Azores Walks & Nature | Guided Group Tour
DESCRIÇÃO
Explore São Miguel Island on a guided hiking tour in the Azores, featuring scenic coastal paths, volcanic raters, waterfalls, and green mountain trails. This carefully designed itinerary combines nature, culture, and local gastronomy, offering a complete and authentic walking experience in the Azores.
ITINERARY:
DAY 0 – ARRIVAL
Arrival to the hotel.
Pre-Dinner cocktail and meeting with guide for program instructions, guidelines, necessary equipment, meals and Q&A.
Overnight in Hotel in Furnas
DAY 1 – NORTH & FURNAS
After breakfast, the day starts on the north coast of São Miguel at Salto da Farinha waterfall, one of the island’s most notable natural sites. The trail follows the coastline towards Achadinha, crossing rural paths and forested areas.
The route includes several steep ascents and descents, offering good opportunities to observe the island’s natural vegetation and ocean views. Midway, a short detour leads to Poço Azul, a small blue lake fed by mountain springs. The trail ends in Achadinha, a quiet village with traditional Azorean architecture. After lunch, transfer to the Pico do Ferro viewpoint to see the Furnas crater and lake. From there, descend to the lakeshore to begin an easy walk through one of the island’s most active geothermal areas. Along the trail, you will see fumaroles, hot springs, and bubbling mud pools, evidence of São Miguel’s volcanic activity. Continue along the edge of the lake and follow the path toward Furnas village, located inside the crater. The walk ends at the hotel.
Overnight in Hotel in Furnas
DAY 2 – FAIAL DA TERRA & NORDESTE
After breakfast, transfer to the southeast of the island for a hike along the Faial da Terra stream. The trail begins near Água Retorta and follows a continuous descent through a dense subtropical forest. Along the way, you’ll cross several wooden bridges, pass by the remains of an old watermill, and walk alongside streams surrounded by Japanese cedar and Australian cheesewood trees. A short detour leads to Salto do Cagarrão waterfall, and later the path continues toward the well-known Salto do Prego waterfall. The final section passes through small agricultural fields and ends near the coast in Faial da Terra village, often called the Nativity Scene of the Island for its traditional charm. After lunch, enjoy a scenic drive along the northeast coast, known for its viewpoints, forests, and coastal landscapes. The tour includes several photo stops to appreciate the rugged cliffs and green valleys characteristic of this region.
Transfer back to the hotel where you can enjoy the SPA/ Thermal Waters
Overnight in Hotel in Furnas
DAY 3 – PRAIA DA VIOLA TRAIL GORREANA & PINEAPPLE FARM
After breakfast, luggage will be transferred to the next hotel while we head to the north coast for a coastal hike between Lomba da Maia and Maia. The trail begins in the village of Lomba da Maia, near the church of Nossa Senhora do Rosário, and descends through agricultural paths towards the sea. Along the way, you’ll pass old watermills and reach Praia da Viola, one of the most scenic natural beaches on the island, with dark volcanic and and impressive cliffs.
The path continues along the coastline, alternating between small valleys and ridges, before ending in the village of Maia. After lunch, visit the Gorreana Tea Plantation, the oldest tea factory in Europe, operating since 1883. Walk through the nearby tea fields and learn about the cultivation and production process of green and black tea made from Camellia sinensis. Later, continue towards Ponta Delgada and visit a pineapple plantation in the Laranjeiras area, where the island’s unique glasshouse cultivation method is explained.
Overnight in Hotel in Ponta Delgada
DAY 4- WHALE WATCHING & PONTA DELGADA
Boat trip & Whale watching: Embark on the thrilling Whale and Dolphin Watching Adventure, where marine life comes to life! Set sail on a fun-filled boat trip in search of majestic whales and playful dolphins. Discover the rich marine biodiversity, from turtles and seabirds to vibrant fish, while enjoying breathtaking coastal views and volcanic landscapes. Begin with a briefing on whale and dolphin species, their habitats, and behaviors.
Cultural and Historical Walk in Ponta Delgada’s Center visiting some of the most important places. Stroll through the beautiful Botanical Garden, explore the historic fortress, and visit the revered Church of Santo cristo dos Milagres. Marvel at the iconic Portas da Cidade and the charming Teatro Micaelense. Wander through the bustling market and discover the vibrant atmosphere of cobblestone streets and traditional architecture. This cultural journey offers a captivating glimpse into the heart of the Azorean capital.
Overnight in Hotel in Ponta Delgada
DAY 5 – SETE CIDADES
After Breakfast Transfer to the North-west side of the Island where the biggest lake is located Discover the Sete cidades Ridge Trail, a captivating journey starting near Mata do Canário and ending in the picturesque village of Sete Cidades. Walk along a large part of the ridge of the Caldeira das Sete Cidades, a protected landscape within the island’s Natural Park. It encloses four lakes to give one of the most iconic landscapes in the archipelago, elected as one of the 7 natural wonders of Portugal.
We walk past the historic Muro das Nove Janelas aqueduct and ascend through Japanese cedars to Pico da Cruz, where stunning views of Sete Cidades lakes await. Circle the Blue Lake, then follow the road down to the village. Explore the lake banks and conclude your adventure at the charming church of São Nicolau.
Free afternoon
Overnight in Hotel in Ponta Delgada
DAY 6 – RETURN
After breakfast, we provide a transfer to Ponta Delgada Airport or other destination in the Azores
*This price is per person in a double room with departure in October.
*The price may change depending the number of guests and typology of the rooms