A dormant volcanic chimney on Terceira that visitors descend into by stairway, reaching almost 100 meters below ground through a wide vertical cave chamber hung with rare stalactites formed from silica rather than the usual limestone. A small lake sits at the bottom of the chamber, and daylight filters down through the open crater mouth above.
Algar do Carvão is a dormant volcanic chimney on Terceira that visitors descend into by a built stairway, reaching almost 100 meters below ground through a wide vertical cave chamber. Unlike most lava caves in the Azores, its walls are hung with rare stalactites formed from silica rather than limestone, a mineral condition found in very few caves worldwide. A small lake sits at the bottom of the chamber, and daylight filters down through the open crater mouth far above, creating a dramatic shaft of light that shifts through the day. The descent and return on the stairway, plus time at the bottom chamber, takes 30 to 45 minutes for most visitors. Because the site limits the number of people inside the chamber at any one time, arriving early in the opening window reduces waiting. Hours are reduced between October and December, so checking the current schedule before visiting is worthwhile, particularly outside the main summer season.
| Admission | Adult €10 (approx $10.80) · Child Reduced rate, verify current pricing locally |
|---|---|
| Hours | Daily, 2PM-6PM; reduced hours October-December, verify locally |
| Typical visit | 30-45 minutes |
| Best time | Early in the opening window, since the cave admits a limited number of visitors at a time |
| Getting there | Rental car, about 20 minutes from Angra do Heroísmo |
| Address | Algar do Carvão, 9700 Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira, Azores, Portugal |
Weather through the year in Portugal
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Portugal.
Location
Algar do Carvão, 9700 Angra do Heroísmo, Terceira, Azores, Portugal
38.7256, -27.2764 View on map
Highlights
- Vertical volcanic chimney descending nearly 100 meters underground
- Rare silica stalactites unlike the limestone caves elsewhere
- Small lake at the chamber floor lit by the open crater mouth
- Stairway descent through a dramatic natural light shaft
Tips for visiting
- Arrive early in the opening window, since visitor numbers inside the chamber are limited
- Wear non-slip shoes, as the stairway can be damp
- Check reduced October-December hours before planning a visit
- Bring a light jacket, since the cave interior stays cool
When to visit
Early in the daily opening window, since the cave admits a limited number of visitors at a time.
Accessibility
The site is reached by a built stairway with no elevator, making it inaccessible to wheelchairs and difficult for visitors with limited mobility.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit take?
The descent, chamber visit, and return typically take 30-45 minutes.
Is it worth it for kids?
Yes for children comfortable with stairs, though the descent is fairly steep and long.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, photography is allowed, though low light makes a steady hand or tripod useful.