São Miguel & Terceira: 15-Day Guided Adventure

Day By Day Itinerary

1. Day 1 Saturday: Arrival in Terceira 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.

   *Want to maximize your time in paradise? Consider pre-booking an early check-in during the booking process. This way, you can hit the ground running and start exploring sooner! Don't hesitate to contact our booking agents if you have any questions or need assistance setting this up.

   Suggestion for the day:

   It’s time to unwind on the beautiful island of Terceira! 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.
   • Alcatra Feast: As the afternoon progresses, prepare for a culinary adventure! Tonight's dinner features the renowned "alcatra," a traditional Terceiran dish featuring tender beef cooked to perfection in a clay pot. The rich flavors and aromas will tantalize your taste buds – a perfect way to experience the island's culinary heritage.
2. Day 2 Sunday: Free Day in Terceira Island

   

   Suggestion for the day: Hiking Experience

   Emerging from the depths of the Atlantic Ocean, Terceira Island beckons adventurers with its captivating landscapes and diverse hiking trails. Whether you're a seasoned trekker or a casual walker, Terceira's volcanic terrain offers an unforgettable experience for all levels of hiking enthusiasts. Lace-up your boots and embark on a journey through verdant forests, ascend to the summit of towering peaks, and traverse along rugged coastlines.

   Best Recommendations:

   • Mistérios Negros Trail (Moderate): Embark on a journey through a verdant forest, culminating in a series of fascinating black lava rock formations. This well-maintained trail rewards you with stunning views of the surrounding Terceira Island landscape.
   • Monte Brasil Trail (Challenging): For experienced hikers, the Monte Brasil Trail offers a rewarding challenge. Ascend to the island's highest point, Monte Brasil, and be mesmerized by the breathtaking panoramic views that await you at the summit.
   • Serra do Cume Trail (Easy-Moderate): Enjoy a relaxed hike or a family outing on the scenic Serra do Cume Trail. This gentle to moderate path winds through rolling hills and lush pastures, offering a delightful immersion in Terceira's natural beauty.
   • Baías da Agualva Trail (Moderate): Follow the captivating coastline on the Baías da Agualva Trail. This moderate-difficulty path unveils stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Keep your eyes peeled for the diverse wildlife that calls this area home, including birds and rabbits.
   • Rocha do Chambre Trail (Challenging): Challenge yourself with the Rocha do Chambre Trail. This demanding path leads you to the summit of Rocha do Chambre, a volcanic rock formation that protrudes dramatically into the ocean. The unparalleled views from the top are simply unforgettable.
3. Day 3 Monday: Cultural Tour (Included)

   

   2PM - 6PM: Cultural Tour

   • Immerse yourself in the traditional artistic culture of this region on an unforgettable tour. Dive into the world of traditional arts as you tour São Bento Pottery, explore a local coffee farm, and visit an embroidery house. Witness the intricate art of ceramics painting and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of the Azores.
4. Day 4 Tuesday: Full-Day Tour Around Terceira with Traditional Lunch (Included)

   

   9:30AM - 5PM: Discover the Beauty of Terceira 

   • Explore the rich culture and history of Terceira on this full-day island tour! See Monte Brasil, Baía da Salga, Igreja de São Sebastião, Miradouro da Serra do Cume & Praia da Vitória. Enjoy an authentic lunch with Alcatra de Carne in a local restaurant before heading to Biscoitos & the West Coast.
5. Day 5 Wednesday: Volcano Tour (Included)

   

   2PM - 6PM: Volcano Experience

   • Explore Terceira's incredible geological past, with a tour of lava tubes, craters, and fumaroles! See the majestic Algar do Carvão volcano. Descend into Gruta do Natal for its ancient wonders hidden deep within. Marvel at Furnas do Enxofre as you gaze upon bubbling sulfuric pits and steamy fumaroles. Take in stunning views over terraced landscapes from the Serra da Ribeirinha viewpoint - it is an unforgettable half-day experience not to be missed.
6. Day 6 Thursday: Angra do Heroísmo City Tour (Included)

   

   9:30AM - 1PM: The Secrets of Downtown Angra do Heroísmo

   • Journey through centuries-old Angra do Heroísmo, a city of timeless beauty. Nourish your imagination with the scent of salty sea air and exotic aromas wafting from pastry shops. Revel in its unique character enriched by stories and legends while strolling harmonious streets boasting stunning cultural heritage - all starting at Alto das Covas.
7. Day 7 Friday: Free Day in Terceira Island

   

   Suggestion of the day: Terceira by Sea

   Terceira Island offers a plethora of opportunities to explore its breathtaking natural beauty. Consider incorporating these exciting ocean adventures into your itinerary:

   • Whale and Dolphin Watching Excursion: Embark on an unforgettable adventure on the Atlantic Ocean in search of majestic whales and playful dolphins. Keep your eyes peeled for these magnificent creatures as they breach, splash, and frolic in their natural habitat. A knowledgeable guide will share fascinating facts about these marine mammals, creating a truly enriching experience.
   • Sunset Boat Tour: Experience the magic of Terceira Island as the sun dips below the horizon. Set sail on a boat tour and witness the sky ablaze with vibrant colors as the sun paints the clouds with a captivating spectacle.
   • Boat Tour to Ilhéus das Cabras: Venture to the stunning Ilheus das Cabras, a cluster of islets located off the coast of Terceira Island. These volcanic rock formations offer a unique opportunity for exploration and stunning ocean views. 

    

8. Day 8 Saturday: Flight to São Miguel Island

   

   Welcome to São Miguel Island! We'll handle your airport transfers on arrival and departure, ensuring your adventure's seamless start and finish.

   Suggestion for the day: Get Ready for the Second Part of Your Adventure

   It’s time to unwind on the breathtaking island of São Miguel! Today is all about relaxation, rejuvenation, and indulging in the island's authentic flavors.

   • Relax at Your Hotel: Make the most of your hotel's amenities. Lounge by the pool, bask in the warmth of the sun, or treat yourself to a soothing spa session—letting go of any lingering tension from your travels.
   • Feeling slightly recharged? Step outside your hotel and explore the local area. Wander through charming streets, discover quaint shops, or take a leisurely walk to a nearby park or viewpoint for some light sightseeing.
   • Bife à Regional: As the afternoon turns to evening, get ready for a true culinary delight! Tonight’s dinner showcases the iconic “Bife à Regional,” a São Miguel specialty featuring succulent beef seasoned with garlic, pepper, and local spices, all topped with a savory sauce. The flavors are bold and unforgettable—a perfect way to savor the island’s rich culinary heritage.

   *Want to maximize your time in paradise? Consider pre-booking an early check-in during the booking process. This way, you can hit the ground running and start exploring sooner! Don't hesitate to contact our booking agents if you have any questions or need assistance setting this up.

9. Day 9 Sunday: Ponta Delgada City Tour

   

   09:30AM - 12:00PM: Ponta Delgada City Tour 

   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
10. Day 10 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
11. Day 11 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.

12. Day 12 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.
13. Day 13 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.
14. Day 14 Friday: Free Day in São Miguel Island

    

    Suggestion for the day: Unforgettable Hikes

    One of the best ways to discover São Miguel Island is through its stunning and well-preserved hiking trails. Here are our top picks:

    Sanguinho/Salto do Prego Hike

    • Highlights: Discover the hidden gem of Salto do Prego waterfall on this captivating hike and a secluded hidden village. Immerse yourself in lush forests, refreshing waterfalls, and the charming civil parish of Faial da Terra, known locally as "The Nativity Scene of the Island" for its picturesque houses.
    • Distance: 4.5 km (2.7 miles)
    • Difficulty: Moderate
    • Duration: 2 hours
    • Trail Type: Circular

    Moinho do Félix Hike

    • Highlights: Explore the charm of the Moinho do Félix trail. This coastal walk takes you through lush landscapes, past a historic windmill, and several stunning waterfalls. Immerse yourself in nature's beauty and capture unforgettable memories on this beautiful hike.
    • Distance: 5.5 km (3.4 miles)
    • Difficulty: Moderate
    • Duration: 2 hours
    • Trail Type: Circular

    Serra Devassa

    • Highlights: Uncover the enchanting beauty of Serra Devassa, a hiker's paradise in São Miguel. This stunning landscape boasts a collection of pristine lakes, including the iconic Lagoa do Canário. Immerse yourself in nature as you traverse through lush forests and volcanic terrain, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the trail's highest point, Pico da Éguas.
    • Distance: 4.9 km (3 miles)
    • Difficulty: Moderate
    • Duration: 2 hours
    • Trail Type: Circular
15. Day 15 Saturday: 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!