Snorkelling
Snorkelling Excursion on the island of Faial, Azores
Organized by Haliotis Faial
Faial, Azores
5.5 hrs
From€65
Capelinhos Volcano Hiking Tour in Faial, Azores
Hike across the lunar landscape of Capelinhos Volcano in Faial, Azores with a local guide on a 3.5-hour small-group trail for all levels!
Capelinhos Volcano Hiking Tour in Faial, Azores
From€90
3.5 hrs
Sporty
From 12 years-old and up
3.5 hrs
Sporty
From 12 years-old and up
Practical information
A guided 3.5-hour circular hiking tour across 4 km of volcanic terrain at Capelinhos Volcano, Faial Island.
- Small-group experience limited to 8 participants for a personalized hike with a local guide.
- Complete route through the 1957–58 eruption landscape, half-buried lighthouse, and Porto do Comprido harbour.
- Active geological and social history interpretation of Faial's youngest volcanic territory.
Course of events
Please allow 3.5 hours on site for the entire experience.
- Meet at Porto do Comprido whaling harbour, welcome, check-in, and introduction to whaling history and safety (15 minutes)
- Walk through Porto do Comprido harbour and coastal bathing area to observe lava rock formations and coastal heritage (20 minutes)
- Coastal trail walk towards Capelinhos Lighthouse with stops to explain the 1957–58 eruption history and land formation (30 minutes)
- Ascent section through volcanic ash fields and tuff terrain with stops for water, photos, and vegetation explanation (45 minutes)
- Walk along upper viewpoints overlooking the volcano, lighthouse, Atlantic Ocean, and western coast of Faial (40 minutes)
- Descent towards Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Centre and short break at the entrance hall with restroom/refreshment access (20 minutes)
- Final walking section returning to Porto do Comprido harbour and end of the activity (40 minutes)
Objectives
- Experience an active hike through the volcanic landscape of western Faial.
- Understand how the 1957–58 Capelinhos eruption changed the island.
- Observe volcanic terrain, vegetation and the transition towards the volcano.
- Follow safe hiking practices adapted to local weather and trail conditions.
Activity requirements
Being in good physical condition is required to take part in this activity.
Participants must be able to complete an approximately 4 km hike on uneven volcanic terrain including an uphill section.
Closed-toe walking or hiking shoes are required.
All children must be accompanied by an adult.
Please arrive 10 minutes before the departure time.
Special terms
This activity is not accessible for people with disabilities.
Please note that the duration and itinerary of the activity are weather-dependent.
Once your booking has been confirmed, please contact the instructor directly to organise the meeting point and pick-up time.
Pick-up and return transport can be arranged upon request for an additional fee, subject to availability.
Spoken languages:
English, PortugueseIncluded
- Local certified guide
- Insurance
Excluded
- Food and drinks
- Pick-up and return transport (optional private transport available upon request)
- Personal expenses
- Park entrance fees
Do not forget to bring
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hat or cap
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Windproof or waterproof jacket
- Closed-toe walking or hiking shoes
October 2026
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Practical information
Meeting point:
Porto do Comprido, Capelinhos, Faial Island, Azores, Portugal
Spoken languages:
English, PortugueseCancellation: Flexible
Weather guarantee:
Free rescheduling or refund if the activity must be cancelled due to bad weather.100% Secure payment:
By credit card or PaypalA team of experts:
Here to assist you 7/7About the activity
Embarking on a hiking tour at Capelinhos Volcano in Faial, Azores invites outdoor enthusiasts to walk directly across the youngest terrestrial landmass in Europe, created during the intense submarine eruption of 1957–1958. Setting off from the historic whaling harbour of Porto do Comprido, this volcanic trail immerses participants in an extraordinary landscape of dark ash fields, steep basalt cliffs, and open views over the Atlantic Ocean. The site of Capelinhos Volcano in Faial, Azores is a world-renowned geological landmark where over 2.4 square kilometres of new land emerged from the ocean floor, transforming the island's western tip into an otherworldly terrain.
The journey begins at the former whaling harbour of Porto do Comprido, where the guide from Horta with César introduces Faial's maritime heritage and the coastal geology formed by cooled lava flows. Following the shoreline past natural rock bathing pools carved into black basalt, you will walk towards the iconic Capelinhos Lighthouse, famously half-buried under dark volcanic ash. Your guide shares detailed historical interpretation regarding the thirteen-month eruption of 1957–1958, explaining its profound social impact and how it triggered a wave of emigration to North America. As you ascend through the volcanic tuff, you will observe pioneer plant species making a return to the mineral soil, while stopping at elevated viewpoints for broad vistas of the Atlantic.
Designed for travellers seeking an authentic outdoor experience, this small-group hiking tour at Capelinhos Volcano in Faial covers uneven volcanic terrain with an uphill section, requiring a sporty physical condition and sturdy closed-toe walking shoes. The flexible pace accommodates group needs, ensuring a comfortable and safe walk throughout the loop. After reaching the upper slopes, the trail descends towards the Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Centre for a short break in the entrance hall before returning to the harbour.
This guided hiking excursion at Capelinhos Volcano in Faial, Azores operates year-round with daily departures scheduled according to weather conditions. Reserve your place now for this coastal trail and explore Faial's youngest volcanic landscape alongside an expert local guide!
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