Azores: Guided Hiking Tour Salto do Prego – Sanguinho

If you’re dreaming of exploring the Azores’ natural beauty, this guided tour of Salto do Prego and Sanguinho offers an immersive day on São Miguel Island. Designed for those who love walking through lush forests and discovering volcanic features, this tour combines scenery, history, and relaxation—all in one day.

What we love about this experience is the way it balances moderate hiking with authentic sights, like waterfalls and abandoned villages, and the opportunity to relax in thermal springs. The guides are praised for their knowledge, making the journey both educational and engaging.

One thing to consider is that the tour involves a fair amount of walking, including some uneven terrain, so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable on their feet. Also, tickets to the thermal baths are not included in the price, so you’ll want to budget extra if a soak is part of your plans.

This tour is a fantastic fit for active travelers who want a genuine taste of São Miguel’s wilderness and volcanic activity without feeling rushed. It’s ideal for nature lovers and curious explorers eager to experience the island beyond its more touristy spots.

Key Points

• Authentic hiking experience through forests, orchards, and volcanic landscapes
• Guided by knowledgeable local experts who enhance understanding of the area’s natural features
• Includes visits to iconic natural spots like Salto do Prego waterfall and abandoned Sanguinho village
• Offers volcanic sightseeing such as fumaroles and hot springs at Furnas
• Flexible options for thermal baths, although entry fees are separate
• Small group or private options available for a more personalized experience

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins with convenient pickup options at five locations around São Miguel—Capelas, Lagoa, Caloura, Ponta Delgada, and Ribeira Grande—making it accessible no matter where you’re staying. The journey to Faial da Terra, the starting point of the hike, takes about 75 minutes by van, giving you time to settle in and enjoy the scenic drive along the southeastern coast.

This setup is beneficial because it minimizes hassle—no need to worry about getting lost or navigating public transport—allowing you to relax and focus on the experience ahead.

The Hike to Salto do Prego

The hike kicks off along a stream, with a moderate ascent through peaceful wooded areas. We loved the way the trail weaves through ancient forests and orchards, with well-maintained wooden bridges and stone paths that give a rustic feel. The emphasis on walking routes once used by locals makes this more than a typical tourist trail; it’s a genuine glimpse into the region’s past.

Expect the hike to last about 2.5 hours, covering scenic vistas and lush landscapes. The highlight is reaching the Salto do Prego waterfall, a true hidden gem. The waterfall cascades into a natural pool—perfect for a quick swim or just relaxing with your picnic lunch. The setting is tranquil, with the sound of rushing water surrounded by greenery, making it a memorable spot.

According to reviews, the natural pool at the waterfall is an ideal place to cool off, and the waterfall itself is quite photogenic—just watch your footing on the rocky edges.

Exploring Sanguinho: An Abandoned Village

On the way back, the trail leads to Sanguinho, an abandoned village that’s currently undergoing restoration. Walking through its ruins, you get a sense of history and resilience. The village offers sweeping panoramic views of the surrounding valley and the Atlantic Ocean, providing excellent photo opportunities.

The guided visit here is a fascinating mix of history and natural beauty. One reviewer mentioned, “We passed through a fascinating lost village, which makes you wonder what life was like here back when it was inhabited.”

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Lunch and Rest Break

After the hike, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch—a chance to recharge before heading to the volcanic sites in Furnas. The included picnic is a thoughtful touch, providing local flavors and rest before the next adventure.

Volcanic Features at Furnas

In the afternoon, the tour takes you to Furnas, a volcanic hub packed with natural wonders. Here, you can observe fumaroles, where volcanic gases escape, and soak in the hot springs—which are famously warm and healing. While entrance tickets for the thermal baths are not included, options like Terra Nostra Park or Poça da Dona Beija are nearby.

The hot springs are a well-loved aspect of São Miguel, and relaxing in these outdoor pools is a perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking. Keep in mind, tickets are extra, but many travelers feel the added expense is worthwhile for the experience.

The Return Journey

The tour wraps up with a 30-minute drive back to your accommodation, with drop-off points at the start. Small group or private options offer flexibility, and the entire day lasts approximately 8 hours, making it a full but rewarding experience.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For $97, this experience includes transport, guides, insurance, and a picnic lunch—a package that’s quite reasonable considering the variety of sights and activities packed into the day. The guided element ensures you gain insights into the natural features, volcanic activity, and history that you might miss on your own.

The small group setting enhances the experience, allowing for more interaction and personalized attention. Plus, with knowledgeable guides, you’ll get stories and explanations that deepen your understanding of São Miguel’s volcanic origins and rural life.

The Experience’s Authentic Flavour

The tour’s focus on off-the-beaten-path spots like Sanguinho and Salto do Prego makes it appealing for travelers wanting more than just the standard tourist trail. The combination of forest, waterfalls, abandoned villages, and volcanic activity provides a well-rounded, genuine look at what makes São Miguel unique.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This adventure is perfect for active travelers who enjoy moderate hiking and are eager to experience natural beauty up close. If you appreciate guided tours that blend scenery, history, and volcanic phenomena, you’ll find this trip well worth the investment. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive day without the crowds, especially since small groups or private tours are available.

However, it’s not suited for pregnant women, people with mobility issues, or those with serious back, knee, or ankle problems, due to the physical nature of the hike. Plus, those planning to indulge in the thermal baths will need to budget separately for entrance fees.

Summary of the Experience

This tour offers an excellent way to discover the southeastern coast of São Miguel. By combining a scenic moderate hike, visits to volcanic sites, and a walk through history, it caters to travelers looking for an active, educational, and relaxing day.

The guides are highly praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the journey enjoyable and insightful. The inclusion of a picnic lunch and transportation means you can focus on the sights rather than logistics. The only extra cost is for the thermal bath entry, which many find worthwhile for the relaxing finale.

All in all, this guided tour is a solid choice for those who want to experience the authentic beauty and volcanic character of São Miguel without feeling overwhelmed or rushed.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The entire day is approximately 8 hours, including pickup, travel, hiking, sightseeing, and drop-off.

Are transportation and guides included?
Yes, the tour includes transport to and from selected pickup points, along with certified guides who speak Portuguese, Spanish, and English.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, windbreaker, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), swimwear, towel, rain gear, reusable water bottle, waterproof bag, and face covering.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children are the responsibility of an adult, and the physical nature of the hike means it’s best for children who are comfortable walking on uneven terrain.

Are tickets to thermal baths included?
No, entrance fees to places like Terra Nostra Park or Poça da Dona Beija are separate.

Can I customize this experience?
Private or small groups are available, which can allow some customization, especially if you prefer more flexibility or specific interests.

Is the tour recommended for pregnant women or people with mobility issues?
No, due to the moderate hiking involved and uneven terrain, it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments.

Will the weather affect the tour?
Yes, weather conditions can lead to changes in the schedule or route. Always check the forecast and inform the guide of any concerns.

What’s the best time of year to do this tour?
While no specific season is mentioned, the best weather for hiking in São Miguel is generally spring and early autumn, avoiding heavy rains or cold winter days.

In the end, this guided tour to Salto do Prego and Sanguinho offers a genuine taste of São Miguel’s volcanic landscapes and rural charm. It appeals to active travelers eager to see the island’s natural highlights while benefiting from local expertise. Expect scenic walks, volcanic wonders, and a peaceful retreat into nature—an experience that leaves many visitors with memories of lush forests, waterfalls, and a sense of stepping back in time.

You can check availability for your dates here: