Terms and Conditions of Use

By using the official Gruta do Carvão website and booking guided visits, you agree to comply with the conditions described on this page, prepared according to the guidelines published by Amigos dos Açores.

Updated on 6 November 2025

1. Bookings and Visits

Access to Gruta do Carvão is granted exclusively through guided tours, subject to booking and available capacity.

  • Tours only take place with accredited guides from Amigos dos Açores.
  • The short visit lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes and runs daily at 10:30, 11:30, 14:30, 15:30 and 16:30, with a limited number of participants per slot.
  • The long visit lasts between 2 and 3 hours and is available by advance booking and confirmation from the guiding team.
  • Early booking is recommended to secure availability, especially during peak demand periods.
  • Guided tours are provided in Portuguese and English; other languages must be requested when booking.

2. Pricing and Payments

The listed prices refer to the guided visits currently available and may change following official updates.

  • Short visit: €10 for adults; €8 for students and seniors aged 65 or over.
  • Residents of the Autonomous Region of the Azores, Amigos dos Açores members and Interjovem card holders are entitled to a free short visit.
  • Long visit: €30 per participant and requires confirmed booking in advance.
  • Payments must be completed using the methods provided during booking or onsite, according to the instructions from the team.

3. Age Restrictions and Accessibility

Safety is a priority and specific rules apply to minors and to visitors with reduced mobility.

  • The long visit is available only to participants aged 10 or above.
  • A valid identification document is required for underage participants.
  • The cave is not accessible to people with reduced mobility due to stair access and uneven flooring.

4. Visitor Conduct and Responsibilities

Visitors must preserve the natural monument and follow every instruction shared by the guides.

  • Appropriate non-slip footwear and clothing suited to a humid, cooler environment are mandatory.
  • All safety briefings delivered by the guides before and during the visit must be followed.
  • Photography and video recording are permitted, with or without flash, provided the group experience is not disrupted.
  • Any action that may damage geological formations or disturb local biodiversity is strictly forbidden.

5. Changes, Cancellations and Limitations

Amigos dos Açores may adjust visits whenever operational or safety reasons justify it.

  • Bookings may be rescheduled or cancelled by the organisation due to maintenance, adverse weather conditions or safety requirements.
  • If a visit is cancelled by the organisation, an alternative date or, when applicable, a refund will be offered.
  • Participation may be refused to visitors who fail to comply with these terms or who display behaviour that compromises safety or conservation.

6. Data Protection and Communications

Data collected through this website is used to manage bookings and official communications.

  • Contact details are used to confirm bookings, provide useful updates and communicate any changes.
  • Data is processed according to applicable legislation and the Privacy Policy of Amigos dos Açores.
  • Visitors may request to update or delete their personal data using the official contact channels.