Pico Island in the Azores archipelago has long captivated adventurous travelers with its dramatic volcanic landscapes and pristine natural wonders. The guided kayak and snorkel tour offers the perfect opportunity to take in this remarkable setting, revealing a side of the island that few visitors experience. Over the course of 2.5 hours, participants paddle through crystal-clear waters, explore a volcanic crater, and swim in a serene lagoon, all while enjoying panoramic vistas of the iconic Pico Mountain. With a small group size, personalized attention, and all necessary equipment provided, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of nature’s best-kept secrets on Pico Island.
Key Points
- A 2.5-hour guided tour exploring Pico Island’s natural beauty, including kayaking, snorkeling in a volcanic crater, and visiting a former whaling factory.
- The tour is limited to 5 participants and offers language options like Dutch, English, and Portuguese.
- Participants can enjoy panoramic views of Pico Mountain, swim in a tranquil lagoon, and marvel at stunning rock formations.
- All necessary equipment for kayaking and snorkeling is provided, along with Allianz® Personal Accident Insurance for peace of mind.
- The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, non-swimmers, or those with low fitness levels, and participants should check the weather forecast before booking.
Tour Overview
The Pico Island Kayak and Snorkel Tour is a guided adventure that allows participants to explore the stunning natural beauty of Pico Island in the Azores.
The 2.5-hour tour includes 2 hours of paddling, with a safety briefing at the start. Groups are limited to 5 people, and the tour is offered in Dutch, English, and Portuguese.
Prices start from $66.47 per person, and there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour covers a distance of 8 km, visiting sites like an old whaling factory, a volcanic crater, and breathtaking rock formations along the coastline.
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Itinerary
The tour begins at the starting point of R. Manuel Vieira Soares 9930 in Lajes Do Pico.
First, participants receive a 15-minute safety briefing.
Then, they’ll embark on a 1-hour kayaking excursion, paddling through the clear waters and admiring the panoramic views of Pico Mountain and the stunning coastline.
Next, the group will have the opportunity to explore a volcanic crater and swim or snorkel in a nearby lagoon for 30 minutes.
Optionally, they can choose to continue kayaking for an additional hour.
In total, the tour covers a distance of 8 km, showcasing the area’s old whaling factory, volcanic formations, and picturesque landscapes.
Activities
Participants first receive a 15-minute safety briefing, during which they learn essential kayaking techniques and safety protocols.
They then embark on a 1-hour kayaking excursion, paddling through crystal-clear waters and enjoying panoramic views of Pico Mountain and the surrounding coastline.
The tour then transitions to a 30-minute snorkeling session, where participants can explore a volcanic crater and swim or snorkel in a tranquil lagoon.
For those seeking additional adventure, an optional 1-hour kayaking extension is available.
Throughout the tour, guests will encounter a former whaling factory, stunning rock formations, and have the opportunity to rest on a sunny cobbled beach.
Main Sites
During the tour, you will paddle past a former whaling factory, a remnant of Pico Island’s maritime heritage.
They’ll then explore a volcanic crater, a unique geological feature where they can swim or snorkel in a tranquil lagoon.
Along the way, kayakers will marvel at the stunning rock formations that dot the coastline, shaped by centuries of volcanic activity.
These picturesque landscapes provide a breathtaking backdrop to the adventure, offering panoramic views of the majestic Pico Mountain looming in the distance.
The diverse array of natural wonders encountered on this tour provides a well-rounded exploration of Pico Island’s captivating natural beauty.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyExperience Highlights
Paddling through the clear waters, adventurers enjoy panoramic vistas of Pico Mountain and the captivating coastline. The tour explores a volcanic crater, allowing participants to swim or snorkel in a serene lagoon. During the excursion, guests rest on a sunny cobbled beach, taking in the stunning natural beauty.
| Experience Highlights | |
|---|---|
| Panoramic views of Pico Mountain | Explore a volcanic crater |
| Kayak through clear waters | Swim or snorkel in a lagoon |
| Relax on a cobbled beach | Encounter stunning rock formations |
This immersive, multi-activity tour offers a unique opportunity to discover Pico Island’s remarkable landscapes and marine environments.
Inclusions
The tour’s inclusions encompass all the necessary equipment for a seamless kayaking and snorkeling experience.
Participants will receive a sea kayak with a seat, ensuring a comfortable and stable ride. Snorkel equipment, including goggles and a snorkel, is provided to allow for easy exploration of the underwater world.
Plus, a dry bag is available to safely store personal items, such as a mobile phone, during the tour. For added peace of mind, the tour also includes Allianz® Personal Accident Insurance, providing coverage in case of any unforeseen incidents.
With these comprehensive inclusions, guests can focus on enjoying the stunning natural wonders of Pico Island without worrying about the logistics.
Important Information
This tour may not be suitable for all participants. Wheelchair users, non-swimmers, those prone to seasickness, and individuals with low fitness levels should avoid this activity.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, participants should bring the following:
- Swimwear
- Towel
- Drinks
- Sunscreen
- Water shoes
The tour is also weather-dependent, so it’s essential to check the forecast before booking.
Customer Ratings
Customers have overwhelmingly praised the Pico Island Kayak and Snorkel Tour, awarding it an impressive 4.8 out of 5-star rating based on 6 reviews.
Reviewers have highlighted the tour’s stunning scenery, excellent guides, and overall immersive experience. One customer described the kayaking as "effortless" and the snorkeling as "breathtaking," while another praised the "perfect balance" of activities.
Several reviewers noted the small group size, which allows for personalized attention. The tour seems to deliver an engaging and unforgettable adventure, leaving customers eager to return or recommend the experience to others.
The consistently positive feedback suggests this is a top-notch excursion worth considering for visitors to Pico Island.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Difficult Is the Kayaking Portion of the Tour?
The kayaking portion is moderately challenging, requiring some prior experience. It involves 1 hour of paddling through calm waters, with participants needing to maintain balance and coordination to navigate the kayak.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?
There are no age restrictions for participants on this tour. The tour is suitable for all ages, as long as individuals meet the fitness and swimming requirements outlined in the important information.
Can I Bring My Own Snorkel Equipment?
You’re generally not allowed to bring your own snorkel equipment on this tour. The operator provides the necessary snorkel gear, which is included in the tour price. Using the provided equipment helps ensure proper fit and safety.
Is There a Photographer on the Tour to Take Pictures?
The tour does not include a dedicated photographer. However, participants are welcome to bring their own cameras and take photos during the kayaking and snorkeling activities. Photos can be captured by the guides upon request.
Can I Extend the Tour Duration for an Additional Fee?
Yes, participants can extend the tour duration for an additional fee. The tour operator offers an optional extra hour of kayaking, allowing guests to explore more of the scenic coastline and volcanic features at their own pace.
Recap
This guided kayak and snorkel tour on Pico Island promises a breathtaking adventure. Guests will paddle through crystal-clear waters, explore a volcanic crater, and swim in a serene lagoon while enjoying panoramic views of Pico Mountain. With a small group size and personalized attention, the tour includes all necessary equipment and safety briefings, ensuring an unforgettable exploration of nature’s wonders. Highly rated at 4.8 out of 5 stars, this tour is a must-do for anyone visiting the stunning Azores.
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