Highlights
- Experience the architecture and culture of Ponta Delgada
- Cycle around the calderas of geothermal Lagoa das Furnas
- Soak up the sun on the exclusive Vila Franca do Campo islet
- Hike through native plant-covered hills to pristine Lagoa do Fogo
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Ponta Delgada | Ponta Delgada |
| Day 2 | Lagoa do Fogo Hike | Ponta Delgada |
| Day 3 | Off-road Safari Around Sete Cidades, Ferraria Thermal Swim | Ponta Delgada |
| Day 4 | Canyoning Nature's Waterpark | Ponta Delgada |
| Day 5 | Furnas Mountain Bike Tour | Ponta Delgada |
| Day 6 | Whale Watching & Vila Franca do Campo Islet | Ponta Delgada |
| Day 7 | Depart |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Ponta Delgada
Upon arrival in São Miguel, head to your hotel to get settled before taking a guided walking tour of Ponta Delgada, the biggest city in the Azores. Learn about the city's history, architecture, and culture before visiting a local market. Enjoy a night of rest and relaxation with dinner on your own.
Day 2: Lagoa do Fogo Hike
After breakfast, you'll hike to one of the island's most pristine locations: Lagoa do Fogo. The trail climbs through woods of eucalyptus, incense, and ginger lily, with sweeping views of the lake along the way. Stop for lunch on the shores of the lake, with time for a swim. On the way back to town, make an afternoon stop at Caloura Harbor beach.
Day 3: Off-road Safari Around Sete Cidades, Ferraria Thermal Swim
Get ready for an adventure: after visiting a viewpoint of stunning Lagoa das Sete Cidades, you'll spend your morning on an off-roading tour around a volcano. End your excursion in the town of Sete Cidades for lunch. In the afternoon, head to the Ferraria thermal area for a swim in a naturally heated swimming pool.
Day 4: Canyoning Nature's Waterpark
Get to know the interior jungle of São Miguel today on a canyoning excursion. Jump into crystal-clear pools, slide between rocks shaped by the flow of the stream, and rappel down waterfalls in a genuine water park created by nature. Safety gear and professional guides are provided.
Day 5: Furnas Mountain Bike Tour
Explore a geothermal valley on a bike tour from the village of Furnas to the Lagoa das Furnas caldera area. Continue on a lakeside dirt road before ascending to Pico dos Milhos, where you'll stop to take in the view of the town below. Cycle back to town and have lunch before visiting Terra Nostra Park—one of the most beautiful botanical gardens of the 18th century, with species of flora from around the world. After a brief guided tour, end your afternoon with a thermal soak in a naturally-heated outdoor pool.
Day 6: Whale Watching & Vila Franca do Campo Islet
Today, you'll discover São Miguel's southern coast and watch marine mammals in their natural habitat, taste local cuisine, and visit a unique nature reserve. After a morning whale and dolphin safari, head to Vila Franca do Campo—one of the most exclusive beaches and protected nature reserves on the island due to its boat-only access. Explore the area and enjoy a typical lunch before cruising back to the starting harbor along Sāo Miguel's south coast.
Day 7: Depart
Say farewell to the Azores—today is your last day. Depending on your flight time, you may have time to explore Ponto Delgada one more time before heading to the airport.
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