Gruta do Natal

Ever wanted to walk inside a lava tube? Gruta do Natal, or Christmas Cave, on Terceira Island is your chance. Unlike Algar do Carvao, which takes you into a volcanic chimney, this cave was formed by flowing lava, carving out a network of tunnels beneath the island. Walking through it feels like exploring the veins of a volcano, it's dark, rugged, and full of unique formations that remind you just how alive this island once was. What's Cool About It? Lava-Carved Tunnels: The walls are rough, rocky, and twisted, shaped by molten lava thousands of years ago. You'll see formations that look like dripping candle wax, evidence of lava solidifying mid-flow. A Ceiling Collapse View: At one point, a section of the cave collapsed, letting in a natural skylight, one of the coolest spots to stop and take a picture. Easy and Safe to Explore: A marked trail with wooden walkways and railings makes it safe to navigate without needing serious caving skills.

Tips for Visiting

Wear a Helmet: The cave's ceilings are low in places, and trust me, hitting your head on volcanic rock isn't fun. Helmets are provided at the entrance, wear one!
Good Shoes Are a Must: The floor can be uneven and sometimes damp, so hiking boots or sturdy sneakers are your best bet.
Bring a Light Jacket: It stays cool and damp underground, even on warm days.
Pair It with Algar do Carvao: Since Gruta do Natal is a short visit (about 30 minutes), it's a great stop before or after visiting Algar do Carvao, which is just a short drive away.