The tour starts with a short briefing introducing the volcanic islet’s geology, plant and animal species that can be found on the islet, the nature reserve’s rules, and safety.
Everyone will follow the Biologist guide, an official Nature Guide of São Miguel Nature Park, and Skipper, to their designated boat for a 10-minute journey by sea to the islet.
Disembark at the islet’s harbor, for an hour-and-a-half walking tour to explore the volcanic marvel paths and its notorious features. The islet crater is rocky with endemic Azorean Heather, Firetree and other flora species making this a beautiful living habitat for wildlife, and often birds can be observed, such as Buzzards, Turnstones, Sanderlings, Little Egrets, Whimbrels, Canaries, Wagtails, and even Sally lightfoot crab colonies!
It is rich in life all year, especially in autumn and winter. Your specialized biologist guide will keep you informed on what you are observing with in-depth information and expertise about seasonal species and migratory behavior, and is available throughout your tour to provide answers to any specific questions - feel free to ask!
Upon return, the boat will tour around the Islet of Vila Franca for a closer look at the geological marvel, resident water life, and dramatic volcanic rock formations. At 16:15 it is time to be back to the Marina for check-out.
