Ribeira Grande: Salto do Cabrito Hike, Culture & Picnic

This tour offers a full day of exploring São Miguel’s natural splendors, cultural charm, and delicious local cuisine. We haven’t personally taken it, but from the detailed descriptions and traveler reviews, it clearly provides a well-rounded experience. Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply in search of spectacular views, this trip neatly combines all three.

Two things we particularly like about this tour: First, the opportunity to hike directly to Salto do Cabrito, a waterfall that remains a well-kept secret. Second, the chance to enjoy authentic Azorean dishes like geothermal stew in a traditional setting. The only consideration? The entire day involves quite a bit of walking and some uneven terrain, so good shoes are a must.

This experience suits travelers who want to see the island beyond just the main tourist spots, enjoy outdoor adventure, and savor local food. If you’re after a balanced mix of nature, culture, and relaxation, this tour could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Stunning Waterfall Hike: A scenic 2-hour trek to Salto do Cabrito offers incredible photo ops and a real sense of adventure.
• Authentic Local Cuisine: Savor a geothermal stew at Caldeiras Restaurant, a highlight for food lovers.
• Cultural Exploration: Wander the charming streets of Ribeira Grande and experience local life.
• Spectacular Views: From coastal lookouts to lush valleys, the scenery is consistently breathtaking.
• Natural Hot Springs & Cascades: Discover cascading waterfalls in Lombadas Valley, perfect for peaceful moment.
• Flexible & Comfortable: Includes hotel pickup, a professional guide, and a private group, maximizing convenience and intimacy.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction: Why This Tour is a Must for Authentic São Miguel Experiences

If you’re looking for a way to experience the true heart of São Miguel, this tour delivers. It’s designed not just to tick off the major sights but to immerse you in the island’s natural beauty, culinary delights, and local charm. The highlight for many travelers is the Salto do Cabrito hike — a scenic walk that rewards you with the sight and sound of a powerful waterfall, tucked away from the crowds.

What sets this experience apart is the emphasis on authentic tastes. Sitting down to a geothermal stew in a traditional restaurant, surrounded by geothermal activity, makes for a satisfying and memorable meal. Plus, exploring Ribeira Grande’s historic streets and discovering the Lombadas Valley showcases the island’s natural and cultural diversity.

One thing to keep in mind: The tour involves a fair amount of walking and some uneven terrain, especially during the hike and in the valley. Comfortable, sturdy shoes are essential. This tour’s pacing and intimate group setting make it ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, immersive day with a local guide.

It’s perfect for active travelers who want a meaningful connection to the landscape and culture of São Miguel. Whether you’re a first-timer or a repeat visitor looking for a deeper experience, this tour offers a well-balanced taste of everything.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

The Salto do Cabrito Hike

Your day begins with a scenic pickup from your hotel (either in Ribeira Grande, Ponta Delgada, or Lagoa). The highlight is a 2-hour hike through forested paths and volcanic terrain leading to Salto do Cabrito, a waterfall that remains somewhat of a hidden gem. The sound of cascading water, the fresh forest air, and the lush surroundings make this a memorable outdoor experience.

The trail itself is a mix of dirt paths and rocky spots, so good hiking shoes are advised. The hike is manageable for most fitness levels, though it does require a bit of stamina and a love for nature.

A Traditional Azorean Lunch

After the hike, you’ll head to Caldeiras da Ribeira Grande, where a local restaurant serves one of the island’s signature dishes: geothermal stew. This meal is cooked in natural hot springs, giving it a unique flavor rooted in the island’s volcanic activity. The atmosphere is cozy and authentic, providing insight into local culinary traditions.

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Exploring Lombadas Valley

Post-lunch, you’ll explore Lombadas Valley, known for its panoramic views and natural springs. You’ll see cascading waterfalls and maybe even spot a few wildflowers or native plants. It’s a peaceful landscape that highlights the unspoiled beauty of São Miguel’s interior.

Ribeira Grande’s Historic Charm

The tour continues with a walk through Ribeira Grande’s historic center. You’ll wander cobbled streets, admire traditional architecture, and get a taste of local life. It’s a chance to pick up small souvenirs or just enjoy the laid-back vibe of the island’s second-largest town.

Santa Bárbara Beach and Coastal Views

Finally, you’ll visit Santa Bárbara Beach, famous for its black volcanic sand. Here, you can take a quick stroll, snap photos of the dramatic cliffs, or just sit and enjoy the Atlantic views. It’s a fitting end to a full day of exploring, offering both relaxation and picture-perfect scenery.

The Itinerary: A Well-Structured Day

• Pickup: Three locations (Ribeira Grande, Ponta Delgada, Lagoa), providing flexibility.
• Salto do Cabrito: 2-hour scenic hike, plenty of opportunities for photos and appreciating nature.
• Lunch at Caldeiras: 1-hour sit-down meal, highlighting local cooking methods.
• Lombadas Valley: 1-hour sightseeing, including waterfalls and spring visits.
• Ribeira Grande: 2-hour guided walk, exploring the town’s architecture and history.
• Santa Bárbara Beach: 1-hour free time for photos, strolls, or relaxation.
• Drop-off: Returns to original pick-up points, making logistics simple.

This schedule balances active outdoor time with cultural and scenic stops, ensuring you get a sense of the varied landscapes and local lifestyle.

Deep Dive: Why This Tour Offers Value

The tour’s price covers transport, a professional guide, lunch, and all site visits. Given the variety of experiences packed into one day, it offers solid value, especially considering it’s a private group, which enhances comfort and personalized attention.

The guided hike to Salto do Cabrito is a major highlight, giving you a chance to see a waterfall rarely crowded with travelers. Many reviews note the stunning views and how the hike feels like a genuine adventure rather than a scripted tour. Others appreciate the local restaurant**, describing the geothermal stew as “delicious” and very authentic.

The small group size means you can ask questions, and the guide can tailor some parts of the experience based on your interests. It’s also flexible: You can reserve now and pay later, which makes planning easier in uncertain travel times.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
• Bring sunglasses, a hat, and a rain jacket, as weather can change quickly.
• Pack water and a camera for capturing the views.
• Consider your fitness level: The hike is manageable but requires some stamina.
• Be prepared to enjoy unspoiled nature — no heavily commercialized stops here.

Why We Think This Tour Works

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a blend of outdoor adventure, cultural insight, and scenic beauty. It’s especially good if you’re comfortable with some walking and want to see the island’s most picturesque waterfalls and valleys firsthand. The combination of a scenic hike, authentic meal, and charming town visits makes for a memorable day that truly captures the spirit of São Miguel.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re keen on exploring beyond the usual photo spots, love nature, and enjoy local flavors, this tour ticks all those boxes. It’s perfect for active travelers, small groups, and those craving a more authentic and personalized experience. If you prefer a relaxing day without much walking or prefer guided bus tours of major sights, this may be a bit too active.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
While the hike is manageable for most, it involves uneven terrain, so children and elderly travelers should assess their comfort level with walking and outdoor activity.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a hat, water, a camera, and a rain jacket are recommended. Since the weather can change, packing a light rain cover is wise.

How long is the hike to Salto do Cabrito?
The hike lasts approximately 2 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

Are vegetarian options available?
The tour description mentions a traditional geothermal stew but doesn’t specify dietary options. It’s best to inquire directly if you have special dietary needs.

What is included in the price?
Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation, a professional local guide, comfortable transport, guided hike and site visits, and lunch are included.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if travel plans shift.

How big are the groups?
It’s a private group experience, ensuring a more personalized and comfortable environment.

What time does the tour start?
Starting times vary; check availability when booking. The full-day duration is approximately 8 hours.

Is there free time at the beach?
Yes, the visit to Santa Bárbara Beach allows for about an hour of free time to relax or take photos.

Final Thoughts

This tour hits a sweet spot for travelers eager to see São Miguel’s most enchanting waterfalls and valleys, enjoy authentic local cuisine, and explore charming towns with a knowledgeable guide. The scenic hikes and panoramic views are among the best the island has to offer, making it a worthwhile addition to any Azores itinerary.

Whether you’re seeking a nature-filled adventure or a cultural discovery, the opportunity to walk through lush landscapes, taste geothermal stew, and soak in coastal vistas makes this experience stand out. Just remember to come prepared for some walking and unpredictable weather, and you’ll be rewarded with a deeply memorable day.

Ideal for active explorers and curious culture lovers, this tour offers a balanced glimpse of São Miguel’s natural and human charm, all wrapped in one exceptional day.

You can check availability for your dates here: