Waterfalls in São Miguel Island

Majestic Waterfalls

São Miguel’s volcanic landscape features a diverse range of waterfalls, from the iron-rich thermal cascades of Caldeira Velha to the 40-meter drop of Salto da Farinha. Many of these sites, such as those within the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, are integrated with historic watermills and lush Macaronesian flora. The island’s unique geology also creates distinctive features like the vibrant turquoise basin of Poço Azul and the warm-water falls near Ribeira Quente.

José Luís Ávila Silveira/Pedro Noronha… / Public domain

Caldeira Velha

A warm, iron-rich waterfall that feeds into natural thermal pools. It is set within a lush environmental interpretation center featuring diverse fern species and volcanic steam vents.

Anselmo Baptista / CC-BY-SA

Ribeira Quente's Waterfall

Located between two road tunnels, this waterfall is unique for its thermal influence, resulting in warmer water temperatures than most island cascades.

Bruno / CC-BY-SA

Salto do Cagarrão

A secluded waterfall reached via a hiking trail near Faial da Terra. It offers a quieter alternative to the nearby Salto do Prego, surrounded by dense forest.

Cascata da Ribeira da Salga

A multi-tiered cascade often utilized for canyoning. It is located near the village of Salga and features a picnic area and access to the coastline.

Salto do Rosal

Situated at the end of a woodland trail within the Mata-Jardim José do Canto. The waterfall drops down a sheer basalt cliff into a shallow basin.

Achada do Nordeste

Part of the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, this area features several cascades integrated with restored 16th-century watermills and landscaped gardens.

elsarsilva / CC-BY-SA

Poço Azul

A small waterfall famous for the intense blue color of its crystal-clear pool, accessible via a hiking trail in the Achada area.

Salto da Farinha

A 40-meter-high waterfall that is most impressive during the rainy season. A nearby viewpoint offers vistas of the fall and the northern coastline.

Sylvain / CC-BY-SA

Cascata da Ribeira Caldeirões 1

The primary waterfall within the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, easily accessible from the main road and surrounded by hydrangeas and tree ferns.