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1. Algar do Carvão

Important: Algar do Carvão is currently closed for renovation work until approximately June 2026. Check their official website for the most up-to-date information.


Algar do Carvão is one of the most impressive places on Terceira Island and one of those visits that helps you understand why the Azores are a truly unique volcanic territory. It is an ancient volcano that can be explored from the inside — something very rare in the world — as the lava solidified on the walls of the conduit and prevented the volcano from collapsing.


Algar do Carvão was formed following a series of volcanic eruptions that took place more than 3,000 years ago. In its final phase, the magma dropped sharply into deeper layers, leaving behind this vast hollow that you can visit today. This natural process is responsible for one of the most singular volcanic formations in the Azores.


On the visit to Algar do Carvão, you will descend more than 300 steps into the earth, reaching a depth of close to 90 meters. As you make your way down, you'll see the landscape change completely, with lava walls, unexpected vegetation growing inside the volcano, and a small lagoon at the bottom — something truly spectacular. The feeling of being inside a real volcano stays with you throughout the entire visit.


Algar do Carvão is also located in an area of great natural interest, very close to some of the most visited spots on Terceira. Just a few minutes away by car you can visit the Furnas do Enxofre, the Gruta do Natal, the Negro Lagoon, or take one of the most beautiful hiking trails on the island, the PRC01TER trail through the Mistérios Negros. For this reason, we recommend combining several visits in this area in a single morning or afternoon.


A visit to Algar do Carvão is usually paired with the Gruta do Natal, as there is a combined ticket that saves you money on the total price. It is a great option if you want to discover two very different volcanic spaces on the same day.


Visitor information:

  • Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday, from 2:30 PM to 5:30 PM (last entry 15 minutes before closing).

  • Admission: €10 per person.

  • Combined ticket: Algar do Carvão + Gruta do Natal for €15.

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