Discover the Untamed Beauty of Ribeira Grande

Welcome back, thrill-seekers! This weekend, we’re diving into the heart of the Azores, where the rugged landscapes of Ribeira Grande await your adventurous spirit. As the Azorean spring blossoms, the island of São Miguel offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and exhilarating exploration. With mild temperatures and partly cloudy skies, it’s an ideal time to embark on a journey that promises both excitement and tranquility.

Start your adventure with the Lagoa do Fogo Exploration on April 12th. This half-day jeep tour kicks off at 9:00 AM, taking you through the serene beauty surrounding the calm waters of Lagoa do Fogo. As you navigate the 4WD paths, you’ll encounter cascading waterfalls and witness the vibrant blue tones of the natural reserve. The tour also offers an optional visit to the Caldeira Velha, where you can immerse yourself in the thermal waterfall and natural pond. One recent review from February 25, 2025, captures the essence of this experience:

A fabulous way to spend the afternoon! Our guide was wonderful. She was very knowledgeable and made the trip very enjoyable. The views were amazing and the weather cooperated. I felt like we were able to see a lot in the half-day tour. Highly recommend.

Embrace the Thrill of Volcanic Adventures

As the day progresses, the weather transitions to partly cloudy, providing the perfect backdrop for an afternoon of exploration. On April 12th, from 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM, join the Volcano Jeep Tour to Lagoa do Fogo. This tour takes you off the beaten path, navigating rugged dirt trails and uncovering hidden locations unreachable by standard vehicles. The highlight of this adventure is the breathtaking Lagoa do Fogo, a crater lake nestled within the Água de Pau Massif stratovolcano.

For those seeking an extra thrill, consider the optional add-on to explore the Caldeira Velha’s Natural Hot Springs. Here, you can unwind in warm thermal pools surrounded by lush, tropical vegetation. A review from September 26, 2024, perfectly sums up the experience:

Beautiful tour with a very friendly guide! This tour was amazing! Our guide was super friendly and provided us with a lot of information about the area. I was picked up from my Airbnb even though I was staying outside of Ponta Delgada, I really appreciated it. 10/10 would recommend this tour as it’s a great value for money!

Unwind and Reflect Amidst Nature’s Splendor

As the sun sets over the Azorean horizon, take a moment to reflect on the day’s adventures. The mild temperatures and high UV index make it essential to pack sunscreen for your explorations. With the sun rising at 7:10 AM and setting at 8:15 PM, you’ll have ample daylight to soak in the island’s natural wonders.

On April 13th, the day begins with overcast skies, but don’t let that deter you. As the clouds part by mid-morning, seize the opportunity to explore the outdoor attractions of Ribeira Grande. The Lagoa do Fogo Volcano Tour is available again from 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM, offering another chance to delve into the island’s geothermal features and plentiful water resources.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a curious traveler, Ribeira Grande promises a weekend of unforgettable experiences. From the thrill of jeep tours to the tranquility of natural hot springs, this Azorean gem invites you to embrace the spirit of exploration. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and get ready for a weekend of nature and adventure in the heart of the Azores.