Private Terceira Island Caves: Lava Route – entrances & wine

Discover the Hidden Geology of Terceira Island with the Lava Route Tour

If you’re seeking a way to truly understand Terceira Island’s volcanic soul, this private tour offers an excellent mix of geological wonders, scenic stops, and local flavors. We haven’t personally taken it, but based on detailed reviews and tour descriptions, it promises a carefully curated experience that’s perfect for curious travelers wanting more than just surface-level sightseeing.

What’s especially appealing? The chance to explore majestic calderas and lava tubes, witness natural basaltic pools, and taste volcanic wine—all with a knowledgeable guide in a private group. However, one important consideration is that Algar do Carvão is temporarily closed, replaced by a visit to Furnas do Enxofre, which might slightly shift the experience. This tour suits those who love natural landscapes, geology, and authentic local experiences, especially if you prefer a guided, hassle-free day instead of renting a car.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Private group for a personalized experience and flexible pacing
• Expert guides who share in-depth knowledge and local insights
• Variety of stops, from volcanic caves to scenic viewpoints and natural pools
• Wine tasting of exceptional volcanic wines, highlighting local tradition
• Short, manageable duration of around 4 hours, ideal for a half-day outing
• All tickets included for Algar do Carvão and other attractions

An In-Depth Look at What You Can Expect

Starting Point and Convenience

The tour kicks off with pick-up from Angra do Heroísmo, a charming UNESCO-listed town full of character. If you’re staying nearby, arrangements are straightforward, but outside the central area, there’s a small extra fee. This focus on convenience means you won’t have to worry about driving or navigating, especially on those narrow, winding island roads.

Scenic Drive and Miradouro das Veredas

After pickup, the journey begins with a scenic drive past Miradouro das Veredas, a lookout point offering views without stopping. While this stop is a pass-by, it’s a good chance to get a sense of the island’s volcanic terrain from the comfort of the van. It’s a quick glimpse that sets the scene for the geological marvels ahead.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Lagoa das Patas

Next, the group visits Lagoa das Patas, a small but picturesque lagoon. This stop, lasting about 15 minutes, lets you breathe in the fresh island air and snap some photos of a serene volcanic crater filled with water. It’s an easy addition that offers a taste of the island’s volcanic landscape.

Natural Pools of Biscoitos

One of the tour’s real highlights is the Piscinas Naturais de Biscoitos, where basaltic lava has formed natural swimming pools. Spending around 25 minutes here, you can dip your toes or simply enjoy the stunning view of crystal-clear water framed by black volcanic rocks. Travelers have raved about how unique and photogenic these pools are, making it a favorite stop.

Volcanic Wine Tasting

No trip to the Azores would be complete without tasting the island’s signature product. The tour includes a wine tasting session, lasting about 25 minutes. You’ll sample volcanic wines, which are crafted from grapes grown in rich volcanic soils—an experience that offers a delicious insight into local culture. Reviewers loved this part, mentioning that the wines are exquisite and that guides give helpful commentary.

Visit to Gruta Natal (Nativity Cave)

Next, you’ll explore Gruta Natal, a beautifully guided tour through a volcanic cave system. With 25 minutes allotted, you get a close-up look at the island’s underground volcanic features. Authenticity is key here, and guides are praised for their knowledge, making this an educational yet engaging part of the tour.

The New Highlight: Algar do Carvão or Furnas do Enxofre

Historically, the tour included a 30-minute guided visit to Algar do Carvão, a rare, accessible volcano with breathtaking stalactites and underground chambers. However, as of October 2024, Algar do Carvão is temporarily closed and replaced with a visit to Furnas do Enxofre—an impressive geothermal area known for bubbling mud pools and volcanic activity. This substitution still offers a fascinating look into the island’s volcanic activity, keeping the experience authentic.

End of Tour and Return

The tour concludes back in Angra do Heroísmo, just in time to reflect on a day filled with natural beauty and geological marvels. It’s a compact and well-paced experience, perfect for those who want to see a lot without overextending.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

For a price that includes all tickets and tastings, this private tour packs in a lot. The guides, like Ana and Pedro, receive high praise for their friendliness, deep knowledge, and driving skills—particularly on those narrow, sometimes tricky roads. The emphasis on natural attractions combined with local wine tasting creates a well-rounded experience that’s both educational and indulgent.

Authentic Experiences

Beyond the typical tourist spots, the tour’s focus on volcanic landscapes and local wine adds a layer of authenticity. The natural pools at Biscoitos and the cave visits reveal the island’s raw, primal beauty. Visitors often comment on how these stops felt genuine and off the beaten path, making the experience more memorable.

Small Group Benefits

Travelers repeatedly mention how much they appreciated the private group setting, which allows for a flexible and relaxed pace. This setup also means the guide can customize the experience slightly based on group interests, making each trip unique.

Accessibility & Practical Tips

It’s worth noting that the tour isn’t suitable for those with back problems, mobility issues, or claustrophobia—common limitations for cave visits and uneven terrain. Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially for walking in caves and around volcanic landscapes.

A Few Considerations

While the tour is generally well-rounded, a few travelers noted that Algar do Carvão was temporarily closed, which might impact some expectations. However, the replacement at Furnas do Enxofre still offers impressive volcanic phenomena. Also, timing can vary slightly based on the group and guide, so it’s good to confirm the schedule in advance.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This tour is ideal for geology enthusiasts, nature lovers, and wine aficionados who want an immersive taste of Terceira Island’s volcanic soul. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer guided, all-in-one experiences over self-driving adventures. If you’re short on time but eager to see key natural sites, this four-hour tour offers a great snapshot of the island’s geological and cultural highlights.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For those wanting a personalized, insightful glimpse into Terceira’s volcanic landscape, this private tour hits the mark. The combination of stunning scenery, expert guides, and local flavors makes it a compelling choice. The inclusion of natural pools, caves, and wine tasting ensures a well-rounded experience that appeals to many types of travelers.

If you’re looking for an engaging, manageable way to explore the island’s volcanic features without the hassle of driving, this tour offers excellent value. It’s especially perfect if you appreciate guided commentary and small group intimacy, which enriches the adventure and makes it more memorable.

This tour stands out as a memorable highlight for any trip to Terceira, especially for those eager to connect with the island’s fiery heart in an authentic and relaxed setting.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
It can be, but children should be comfortable walking and ideally not have mobility issues or claustrophobia. Check with the provider about specific age restrictions.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since you’ll be walking in caves and volcanic terrain. Bringing water and a camera is also a good idea.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, the tour includes pickup from Angra do Heroísmo and transportation between stops. If you’re outside the central area, an extra fee may apply.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity.

Is there wine tasting included?
Yes, there is a wine tasting session featuring volcanic wines, which is highly praised by previous participants.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are the caves accessible?
The caves are visited with guided tours, but the tour isn’t suitable for those with claustrophobia or mobility impairments.

What’s replaced Algar do Carvão temporarily?
As of October 2024, Algar do Carvão is closed and replaced by a visit to Furnas do Enxofre, which also showcases volcanic activity.

Is this tour private or group?
It’s a private group experience, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.

How do I book?
You can reserve online, with the option to pay later, offering flexibility for your travel plans.

In essence, this tour offers a well-balanced exploration of Terceira’s volcanic wonders, paired with local flavors and expert guidance. It’s a fantastic way to see some of the island’s most impressive natural features without the stress of self-driving—making it a top choice for curious, nature-minded travelers.

You can check if your dates are available here: