Ribeira de Maloás
Discover Ribeira de Maloás, a hidden Azorean waterfall cascading over rare basalt columns. An adventurous journey to a unique natural spectacle.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best light for photos
Ribeira de Maloás
Best Time
Best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Ribeira de Maloás, a hidden Azorean waterfall cascading over rare basalt columns. An adventurous journey to a unique natural spectacle.
"This hidden gem is very hard to find due to the total lack of road signs, but the spectacle of nature is unique."
🗺️ Navigate with GPS
Road signs are scarce. Use GPS and a good map to find this hidden gem on Santa Maria Island.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be uneven. Comfortable, waterproof hiking boots are recommended for the trek.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Basalt Column Waterfall
Ribeira de Maloás
Witness a rare natural spectacle: a waterfall cascading over hexagonal basalt columns, reminiscent of Iceland's famous formations.
The Journey Itself
South of Santa Maria Island
The adventure of finding this secluded spot, navigating unmarked paths, and experiencing the raw nature of Santa Maria.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Finding This Hidden Gem
Embrace the Fog and Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Ribeira de Maloás, St. Maria Island, Azores, Portugal
🗺️ Navigate with GPS
Road signs are scarce. Use GPS and a good map to find this hidden gem on Santa Maria Island.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be uneven. Comfortable, waterproof hiking boots are recommended for the trek.
☁️ Be Prepared for Fog
Weather changes quickly. Fog can add to the atmosphere but be mindful of visibility on the trail.
📸 Capture the Spectacle
Bring your camera to photograph the unique basalt columns and the powerful waterfall.
Tips
from all over the internet
🗺️ Navigate with GPS
Road signs are scarce. Use GPS and a good map to find this hidden gem on Santa Maria Island.
🥾 Wear Sturdy Shoes
The trail can be uneven. Comfortable, waterproof hiking boots are recommended for the trek.
☁️ Be Prepared for Fog
Weather changes quickly. Fog can add to the atmosphere but be mindful of visibility on the trail.
📸 Capture the Spectacle
Bring your camera to photograph the unique basalt columns and the powerful waterfall.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the spectacular, rare beauty of the Ribeira de Maloás waterfall, particularly its unique basalt columns. The challenging journey to find this hidden gem is often described as an adventure, with the raw, natural landscape of Santa Maria Island being a significant part of its charm. While the lack of signage and the moderate hike can be challenging, the reward is a truly unique natural spectacle.
"I had discovered this spectacular place from the documentation originally done for this trip. I really wanted to get to the island of Santa Maria, to see this unique waterfall first of all. In Iceland, because of the weather, we didn't get to a famous waterfall formed on volcanic basalt columns, and we were hoping to see this spectacle of nature in the Azores, but unique only in Santa Maria.
This hidden gem is very hard to find due to the total lack of road signs, if you don't know that it exists somewhere in the south of the island, you have no chance of finding it. With a speeding fog on our trail we managed to find and cover the whole route."
Ioana Beldean
"Spectacular"
ALDA MORAIS
""
Andreia Silva
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Finding Ribeira de Maloás is challenging as there are very few road signs. It's located in the south of Santa Maria Island. Using a GPS device or a reliable map app is highly recommended. Be prepared for an adventurous drive and hike to reach the waterfall.
While you can drive towards the general area, the final approach to the waterfall involves a hike. The roads leading to the vicinity might be unpaved or rough, so a vehicle suitable for varied terrain is advisable, though not strictly necessary if you're prepared for a longer walk from a more accessible point.
A standard car can get you close, but if you plan to explore more remote parts of Santa Maria, a vehicle with higher clearance or 4x4 capabilities might be beneficial. However, for Ribeira de Maloás specifically, focus on navigation rather than the vehicle type.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ribeira de Maloás is a natural attraction and does not have an entrance fee. Access is free, allowing visitors to experience its natural beauty without cost.
As a natural site, Ribeira de Maloás does not have set opening or closing hours. It is accessible during daylight hours, which is recommended for safety and for appreciating the scenery.
No, booking tickets in advance is not necessary as there is no admission fee or structured entry system for Ribeira de Maloás. It's a natural wonder you can visit at your leisure.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The best way to experience Ribeira de Maloás is to hike the trail leading to the waterfall and take time to admire the unique basalt columns. The journey is as rewarding as the destination.
The difficulty of the hike can vary depending on recent weather conditions and your fitness level. It's generally considered a moderate hike, requiring sturdy footwear and some awareness of the terrain.
Bring water, snacks, a camera, and wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes. A light rain jacket is also advisable due to the unpredictable weather.
Swimming is generally not recommended at the base of the waterfall due to the powerful water flow and potentially slippery rocks. It's best to admire the waterfall from a safe distance.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photography spots are from the trail leading up to the waterfall, offering views of the surrounding landscape, and from the base of the waterfall itself, capturing the unique basalt columns and the cascading water.
Daylight hours are best for photography. Mid-morning or late afternoon can offer softer light, but the dramatic nature of the basalt columns and waterfall can be captured throughout the day.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the waterfall and basalt formations. A tripod can be useful for longer exposures to smooth out the water flow, especially if conditions are dim.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological Marvel of Basalt Columns
Witnessing these natural pillars up close is an unforgettable experience. The sheer scale and precision of the basalt columns, combined with the dynamic movement of the waterfall, create a scene that feels both powerful and serene. It’s a testament to the incredible geological forces that have shaped the Azores archipelago over millennia.
For photographers and nature enthusiasts, Ribeira de Maloás offers a unique opportunity to capture striking images. The contrast between the dark, geometric basalt and the white, flowing water is visually compelling. Visiting after rainfall can enhance the waterfall's power, making for even more dramatic shots, though caution is advised due to slippery conditions.
Navigating to a Hidden Paradise
Travelers often describe the drive as part of the charm, with winding roads and changing landscapes. Once you reach the vicinity, a moderate hike is typically required to reach the waterfall. This trek allows you to immerse yourself in the island's natural environment, with the anticipation building as you get closer to the sound of the water.
It's crucial to wear appropriate footwear, such as hiking boots, as the trails can be uneven and potentially muddy, especially after rain. Being prepared for the elements, including potential fog, is also key to enjoying the hike and the eventual reward of seeing the spectacular waterfall.
Social
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