The charming port city of Horta serves as the perfect base for exploring Faial and neighboring islands in the Azores. The best tours focus on three main experiences: full-day island circuits, Pico Island wine country visits, and active volcano hikes. I especially love the private guided tours around Faial – they hit all the essential viewpoints while avoiding the crowds of larger groups. The Pico Island excursions are another standout, combining UNESCO vineyard visits with fascinating whaling history. For the energetic traveler, the volcano hiking and Pico Mountain climbing tours deliver unforgettable adventures with expert local guides. Let’s look at the top tour options in detail.
Key Points
- The Full Day Tour of Faial Island provides a comprehensive exploration of the island’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
- The Banana Trip – Full Day Private Tour to Pico showcases UNESCO-listed vineyards, whaling history, and a working banana plantation.
- The Private Half Day Tour – Faial Island offers a flexible and comfortable experience with a certified, experienced local guide.
- The Private Full Day Tour – Faial Island includes a professional guide, air-conditioned vehicle, and round-trip transport for a comprehensive exploration.
- Adventure Tours in Faial, such as Trail Running and Pico Mountain Climbing, cater to thrill-seekers with tailored experiences and knowledgeable guides.
Full Day Tour of Faial Island
The Full Day Tour of Faial Island provides visitors with a comprehensive exploration of the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of this captivating island.
Departing from Horta, the tour takes travelers on a journey through the island’s diverse natural wonders, from breathtaking viewpoints to hidden gems. Participants can expect a well-paced itinerary that allows ample time to enjoy the local culture, including a delicious buffet lunch featuring locally-sourced ingredients.
With a maximum of 8 travelers, the tour offers an intimate and personalized experience, led by knowledgeable guides who share their passion for the island. Positive reviews highlight the guides’ ability to tailor the tour to the group’s interests and adapt to changing weather conditions, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
The tour’s accessibility, with wheelchair and stroller options, further enhances its appeal to a wide range of travelers. Whether you’re seeking stunning vistas, historical insights, or culture, the Full Day Tour of Faial Island is a top choice for exploring this captivating corner of Portugal.
Read our full review: Full Day Tour of Faial Island Review
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Banana Trip – Full Day Private Tour to Pico With Round Trip From Faial
Offering a unique glimpse into the Azores’ captivating cultural heritage, the “Banana Trip” – a full-day private tour to Pico Island from Faial – provides travelers with an immersive experience.
The tour highlights the island’s UNESCO-listed vineyards and whaling history, along with a visit to a working banana plantation and tide pools.
Travelers will enjoy a traditional lunch in the quaint Lejas Village, complementing the exploration of local culture and cuisine.
Convenient round-trip ferry rides from Faial and private transportation are included, with pickup available from any accommodation in Horta.
Led by a certified local guide, the tour offers exceptional value at $199.48 per person.
With a perfect 5-star rating across 4 verified reviews, the “Banana Trip” is an ideal choice for those seeking an in-depth journey through the Azores’ rich cultural tapestry.
Read our full review: Banana Trip – Full Day Private Tour to Pico With Round Trip From Faial Review
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Private Half Day Tour – Faial Island (Up to 8 People)
Enjoy the captivating landscapes of Faial Island with a private half-day tour. This 5-star rated experience takes you on a journey with a certified, experienced guide native to the island.
Travel in an air-conditioned vehicle and enjoy bottled water as you discover the island’s highlights.
The tour offers pickup from your hotel, accommodation, the Terminal By sea, or the airport, with morning and afternoon options available. A knowledgeable guide will arrive in a gray Opel van to escort you on this private tour, ensuring your group’s exclusive attention.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly, and service animals are allowed. Public transportation is nearby, and infant seats are available, making it accessible for most travelers.
With confirmation received at the time of booking, you can secure your private tour and embark on an unforgettable exploration of Faial Island.
Read our full review: Private Half Day Tour – Faial Island (Up to 8 People) Review
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Private Full Day Tour – Faial Island (Up to 8 People)
Although the private half-day tour showcases the captivating landscapes of Faial Island, the private full-day tour offers a more comprehensive experience. Priced from $430.47 per group (up to 4 people), this full-day tour provides a professional guide native to the island, an air-conditioned vehicle, and round-trip transportation from your hotel or airport.
The tour includes bottled water and a lunch at a restaurant of your choice. Pickup is flexible, with the guide meeting you in a gray Opel van.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and allows service animals. Infant seats are available, making it suitable for most travelers.
Confirmation is provided upon booking, and you can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour starts.
With the option to reserve now and pay later, this private full-day tour is an excellent way to explore the beauty of Faial Island.
Read our full review: Private Full Day Tour – Faial Island (Up to 8 People) Review
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Trail Running Private Tour in Faial
Adventurous travelers can embark on a thrilling trail running experience in the stunning landscapes of Faial Island through this private tour. Priced from $146.99 per person, the tour offers private transportation and snacks, though participants are advised to bring their own supplies.
With an overall rating of 5.0 based on 3 reviews, the tour provides a well-regarded way to explore the island’s natural beauty.
The tour starts with pickup from any accommodation in Horta, Faial, with a confirmed start time between 8:30 AM and 2:00 PM. Operating year-round, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for those with back problems, medical conditions, or pregnant travelers.
A strong fitness level is required for the trail running activities.
As a private tour, only your group will participate, allowing for a personalized experience. However, no refunds are available for cancellations. Confirmation is subject to availability within 48 hours of booking.
Read our full review: Trail Running Private Tour in Faial Review
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10 Volcanos Hiking Private Tour in Faial
What better way to explore the volcanic landscapes of Faial Island than on a private hiking tour? The “Volcanos Hiking Private Tour in Faial” offers just that, a tailored experience following the “10 Volcanoes trail” with a knowledgeable local guide.
Hikers will learn about the island’s fascinating volcanic features as they trek through the terrain at their own pace. The tour includes private transportation, a certified guide, and hiking poles to ensure a comfortable journey.
Snacks are provided, though it’s recommended to bring additional water, snacks, and a sandwich for lunch. While the full-day tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s an excellent option for those with a strong fitness level.
Pickup is available from Faial accommodations, and the tour runs daily from 8 AM to 6 PM. At $180.59 per person, with pricing varying by group size, this private volcanic adventure earns a 5-star rating across multiple review platforms.
Read our full review: 10 Volcanos Hiking Private Tour in Faial Review
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Pico Mountain Climbing Private Tour – With Round Trip From Faial
This private Pico Mountain climbing tour offers adventurous travelers a chance to conquer Portugal’s highest peak. The tour includes round-trip transport from Faial island, as well as a local mountain guide to provide a personalized experience.
The challenging ascent is suitable for active individuals due to the rugged terrain and unpredictable weather, but the scenic views at the summit are a rewarding payoff.
The tour includes private transportation, ferry tickets, and the Pico Mountain Natural Park fee. Participants should bring their own snacks, water, and lunch, while the guide will provide some snacks.
Pickup is available from the travelers’ accommodation, with a flexible departure time of 7:00 AM for the first morning ferry to Pico island.
To participate, a strong level of physical fitness is required, and the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions.
Pricing starts at €210.00 per person, with positive reviews highlighting the guide’s expertise and safety assessments during the climb.
Read our full review: Pico Mountain Climbing Private Tour – With Round Trip From Faial Review
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Recap
The tours in Horta offer visitors a diverse range of experiences, from full-day island explorations to specialized activities like trail running and volcano hiking. Travelers can choose from private tours or group outings, catering to different preferences and group sizes. These tours provide an opportunity to discover the natural beauty and unique features of Faial Island and the surrounding areas.