Self-Guided Azores Green Island and Volcanic Trails Hiking and Walking Tour

Welcome to Azores!

Upon arrival, you will be picked up from the airport and dropped 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)

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

Discover Lagoa do Fogo, São Miguel’s “Lake of Fire” and one of Portugal’s most pristine natural wonders. After a short transfer, begin your hike through rolling farmland and fragrant eucalyptus forests, ascending peacefully into the island’s volcanic heart.

As the trail opens into a quiet valley, the lake emerges with turquoise waters cradled by wild vegetation and dramatic slopes. Pause to take in the stillness and raw beauty of this high-altitude sanctuary.

On your return, pass the haunting ruins of a flax factory and arrive at Segredo Waterfall, a hidden gem deep in the forest. Your day ends in Ponta Delgada, where coastal charm, lush gardens, and rich island history await.

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.

Venture into the volcanic heart of São Miguel with a hike through the stunning Sete Cidades complex which is one of the island’s most iconic landscapes. Your day begins with a scenic transfer to Serra Devassa, a high-altitude gateway to hidden crater lakes and dramatic ridgelines.

The trail winds through lush forests and tranquil valleys, revealing breathtaking views of Lagoa do Canário, Lagoa Rasa, Caldeirão Grande, and Lagoa das Empadadas. Each lake offers sweeping panoramas of São Miguel’s north and south coasts, framed by the vast Atlantic.

After the hike, return to your hotel and unwind with local flavors. A perfect close to a day immersed in the island’s volcanic beauty.

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

Explore one of Portugal’s 7 Natural Wonders, the Sete Cidades Lake, the Azores’ most iconic vista. After breakfast, a short transfer brings you to Vista do Rei, a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the legendary twin lakes, one emerald, one sapphire which are set within a vast volcanic caldera.

From this postcard-perfect vantage, hike through rolling pastures and steep ridges, soaking in the dramatic contrasts of São Miguel’s landscape. After the hike, return to Ponta Delgada to stroll its vibrant streets, enjoy coastal views, and savor a well-earned Azorean meal—a fitting finale to a day of natural wonder.

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)