Azores Trails Uncovered: Self-Guided Hiking

Welcome to Azores!

Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by our guide, who will escort you to your first accommodation. There, you will receive a brief orientation introducing you to the journey ahead, including a detailed overview of the itinerary and the highlights that await.

The rest of the day is yours to soak in the charm of Furnas, a village celebrated for its breathtaking scenery and geothermal wonders. Stroll past steaming fumaroles and lush, volcanic landscapes, savor the iconic Cozido das Furnas—a traditional stew slow-cooked underground by natural steam—and unwind in the island’s rejuvenating thermal baths. It’s the perfect beginning to your Azorean adventure.

Included Service: Transfer from Ponta Delgada to Furnas (45 min) Welcome Briefing (45 min)

Your adventure begins in the heart of São Miguel with a breathtaking hike around the mesmerizing Furnas Lake. Renowned for its steaming geothermal caldeiras, this area offers a powerful introduction to the island’s volcanic soul. Along the way, you'll witness the fascinating tradition of preparing Cozido das Furnas—a hearty Azorean stew slow-cooked underground using natural volcanic heat.

This scenic circular trail hugs the shores of the lake, drawing you into a landscape rich in lush vegetation, towering trees, and colorful wildflowers. It’s an experience that soothes the senses and invites you to fully embrace the tranquility of nature.

To conclude your day, unwind in one of the many natural thermal pools nestled within the Furnas Valley.

Elevation gain: +400 m

After a traditional breakfast, your day begins with a short transfer to the trailhead for the ascent of Pico da Vara, São Miguel’s highest peak at 1,105 meters. As you hike through the Natural Forest Reserve, once used by locals for charcoal and grazing, you'll pass through cloud forests rich in biodiversity and home to the endangered Azores Bullfinch.

From the summit, enjoy stunning views of the island and Atlantic Ocean. Continuing through lush landscapes and ocean vistas, you’ll arrive at the Gorreana Tea Factory—Europe’s oldest tea plantation. Here, learn about the island’s tea-making heritage and enjoy a taste of Azorean tradition.

A transfer takes you back to Furnas, where you can unwind and reflect on an inspiring day in nature.

Included services: Transfer from the hotel to the beginning of the hike (30 min) Visit “Gorreana” Tea Plantation and Factory Transfer from the end of the hike to the hotel (15 min)

Elevation gain: +400 m

Tucked in the heart of São Miguel, Lagoa do Fogo—or “Lake of Fire”—is one of Portugal’s most pristine and awe-inspiring natural treasures. After a short transfer, your hike begins with a gentle climb through rolling farmland and fragrant forests of eucalyptus, pittosporum, and acacia, offering a peaceful and scenic ascent.

As the trail opens into a quiet valley, the lake reveals itself—an expansive mirror of turquoise waters cradled by untamed vegetation and soaring volcanic slopes. Take a moment to breathe it all in: the stillness, the birds wheeling overhead, and the raw, untouched beauty of this high-altitude sanctuary.

On the return, the trail leads past the haunting ruins of an old flax factory, once used to extract fibers from New Zealand flax, before arriving at the enchanting Segredo Waterfall—a hidden gem tucked deep in the forest.

Your day concludes with a transfer to Ponta Delgada, São Miguel’s lively capital. Stroll its scenic waterfront, explore lush gardens, and discover centuries of island history in its vibrant museums and architecture.

Included services: Transfer from the hotel to the beginning of the hike (30 min) Transfer from the end of the hoke to the hotel (30 min)

Elevation gain: +500 m

Step off the trails and onto the sparkling waters of the Atlantic for an adventure that brings you face to face with the wild heart of the Azores. These islands are a marine sanctuary, blessed with crystal-clear waters, rich feeding grounds, and strong protections for cetaceans—making them one of the world’s top destinations for whale watching.

You will get a chance to witness majestic whales gliding through the deep blue, drawn to this volcanic archipelago on their migratory routes. Also keep a watch for playful dolphins, graceful sea turtles, and even flying fish that skim the waves in shimmering arcs. While sightings are never guaranteed, every moment on the water offers a rare and intimate connection with nature.

Prepare for an unforgettable day as you journey deep into the heart of the Sete Cidades volcanic complex, one of São Miguel’s most iconic and awe-inspiring landscapes. Your morning begins with a scenic transfer to the Serra Devassa—one of the island’s highest mountain ranges and the gateway to some of its most hidden natural treasures.

From here, your trail winds through lush forests, tranquil valleys, and dramatic ridgelines, offering a true immersion in the island’s volcanic beauty. Along the way, you’ll discover a series of stunning crater lakes: Lagoa do Canário, Lagoa Rasa, Caldeirão Grande, and Lagoa das Empadadas—each offering sweeping panoramas of both the north and south coasts, framed by the endless Atlantic Ocean.

After the hike, a comfortable transfer returns you to your hotel, where you can unwind and savor the island’s rich culinary flavors—a perfect ending to a day of discovery in the wild heart of São Miguel.

Included services: Transfer from the hotel to the beginning of the hike (30 min) Transfer from the end of the hoke to the hotel (30 min)

Elevation gain: +400 m

The Most Postcard-Worthy Hike in the Azores: Sete Cidades

Welcome to one of Portugal’s 7 Natural Wonders—the Sete Cidades Lake, a protected landscape and arguably the most iconic vista in the Azores. Today, you’ll venture into the heart of this legendary caldera on a hike that feels straight out of a postcard.

After a hearty breakfast, a short transfer brings you to the famous Vista do Rei viewpoint, a sweeping balcony over the twin lakes of Sete Cidades. From this privileged vantage point, you'll take in the breathtaking contrast of the emerald and sapphire waters, framed by steep volcanic ridges and rolling pastures—a scene etched into the soul of São Miguel.

As the hike concludes, a transfer returns you to Ponta Delgada, but your journey need not end there. Take time to explore the capital’s lively streets, soak in coastal views, or savor a well-earned Azorean meal—a perfect close to a truly unforgettable day.

Included services: Transfer from the hotel to the beginning of the hike (30 min) Transfer from the end of the hoke to the hotel (30 min)

Elevation gain: +100 m

After breakfast, your journey on the Green Island comes to a close.

Whether you're heading home or continuing your exploration of the Azores, you'll take with you memories of volcanoes, coastlines, and the rich culture of São Miguel.

Included services: Transfer from the hotel to Ponta Delgada (15 min)