A magical route through the Azores
A magical route through the Azores
6 days and 5 nights
Explore volcanic lakes, waterfalls and landscapes that will leave you breathless
The Azores are a group of Portuguese islands famous for their volcanic landscapes, crater lakes, waterfalls, hot springs, and picturesque villages. Its largest island, São Miguel, combines lush nature with cultural charm, offering a destination where adventure and tranquility coexist in perfect harmony.
An unforgettable trip that combines nature, adventure and relaxation.
Start by exploring Ponta Delgada, the capital of São Miguel, before exploring the verdant landscapes of the western part of the island, where the lakes of Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo will take your breath away. Discover natural hot pools in Feteiras and Caldeira Velha, and explore the cliffs and viewpoints in the north and east of the island. Experience the magic of the waterfalls and hot springs of Furnas, and enjoy local cuisine with dishes like cozido cooked over volcanic waters. Top off your experience by relaxing by the sea, surrounded by a landscape that seems straight out of a fairy tale. A perfect trip to connect with the unique and serene nature of the Azores.
Day 1 - Arrival and exploration of Ponta Delgada
Arrival at the João Paulo II International Airport, In São Miguel, we will make the private transfer to our accommodation in Ponta Delgada.
Once settled in, we'll begin exploring the atmosphere of the island's capital. We'll visit Portas do Mar, The port and marina area is perfect for a first contact with the city and the Atlantic.
If the arrival time allows, we will be able to go up to the Sineira Tower, From here you can get a panoramic view over the rooftops of Ponta Delgada, the volcanic stone churches and the ocean.
We will end the day enjoying the city centre and its atmosphere before returning to our accommodation.
Day 2 - Seven Cities
We'll start the day at the Pico do Carvão viewpoint, From there we can contemplate the volcanic interior of São Miguel, with its green hills, ancient craters and small lagoons.
We will continue until the Mirador Muro do Aqueduto, where we will take a short walk among vegetation and ancient stone structures.
The next stop will be the Mirador da Grota do Inferno, one of the great natural balconies of the island, from where we can observe a succession of craters, lagoons and mountains.
Then we'll get to the Vista do Rei viewpoint, one of the most emblematic places in São Miguel. From here we can contemplate the enormous caldera of Sete Cidades, with the Lagoa Azul and the Lagoa Verde extending within it.
We will then descend to the town of Seven Cities, located inside the caldera itself, where we will take a break for lunch.
In the afternoon we will continue towards the Ponta do Escalvado viewpoint, with open views over the cliffs and the western coast of the island.
We will end the day in Ponta da Ferraria, an area where volcanic activity heats the ocean water and allows, depending on the tide and sea conditions, enjoying a natural thermal bath.
Day 3 - Furnas and geothermal landscapes
We will begin the day at the Nossa Senhora da Paz Viewpoint, From there we will have a first panoramic view before venturing into one of the most unique areas of São Miguel.
We will continue until the Furnas Lagoon, where we will take a walk of approximately 40 minutes along a flat path next to the lagoon.
Afterwards we will visit the Parque dos Cozidos, one of the most characteristic places in Furnas and directly related to the geothermal activity of the area.
The next stop will be the Terra Nostra Park, where we will have time to enjoy its gardens and its famous thermal baths.
After a lunch break, we will learn about the Furnas Boilers, where we can observe fumaroles and other manifestations of the volcanic activity of São Miguel up close.
We will close the day at the Pico do Ferro viewpoint, From there we will contemplate the landscape of Furnas and its great volcanic caldera from the heights.
Day 4 - Lagoa do Fogo and northern landscapes
We'll start the day by climbing up to the Pico da Barrosa viewpoint, one of the most spectacular high points of São Miguel and an excellent introduction to the landscape of Lagoa do Fogo.
We will continue until the Lagoa do Fogo viewpoint, where we can contemplate one of the most impressive volcanic lagoons on the island, surrounded by mountains and vegetation.
The next stop will be the Salto do Cabrito Waterfall, Hidden among volcanic rock walls and vegetation, it's possible to swim in this natural setting, depending on the conditions.
Later we will visit the Gorreana Tea Factory, where we will learn about the tradition of tea cultivation and production in São Miguel and we will be able to contemplate the extensive plantations that cover the hills.
After lunch we will continue towards the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, one of the greenest areas on the island, where we will find waterfalls, old water mills and abundant vegetation.
We'll end the day at the Santa Iria viewpoint, with a spectacular panoramic view over the cliffs and the north coast of São Miguel.
Day 5 - Secret Gardens and the Ocean Giant
We'll begin the morning by losing ourselves in a true romantic oasis from the 19th century. This garden is more than just a park; it's a labyrinth of biodiversity designed in the Victorian style, where volcanic rock grottoes and winding paths transport us to a world of fantasy. The star attraction is undoubtedly the majestic aerial-rooted fig tree, a tree of unreal dimensions whose roots hang from the sky, creating living sculptures that seem straight out of a surrealist painting. Strolling in its shade is to experience the profound peace of a green lung that shelters species brought from all corners of the globe, making it the perfect refuge before embarking on our ocean adventure.
We'll discover the true pulse of the island in its most iconic market. Here, the aroma of freshly cut pineapples mingles with the salty breeze of fresh fish and the rich scent of aged cheeses. Walking through its aisles is like participating in a daily ritual where local farmers proudly offer the treasures of this volcanic land. It's the perfect opportunity to observe the authenticity of Azorean life, savor a piece of cheese from São Jorge Island, or marvel at the variety of exotic fruits that only grow in this privileged microclimate. A feast for the senses that connects directly with the gastronomic essence of the Azores.
We will sail even to this ancient submerged volcano whose collapsed vent has created a perfect circular natural poolInside, we'll discover a sanctuary of turquoise and crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkeling and surrounded by volcanic stone walls. It's one of Portugal's most stunning gems: a ring of life in the middle of the blue where the sensation of bathing inside a crater is simply unforgettable. (OPTIONAL)
We will go out to meet them of the true masters of the Atlantic in one of the world's most important cetacean sanctuaries. Accompanied by marine biologists, we will search for the blows of the majestic sperm whales or the dolphins' acrobatics in the open sea. Feeling the magnitude of these animals in their natural habitat, with the island's silhouette in the background, is the most unforgettable experience. exciting and transformative that you can live in the Azores. (OPTIONAL)
Day 6 - Return
Enjoy your last few hours in Ponta Delgada exploring the town center at your own pace, getting lost in its cobbled streets, and bidding farewell to the Atlantic with a final stroll along the marina. It will be the perfect moment to savor one last Azorean coffee before a private transfer picks you up from your accommodation and takes you, in complete comfort, to the João Paulo II Airport (PDL)Thus concludes your expedition to São Miguel, taking with you the peace of the volcanoes and the power of an unforgettable ocean.
