Faial: Living Among Volcanoes and the Memory of Earthquakes

Olá! I’m João, a native of the Azores, born and raised on the island of São Jorge. Growing up among volcanic landscapes, "fajãs", forests, and cliffs, being close to nature was simply part of everyday life. I’m now based in Faial, where that early connection continues to shape the way I explore the island and guide today. I hold a degree in Nature and Heritage from the University of the Azores and began guiding professionally in 2015 at the Faial Botanical Garden, an environmental center managed by the Azores Government. I started there as an intern and went on to work in conservation and environmental education, eventually leading the center's education program. My work included botanical garden tours, guided hikes, thematic visits, and specialized descents to the Caldeira do Faial Natural Reserve. During this time, I became an accredited Faial Nature Park Guide and completed an interpretation course with Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI) in Italy. In 2018, I joined the LIFE VIDALIA conservation project as operational coordinator, focusing on community engagement, environmental awareness, and guided visits to intervention areas. I remained with the project for five years before moving to Faial Environmental Services, where I continue to work on conservation initiatives. Wanting to bring this experience into a more personal, guest-focused setting, I launched my own tour program in 2025, combining my background in conservation and education with a love of exploration and sharing the Azores’ natural and cultural heritage. The tours I provide take travelers to Faial’s must-see spots as well as to a few hidden gems, often using a classic off-road 4x4 to follow alternative routes, back roads, and lesser-known tracks, far from the crowds. I aim to share Faial’s natural history and wonders clearly, always informally and conversationally, never as a lecture. I don’t try to explain everything, but rather to help you notice the landscape, understand a few key stories behind it, and simply enjoy being there. Each tour is adaptable, and I’m always happy to adjust the experience to your interests or pace — just feel free to get in touch if you have any special requests. My experiences are relaxed yet adventurous, blending nature and culture, and always leaving time to slow down and truly experience a place. When the moment feels right, there is space for a quiet pause, maybe to brew a cup of tea or coffee outdoors, giving time for the water to boil and the place to sink in. For your peace of mind, I am fully insured, with public liability and personal accident coverage, and registered as a Tourism Animation Agent under RRAAT no. 44/2025/RAA. Above all, I want you to feel comfortable, enjoy yourself, and leave feeling connected to Faial and the Azores, with a few good stories to take home. I’d love to show you around. Just don’t mind if we keep it a little off the beaten path.