Around Caldeira

The Caldeira Perimeter trail is the highest hiking route on Faial, offering stunning views and a unique perspective on the island’s volcanic landscape. This trail circles the Caldeira, a volcanic collapse crater, providing hikers with an opportunity to explore the island’s geological history up close. The high altitude allows for sweeping panoramic vistas, where the landscape tells the story of Faial’s volcanic origins. As you walk along the rim, you’ll gain insight into how the island’s dramatic geology has shaped the environment we see today.

The interior of the Caldeira is one of the most important nature preservation areas in the Azores. The Caldeira is home to a variety of native flora, including species that have adapted to survive in the harsh conditions, such as the strong winds that frequently sweep across the area. This makes the trail an excellent opportunity for nature enthusiasts to learn about the unique plant life that thrives in this challenging environment.

Our Guides strongly recommend visiting the Caldeira Perimeter on a clear day, as rain and strong winds can make the trail more difficult and less enjoyable. However, when the weather is favorable, you’ll be rewarded with incredible views stretching across the island, offering nearly 360-degree panoramas of Faial’s stunning landscape. From the highest points, you can see the rugged coastline, neighboring islands, and the vast ocean beyond. The Caldeira Perimeter trail is a must-do for anyone interested in exploring the natural beauty and geological wonders of Faial, providing an unforgettable hiking experience.

Since this trail is at a high altitude, weather conditions may not always allow for it to be completed. If this occurs, we will suggest a coastal trail as a backup plan, which will also be enjoyable.