Faial Island: Full Day Nature & Volcano Tour with Lunch

Summary

Faial’s volcanic craters, black sand beaches and local stories in one relaxed day

You’ll circle Faial Island with a local guide who knows every curve — from panoramic views over Horta to walking Caldeira’s rim and standing on fresh volcanic earth at Capelinhos. Taste village cooking over lunch and hear island stories you won’t find in any brochure. Expect moments of quiet awe mixed with laughter and salt air.

What’s the experience like?

Hands gripping the van’s window frame, I caught my first glimpse of Horta from Monte da Guia — the city scattered below, all whitewashed walls and red roofs. Our guide, João (who grew up here), pointed out Porto Pim beach. He told us how he used to sneak down for swims after school — his eyes kind of lit up remembering. The air smelled faintly salty, mixed with that earthy green you only get on islands like this. We could see Pico Mountain rising across the water, its top clear for once. I tried to snap a photo but honestly, it didn’t do it justice.

We wound up narrow roads through Flamengos — João slowed down so we could watch cows grazing between hydrangea hedges. He explained this parish never touches the sea, which somehow makes it feel more tucked away. At Caldeira, stepping out into that sudden hush was something else. The crater is huge (I think João said 2km across?) and deep enough to make your stomach drop if you look too long. Mist curled around the rim and someone behind me whispered “wow” without meaning to. I picked at some lichen on the railing just to ground myself.

Lunch was at a little spot in Almoxarife — not fancy, but the fish tasted like it had been pulled from the ocean that morning. João chatted with the owner in rapid Portuguese; they laughed about something I couldn’t quite catch. Afterward we wandered along black volcanic sand while kids played soccer barefoot nearby. I dipped my toes in (warmer than expected) but chickened out of a full swim — maybe next time.

The Capelinhos volcano came last: grey ash everywhere, lighthouse half-buried like a shipwreck. It felt almost silent except for wind and our shoes crunching over pumice. Some people went into the interpretation center; I just walked slowly past old whaling ruins now swallowed by sand. It’s strange — you can almost feel how new this land is under your feet. On the drive back, João told us stories about eruptions and fishermen who refused to leave even when ash covered everything. I still think about that stubbornness sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Faial Island's nature and culture

• Visit Monte da Guia viewpoint
• See Monument of Nossa Senhora da Conceição
• Drive with views of Flamengos parish
• Walk and photograph Caldeira volcanic crater
• Visit volcanic basalt coastal site
• Relax at largest volcanic sand beach
• Free time at local beach cafe
• Visit Natural Pools of Porto do Comprido
• Explore Capelinhos Volcano and surroundings

Top questions

How long does the Faial Island full day tour last?

The tour usually ends around 16:30 but timing is flexible depending on group needs or ferry schedules.

Is lunch included on this Faial Island day trip?

You can choose a tour option with or without lunch included; check your booking details for specifics.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?

Yes, round-trip transportation from your hotel on Faial is included.

Can I swim during this Faial Island tour?

In summer there’s time for a swim at Almoxarife Beach; bring a swimsuit and towel if you want to try.

What language does the guide speak?

The guide is bilingual (Portuguese and English) and is native to Faial Island.

What are the main stops on this full day Faial tour?

Main stops include Monte da Guia, Caldeira crater, Almoxarife Beach, Porto do Comprido natural pools, and Capelinhos volcano area.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels with flexible pacing at each stop.

Are public transportation options available nearby?

Yes, public transportation options are available near some stops if needed before or after your tour.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off in an air-conditioned vehicle, guidance from a professional native guide who speaks both Portuguese and English, mineral water throughout the journey, plus an option for lunch at a local restaurant depending on which package you book—so you can just relax into island time while someone else handles all the details.