Itinerary
- Day 1
Ponta Delgada
You'll arrive in Ponta Delgada and ease into the Azores atmosphere. Start with a strong Portuguese latte at a local spot, then walk through the old town and check out Portas da Cidade. The Jardim Botânico António Borges is worth an hour or so if you want to see tropical plants and some hidden caves tucked into the grounds. Later, head down to the harbor as the sun sets, grab a drink, and try the Bolo Lêvedo, a local sweet bread that pairs well with coffee or a glass of wine.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (Hotel Casa Hintze Ribeiro)
Optional Activities
- Food tour through Ponta Delgada
Landmarks Portas da Cidade Jardim Botânico António Borges - Day 2
Sete Cidades
Get your hiking boots on early because today's about Sete Cidades. Start at Miradouro Lagoa do Canário where you'll see the twin lakes with their striking blue and turquoise colors. The hike up to the crater rim takes a few hours but the views are worth it. After that, cool off in the hot springs at Poça da Dona Beija, which sits above an active volcano. If you want more information about what you're seeing, a guided tour is available right there.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (Hotel Casa Hintze Ribeiro)
Optional Activities
- Guided tour with traditional stew prepared using volcanic heat (bookable on site)
Landmarks Miradouro Lagoa do Canário Sete Cidades Poça da Dona Beija - Day 3
Vila Franca do Campo
Head to Vila Franca do Campo for the main event: whale watching. You'll get out on the water with eco-guides and biologists looking for sperm whales, dolphins, and turtles. The boat cruises around the Princess Ring Islet volcanic crater, so you're seeing geology and wildlife all at once. Once back on land, take a walk through the old town, pick up some local pastéis, and find a spot at Miradouro Ilhéu da Vila to catch the views while you eat.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (Hotel Casa Hintze Ribeiro)
Included Activities
- Eco boat tour to Princess Ring Islet with whale watching, pick-up from Ponta Delgada and English-speaking guides
Landmarks Princess Ring Islet Miradouro Ilhéu da Vila - Day 4
Gorreana - Faial da Terra - Sanguinho
This day takes you into untouched territory starting at Gorreana, Europe's oldest tea plantation still operating the traditional way. You can taste the tea for a fee if that interests you. From Faial da Terra, trek through jungle trails toward Salto do Prego waterfall and jump into the ice-clear pool below. The trek continues on wild trails to the deserted village of Sanguinho, which gives you solid photo opportunities. You'll head back to Ponta Delgada by evening for dinner.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (Hotel Casa Hintze Ribeiro)
Optional Activities
- Tea tasting at Gorreana (extra charge)
- Volcanic adventure & hot springs of Dona Beija
Landmarks Gorreana Salto do Prego Sanguinho - Day 5
Lagoa do Fogo - Caldeira Velha Nature Park
Take the bus to Lagoa do Fogo, one of the Azores' most striking crater lakes. You'll start at Miradouro da Lagoa do Fogo for views, then take a short walk down closer to the water. After that, move on to Caldeira Velha Nature Park where hot springs and natural pools sit in the jungle setting. There's a waterfall here that works as a natural shower, which is a nice touch. Thermal baths are available if you want to pay extra for the experience.
- Accommodation
- Hotel (Hotel Casa Hintze Ribeiro)
Optional Activities
- Bus transport to Lagoa do Fogo (optional, payable on site)
- Thermal baths at Caldeira Velha Nature Park (optional for a fee)
Landmarks Lagoa do Fogo Miradouro da Lagoa do Fogo Caldeira Velha Nature Park - Day 6
Departure
Time to say goodbye to the Azores as you prepare for departure. Spend the morning reflecting on your time on these green islands in the Atlantic, maybe grab a final coffee or pastry, and head to the airport with memories of hiking volcanoes, seeing whales, and finding natural hot springs.
