en
- Adventure
- 15-day trip
- From €5,995 p.p.
Azores trip | Island hopping in the Azores
On this wonderful trip, enjoy three different islands of the extraordinary Azores archipelago. Immerse yourself in enchanting natural landscapes found nowhere else in Europe and spot whales and dolphins in this wildlife paradise. You’ll begin your journey on the main island of São Miguel, a place where the natural beauty will take you by surprise. Take a walk to the Lagoa do Fogo (Lake of Fire). Next, you’ll visitTerceira Island, where, in addition to cultural and culinary highlights, you can also go sea kayaking. Finally, you’ll head to Pico Island, which is renowned for its unique vineyards. On an optional wine tour, you’ll learn all about how the wine is grown here and, of course, you’ll also get to taste the local wines. Return to São Miguel for some final activities such as snorkelling, and kayaking and cycling adventures!
Travel programme
Travel overview
- Day 1 Start of your journey
- Day 2 Canyoning adventure
- Day 3 Cycling and kayaking in Lagoa das Sete Cidades
- Day 4 Journey to Terceira
- Day 5 Free day and an authentic dinner with locals
- Day 6 Walking tour of Fortes de São Sebastião
- Day 7 Free day on Terceira
- Day 8 Journey to Pico Island
- Day 9 Cave tour on Terceira
- Day 10 Sea kayaking along the coast
- Day 11 Free day
- Day 12 Whale-watching tour
- Day 13 Return journey to Ponta Delgada, São Miguel
- Day 14 Snork elling at the Vila Franca do Campo Islet
- Day 15 End of your trip
Start your journey
Your journey begins on the Portuguese archipelago of the Azores, a hidden gem in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. After arriving on the island of São Miguel, also called the 'green island' because of its lush nature and volcanic landscapes, you will pick up your rental car at the airport. This gives you complete freedom to explore the island at your own pace. You will drive to your hotel on your own. On the way, you will get to know the impressive nature: rolling hills, hydrangeas in bloom and the smell of the ocean welcome you.
Inclusief:
- Rental car Renault Clio or similar
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Exclusief:
- International flight
Canyoning adventure
An active and spectacular experience is scheduled: a canyoneering adventure. Accompanied by experienced and certified guides, you will enter an impressive landscape of gorges, waterfalls and natural pools formed by centuries of volcanic activity. During the tour, you will jump, slide and abseil through a pristine piece of nature, far off the beaten track. You will descend past glistening waterfalls, get carried away by crystal-clear mountain water and brave rock formations in an environment only accessible on foot and with ropes. Rappelling down high waterfalls is an unforgettable experience: you will feel the cooling spray on your face while experiencing the power and purity of nature up close. During the adventure, the guides will capture the best moments for you with photos and videos, giving you a tangible memory of this unique activity.
Inclusief:
- Rental car
- Group excursion: half-day Canyoning excursion
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Cycling and kayaking in Lagoa das Sete Cidades
In the morning, you have an excursion planned where you will go kayaking in Lake Sete Cidades. You will make your own way to Lagoa das Sete Cidades, one of the island's most beautiful lakes. On the way, stop at the Vista do Rei viewpoint to enjoy the panoramic views. Kayaks, sups and mountain bikes are at your disposal at the activity centre. This is the best way to enjoy the magical nature of the Azores. From here, you will visit Lagoa das Sete Cidades yourself- two crater lakes consisting of the Lagoa Azul (blue) and the Lagoa Verde (green). Start your cycling and kayaking tour at the activity centre on the shore of the lake. Paddle a kayak across the crystal-clear lake and admire the beautiful surroundings from the water. Then cycle on your own through this beautiful region and explore.
Inclusief:
- Rental car
- Excursion: Bike and kayak tour in Sete Cidades including equipment (self-guided)
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Travel to Terceira
After a final morning on São Miguel, drive to the airport, where your domestic flight to the island of Terceira awaits you. Upon arrival on Terceira, your rental car is already waiting for you, with which you will drive to your accommodation on your own. Unlike lush green São Miguel, Terceira stands out for its volcanic relief, vast lava fields and colourful architecture. A definite highlight is the capital Angra do Heroísmo, an atmospheric town full of pastel-coloured facades, churches and charming streets opening onto squares and viewpoints over the sea. Angra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site for good reason: the city is a magnificent example of Portuguese colonial town planning and has a rich history as a stopover on trade routes between Europe and the New World.
Inclusief:
- Domestic flights Ponta Delgada - Terceira
- Rental car Renault Clio or similar
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Free day and authentic dinner with locals
During the day, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the island of Terceira at your own pace. Drive past green hills and dramatic cliffs, visit historic villages, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet at your accommodation.
In the evening, a special experience awaits: you’ll be a guest of a local family for a traditional home-cooked dinner. On Terceira, hospitality is a deeply rooted value, and tonight you’ll have the chance to experience it first-hand. Seated around the kitchen table, you’ll share stories, learn more about Azorean culture and sample the famous ‘Alcatra’, a slow-cooked stew from the wood-fired oven, rich in flavour and prepared according to a family recipe. The dinner is complemented by side dishes, a homemade dessert and a selection of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.
Inclusief:
- Rental car
- Excursion: traditional dinner with local family
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Walking excursion Fortes de São Sebastião
After breakfast, a beautiful walking excursion is on the programme. You will spend half a day hiking in the Fortes de São Sebastião area, located on the south-west coast of Terceira. This route will take you through a protected natural area designated for habitat management, where culture and nature come together in a unique way. During the hike, you will discover historic forts, quiet bays, lush forests and look out over some of the most beautiful islets lying offshore. The trail follows a linear route and is ideal for travellers who enjoy relaxed walking with occasional surprising views or cultural elements.
Inclusief:
- Rental car
- Excursion: half-day hike Fortes de São Sebastião
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Travel to Pico Island
You continue your journey to another magical place. You return your hire car at the airport and, from there, take a charter flight to the beautiful island of Pico. On arrival, a hire car will be waiting for you at the airport, which you can use to explore the stunning island over the coming days.
Welcome to Pico Island! This island is renowned for its exceptional UNESCO-listed vineyard heritage, so visiting various vineyards is highly recommended. In addition, those looking for a bit of adventure can choose to climb Mount Pico, Portugal’s highest mountain, or visit the Gruta das Torres, the world’s largest lava tunnel open to the public. Pico also boasts an impressive rock formation at Arcos do Cachorro and several beautiful crater lakes.
Inclusief:
- Domestic flights Terceira - Pico
- Rental car Renault Clio or similar
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Caves tour on Terceira
This half-day is dedicated to a special Cave Tour on Terceira. You’ll set off on a journey of discovery through the fascinating underground world the island has to offer. Accompanied by an expert guide, you’ll explore some of the most impressive lava caves formed during ancient volcanic eruptions.
During this tour, you’ll not only learn about the island’s geological history, but also admire up close the remarkable formations created by nature. These include lava stalactites, stalagmites and stalylites – unique structures that have formed over thousands of years as a result of the cooling and flow of lava. The mysterious atmosphere in the caves, combined with the silence and the almost otherworldly shapes of the rock, make this excursion an unforgettable experience. Your guide will tell you all about the origins of the caves, Terceira’s volcanic past and how these formations have been preserved.
Tips from the Travel Specialist
This tour is not recommended for people who are claustrophobic or do not like dark spaces.
Inclusief:
- Rental car
- Excursion: half-day caves tour
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Whale safari
For lovers of special nature experiences, there is a great opportunity to discover the impressive marine world of the Azores up close: a whale safari. During this unforgettable trip, you will sail out in search of some of the more than 28 different species of cetaceans found in this region. Although nature is always unpredictable and offers no guarantees, you may well spot whales and dolphins during the safari, which often swim curiously past the boat. You may also encounter turtles, sea birds and other fascinating marine life. This safari offers a unique and fascinating way to experience the rich marine life of the Azores.
Inclusief:
- Rental car
- Group excursion: half-day whale and dolphin spotting - zodiac boat
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Return trip to Ponta Delgada, São Miguel
After an unforgettable time in the Azores, board your flight back to Ponta Delgada on São Miguel today. Here begins the final part of your trip, where you can still enjoy the island's charm and beauty to the full. Whether you want to relax, explore the city further or take one last excursion, the next few days offer you the perfect opportunity to end your holiday in a relaxed and beautiful way.
Inclusief:
- Domestic flight Pico - Ponta Delgada
- Rental car (Renault Clio or similar)
- Accommodation including breakfast
Snorkelling Vila Franca do Campo Islet
To conclude your trip, you will go snorkelling in the sea, a unique experience to discover the region's rich marine life. You will depart by boat to the Vila Franca do Campo Islet Nature Reserve, a beautiful place close to historical relics such as 16th-century cannons. The activity starts with a clear explanation of apnea basics, equipment and swimming techniques, followed by a practical session explaining in-water safety procedures. You will then enjoy about an hour of snorkelling in the clear water, fully guided and at leisure.
Inclusief:
- Rental car
- Private excursion: Snorkelling Vila Franca do Campo Islet
- Overnight accommodation including breakfast
Accommodations
Herdade do Ananás
The rooms and suites at Herdade do Ananás are the result of careful renovation of a 100-year-old building, which was always owned by a family of merchants from the early days of Azorean trade. The hotel retains the charm of the past with vintage and elegant décor and offers a...
The rooms and suites at Herdade do Ananás are the result of careful renovation of a 100-year-old building, which was always owned by a family of merchants from the early days of Azorean trade. Retaining the charm of the past with vintage and elegant décor, the hotel offers a place of tranquillity surrounded by nature, where you can enjoy artisan breads, fresh fruit juice and walks through the gardens.
Located 3 km from the centre of Ponta Delgada, Herdade do Ananás is a magical place that reflects the tranquil beauty of the Azores. Enjoy unique moments around the fire of reclaimed wood from the trees, while sipping a glass of wine in the long and relaxing afternoons. In the middle of the fruit orchard is the fire pit, surrounded by comfortable chairs, so you can enjoy the softness of the surrounding nature in perfect harmony.
Positive impact:
Herdade do Ananás focuses on preserving natural resources for future generations. The hotel is autonomous in its irrigation, collecting rainwater and using it, among other things, for the gardens. The interior design combines reused furniture and natural lighting to reduce its carbon footprint. In addition, the hotel works with local suppliers to support the economy. The hotel is Green Key certified and if you are interested, there is the possibility of helping with pineapple planting.
Your stay: 3 nights
Terceira Mar Hotel
The Terceira Mar Hotel is located in Fanal Bay and overlooks the 16th-century fort. The hotel is surrounded by a garden with an infinity saltwater pool. It is just a stone's throw from the historic city centre of Angra do Heroísmo on Terceira island, which is classified by UNESCO as...
The Terceira Mar Hotel is located in Fanal Bay and overlooks the 16th-century fort. The hotel is surrounded by a garden with an infinity saltwater pool. It is just steps away from the historic city centre of Angra do Heroísmo on the island of Terceira, classified by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. All rooms overlook the ocean and are beautifully decorated and well equipped. The hotel's restaurant, Monte Brasil, serves a wide range of meals and there is an in-house bar where delicious sunset cocktails are enjoyed. Terceira Mar offers you a magical place with all the amenities you need combined with excellent service.
Your stay: 4 nights
Pico Terramar & Spa Hotel
Pico Terramar & Spa is located in Areia Larga, a village located on the coast of Pico Island, in the transition between the village of Madalena and the parish of Criação Velha. Historically, it was one of the favourite summer spots for the best society on the island of Faial and Pico, with several...
Pico Terramar & Spa is located in Areia Larga, a village located on the coast of Pico Island, in the transition between the village of Madalena and the parish of Criação Velha. Historically, it was one of the favourite summer spots for the best society on the island of Faial and Pico, with several mansions there, owned by families associated with the Pico wine trade, notably Verdelho.
There is a series of rock formations of volcanic origin, which are widely used for swimming in the sea, close to one of the oldest ports on the island of Pico, Porto da Areia Larga, a port that served as an alternative to Cais da Madalena when poor sea conditions made it necessary.
Verdelho wine producers created the custom of building summer houses there in the 18th and 19th centuries, a fact that gives the city its own unique atmosphere.
Your stay: 5 nights
Herdade do Ananás
The rooms and suites at Herdade do Ananás are the result of careful renovation of a 100-year-old building, which was always owned by a family of merchants from the early days of Azorean trade. The hotel retains the charm of the past with vintage and elegant décor and offers a...
The rooms and suites at Herdade do Ananás are the result of careful renovation of a 100-year-old building, which was always owned by a family of merchants from the early days of Azorean trade. Retaining the charm of the past with vintage and elegant décor, the hotel offers a place of tranquillity surrounded by nature, where you can enjoy artisan breads, fresh fruit juice and walks through the gardens.
Located 3 km from the centre of Ponta Delgada, Herdade do Ananás is a magical place that reflects the tranquil beauty of the Azores. Enjoy unique moments around the fire of reclaimed wood from the trees, while sipping a glass of wine in the long and relaxing afternoons. In the middle of the fruit orchard is the fire pit, surrounded by comfortable chairs, so you can enjoy the softness of the surrounding nature in perfect harmony.
Positive impact:
Herdade do Ananás focuses on preserving natural resources for future generations. The hotel is autonomous in its irrigation, collecting rainwater and using it, among other things, for the gardens. The interior design combines reused furniture and natural lighting to reduce its carbon footprint. In addition, the hotel works with local suppliers to support the economy. The hotel is Green Key certified and if you are interested, there is the possibility of helping with pineapple planting.
Your stay: 2 nights
Experiences
Azores - Sao Miguel - Cycling & Kayaking in Lagoa das Sete Cidades
Azores - Pico - Whale Watching
Lajes do Pico is one of the best places in the Azores for whale watching. This is where the first company to spot whales from the Azores was established. Due to the depth of the seabed in southern Pico, the animals come very close to the shore while you are surrounded by beautiful scenery...
Lajes do Pico is one of the best places in the Azores for whale watching. This is where the first company to spot whales from the Azores was established. Due to the depth of the seabed in southern Pico, the animals come very close to the shore while you are surrounded by beautiful scenery with the Pico mountain always in sight. Before the boat trip, biologists will give you a briefing to explain which species of cetaceans can be observed, safety measures for on board, how the animals are respected and observation rules at sea, as well as some historical facts. During the excursion, every passenger is required to wear a life jacket.
Destinations
Portugal
Portugal has a lot to offer. Throughout the country you will find cultural attractions and plenty of opportunities for activities. Inland, you will find unspoilt countryside and charming villages. Lisbon and Porto are bustling cities with plenty of museums, squares, terraces, restaurants, bars. Take the time to listen to Fado, the local folk music unique to Portugal and mostly about pain and love. Go on a surfing holiday in Portugal, drive around on your own or visit the Algarve's lovely beaches.
Azores
The Azores are a subtropical archipelago off the west coast of Portugal, consisting of nine main islands and a splash of small satellite islands. These previously uninhabited shores attracted settlers from different directions for hundreds of years, creating the ethnic melting pot now found in the Azores. Part of the region's charm is its diverse culture defined by unique dialects, culinary traditions and nuances. Landscapes are strikingly beautiful, high volcanic peaks, green hills dotted with flowers of lilac hydrangea and ferns, shimmering lakes and deep blue bays. Sao Miguel is the largest of the islands, also called the 'Green Island' because of its lush subtropical landscape. In the capital Ponta Delgada, the old, narrow streets are decorated with beautiful examples of traditional Portuguese architecture - stately whitewashed facades and beautiful old monasteries with opulent interiors. Other highlights of the archipelago include the beautiful old port town of Angra do Heroismo on Terceira, the vineyards of Pico - a UNESCO World Heritage Site - and the golden coast of Santa Maria. Popular activities in the area include whale watching, diving and sailing.
Sao Miguel Island
São Miguel, the largest of the nine islands of the Azores, is also known as the 'Green Island' for its lush volcanic hills, flowering pineapple plantations and numerous parks and gardens. This beautiful greenery is complemented by glistening crater lakes, steaming hot springs and traditional villages. São Miguel is home to the archipelago's capital, Ponta Delgada, where centuries-old cobbled streets are dotted with historic Catholic churches with elegant white facades. Don't leave the island without visiting breathtaking lagoons such as Lagoa das Sete Cidades known for its legendary beauty, Lagoa do Fogo is surrounded by cliffs and shrouded in primeval forest and at Lagoa das Furnas you can wallow in thermal pools.
Terceira Island
Located in the northern Atlantic Ocean, the island of Terceira is one of the larger islands in Portugal's Azores archipelago. The island boasts beautiful sandy beaches, numerous stunning viewpoints and even an amazing extinct volcano. Visitors can look forward to a wide selection of wonderful activities and attractions, such as: exploring Monte Brasil, a picturesque peninsula near Angra do Heroismo; sunbathing on the beautiful Praia da Vitoria beach full of colourful buildings; and enjoying the hilltop view from Miradouro do Facho. Don't miss the absolute highlight of the island: hiking in Algar do Carvao, an extinct volcano consisting of a long lava tube leading to a rainwater-fed lagoon.
Pico Island
Pico is the second largest island in the Azores archipelago. It boasts a variety of incredibly picturesque landscapes characterised by lava fields, lush meadows and UNESCO-protected vineyards dating back to the 15th century. Visitors can look forward to a range of wonderful island activities, including tasting the local wine, which is made from grapes that have developed a distinct flavour due to the combination of ocean and volcanic soil; explore the 5-kilometre-long Gruta das Torres, the largest lava tube in Portugal; and climb Mount Pico, the country's highest peak. Other highlights include visiting the Whaler's Museum, walking along the shore of Lake Capitao and swimming in the clear waters of the North Atlantic. Don't miss a visit to the Museu do Vinho, a wine museum where visitors can learn more about this centuries-old island tradition.
Ponta Delgada
Located on the southwest coast of São Miguel island, Ponta Delgada is the capital of the Azores. It is one of the most beautiful cities in the archipelago, with unique Portuguese architecture that can be seen in the whitewashed buildings along the narrow cobbled alleys. There are several attractions in this beautiful capital. Stroll along the Avenida promenade and enjoy the views of the coast; explore the Carvao Cave, the largest lava tube on the island; and see the Church of St Sebastian and the old Portas da Cidade, city gates built in the 18th century.
Angra do Heroismo
On the island of Terceira in the Azores is Angra do Heroísmo, a captivating city that beautifully combines history, architecture and natural beauty. Its historic architecture has been significant for centuries, which is why Angra do Heroísmo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you will find remarkable monuments such as the Sao Sebastiao and Sao Filipe forts, the Santissimo Salvador cathedral and the Franciscan and Jesuit monasteries. The Igreja do Santíssimo Salvador da Sé (cathedral) and the Igreja da Misericórdia (church) showcase beautiful craftsmanship. The Convent and Church of São Francisco, the Convent and Church of São Gonçalo, the City Hall, the Palácio dos Capitães Generais (Palace) and the Angra Museum are other architectural treasures. The São Sebastião Castle and São João Baptista Castle offer a glimpse into the city's military past. Natural attractions such as Monte Brasil and the picturesque coastline make Angra do Heroísmo even more attractive.
Azores trip | Island hopping in the Azores
We offer this trip from €5,995 per person
The tour price is indicative and is subject to factors including availability and travel dates.
Included
• Accommodation in excellent and distinctive lodges and hotels
• Domestic flights as specified in the ‘itinerary’
• Renault Clio hire cars or equivalent, including insurance, taxes and excess waiver
• All meals as listed in the ‘itinerary’
• All excursions as mentioned in the ‘itinerary’, including a canyoning excursion, a walk at Fortes de São Sebastião and whale and dolphin watching
• All necessary private transfers as mentioned
• Meet & Greet on arrival
• Entrance fees where applicable
• National Geographic or similar travel guide
• Administration fees (€50 per booking)
Positive impact of your trip:
• Contribution of €25 per person towards a positive impact via the Avila Foundation
Not included
• International flights
• Room type upgrade
• Travel and/or cancellation insurance
• Tourist tax (where applicable)
• One-way surcharge (where applicable)
• Local car hire costs, such as administration fees, parking charges and fuel
• Seat reservations
• Personal expenses/tips
• Any departure tax when leaving the destination
• Meals not specified and optional excursions
• Contribution to the Calamity Fund (€2.50 per booking)
• SGR contribution (€5 per person)