5 outdoor activities to do on Pico Island, in the Azores

Pico is the second largest island in the Azores Archipelago. It is also known as the Black Island due to its dark surface, a result of the Pico Volcano, which erupted several times until 1718.

An island with unique characteristics and ideal for outdoor activities, here are 5 outdoor activities to do on Pico Island.

### #01 Vineyards

Património da Vinha
Fotografia de António Faria

The vineyards of Pico are quite ancient, with their viticulture origins dating back to the 15th century.

These [unique and breathtaking landscapes](https://byacores.com/en/vineyard-landscape-on-pico-island/) were built by man, with stone walls arranged in a grid pattern running inland and parallel to the rocky coast. This pattern was exclusively organized to protect the vineyards from wind and seawater.

Take advantage of your visit to Pico to explore this fantastic landscape and also to taste unique wines. The grapes have an intense flavor thanks to the volcanic soil, which gives the wine an exuberant minerality.

### #02 Montanha do Pico

**Montanha do Pico** is the highest mountain in Portugal, standing at 2,351 meters above sea level.

Volcanic eruptions occurred several times: once in the 1560s and again in 1718. As a result, there is a crater that tourists can visit at the summit, called Pico Alto. You can hike the trails and climb to the top, but you should do so with certified companies or guides.

The ideal time of year to [climb Montanha do Pico](https://byacores.com/montanha-do-pico/) is in spring and autumn. In winter months, the trek can be treacherous due to snow and strong winds.

The effort and climb are undoubtedly worth it, as stunning views of Pico and the neighboring islands await you at the top.

### #03 Gruta das Torres

Although not entirely an outdoor activity, it offers the same natural feel.

[Gruta das Torres](http://parquesnaturais.azores.gov.pt/pt/pico/o-que-visitar/centros-de-interpretacao/centro-de-visitantes-da-gruta-das-torres), also known as the underground lava tube, consists of a series of caves located in the western part of Pico, in the town of Madalena.

During your visit, you will walk through interconnected lava tubes formed from a series of lava flows between 500 to 15,000 years ago. The diameter of the tubes varies between 2 to 72 feet, and the height of the cave ranges from 4 to 49 feet, with elevations up to 980 feet. Altogether, the lava cave is over 3.2 miles long.

Put on the protective helmet with an embedded light and explore this fantastic place. You will have the opportunity to learn about geology and the history of these tunnels during the visit.

### #04 Whale Watching

In the past, whaling was quite active on Pico, with whale fat and bones used as raw materials to produce goods such as animal feed, oil, fertilizers, and teeth. In 1986, this industry was permanently ended. Ten years later, a public museum was opened to showcase all the machines and equipment used in whaling.

Today, Pico Island hosts the [whale and dolphin watching](https://byacores.com/observacao-cetaceos/) industry, which is ecologically sustainable. The ultimate goal is to actively participate in the study and protection of these species.

Due to Pico’s geographical location, you can find 20 species of cetaceans (whales, dolphins) swimming through their migratory routes. The visibility rate is 98%. The activity is active throughout the year, with the probability of successful sightings being higher between March and October.

**Don’t miss:** [The best tourism companies in the Azores](https://byacores.com/negocio/turismo)

### #05 Shark Diving

An [ideal activity](http://www.cwazores.com/shark-diving-azores-2018.aspx) for adventure and adrenaline lovers.

The waters surrounding Pico Island receive nutrients from the Gulf Stream, creating a rich and varied habitat. Mobulas and sharks arrive at a diving spot called Princess Alice, about 50 miles from Pico.

This activity is perfect for learning about and understanding these often-misunderstood animals. Throughout the activity, professional underwater guides will teach you about these fantastic creatures. The activity typically lasts 5 to 6 hours.

**Have fun on your stay in Pico and enjoy the adventure!**

### More activities on Pico Island

**See also:**

• Places not to miss on Pico Island
• Everything you need to know to climb Montanha do Pico