Ribeira Grande Historic Center
Immerse yourself in a lush, tropical paradise at Caldeira Velha's natural thermal pools, featuring a stunning waterfall.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Ribeira Grande Historic Center
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Immerse yourself in a lush, tropical paradise at Caldeira Velha's natural thermal pools, featuring a stunning waterfall.
"A fantastic experience that I 100% recommend, truly one of a kind!"
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Essential to secure your time slot and avoid disappointment.
👙 Arrive in Swimwear
Save time; changing cabins are basic and can be busy.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cascading Waterfall Pool
Upper thermal pool
The coolest pool, nestled beneath a lush waterfall, offers a refreshing dip and stunning photo ops.
Warm Thermal Pools
Lower thermal pools
Three smaller pools with varying warm temperatures provide a deeply relaxing jungle-like spa experience.
Lush Tropical Vegetation
Immerse yourself in a vibrant, green oasis that creates a truly magical and peaceful atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Slot in Advance
Arrive Ready to Relax
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Essential to secure your time slot and avoid disappointment.
👙 Arrive in Swimwear
Save time; changing cabins are basic and can be busy.
🎒 Pack Light for Lockers
Lockers are small, best for essentials.
📸 Capture the Waterfall
The top pool with the waterfall is a prime photo spot.
Ponta Delgada v Ribeira Grande
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tickets Online
Essential to secure your time slot and avoid disappointment.
👙 Arrive in Swimwear
Save time; changing cabins are basic and can be busy.
🎒 Pack Light for Lockers
Lockers are small, best for essentials.
📸 Capture the Waterfall
The top pool with the waterfall is a prime photo spot.
🐔 Befriend the Roosters
Two friendly roosters often roam the grounds!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the magical, jungle-like atmosphere of Caldeira Velha's thermal pools, praising the beautiful waterfall and relaxing warm waters. While the facilities are basic and can get crowded, the unique natural setting and rejuvenating experience make it a highly recommended stop on São Miguel.
"A beautiful natural setting with four thermal pools of varying temperatures. The coolest one is at the top, just beneath a small waterfall — perfect for a refreshing contrast to the warmer lower pools. The facility is located about 200 meters from the entrance. Everything is clean, well organized. The pools are surrounded by greenery, giving the whole place a very relaxing jungle vibe. Changing cabins are simple wooden structures under a shelter and aren't very spacious. The ones at the top tend to be less crowded. Lockers are available (for a fee) and just big enough for a small backpack. There are also several benches where you can leave your belongings, but be aware that there is no large shelter in case of rain. Toilets and showers are available on site, though queues are common during busy hours. One ticket gives you 1.5 hours in the pools, but you can still enjoy the surrounding area outside of that time. I highly recommend booking your tickets online in advance. You can select a specific time slot for your visit and make sure there’s availability when you arrive. Overall, it’s a fantastic experience that I 100% recommend."
Petr Weiss
"I had such a magical time at Caldeira Velha, it’s peaceful and beautiful. If you’re lucky it’ll rain while you’re there, really such a cool place. There’s not many bathrooms though, but there’s plenty of changing rooms."
Chiara De Quay
"I loved the free parking lot of this place, there are two roosters walking around that really love some attention. You can take some nice pictures of these gorgeous animals, but becarefull, m they have a suspicious look in their eyes. They even convinced me of feeding them a banana, after which they fell in love with me. This makes it hard to leave the place, especially if you are not into long distance relationships with roosters...
The hot springs are nice too, very beautiful but very crowded as well. I'd advice to go as early as possible so you can take some nice pictures without people posing.
There are also changing cabinets at the top of the site with lockers. They are less busy so I'd recommend to use these to avoid waiting in line."
Ewoud Van Looy
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Caldeira Velha is located in Ribeira Grande. The easiest way to get there is by car, which takes about 30-40 minutes from Ponta Delgada. Parking is available on-site.
While public transport exists on São Miguel, it's less convenient for reaching Caldeira Velha directly. Renting a car or taking a taxi/tour is generally recommended for ease of access.
The drive is scenic, passing through charming towns and lush landscapes. Roads are generally well-maintained, but can be winding in some areas.
Yes, many guided tours of São Miguel Island include a stop at Caldeira Velha, offering a convenient way to visit without driving.
Renting a car provides the most flexibility to explore Ribeira Grande and its natural attractions like Caldeira Velha at your own pace.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices are typically around 10 EUR for adults, with additional fees for lockers. It's highly recommended to check the official website for current pricing and to book in advance.
Yes, booking tickets online in advance is strongly advised, as visits are time-slotted and popular slots fill up quickly.
Your ticket typically allows for a 1.5-hour visit to the thermal pools. You can explore the surrounding area outside of this time.
Information on discounts for children or seniors is not widely publicized, but it's always worth checking the official booking platform for any available offers.
It's best to arrive on time for your booked slot. Policies for missed slots can vary, so it's advisable to contact the venue directly if you anticipate a delay.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
There are four natural pools: the top one with a waterfall is the coldest (around 24°C), while the three lower pools are warmer (around 40°C).
Yes, simple wooden changing cabins and toilets are available. Showers are also on-site, but queues can form during busy periods.
Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted within the pool areas. There might be designated areas for consumption, but it's best to confirm upon arrival.
Children can enjoy the pools, especially the cooler waterfall pool. However, the warmer pools might be too hot for very young children. Adult supervision is essential.
Bring your swimwear, a towel, flip-flops or water shoes, and a small bag for your belongings. Sunscreen is also recommended if visiting during the day.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The waterfall pool is incredibly photogenic. The lush greenery surrounding all the pools also provides beautiful backdrops.
Visiting during the earliest time slots or on weekdays can help you capture photos with fewer people in the background.
Yes, the resident roosters are quite friendly and make for unique photo opportunities. Just be mindful of their space.
Drone usage is typically restricted in natural parks and protected areas. It's best to check local regulations or inquire on-site before flying a drone.
A waterproof phone or camera is ideal for capturing shots near the pools. A wide-angle lens can help capture the lush environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families include arriving early to avoid crowds and potential meltdowns, and packing light for the changing facilities. Consider bringing water shoes for easier navigation around the pools. While there's a fee for lockers, they can be useful for securing valuables while the kids explore.
🌿 Nature Lovers & Hikers
While Caldeira Velha itself is more of a relaxation spot than a hiking destination, it's often part of a larger exploration of São Miguel's natural wonders. Combine your visit with nearby hiking trails or other natural attractions in the Ribeira Grande area for a full day of outdoor adventure.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Thermal Pools Experience
The pools vary in temperature, with the highest pool, situated just below a small waterfall, being the coolest and most refreshing. The lower pools are significantly warmer, providing a soothing warmth that many find therapeutic. The water temperature in these lower pools can reach around 40°C, offering a stark contrast to the cooler air.
While the experience is generally tranquil, it can get crowded, especially during peak hours. Redditors suggest arriving early or booking the first available time slot to enjoy the pools with fewer people. The changing cabins are basic, so arriving ready to swim is a common tip to maximize your time in the water.
Navigating Crowds and Timing
Travelers frequently advise booking the earliest available time slot, typically starting around 9:00 AM. This strategy allows you to experience the pools with significantly fewer people, making for a more peaceful and enjoyable visit. It also provides better opportunities for photography without crowds in the background.
If you can't secure an early slot, visiting on a weekday rather than a weekend can also help mitigate crowds. Be prepared for potential queues for changing rooms and showers during busier periods. The upper changing cabins are often noted as being less crowded than those closer to the entrance.
Photography Opportunities
Beyond the main pools, keep an eye out for the resident roosters that often wander the grounds. These charismatic birds can add a unique and charming element to your photos. Capturing the steam rising from the thermal waters, especially in the cooler morning air, can also create atmospheric and moody shots.
To get the best shots, consider visiting during the early morning hours when the light is soft and crowds are minimal. A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the expansive greenery, while a waterproof camera or phone is ideal for getting close to the pools without worry.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit