Guided Tours

Guided Tour of Islet of Vila Franca do Campo Off-Coast Nature Reserve

Explore the spectacular islet of Vila Franca do Campo led by an expert wildlife guide and skipper. Enjoy a guided walk and a boat tour to discover the nature reserve's geology, flora, and fauna.

Highlights

Enjoy informative commentary on every sight you discover from an experienced guide. Feel free to ask them any specific questions you have.
Spend a memorable 10 minutes on the gentle waves of the sea on your way to the islet.
Stroll around the rocky terrain and get acquainted with the rich flora that contributes to the islet's beauty.
See seldom-spotted bird species such as Buzzards, Turnstones, Sanderlings, and more.
End your tour with a boat tour around the islet, offering a different yet no less enchanting perspective of the natural reserve.

Inclusions

Wildlife guide and experienced Skipper
Zodiac RIB Boat (12-28 pax)
Impermeable full suit and life vest
Admission to Nature Reserve
Insurance

Exclusions

Hotel pickup and drop-off
Personal Water supply

Cancellation policy

These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Your Experience

Formed by a prehistoric volcanic explosion off the south coast of Sao Miguel, the breathtaking nature reserve is a must on your Sao Miguel bucket list.

Your tour begins with a brief introduction to the volcanic islet and the rules of the nature reserve. Follow your guide and skipper to the designated boat and travel by sea for 10 minutes to reach the islet. Disembark at the islet's harbor and proceed on an hour-and-a-half excursion to discover the volcanic wonder. The islet is home to the endemic Azorean Heather, Firetree, and other plant species. Various birds, including turnstones, buzzards, sanderlings, whimbrels, little egrets, canaries and wagtails, and Sally Lightfoot crab colonies can often be seen in the islet crater. It boasts of rich life all year round, especially in autumn and winter. Your tour guide will inform you about every sight you observe and will be happy to answer any specific questions you may have.

After your walking tour, it is time for a scenic boat tour around the islet. Capture the sights of the island from a different perspective before heading back to the marine for checkout.

Know Before You Go

Important Information

The tour is primarily conducted in English. It is also available in French, Portuguese, German, Spanish, Italian, and Dutch. However, these languages cannot be guaranteed.
The experience is not accessible for wheelchair users, people with back problems, pregnant women, or children under the age of 4.
Bathing is not permitted at this time of the year for the protection of species.
It is recommended to eat light, and bring along your sunscreen, water bottle, chapstick, and camera.

Timings

Daily: 1:15pm onwards.

My tickets

Your voucher will be emailed to you instantly.
Display the voucher on your mobile phone with a valid photo ID at the meeting point.
Please arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before the scheduled time of your visit to avoid any delays.

Pick-Up Points

This tour includes pick-up and drop-offs.
In the next step of booking, please specify the pick-up point.
On the day of your tour, arrive 15-20 minutes before the scheduled time at the pick-up point.

Meeting Point (If not opted for Hotel Pick-up)

Meet your guide at Azores Whale Watching TERRA AZUL™
Address: Marina de Vila Franca do Campo 4, 9680-187, Portugal.

Get Directions to the Meeting Point

Getting There

By Bus

The closest bus stop is Vila Franca Do Campo - Terminal. It is a quick 6-minute walk to the meeting point.
Board buses #C315, #C316 or #C318 to get you there.