Full-Day Hike to Salto do Prego Waterfall & Furnas Azores

🥾 HIKE Salto do Prego - Sanguinho

🌿 Overview

HIKE Salto do Prego - Sanguinho São Miguel is a full-day nature and culture experience in the southeast of São Miguel Island, starting in Faial da Terra (Povoação). Walk along forest trails to the Salto do Prego waterfall hike São Miguel, visit the historic village of Sanguinho, then spend the afternoon discovering the volcanic wonders of Furnas, with the option to unwind in famous thermal pools.

🗺️ What to Expect

Your day begins with convenient pick-up from your accommodation, or nearby, in Ponta Delgada (other areas on request). After arriving in Faial da Terra, you will set off on a scenic hike following a stream through lush vegetation, with a moderate ascent that feels rewarding rather than rushed.

The trail winds through forest paths, stone sections, and wooden bridges, following routes once used by local residents. The highlight is the Salto do Prego waterfall hike São Miguel, where you will pause to enjoy the natural setting. The waterfall forms a natural pool that can be ideal for a quick dip, or simply for relaxing and taking in the peaceful surroundings.

On the return, the route leads to Sanguinho, an old settlement abandoned decades ago and now under recovery. Expect panoramic views over the valley and out to the ocean before finishing the walk.

After the hike, you will enjoy a picnic lunch provided by the team. In the afternoon, the experience continues in Furnas, one of São Miguel’s most iconic volcanic areas. You will explore fumarole fields and observe volcanic manifestations such as steaming vents and hot and cold water springs. To end the day, you may choose to visit one of the island’s renowned thermal spots, either Parque Terra Nostra or Poça da Dona Beija, noting that thermal entry tickets are not included.

✨ Highlights

• 💧 HIKE Salto do Prego - Sanguinho São Miguel to a waterfall with a natural pool
• 🌳 Forest trail with wooden bridges, stone paths, and riverside scenery
• 🏚️ Visit Sanguinho, a historic village abandoned for decades and now being restored
• 🌊 Valley and ocean viewpoints on the return section of the hike
• 🥪 Picnic lunch included to recharge after the walk
• 🌋 Afternoon in Furnas to see fumaroles and hot and cold springs
• ♨️ Optional thermal relaxation at Parque Terra Nostra or Poça da Dona Beija (entry not included)

🧭 Itinerary

Stage 1, Pick-up (morning)
Pick-up from your accommodation, or nearby, in Ponta Delgada. Approximate pick-up time is between 8:50 and 9:10.

Stage 2, Faial da Terra hike
Start the hike along a stream with a moderate climb through trees, then continue through forest sections, wooden bridges, and stone trails.

Stage 3, Salto do Prego waterfall
Arrive at the Salto do Prego waterfall hike São Miguel viewpoint and rest area. Enjoy the waterfall and its natural pool, with time to relax and optionally swim.

Stage 4, Return via Sanguinho
Hike back via Sanguinho, a historic settlement in recovery, with panoramic views over the valley and the ocean.

Stage 5, Picnic lunch
Enjoy a picnic lunch provided by the operator.

Stage 6, Furnas volcanic area (afternoon)
Explore fumarole fields and observe volcanic activity, including fumaroles and hot and cold water springs.

Stage 7, Optional thermal baths (end of day)
Option to visit Parque Terra Nostra or Poça da Dona Beija for a thermal soak (tickets not included).

Stage 8, Drop-off
Return drop-off at your accommodation, or nearby, in Ponta Delgada.

Note: This tour is available from November to May. Depending on weather conditions, the structure of the activity may change.

✅ What’s Included

• Licensed guides
• Insurance
• Picnic lunch
• Transport, pick-up and drop-off (Ponta Delgada, other areas on request)
• Walking poles

❌ Exclusions

• Entry tickets to thermal sites are not included

ℹ️ Important Information

Duration: 8 hours.

Availability: November to May. Contact for other availability.

Meeting point and pick-up: Pick-up is provided at your accommodation, or nearby. This applies to Ponta Delgada, for other areas, please contact to confirm possibilities and any additional cost. Approximate pick-up time is between 8:50 and 9:10.

Minimum age: 8 years. Adult pricing applies from age 13, child pricing is ages 8 to 12.

Fitness and terrain: The hike includes a moderate ascent and uneven natural terrain, including forest paths, stone sections, and wooden bridges.

Weather: The itinerary may be adjusted depending on atmospheric conditions.

What to bring: Comfortable clothes and trainers or hiking boots, a light waterproof and windproof jacket, individual water bottle, small backpack (for personal items and the provided lunch), sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat. Bring swimwear and a towel if you plan to visit thermal waters, dark swimwear is recommended due to iron residues. Bring any personal medication you may need during the day.

Thermal baths: If you choose to end the day at Parque Terra Nostra or Poça da Dona Beija, entry tickets are not included.

🚶‍♀️ Your Next Island Story Starts Here

From a hidden waterfall to steaming volcanic landscapes, one day can show you São Miguel at its most unforgettable.

If you want a full-day blend of forest trails, local history, and volcanic scenery, HIKE Salto do Prego - Sanguinho São Miguel delivers a complete southeast São Miguel experience. Book your HIKE Salto do Prego - Sanguinho São Miguel adventure to walk to Salto do Prego, step into the past in Sanguinho, and finish in Furnas, where the island’s geothermal energy comes to life.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions, FAQ

1) Is this a full-day tour, or only the hike?
It is a full-day experience lasting 8 hours. The day combines a hike in Faial da Terra with an afternoon visit to Furnas.

2) How long is the walking part of the day?
The official trail activity is structured in two parts, with the hiking section typically lasting between 3 and 5 hours. After that, you will have a picnic lunch and continue to another area of the island.

3) Does the price include pick-up and drop-off?
Yes, pick-up and drop-off are included for Ponta Delgada, with collection at your accommodation or nearby. For other areas, you should contact the operator to confirm availability and any extra cost.

4) Are thermal bath tickets included in the tour?
No, entry tickets to thermal sites are not included in the value of the activity. If you choose to visit Parque Terra Nostra or Poça da Dona Beija, you will pay the entrance separately.

5) What happens if the weather is not suitable for the hike?
Depending on conditions, the activity may be adjusted, rescheduled, or swapped for another activity. If none of these are possible, a full refund is guaranteed, but if you choose to proceed despite poor conditions, there is no refund.