The Azores & Madeira: 16-Day Guided Adventure

Day By Day Itinerary

1. Day 1 Friday: Arrival in Madeira Island

   

   Welcome to Madeira! Relax and unwind from the moment you arrive. We'll handle your airport transfers on arrival and departure, ensuring your adventure's seamless start and finish.

   Suggestion for the day:

   Today is dedicated to relaxation, rejuvenation, and savoring the local flavors of the island.

   • Relax at Your Hotel: Take advantage of your hotel's amenities. Luxuriate by the pool, soak up the sunshine, or indulge in a pampering spa treatment  – let go of any lingering adventuring aches!
   • Feeling slightly recharged? Venture outside your hotel and explore the nearby area. Stroll down charming streets, discover local shops, or perhaps visit a nearby park or viewpoint for some light sightseeing.

    

2. Day 2 Saturday: Welcome Dinner (Included)

   

   Thematic Local Dinner (7PM - 10:30PM)

   Embark on a tantalizing evening of sumptuous cuisine, live folklore demonstration, and maybe even the beautiful sounds of Fado! Get front-row seats to an enchanting night as you savor delectable dishes in a local restaurant. Don't miss out on this unique experience!

   Menu:

   • Aperitif (Madeira Wine)
   • Appetizer (Bolo do Caco with garlic butter)
   • Vegetable Soup
   • Grilled meat served with local fried sweet corn, french fries, and salad (optional side vegetables instead)
   • Dessert (Fruit Salad with Ice Cream)
   • Coffee
   • Digestive
   • Drinks included: Water, Wine or Beer
3. Day 3 Sunday: Santana Excursion (included)

   

   Discover Santana (8:30 AM - 5 PM)

   Embark on an unforgettable journey through the beautiful sights of Madeira. From Camacha's famous wicker factory to Pico do Arieiro, towering at a staggering 1810 meters above ground level you will experience breathtaking views from every angle.

   Uncover the secrets of Ribeiro Frio with its alluring trout farm and world heritage site - the Laurissilva Forest - before taking in Santana’s classic thatched houses for lunch! End this incredible day off admiring Ponta de São Lourenço followed by the Machico en route to your return to Funchal- lunch is included during this full-day tour!

4. Day 4 Monday: Funchal City Tour (Included)

   

   Discover Downtown Funchal (8:30 AM - 1:00 PM)

   Discover the stunning points of interest this charming city offers! From visiting a traditional embroidery factory, strolling through colorful markets filled with delightful fruits and flowers, riding up Monte on an iconic cable car* for breathtaking views, or taking in the secrets behind the Monte Botanical Garden. Make sure you also have some fun by descending back into town on famous toboggans ridden with wicker baskets*! Don't miss out – this captivating small half-day tour will stay etched in your memory forever!

   * not included

5. Day 5 Tuesday: Porto Moniz Excursion (Included)

   

   Porto Moniz Excursion (8:30 AM - 5:00 PM)

   Come experience the best of Madeira on this memorable coastal tour! Enjoy breathtaking views of an area known for its delicious swordfish - Câmara de Lobos, then marvel at Cabo Girão – Europe's highest cliff with 580 meters. Wander along the stunning coast and take in Porto Moniz's famous natural pools before indulging yourself in lunch in a picturesque location. Ascend up Encumeada - situated atop 1007 meters high where you can revel in sweeping sea views from each side, before heading back down towards Funchal - lunch is included during this full-day tour!

6. Day 6 Wednesday: Free Day in Madeira Island

   

   Suggestion for the day: Food & Wine Experience

   Unwind after your adventures and tantalize your taste buds with Madeira's unique flavors! We'll connect you with the perfect foodie experience, allowing you to delve into the island's rich culinary heritage.

   Recommended Experiences:

   • Walking Food Tours: Explore Funchal's vibrant streets on a guided walking food tour. Sample iconic dishes like "Espetada" (skewered meat), "Bolo do Caco" (sweet potato bread), and "Lapas" (limpets with garlic butter) at local eateries, bakeries, and hidden gems.
   • Uncork the Island's Secrets: Visit a traditional "quinta" (wine estate) and embark on a guided wine tasting. Learn about the unique production methods and savor a variety of Madeira wines, from dry whites to rich, fortified blends.
   • Luxurious Cuisine: Indulge in a gourmet experience at a renowned Madeiran restaurant. Savor expertly prepared dishes featuring fresh, local ingredients, showcasing a fusion of traditional flavors with modern techniques.
   • Market Delights: Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere of a local market. Witness the vibrant display of fresh produce, local cheeses, and regional delicacies – a feast for the senses.
   • There’s Rum Too: Visit a historical rum distillery and delve into the captivating history of rum production in Madeira. Learn about the traditional aging process and culminate your experience with a guided rum tasting, savoring the distinct character of each rum.
7. Day 7 Thursday: Free Day for Personal Activities (Madeira Island)

   

   Suggestion for the day: Levada Adventure (Hiking)

   Madeira, the "hiker's paradise," offers diverse trails for all levels. Explore levadas (ancient irrigation canals) or scenic paths. The south boasts gentle walks, while the north offers challenging treks through majestic mountains and waterfalls.

   Recommended Hikes:

   Levada dos Balcões: This moderate trail winds through Laurissilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

   • Distance: 7 km (4.3 mi)
   • Duration: 4-5 hours

   Levada das 25 Fontes: This moderate trail leads you to waterfalls, crystal-clear pools, and lush Laurissilva forest. 

   • Distance: 6 km (3.7 mi)
   •  Duration: 3-4 hours

   Vereda do Fanal: This magical moderate trail leads you through an ancient forest teeming with endemic flora, including the beautiful Laurissilva laurel trees.

   •  Distance: 6 km (3.7 mi)
   •  Duration: 3-4 hours

   Ponta de São Lourenço: The most popular trail is the PR8 Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço which offers stunning views of the coastline and the surrounding mountains.

   • Distance: 6,3 km (4 mi)
   • Duration: 3-4 hours
8. Day 8 Friday: Free Day in Madeira Island

   

   Suggestion for the day: Just Relax

   Dip your toes in the refreshing ocean at dawn and spend a leisurely day exploring local shops to pick up artisanal souvenirs and local delicacies (such as bolo do caco and poncha) to bring back home.

9. Day 9 Saturday: Transfer to the Airport & Arrival In São Miguel Island

   

   Welcome to the Azores! Relax and unwind from the moment you arrive. We'll handle your airport transfers on arrival and departure, ensuring your adventure's seamless start and finish.

   Suggestion for the day:

   • Indulge in a leisurely day at your hotel's facilities and its surroundings.

    

10. Day 10 Sunday: Ponta Delgada City Tour (Included)

    

    9 AM - 1PM: Discover Downtown Ponta Delgada

     This tour takes place in what is considered the "capital" of São Miguel Island – the city of Ponta Delgada. During this tour, we will discover the main historical, cultural, and noteworthy sites of this wonderful city.

    Highlights of this tour include:

    • Old churches and convents
    • Monument of Portas da Cidade 
    • Pineapple plantations (* if not possible during the City Tour, this visit will take place during the Full-Day Tour of Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo)
    • Historical Beautiful gardens
    • São Brás Fortress and São Francisco square
11. Day 11 Monday: Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo Tour (Included)

    

    9AM - 5PM: Sete Cidades & Lagoa do Fogo Tour

    A full-day tour that takes you to the two most famous lagoons of São Miguel Island. 

    Sete Cidades: One of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal, this show-stopping, lake-filled crater has become one of the signature and most famous images of the Azores. There are (amazingly) 11 lakes in total scattered around Sete Cidades, but they can only be seen from certain angles from the various miradouros (viewpoints in Portuguese) in the area. 

    Lagoa do Fogo: Lagoa do Fogo, which translates roughly into "Lagoon of Fire", is a crater lake located at the center of São Miguel Island. This protected nature reserve sits tucked away atop the impressive Pico da Barrosa, far above the whir, hum, and hurry of civilization below. 

    Highlights of this tour include:

    • Pineapple plantations (* if already visited during the City Tour, it will be substituted for a different point of interest)
    • Escalvado viewpoint (offering a magical view to Mosteiros)
    • Sete Cidades parish
    • Santiago lagoon
    • Vista do Rei viewpoint (overlooking the most famous lagoons of Sete Cidades) 
    • Pico do Carvão
    • Lunch at a local restaurant 
    • Local ceramics factory (Cerâmica Vieira)
    • Lagoa do Fogo viewpoint
    • Ribeira Grande city center, with a visit to the local liquor shop
12. Day 12 Tuesday: Furnas Tour & Hot Springs (Included)

    

    9AM - 5PM: Furnas Tour

    Furnas Valley is famous worldwide for its bubbling caldeiras and hot springs, where visitors can relax while soaking in a thermal bath any time of year, but this mystical volcanic valley is full of many more interesting surprises. 

    Highlights of this tour include: 

    • Vila Franca do Campo (offering a viewpoint to the iconic islet)
    • Furnas Lake (here, learn how the famous "cozido" dish is cooked underground by heat from the actual volcanic vents!)
    • Furnas parish (you will have free time to bathe in the thermal waters here, or visit the Terra Nostra Garden)
    • Cozido lunch 
    • Visit Furnas "calderas" to see the volcanic activity
    • Pico do Ferro viewpoint
    • Tea Factory
    • Santa Iria Viewpoint

    Please note: Terra Nostra Park and/or Dona Beija entrance fees are not included. Also, it is advised that you bring dark-colored bathing suits, an old towel, and a change of clothes (bathing in the thermal waters is known to stain fabrics). And blondes who dye their hair are cautioned to close pay attention as well, as the waters here contain iron and can stain hair the lighter hair pigments.

13. Day 13 Wednesday: Whale Watching Experience (Included)

    

    08:30AM - 12:30PM: Whale & Dolphin Watching Excursion

    Take the opportunity to observe some of the dozens of cetacean species that are usually seen in the Azores. While nature is indeed wild, and offers no guarantees, whales and dolphins are regularly seen during our half-day tours. During this tour, you will have the opportunity to observe turtles, birds, and other marine species. Before you embark on the boat trip, expert biologists hold a small informative talk to explain which cetacean species can be observed, the safety measures and protocols for behavior on board – including how we respect animals and what the rules for observation at sea are. You will even learn some fascinating historical facts.

14. Day 14 Thursday: Free Day in São Miguel Island

    

    Suggestion for the day: The Wonders of Nordeste

    Immerse yourself in the beauty of São Miguel Island's northeast region with a captivating day trip to Nordeste! This haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers boasts breathtaking scenery, charming villages, and a wealth of outdoor activities.

    Don’t Miss:

    • Ponta do Sossego Viewpoint: Embrace panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the vast Atlantic Ocean.
    • Ponta da Madrugada Viewpoint: Witness the magical spectacle of the sunrise, a moment of pure tranquility.
    • Arnel Lighthouse: Discover the majestic Arnel Lighthouse, a towering sentinel guiding ships for centuries.
    • Poço Azul Hiking Trail: Embark on an invigorating hike through lush forests and cascading waterfalls, culminating at the breathtaking Poço Azul, a natural swimming basin.
    • Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park: Explore a paradise of cascading waterfalls, lush vegetation, and ancient watermills. Hike the park's trails and immerse yourself in the natural beauty.
15. Day 15 Friday: Free Day in São Miguel Island

    

    Suggestion for the day: Souvenir Shopping

    Take some time for some souvenirs shopping & Say goodbye to the Azores with a delicious farewell dinner

    Don't leave the Azores empty-handed! From gourmet delights to handcrafted treasures, there's a perfect souvenir for everyone on your list.

    • Azorean Tea
    • Pineapple Delights
    • Wickerwork
    • Bordado dos Açores (Embroidery)
    • Ceramics
    • Azores Wine
    • Postcards
    • T-shirts
    • Liqueurs
16. Day 16 Saturday: Transfer to the Airport & Return Flight Home

    

    We've arranged your hotel transfer to ensure a smooth journey to the airport.

    Thank you for choosing us to be your travel companions on this adventure! It's been a pleasure assisting you in creating unforgettable memories. We wish you happy travels and until next time!