Caldeira Descent

The Caldeira of Faial has been a natural reserve since 1972 (category I – IUCN). It’s a volcanic collapse crater with unique characteristics. Since the Caldeira of Faial Descent is such a special experience, Faial Natural Park controls the access to the bottom, issuing only a limited number of permits. For this reason, a certified guide is mandatory for the Caldeira Descent.

The Caldeira of Faial is one of the last strongholds for the Azores native forest. It’s there that we can find more than 60% of the Azores endemic species and where you can experience how the Azores were before human settlement. The trail is difficult because it is very narrow and steep and, sometimes, scrambling is necessary. The Caldeira bio-diversity is composed of different humid habitats. Therefore, it’s common to find mud and flooded areas at the bottom.