Azores: Pico, Faial & São Jorge Explorer (Self-guided Walking Tour)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an unforgettable 8-day adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of the Azores. This multi-day tour offers a unique blend of hiking, sightseeing, and cultural immersion. Starting in the vibrant city of Horta on Faial Island, you'll traverse volcanic craters, explore UNESCO World Heritage vineyards, ascend Portugal's highest peak, and discover the charming coastal towns of Pico and São Jorge Islands. Along the way, you'll have the opportunity to swim in crystal clear waters, sample local cuisine, and learn about the region's rich history and traditions. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual traveler looking for a unique getaway, this tour promises a memorable experience.
Included
Breakfast
Luggage and people transfers (D1: Horta Airport - Hotel; D2: Hotel - Caldeira; Praia do Norte - Horta; D3: Hotel - Harbour; Ferry Horta - Madalena; Candelaria - Madalena; D4: Madalena - Sao Roque; Ferry Sao Roque - Velas; Velas - Serra do Topo; Faja dos Cubres - Velas; D5: Velas - Pico Esperança & Faja de Ouvidor - Velas; D6: Luggage Hotel - Harbour; Ferry Velas - Horta; Horta /- Capelinhos + luggage at the Hotel; D7: Capelinhos - Horta; D8: Hotel Horta - Airport);
7 nights bed and breakfast (en-suite rooms throughout in a combination of 3- and 4-star hotels); Luggage and people transfers (D1: Horta Airport - Hotel; D2: Hotel - Caldeira; Praia do Norte - Horta; D3: Hotel - Harbour; Ferry Horta - Madalena; Candelaria - Madalena; D4: Madalena - Sao Roque; Ferry Sao Roque - Velas; Velas - Serra do Topo; Faja dos Cubres - Velas; D5: Velas - Pico Esperança & Faja de Ouvidor - Velas; D6: Luggage Hotel - Harbour; Ferry Velas - Horta; Horta /- Capelinhos + luggage at the Hotel; D7: Capelinhos - Horta; D8: Hotel Horta - Airport); Pico ascent with a local guide; Detailed route description and maps; Emergency support phone line;
Self-guided walking tour: Pico ascent with a local guide; Detailed route description and maps; Emergency support phone line
7 nights bed and breakfast (en-suite rooms throughout in a combination of 3- and 4-star hotels);
Destinations
Madalena
HortaMap
Attractions
Torre do RelógioDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Horta
- Horta - Arrival day
- More
- Torre do Relógio
- More
Your Azorean adventure begins in Horta, where you'll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your city-center hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you'll have the afternoon to explore Horta and its picturesque marina. Don't forget to stop by the world-renowned Peter's Café for their signature 'gin tonic do mar'. Overnight stay in Horta.
Day 2 – Day 2: Hiking the Faial Caldera
- Horta
- More
Today, you'll journey to the heart of Faial Island to explore its magnificent caldera. After a scenic hike along the crater's edge and a descent through lush lava fields and hydrangea bushes, you'll reach the serene Praia do Norte. Following the day's adventure, you'll be transferred back to Horta for an overnight stay.
Day 3 – Day 3: Pico Island and Vineyard Exploration
- Horta
- Madalena
- More
On day three, you'll board a boat to Pico Island, home to Portugal's tallest volcano. After settling into your hotel in Madalena, you'll embark on a coastal hike through quaint ports and UNESCO-listed vineyards nestled within black lava stone walls. Overnight stay in Madalena.
Day 4 – Day 4: Conquering the Pico Volcano
- Madalena
- More
Day four offers two exciting options: a challenging ascent of the Pico Volcano, Portugal's highest peak, or a more leisurely walk along the island's ridges. Both options provide stunning views and unique insights into the island's volcanic landscape. After a day of exploration, you'll return to Madalena for an overnight stay.
Day 5 – Day 5: Journey to São Jorge Island
- Madalena
- More
On day five, you'll take a ferry from São Roque to Velas on São Jorge Island. After settling into your hotel, you'll hike down a pilgrims' path to the isolated hamlet of Faja de Santo Cristo, offering stunning views of the ocean. From there, you'll continue along the coast to Faja dos Cubres before returning to Velas for an overnight stay.
Day 6 – Day 6: Hiking to Pico da Esperança
Day 6: Hiking to Pico da Esperança
Day six takes you to the highest point of São Jorge Island, Pico da Esperança. Here, you'll enjoy panoramic views and a sweeping vista of the clouds. After a day of exploration, you'll return to your hotel in Velas.
Day 7 – Day 7: Return to Horta and Capelinhos Lighthouse Visit
- Horta
- More
On day seven, you'll return to Horta by ferry. Upon arrival, you'll be transferred to the south coast for a visit to the Capelinhos Lighthouse, a testament to a massive volcanic eruption in 1957. The afternoon is yours to explore Horta's colonial architecture, history, or join a whale/dolphin watching trip. Overnight stay in Horta.
Day 8 – Day 8: Departure from Horta
- Horta - Departure day
- More
On the final day of your Azorean adventure, you'll be transferred to Horta Airport for your onward journey. As you depart, you'll carry with you a treasure trove of memories from this unforgettable multi-day tour.
Verified reviews
Similar tours
Download Europe’s biggest travel marketplace to your phone to manage your entire trip in one place
Scan this QR code with your phone camera and press the link that appears to add Europe’s biggest travel marketplace into your pocket. Enter your phone number or email address to receive an SMS or email with the download link.