Included: An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area 8-day Azores walking holidays (6 days of hiking in emblematic and less-known locations) Entrance to Terra Nostra Garden Entrance to Dona Beija spring All transfers as listed in the program 7 nights of accommodation in hotels 4 nights at the 4-star Vale do Navio in Capelas 3 nights at the 3-star Residencial Vista do Vale Meals during the tour 7 breakfasts, 6 picnic lunches, 6 dinners Add-ons: Single supplement Not included: Transportation to and from Ponta Delgada, San Miguel Accommodations before or after the tour Single occupancy (additional fee) Meals on day 1 and 8 Guide gratuities — optional

How fit do I need to be?

These walking holidays in the Azores are an incredible option for relatively fit hikers with some previous experience. You can expect 3 to 5 hours of walking daily with an average ascent/descent of 100 to 650 meters. These hikes offer a perfect balance of challenge and enjoyment, suitable for those looking for a moderate level of adventure.

What do I need to bring?

Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring: Duffle bag to pack all of the things you need for the tour Day pack large enough to carry all the items you need in a day (around a 25-40L bag) Hiking poles — optional Water bottle or hydration bladder (min. 1L capacity) Clothes for everyday activities and restaurant Shoes for everyday activities and hotel Hiking boots with good ankle support Hiking socks Hiking shorts Hiking T-shirts Undershirt or long-sleeved shirt Trekking trousers Light fleece jacket Light, simple Gore-Tex jacket Raingear (suit, cape or poncho) Waterproof overtrousers —optional Spare clothes for layering Water and windproof rain jacket Swimwear*** Sandals for swimming Sunhat Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.) Quick-drying towel Double skin, set of adhesive dressings, disinfectant pads Elastic adhesive tape (6 cm wide, Elastoplast type) Headlamp or flashlight Sunglasses Sunhat or cap Scarf Pocket knife Waterproof money pouch Camera — optional (but recommended) ***Caution: The iron bath at Terra Nostra leaves orange marks, so make sure you bring an old or colored bathing suit The weather in the Azores, including Ponta Delgada on Sao Miguel Island, is characterized by its mild, oceanic climate. While the temperatures are moderate and stable (mostly 25-26°C (77-79°F)), weather can be quite changeable, with rapid shifts from sunshine to rain and back again. It’s advisable to be prepared for changing weather conditions when visiting the islands. Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and pricing For this group adventure, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 8:1. It takes a minimum of 3 people for this tour to operate. Solo travelers are welcome! Walking holidays in the Azores can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Getting there and meeting location

To get to Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel most people fly into João Paulo II Airport (PDL) , which is approximately 10 minutes away. From there, you can rent a car from various rental agencies available at the airport or take a shuttle service to reach your destination. Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet, whether that’s at the guide shop or accommodation.

Safety measures in the Azores

We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection . To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible , simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner ! Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered. Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!

SÃO MIGUEL ISLAND | PORTUGAL

Walking Holidays in the Azores

Hiker in a red jacket at the caldera on São Miguel island in the Azores

Azores Sao Miguel Miradouro da Vista do Rei - Sete Cidades - aerial drone view

Costal path with Hydrangeas, Sao Miguel, Azores, Portugal

City Hall in Ponta Delgada, Azores, Portugal. Ponta Delgada City Hall with a bell tower in the capital of the Azores. Portugal, Sao Miguel. Town Hall, Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel, Azores, Portugal

Lagoa do Fogo and green valley on San Miguel island

Mesmerizing view of a tea plantation near the lake in Sao Miguel, Azores, Portugal

Terra Nostra botanical garden with untouched flora at Furnas, Azores, Portugal

Small village Faial da Terra between rolling hills in warm afternoon light on Sao Miguel Island in the Azores

From $2,640 ()

Duration

8 days

Season

April through October

Accommodation

4-star & 3-star hotels

Book a call

Intro
Itinerary
Brochure
Guides
Accommodation and food
Things to know

Join us on this amazing exploration adventure of Sao Miguel, the gem of the Azores also known as the Green Island. We’ll visit crater lakes that’ll leave you speechless, coastlines so steep they’ll make your heart race, and beaches with sands as dark as the night sky. As we wander through tea plantations that you won’t find anywhere else in Europe, we’ll reach a hidden gem nestled deep within the Furnas valley and enjoy the rejuvenating hot springs after a day of exploration. Ready to embark on this unforgettable journey? Pack your bags, lace up your boots, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime!

Adventure highlights

The middle of the Atlantic

Trek around the iconic Sete Cidades lake and discover the legend of Atlantis symbolized by the Bridge of the 7 Arches
Sweet agricultural vibes

Visit tea and pineapple plantations for a taste of tradition before ascending to island’s most astonishing crater lake
Explore a nature reserve

These volcanic islands boast untouched fauna and flora that amazes locals, tourists and scientists

Download itinerary

Itinerary

Explore Sao Miguel's stunning landscapes, from iconic crater lakes to lush forests teeming with life. Immerse yourself in local culture as you visit pineapple plantations and traditional tea estates. Each day offers a new adventure, from traversing ancient water routes to discovering hidden waterfalls. With comfortable accommodations and expert guides leading the way, this tour promises a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration in the breathtaking Azores archipelago.

Home to Ponta Delgada and the capital of the Azores, Saõ Miguel boasts 3 unique crater lakes which you’ll discover on this week-long journey. On your first day, you’ll meet your guides at the airport and they will transfer you to Capelas, a village on the north coast. You’ll get to your accommodation for the next 4 nights — a hotel in Vale do Navio boasting a refreshing swimming pool. Get some rest and get to know your guides and group on the first evening.

Accommodation: Hotel Vale do Navio in Capelas, 4-star
Meals: Not included
A magnificent day awaits as you discover the Sete Cidades lake. The hike begins at Lagoa de Canario, with its grandiose view of Lakes Azul and Santiago. We’ll follow a path along the crater edge around the lake. Viewpoints of the Azul and Verde lakes dot the trail, before descending to the village of Sete Cidades nestling at the bottom of the Caldera.

Take your time to enjoy a drink in one of the village’s terrace bars (at your own expense) before we set off again over a bridge with 7 arches, symbolizing the 7 cities of the lost continent of Atlantis, said to be buried beneath these two lakes. We’ll begin a slow final ascent to reach the Vista do Rei site and its breathtaking view over the vast Caldeira de Sete Cidades before returning to our accommodation.

Walking: 5 hours
Elevation +400 m (1,312 ft), -650 m (2,132 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel Vale do Navio in Capelas, 4-star
Meals: Continental breakfast, picnic, hotel dinner
This morning begins with a visit to a pineapple plantation. Originally brought from South America in the 19th century as a decorative plant, pineapple cultivation quickly gained economic importance by the late 19th century as an alternative to orange farming. We then continue to Ponta Delgada, a charming town known for its Baroque architecture, narrow streets, beautiful lava-stone churches, and a vibrant marina.

In the afternoon, we explore the “Rota de Água”, or “Water Road,” a trail leading to the stunning Janela do Inferno, a vertical wall rich in water springs and marked by a striking cavity carved by water erosion. Along the way, we’ll cross a series of majestic aqueducts once used to supply the historic Alcohol Factory of Lagoa. The day concludes with a transfer back to Capelas.

Walking: 2.5 hours
Elevation: +265 m (870 ft), -270 m (886 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel Vale do Navio in Capelas, 4-star
Meals: Continental breakfast, picnic, hotel dinner
The day is dedicated to exploring Lagoa do Fogo, one of the island’s most astonishing crater lakes. The ascent begins with a trek through a forest of pittosporum and eucalyptus, followed by a path along a levada leading to the lake’s southern shores.

Enclosed within a 15,000-year-old caldera, the youngest on the island, this stunning lake sits at an altitude of 578 meters. As a designated nature reserve, it hosts a variety of endemic plants and serves as a favorite nesting site for many bird species. After the visit, a return transfer to Capelas is arranged.

Walking: 3 hours
Elevation: +/- 500 m (1,640 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel Vale do Navio in Capelas, 4-star
Meals: Continental breakfast, picnic, hotel dinner
Today we’ll be delving into the history of the island as we discover the tea plantations on the north coast. But first, we’ll head to the beautiful beach of Praia da Viola. With its black sand and cliffs teeming with watercourses, it was a focal point of local life. Make sure to check out the lava stone water mills that are now overgrown but bear witness to a very active past.

We’ll continue on foot along a country road to the tea plantations. Unlike anywhere else in Europe, tea is still grown here, picked, and made using traditional methods. After discovering the family-run factory, we’ll enjoy a tea tasting experience! Your guides will transfer you to Furnas, a small village with undeniable charm, nestled in a green setting and best known for its volcanic activity: fumaroles, bubbling mud, sulfurous hot springs, etc. Settle in for 3 nights in this enchanting scenery.

Walking: 3 hours
Altitude difference: +100 m (320 ft) / -400 m (1,312 ft)
Accommodation: Residencial Vista do Vale, Furnas
Meals: Continental breakfast, picnic, dinner
The day begins with a departure on foot from the village, followed by a climb along a shady path to “Pico do Ferro,” a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the Furnas valley. From there, the descent leads to the lake’s shores, where impressive solfatares and fumaroles release large quantities of sulfur. This geothermal activity has long been used by locals to prepare “Cozido,” a traditional stew cooked in the hot ground.

After observing this unique cooking process, the journey continues along a path encircling the lake, surrounded by lush vegetation. Along the way, an optional visit to the Furnas Monitoring and Research Centre is available (entrance fee payable on-site). To unwind after the hike, enjoy a relaxing visit to the Dona Beija hot springs (timing subject to availability). To cap off the day, savor the “Cozido” stew cooked earlier that morning on the lakeshore.

Walking: 4 hours
Elevation: +/- 450 m (1,476 ft)
Accommodation: Residencial Vista do Vale, Furnas
Meals: Continental breakfast, picnic, dinner
This morning begins with a trip to Faial da Terra, located at the southeastern tip of the island. Once reliant on whaling and farming, this village offers a rich historical backdrop. Following the river through the forest, the trail reveals lush endemic vegetation, old mills, and picturesque waterfalls, eventually leading to the quaint village of Sanguinho, known for its charming stone houses.

After lunch, the day continues with a visit to one of the village’s highlights: the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden. Situated at the crossroads of historic maritime routes, this garden boasts century-old trees, tree ferns, exotic plants, and sulfurous rivers. At its heart lies a large geothermal pool and two natural Jacuzzis, perfect for a relaxing dip (entrance included; note the park closes at 4:30pm).

Walking: 2.5 hours
Altitude difference: +/- 400 m (1,312 ft)
Accommodation: Residencial Vista do Vale, Furnas
Meals: Continental breakfast, picnic, dinner
Your guides will transfer you to Ponta Delgada airport where you can catch your flight.

Walking Holidays in the Azores

Adventure Brochure

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If you have questions or need help with planning a trip, schedule a call with one of our adventure experts.

Meet your guide

5.00

Walk inn

Walk Inn have been organizing cycling and hiking tours for over 15 years now. All their tours were created by their expert team of local guides that have been on site, drew the itineraries, and walked the paths that you will be walking on.

Accommodation and food

Hotel Vale do Navio

During your week-long walking holiday in the Azores, you will enjoy two types of accommodation, each contributing to a memorable experience. These lodgings, all thoughtfully designed to provide comfort and coziness, offer a mix of historical charm, modern elegance, traditional warmth, and serenity.

You will spend the first four nights in the 4-star Hotel Vale do Navio, located near the shore along the Atlantic Ocean in Capelas, São Miguel. It offers free Wi-Fi, a luxury spa & wellness center and indoor and outdoor pools. The hotel is very near to the ocean coastline so use your evenings for a walk along the beach.

Residencial Vista do Vale

Located in Furnas, a small rural village of São Miguel island, Vista Do Vale offers spacious rooms with balconies and features a garden and an outdoor pool overlooking the valley. This will be your home for the next three days on this stunning island. You’ll stay in modern rooms with a seating area and a balcony boasting views of the surrounding landscape.

Food during the tour

Each day, your guides will provide the best possible meals on and off the trail. Your accommodation will always provide breakfast, guides will prepare a picnic for each lunch, and dinners will be held in restaurants and hotels.

Picnic lunches will include rice or pasta salad, bread, ham and cheese, fruit, and some snacks during the hike, biscuits or fruit.

All dinners are included in the price of the tour. You will get to taste the amazing cuisine of the Azores in cozy local restaurants of great quality. Enjoy 3 dinners at the Hotel Vale do Navio, 2 in Furnas at Tony’s Restaurant, and 1 dinner in Banhos Ferreos Restaurant, where you’ll try out Cozido, a traditional meal steam in the ground.

Things to know

Included:
- - An experienced, local hiking guide with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 8-day Azores walking holidays (6 days of hiking in emblematic and less-known locations)
  - Entrance to Terra Nostra Garden
  - Entrance to Dona Beija spring
  - All transfers as listed in the program
  - 7 nights of accommodation in hotels
    
    4 nights at the 4-star Vale do Navio in Capelas
    
    3 nights at the 3-star Residencial Vista do Vale
  - Meals during the tour
    
    7 breakfasts, 6 picnic lunches, 6 dinners
Add-ons:
- - Single supplement
Not included:
- - Transportation to and from Ponta Delgada, San Miguel
  - Accommodations before or after the tour
  - Single occupancy (additional fee)
  - Meals on day 1 and 8
  - Guide gratuities — optional
These walking holidays in the Azores are an incredible option for relatively fit hikers with some previous experience. You can expect 3 to 5 hours of walking daily with an average ascent/descent of 100 to 650 meters. These hikes offer a perfect balance of challenge and enjoyment, suitable for those looking for a moderate level of adventure.
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
- - Duffle bag to pack all of the things you need for the tour
  - Day pack large enough to carry all the items you need in a day (around a 25-40L bag)
  - Hiking poles — optional
  - Water bottle or hydration bladder (min. 1L capacity)
  - Clothes for everyday activities and restaurant
  - Shoes for everyday activities and hotel
  - Hiking boots with good ankle support
  - Hiking socks
  - Hiking shorts
  - Hiking T-shirts
  - Undershirt or long-sleeved shirt
  - Trekking trousers
  - Light fleece jacket
  - Light, simple Gore-Tex jacket
  - Raingear (suit, cape or poncho)
  - Waterproof overtrousers —optional
  - Spare clothes for layering
  - Water and windproof rain jacket
  - Swimwear***
  - Sandals for swimming
  - Sunhat
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, toilet paper, etc.)
  - Quick-drying towel
  - Double skin, set of adhesive dressings, disinfectant pads
  - Elastic adhesive tape (6 cm wide, Elastoplast type)
  - Headlamp or flashlight
  - Sunglasses
  - Sunhat or cap
  - Scarf
  - Pocket knife
  - Waterproof money pouch
  - Camera — optional (but recommended)
***Caution: The iron bath at Terra Nostra leaves orange marks, so make sure you bring an old or colored bathing suit

The weather in the Azores, including Ponta Delgada on Sao Miguel Island, is characterized by its mild, oceanic climate. While the temperatures are moderate and stable (mostly 25-26°C (77-79°F)), weather can be quite changeable, with rapid shifts from sunshine to rain and back again. It’s advisable to be prepared for changing weather conditions when visiting the islands. Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
Group sizes and pricing
- - For this group adventure, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 8:1.
  - It takes a minimum of 3 people for this tour to operate.
  - Solo travelers are welcome!
Walking holidays in the Azores can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the hike on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
To get to Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel most people fly into João Paulo II Airport (PDL), which is approximately 10 minutes away. From there, you can rent a car from various rental agencies available at the airport or take a shuttle service to reach your destination.

Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet, whether that’s at the guide shop or accommodation.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!

Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
Deposits

You can secure one of the set dates with a 30% deposit upon booking. The remaining 70% of the trip price is to be paid 90 days prior to departure, at the latest.

Secure your early bird spot with a 10% deposit! This tour gets sold out very quickly, but with early-bird booking, you will be the first one to know about any new upcoming dates. Pick your preferred dates without the risk of your bucket list adventure selling out!
- - Only 10% of the total amount should be paid as a deposit upon booking. This deposit is non-refundable, but can be transferred to another 57hours adventure anytime in case the dates don’t suit you.
  - Once the dates are set, you can confirm your booking by paying another 20% of the total amount.
  - The final balance is due 3 months (90 days) prior to departure.
Cancellations

Booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options:

Basic
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a 70% refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Flexible
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 30-59 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-29 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Super Flexible
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 30 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-29 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
57hours partners with Redpoint Travel Protection, offering you a fully integrated program with a single point of contact for all your needs, from emergency services to travel assistance and protection claims. We highly recommend purchasing a comprehensive protection policy from Redpoint, which will protect you both before and during your travels. Before your departure, your investment is protected by the trip cancellation benefit. Once you depart, your policy provides coverage for trip interruption, medical assistance and rescue, baggage loss, trip delay, and more. Once you complete booking with 57hours, we'll create bespoke quote for you (and your group), making sure you're fully protected for the adventure ahead.