Azores Island-Hopping Hiking Adventure

Arrival in Ponta Delgada, São Miguel Island

Welcome to the lush, volcanic archipelago of the Azores! Upon arrival in Ponta Delgada, settle into your hotel in the heart of the city. This evening, the group will gather for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant known for its commitment to sustainable practices. Here, you enjoy your first taste of authentic Azorean cuisine—fresh seafood, locally grown produce, and the unique flavors of the islands.

If you arrive early, there’s time to explore at your own pace. Take a gentle stroll through the Antonio Borges Botanic Gardens, serene green spaces filled with exotic plants. You might also visit a nearby pineapple plantation, Pllantacao de Ananas dos Acores to learn how this tropical fruit thrives in volcanic soil. Just across from the hotel, step into history at Forte de São Brás, a 16th-century military fort, or wander the halls of the Museu Carlos Machado, where taxidermy, natural history, and local artifacts are housed in a former convent.

Activity: Optional gentle stroll Antonio Borges Botanical Gardens

MEALS INCLUDED : Dinner

Sete Cidades Adventure

Today, we set out to explore one of the most iconic landscapes in the Azores: Sete Cidades, a vast volcanic caldera on the island of São Miguel, famous for its vivid twin lakes and lush scenery. Our morning begins with a scenic hike along lush ridgelines overlooking the twin lakes — one green and one blue — nestled within an ancient volcanic crater.

After working up an appetite, we pause for a picnic lunch at the water’s edge, savoring fresh local fare while taking in the peaceful beauty of this extraordinary setting.
In the afternoon, the pace picks up with a guided e-bike ride, allowing us to cover more ground and uncover hidden corners of this magical area. Weather permitting, we finish the day with a visit to Ponta da Ferraria, where natural volcanic hot springs meet the Atlantic Ocean — a unique opportunity to soak in geothermal waters while waves lap gently against the rocks.

We return to Ponta Delgada for the night to rest up for tomorrow’s adventure.

Activity: Hiking in Serra Devassa

• Distance: 5 km (3 miles)
• Est Time: 2 hrs
• Elevation Gain/Loss: Relatively moderate with minimal elevation changes.
• Difficulty: Moderate

Activity: E-bike ride

• Distance: 12-15 km (7.5-9 miles)
• Est Time: 2-3 hrs
• Elevation Gain/Loss: Moderate elevation changes with some gentle climbs, but overall not strenuous.
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate - suitable for most people, even those with minimal biking experience

MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner

Terceira Island — Traditions & Volcanic Wonders

After a short flight to Terceira Island, it´s time to explore Angra do Heroimo, immersing ourselves in its rich cultural heritage. The island's main city, Angra do Heroísmo, was the first in Portugal to be designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983, celebrated for its well-preserved historical architecture and significant role in Atlantic history. We have the opportunity to explore its cobblestone streets, admire colorful buildings, and visit landmarks such as the 16th-century Cathedral of Angra do Heroísmo. Additionally, Terceira is renowned for its traditional bull-running festivals, lively music, and vibrant local cuisine, offering a comprehensive experience of Azorean culture.

Free time for lunch at a place of your choosing.

In the afternoon, we delve into Terceira’s volcanic heart with a visit to Algar do Carvão (or an alternative cave if Algar do Carvão is closed), a rare opportunity to descend into an ancient volcanic cave. Inside, cathedral-like rock formations and emerald pools reveal the island’s dramatic geological past.

Activity: Cave exploration

• Distance: Approximatly 1-2 km (0.6-1.2 miles) 
• Est Time: 1.5-2 hrs
• Elevation Gain/Loss: Minor elevation changes , mostly flat terrain with some uneven surfaces inside cave. .
• Difficulty: Moderate - Walking on uneven terrain, sometimes slippery surfaces.

MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast and Dinner

Luxurious Forests & Dramatic Coastline

Today, we lace up our boots for a full-day hike along the Rocha do Chambre trail. This scenic route winds through the island’s lush interior, highlighting Terceira’s diverse flora and volcanic origins. After the hike, we visit the island’s dramatic coastline, shaped by rugged basalt formations.

The afternoon leads us to the north of the island, where we will see the local vineyards close to the ocean, in the area of Biscoitos.

Activity: Hikng in the center of the island

• Distance: 8.8 km (5.5 mile)
• Est Time: 3 hrs
• Elevation Gain/Loss: Some moderate elevation changes and uneven terrain, but no significant climing. 
• Difficulty: Moderate - Not too challenging but does require a moderate level of fitness due to the uneven terrain. 

MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Arrival on Pico Island — Wine & Heritage

Today, we fly to Pico Island, home to Portugal’s highest peak and a landscape rich with volcanic history. Known as the "Black Island" for its striking volcanic soils, Pico offers a deep dive into its unique culture and winemaking traditions. Our first day on the island focuses on exploring its historic vineyards, where black volcanic stone walls cradle the vines in a dramatic contrast of green against the dark basalt. The use of volcanic stone in the vineyards has been a tradition for centuries and plays a key role in what makes Pico’s wine production so unique. The black stone walls not only provide a structure for the vines but also protect them from the wind and regulate temperature, creating an ideal microclimate for growing grapes. The volcanic rock absorbs the heat of the day and slowly releases it at night, helping to maintain a warmer environment that benefits the ripening grapes. This natural thermal regulation helps the grapes ripen more evenly, which is particularly important in the cooler climate of the Azores. The heat retention also aids in achieving better fruit quality and fuller flavors.

Along the way, we visit charming villages and museums that showcase the island’s cultural heritage and seafaring past. Later, we visit a local wine cooperative to learn about the resilient vines that produce the island’s celebrated wines. As the day winds down, we enjoy a wine-paired dinner at the esteemed Azores Wine Company, sampling the best of Pico’s vintages alongside expertly prepared dishes that highlight the island’s natural bounty.

Activity: Vineyard walk in Vinhas da Criacao Velha

• Distance: Approximately 7 km (4.3 miles)
• Est Time: 1.5-2 hrs
• Elevation Gain/Loss: Mostly flat terrain, with slight elevation changes through vineyards.
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate - involves walking on flat or slightly uneven terrain.

MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Mount Pico Summit

Today’s highlight is a guided ascent of Mt Pico, Portugal’s highest peak. Standing at 2,351 meters (7,713 feet), Mt Pico is not only the tallest mountain in Portugal but also the third-highest peak in the Atlantic Ocean. Our hike begins in a surreal landscape of black volcanic rock and sparse vegetation, gradually giving way to sweeping views of the surrounding ocean and neighboring islands. As you climb, you pass through ever-changing microclimates and terrain shaped by ancient eruptions. The summit reveals a vast crater and a dramatic volcanic cone—Pico Pequeno—rising from its center. On clear days, the reward is unforgettable: a sea of clouds below, and the silhouette of other Azorean islands shimmering on the horizon. (If weather conditions prevent the summit hike, we will choose an alternative mountain trail on Pico Island.

For those not seeking the challenge of the summit hike, you’re welcome to stay in town and enjoy some of Pico’s local offerings, such as exploring charming villages, visiting museums to learn about the island’s rich maritime history, or relaxing at a spa or café by the sea.

Activity: Mount Pico ascent (optional)

• Distance: 8 km / 4.4 mi
• Est Time: 6-7 hrs (3-4 hr ascent time & 3-4 hr descent time)
• Elevation Gain: 1150m / 3743’
• Start Elevation: 1200m / 3970’
• End Elevation: 2351m / 7713’
• Difficulty: Challenging - terrain is steep, and the elevation gain is significant, which can make the ascent demanding. This hike is best suited for experienced hikers who are prepared for the altitude, varying weather, and a strenuous climb.

MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast & Box Lunch for summiteers. Breakfast only for those staying in town.

Caldeira Hike & Volcanic Landscapes on Faial

Today, we take a ferry across to nearby Faial Island, known for its striking volcanic landscapes and rich maritime history. Our first adventure of the day takes us on a hike along the rim of Faial’s vast Caldeira, a dormant volcano. From the summit, you'll be treated to sweeping views of lush forests, rolling fields, and the shimmering Atlantic Sea. The landscape is as dramatic as it is beautiful, offering a glimpse into the island's geological past.

In the afternoon, we visit the Capelinhos Interpretation Centre, where the history of Faial’s last great eruption comes to life. The center offers an engaging look at the volcanic event of 1957 and the resilience of the island’s inhabitants in the face of natural disaster. As you explore, you gain a deeper understanding of the geological and human forces that have shaped Faial.

Activity: Caldera hike

• Distance: 7 km / 4.3 miles
• Est Time: 2.5-3 hrs
• Elevation Gain/Loss: Moderate elevation changes with some uphill sections and steeper parts.
• Difficulty: Moderate - uphill sections, some steep parts

MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Return to São Miguel & the Geothermal Charm of Furnas

This morning, we return to São Miguel by air, touching down in time for a visit to one of the island’s historic tea plantations. Nestled into the verdant hillsides, these plantations are among the only ones in Europe. The Azores’ unique volcanic soil, humidity, and ocean breezes create the ideal environment for cultivating both green and black teas. During our visit, we’ll learn about the traditional tea production process and enjoy a guided walk through the terraced fields. We finish with a tasting, accompanied by stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

In the afternoon, we travel to Furnas, a town renowned for its geothermal activity. A walking tour will take us past bubbling hot springs, steaming fumaroles, and patches of earth so hot locals use them to slow-cook traditional meals underground. We’ll also visit the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden, an expansive park featuring rare plants from around the world and naturally heated thermal pools where you’re welcome to take a relaxing dip.

• Activity: Furnas walking tour
• Distance: 3-4 km / 1.9-2.5 mi
• Est Time: 2-3 hrs
• Elevation Gain/Loss: Minimal elevation gain, mostly flat or gentle slopes.
• Difficulty: Easy

MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Cooking, Cycling & Thermal Relaxation

Our final full day begins with a hands-on culinary experience, learning to prepare the iconic Cozido das Furnas — a hearty stew slow-cooked underground using the island’s natural volcanic heat.

After prepping our pots, we hop on e-bikes to deliver them to the steaming cooking pits, then set off on a relaxed ride through the pastoral beauty and volcanic landscapes surrounding Furnas.

In the afternoon, the choice is yours: set out on an optional hike to explore more of the island’s lush terrain, or unwind with a long soak in the warm, iron-rich thermal waters of Terra Nostra’s famous pools.

We come together in the evening to savor the Cozido we prepared earlier, celebrating the rich flavors and traditions that make this dish a beloved symbol of the Azores.

Activity: E-bike tour 

• Distance: 12 km / 7.5 mi
• Estiamted Time: 2–3 hours
• Elevation Loss/Gain: Moderate elevation changes with some gentle climbs; overall not strenuous
• Difficulty: Easy – Mostly flat with a leisurely pace

Activity: Optional Hike

• Distance: 3 km / 1.9 mi
• Estimated Time: 1–1.5 hours
• Elevation Gain/Loss: Minimal elevation gain, focused on exploring the surroundings.
• Difficulty: Easy – short walk with little elevation gain

MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast, Lunch, Homemade Cozido Dinner

Farewell to the Azores

Transfer to the airport for your departure, with a final farewell to the beautiful Azores.

MEALS INCLUDED : Breakfast