests, abandoned villages, and panoramic viewpoints, culminating in a refreshing swim at the Salto Do Prego waterfall. With highlights like a scenic lunch and visits to unique natural sites, it’s a perfect excursion for nature enthusiasts. But what else awaits on this immersive journey?
Key Points
- A 7-hour small-group tour from Ponta Delgada to explore the lush landscapes and abandoned villages of Southeast São Miguel, including Faial da Terra and Sanguinho.
- Highlights include a 2.75-hour hike, swimming at the Salto Do Prego waterfall, scenic lunch break, and visits to Ponta do Sossego, Vista dos Barcos, and Park of Ribeira dos Caldeirões.
- Opportunity to immerse in the natural beauty and appreciate the region’s rich history, with a focus on the ongoing restoration efforts in the abandoned village of Sanguinho.
- Flexible cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the tour is conducted in both English and Portuguese.
- Priced from $87.23 per person, the tour is limited to a small group of 8 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate experience.
Tour Overview
The Full-Day Faial da Terra + Nordeste Tour is a 7-hour excursion from Ponta Delgada that takes visitors to explore the natural wonders of Southeast São Miguel.
A 7-hour excursion from Ponta Delgada exploring the natural wonders of Southeast São Miguel.
Priced from $87.23 per person, this small-group tour (limited to 8 participants) is conducted in English and Portuguese.
Travelers can take advantage of the tour’s flexible cancellation policy, which allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
With a focus on immersing guests in the region’s lush landscapes and abandoned villages, this tour promises an unforgettable experience in one of Europe’s most flower-rich areas.
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Itinerary
Starting from Futurismo Azores Adventures, the tour begins with an 80-minute van transfer to Faial da Terra, a small village in Southeast São Miguel.
Visitors then embark on a 2.75-hour hike through lush woods and an abandoned village called Sanguinho.
Next, they’ll visit the Salto Do Prego waterfall for a refreshing swim.
After a 45-minute lunch break amid scenic views, the tour continues with stops at Ponta do Sossego and Vista dos Barcos, followed by a visit to the Park of Ribeira dos Caldeirões, one of Europe’s most flower-rich regions.
Exploring Faial Da Terra
As visitors embark on the hike through Faial da Terra, they’ll enjoy the lush, verdant forests that characterize this small village in Southeast São Miguel.
The trail leads through an abandoned hamlet, Sanguinho, where restoration efforts are underway. Hikers will marvel at the serene natural beauty and the opportunity to swim beneath the cascading Salto Do Prego waterfall.
During the lunch break, they’ll savor the picturesque scenery while refueling.
Throughout the exploration of Faial da Terra, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for one of Europe’s most flower-rich regions.
Visiting the Abandoned Village
When visitors reach the abandoned village of Sanguinho, they’ll find the charming hamlet undergoing restoration efforts.
Hiking through the lush woods, guests will discover the remnants of this once-thriving community. Crumbling stone houses, overgrown gardens, and moss-covered ruins offer a glimpse into the past.
The guide will share the village’s history and explain the ongoing preservation work. Visitors can explore the winding paths, imagining what life was like here long ago.
This abandoned site provides a thought-provoking contrast to the surrounding natural beauty, offering a unique window into the region’s heritage.
More Great Tours NearbySwimming at Salto Do Prego Waterfall
After hiking through the lush woods, visitors can cool off with a refreshing swim at the Salto Do Prego waterfall.
This natural cascade provides a perfect opportunity to enjoy the region’s scenic beauty. The clear, cool waters invite guests to take a dip and rejuvenate.
Surrounded by the verdant forest, the waterfall creates a serene and tranquil ambiance. Guests can relax on the rocks or swim beneath the cascading water.
The swim at Salto Do Prego is a highlight of the tour, offering a chance to experience the natural wonders of Faial da Terra.
Enjoying the Scenic Lunch
After swimming at the refreshing Salto Do Prego waterfall, the tour continues with a scenic lunch amidst the beautiful surroundings.
Guests enjoy a picnic-style meal of sandwich, cake, fruit, water, and juice as they take in the panoramic views. The tranquil setting provides a chance to rest and refuel before continuing the exploration.
The lunch lasts about 45 minutes, giving enough time to savor the food and scenery. With their energy restored, the group is ready to move on to the next stops on the itinerary, which include the Park of Ribeira dos Caldeirões and scenic viewpoints.
Discovering Ponta Do Sossego and Vista Dos Barcos
The tour now heads to the scenic viewpoints of Ponta do Sossego and Vista dos Barcos.
These spots offer stunning vistas of the stunning coastline and the captivating Nordeste region. Ponta do Sossego provides a panoramic view of the rugged cliffs and the turquoise waters below.
Stunning vistas of the captivating Nordeste region, with a panoramic view of rugged cliffs and turquoise waters at Ponta do Sossego.
Vista dos Barcos overlooks a picturesque harbor, where traditional fishing boats dot the serene bay.
The guides share insights into the geological formations and the region’s history, enriching the experience. Guests can take in the breathtaking landscapes, snap photos, and savor the tranquility of these natural wonders before continuing their exploration of the Azores.
Exploring the Park of Ribeira Dos Caldeirões
Next, the tour visits the Park of Ribeira dos Caldeirões, a protected natural area showcasing the region’s lush greenery and diverse flora.
Guests explore walking trails that wind through dense laurel forests and past cascading waterfalls.
The park boasts an impressive array of plant life, including endemic species found nowhere else.
Visitors can admire the vibrant colors and unique forms of the vegetation.
The tour provides an opportunity to take in the tranquil beauty of this ecological sanctuary, offering a glimpse into São Miguel’s natural wonders.
Since You Asked
Can I Use My Gopro Camera During the Hike?
Yes, guests can use their GoPro cameras during the hike. The tour company encourages capturing the scenic landscapes and natural wonders along the way to document the experience.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Picnic Lunch?
The tour includes a picnic lunch, but there’s no mention of dietary restrictions. Travelers should notify the operator ahead of time if they have any special dietary needs that need to be accommodated.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
The tour’s standard duration is 7 hours, but customers can’t extend it. However, travelers with special needs can contact the tour provider to request modifications or additional time, which may incur an extra fee.
How Often Do the Tour Guides Change During the Day?
The tour guide remains the same throughout the day. They lead the group from start to finish without any guide changes during the 7-hour excursion.
Are There Any Age Limits or Requirements for the Waterfall Swim?
The tour is not suitable for children under 8 years old or individuals with mobility impairments, as the waterfall swim may have age or fitness requirements. Participants should be able to navigate the hiking trails and waterfall access.
The Sum Up
The Full-Day Faial Da Terra + Nordeste tour offers a captivating exploration of Southeast São Miguel’s breathtaking landscapes. From the scenic van ride to Faial da Terra and the hike through lush forests, to swimming at the Salto Do Prego waterfall and enjoying a scenic lunch, this adventure-filled day is a must for nature enthusiasts seeking an immersive experience in the region’s stunning natural beauty.
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