Whales & Lagoa do Fogo Volcano [Oct-Jun]

See Whales and Dolphins, and Lagoa do Fogo - enjoy local food and magnificent island views, learn about volcanoes, and bathe at Caldeira Velha hot springs or Salto do Cabrito cold waterfall - a Full Day!

What you can expect:

You will meet us at the Marina of Vila Franca do Campo for check-in at the specified time.

The day starts with a short briefing on Cetaceans (Whales and Dolphins), local species, behavioral patterns, and onboard safety. Everyone will then follow the Guide and Skipper to their designated boat for an approximately 3-hour Marine Wildlife tour.

At 11:30 it is time to return to the Marina for a local food lunch at a seafront village restaurant - at walking distance from our Base.

At 13:15 you will meet us back at the Marina, for a van tour up the Volcano crater and protected Natural Reserve of Lagoa do Fogo, stopping at Pico da Barrosa, Lagoa do Fogo, and Bela Vista viewpoints - for photos, and some of São Miguel’s best island views over the beautiful turquoise lake of fire’s 15 thousand year-old crater, its endemic flora, dramatic surroundings, and the Atlantic.

At 15:00 you will then head down the mountain northbound, passing by Caldeira Velha’s environmental centre for educational information on the volcanic origin of the islands, biodiversity, geodiversity, and geothermal resources.

Optionally you have the opportunity for a thermal bath in Caldeira Velha’s hot springs, or alternatively further ahead on the refreshing cold waterfall of Salto do Cabrito, surrounded by untouched beautiful lush green flora. With any time left, further down the mountain you can visit Ribeira Grande’s historical centre and 16th century fountain of Largo de São Pedro, ending at northern Santa Barbara Beach.

At 17:15 it is time to head back to the Marina for check-out.

Know before you go:

• Eat light, and bring your personal water supply, towel, swim suit, a full change of warm clothing, sunscreen and chapstick for the Sun. Light food is permitted onboard, and a Camera is essential, specially for photography lovers - protect any personal equipment!
• Special Dietary Restrictions must be notified upon reservation for required adjustments.
  
• NOT for anyone pregnant, with weak back, in wheelchair, in delicate health conditions, or under the age of 4.
• HOT SPRINGS WATER is abnormally hot and untreated, and bathing is unsuitable to anyone pregnant, or with recent surgery or trauma or unhealed wounds, or any chronic condition. Volcanic water will damage swimwear color - use one you can spare!

Includes: 

• Guided Marine Wildlife Tour
  
• Guided Van Tour (air-conditioned)
• Lunch with local food, inclusive of entree, main, complimentary drinks and dessert
• Admission to Caldeira Velha's environmental interpretation centre and Hot Springs bathing
  
• Insurance

Does not include:

• Hotel Pickup and Drop-off
  
• Personal Water supply
• Personal Swimwear