Exploring the Full Day Tour with Lunch on Faial Island
If you’re planning a trip to Faial Island in the Azores and want to see the best of what this volcanic paradise has to offer, this full-day guided tour is worth considering. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a balanced, immersive experience that combines natural wonders, cultural insights, and delicious local food.
What we love about this tour is its small-group size—limited to just eight travelers—making it more personal and flexible than large bus excursions. The expert local guide brings the island’s history and geology to life, while the customizable route ensures you get to see what interests you most. Plus, the included lunch at a local restaurant adds value, giving you a taste of authentic Azorean cuisine.
One thing to consider is the weather variability that’s typical of the Atlantic islands; sometimes cloud cover or rain can change plans or obscure views. However, the guide’s flexibility and knowledge mean you’ll still get a fantastic day out, regardless of weather conditions.
This tour suits travelers who value authentic experiences, cultural stories, and natural beauty—perfect for those who want a comprehensive day without feeling rushed, especially if you prefer small groups and local insight over large tour buses.
Key Points
- Intimate Group Experience: Only eight travelers, fostering a relaxed and personal atmosphere.
- Expert Local Guide: Knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate about Faial, with many reviews praising Ramiro’s storytelling.
- Diverse Highlights: Volcano, crater, beaches, viewpoints, and cultural sites—all in one day.
- Flexible Route: Can adapt based on weather and the group’s interests.
- Inclusive Lunch: Tasty, authentic meal at a local restaurant, with drinks and coffee included.
- Value for Money: Combines transportation, guide, and lunch for a reasonable price, especially given the extensive itinerary.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Faial Island
The Itinerary in Detail
Starting Point: Hotel Pickup and Intro
The tour begins with convenient round-trip transport from your Horta hotel, which saves you the hassle of navigating the sometimes tricky Azorean roads. This is a big plus, especially after a flight or ferry journey—no need to stress about finding your way.
Monte da Guia Walking Trail
Our first stop, Monte da Guia, is a volcanic cone with two semi-circular craters. From here, you’ll enjoy amazing views of Porto Pim beach and Horta city—a great way to get your bearings and snap some striking photos. Reviewers mention how Ramiro, the guide, encouraged friendly conversation here, helping everyone feel part of the small group.
Miradouro de Nossa Senhora da Conceição
Next, we head to this viewpoint of extraordinary beauty, offering sweeping vistas of the historic Horta port, Praia do Almoxarife, and on clear days, neighboring islands like Pico, São Jorge, and Graciosa. Several reviews emphasize the privileged nature of this vantage point, with one describing it as a “place with a privileged view.”
Flamengos and the Caldeira Crater
As we make our way inland, we pass through Flamengos, a mountain-surrounded parish without direct sea access—highlighting the island’s volcanic origins. Then, we arrive at the Caldeira, a vast volcanic crater measuring about 2,000 meters across. Walking around the rim or simply observing from below offers a sense of the island’s fiery creation. Reviewers often call Caldeira the “true ex-libris” of Faial, noting its impressive size and dramatic landscape.
Praia do Almoxarife and Relaxation Time
The largest volcanic sand beach on Faial, Praia do Almoxarife, is a favorite among visitors. The soft black sand, contrasted with the surrounding green mountains and the ocean, creates a postcard-perfect scene. Here, you’ll have roughly 30 minutes to relax—perfect for a swim, a walk, or just enjoying a drink at a seaside café. Reviewers frequently mention how the calm waters are ideal for a dip in the summer months.
Authentic Lunch at a Local Restaurant
After some beach time, the tour proceeds to a local restaurant away from tourist traps. The inclusion of a meal, with a drink and coffee, adds real value—many reviewers praise the quality and authenticity of the food. It’s a chance to taste the local cuisine and relax before more sightseeing.
Ponta Furada and Porto do Comprido
Post-lunch, the scenic Miradouro Ponta Furada offers dramatic coastal views of basalt formations and caves, showcasing the island’s volcanic activity. Then, at Porto do Comprido, you’ll see natural basalt pools, a spectacular sight created by lava solidifying in the sea. This site also holds historical significance as a former whaling station, with travelers remarking on the raw, lunar-like landscape.
Capelinhos Volcano and Lunar Landscapes
The highlight for many is the Capelinhos Volcano—a place that looks like it belongs on another planet. With its gray sands and volcanic ash, the landscape appears lunar and surreal. Visitors can explore the Capelinhos Interpretation Centre, walk on the ash fields, or admire the Capelinhos Lighthouse, which partly remains underground due to the eruption. Reviews frequently mention how awe-inspiring and unique this area is, with a full hour to explore at your own pace.
Why This Tour Stands Out
What makes this tour special is the balance of natural wonders and cultural insights. The knowledge of Ramiro—who grew up on Faial—comes through in his engaging storytelling. Reviewers consistently mention his enthusiasm, local anecdotes, and willingness to adapt the route based on weather or specific interests.
The small size of the group ensures a more relaxed, conversational experience. You won’t feel like just another passenger on a giant bus—you’ll get to ask questions, take your time at each stop, and really soak in the scenery.
The inclusion of a hearty, authentic lunch is another highlight—many reviews praise the quality, calling it a real taste of local life. This, combined with the comfortable air-conditioned vehicle and hotel pickup, makes for an easy, all-in-one day.
Practical Tips for Your Faial Tour
- Weather Preparedness: The Azores are known for their unpredictable weather; clouds, rain, or fog can affect views, especially at high points like Miradouro de Nossa Senhora da Conceição. The guide’s flexibility is crucial here, and you might still enjoy the scenery even if the weather isn’t perfect.
- Footwear: Bring comfortable walking shoes, especially if you want to stroll around the crater or volcanic ash areas.
- Swim Gear: If you plan to swim at Praia do Almoxarife, pack your swimwear, towel, and a dry change of clothes for the return journey.
- Camera: With stunning viewpoints and lunar landscapes, you’ll want to capture plenty of photos.
- Timing: The tour lasts approximately 7 to 8 hours, so plan for a full day of exploration and relaxation.
Cost and Value Analysis
At $139.54 per person, this tour offers excellent value for money. It combines transportation, an experienced guide, numerous sightseeing stops, and a locally sourced lunch—something you’d pay significantly more for if organizing independently. The reviews reflect satisfaction with both the quality and the variety of experiences, emphasizing how much they felt they got for the price.
Given the small group size and personalized attention, it’s also a good deal for travelers seeking an intimate, informative, and flexible way to see Faial.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience suits adventurous travelers who want to see a variety of island landscapes in one day, especially those who appreciate local stories and scenic viewpoints. It’s ideal for those who dislike large crowds and prefer a more relaxed, conversational atmosphere. If you’re interested in volcanic geology, stunning vistas, and authentic Azorean food, this tour hits all the marks.
It’s also great for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a comprehensive, guided day without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is hotel pickup included in the tour? Yes, round-trip transportation from your Horta hotel is provided, making it easy to start and end your day stress-free.
How long does the tour last? Expect approximately 7 to 8 hours, covering all the highlighted stops at a comfortable pace.
What is the group size? The tour is limited to a maximum of eight travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Can I customize the route? The guide can adapt the itinerary depending on seasonal conditions and group interests, providing flexibility.
Is lunch included? Yes, a meal at a local restaurant, along with one drink and coffee, is part of the “Semi-Private” option.
What if the weather is bad? The tour is weather-dependent; if conditions are poor, you’ll be offered an alternative date or full refund.
Are there opportunities for swimming? During the bathing season, there’s potential to swim at Praia do Almoxarife, so bring swim gear and towels.
Is this suitable for all travelers? Most people can participate, but comfortable shoes and readiness for outdoor activities are advisable.
Final Thoughts
This full-day Faial Island tour offers a well-rounded look at the island’s volcanic beauty, cultural highlights, and local life. With a knowledgeable guide, a small intimate group, and a delicious included lunch, it promises a relaxed yet enriching experience. The variety of stops—from crater walks to lunar landscapes—ensures you’ll leave with a true appreciation for Faial’s unique charm.
If you’re seeking a flexible, small-group adventure that balances natural wonder with authentic local flavor, this tour could be your perfect way to explore Faial. It’s especially suited for travelers who value stories, scenic vistas, and a taste of island life over cookie-cutter excursions.
In summary, this tour is a fantastic choice for those who want to maximize their time on Faial with a knowledgeable guide, authentic experiences, and stunning sights—all in a comfortable, intimate setting.