Highlights
- Hike through one of the last subtropical rainforests in Europe
- Witness blue whales on a whale watching excursion
- Kayak the turquoise lagoons of Sete Cidades
- Soak in a hot spring surrounded by lush gardens
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Ponta Delgada & São Miguel Island | Ponta Delgada |
| Day 2 | Self-Guided Tour of Western São Miguel, Kayaking at Sete Cidades | Ponta Delgada |
| Day 3 | Whale Watching Excursion, Central & Southern São Miguel, Drive to Furnas | Furnas |
| Day 4 | Self-Guided Tour of Furnas, Explore Eastern São Miguel | Furnas |
| Day 5 | Depart São Miguel |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Ponta Delgada & São Miguel Island
Welcome to the Azores! This volcanic archipelago stretches over 350 miles (600 km) across the Atlantic Ocean, and while there are nine islands in total, you'll spend the next five days discovering the largest island of São Miguel. Upon arrival, collect your rental car from the airport and hit the road toward the unofficial capital of Ponta Delgada. Now that you have your own set of wheels, you're free to stick around town and get some rest at your hotel or take off on an adventure.
If you do decide to focus on the center of Ponta Delgada, it's a beautiful part of the island to discover. Walk along the tiny alleyways and admire the calçada Portuguesa (distinctive black and white tiles), or go in search of fresh-caught seafood and the favorite local pastry queijadas (Portuguese cheesecake). If an adventure a bit farther afield is what you're after, the nearby pineapple plantations or the lava cave of Gruta do Carvão both make for a short but worthwhile trip outside the city.
Day 2: Self-Guided Tour of Western São Miguel, Kayaking at Sete Cidades
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Your second day is all about exploring São Miguel's lagoons on the western end of the island. Hop in your rental car and drive along the coast to reach the most famous site in the Azores, Sete Cidades. A volcanic caldera that cradles two turquoise lagoons, this natural wonder can be explored both by land and by water. Spend the morning hiking along the rim of the crater or rent a kayak for a whole new perspective of the lagoon and the lush hills that surround it.
Just a 15-minute drive over the hill from Sete Cidades is one of the island's best-kept secrets, Ponta da Ferraria, a series of naturally-heated thermal pools set right on the ocean. Be sure to pack your swimsuit because you won't be able to resist a dip. Keep in mind that you'll need to check the tidal chart and traverse large rocks and a ladder to reach the pools, but you'll be well rewarded with sweeping ocean views to complement your soak.
Day 3: Whale Watching Excursion, Central & Southern São Miguel, Drive to Furnas
Kick off day three by witnessing the largest mammals on earth—blue whales. The Azores are known for their incredible marine biodiversity, and you'll get to experience it up close this morning as you board a boat to search for both whales and dolphins. After an exhilarating morning, jump back in the car and make your way toward the central part of the island. Your first stop should be the mountaintop views of Lagoa do Fogo, thought to be the most beautiful lagoon on São Miguel. If you fancy another hot spring dip, stop by Caldeira Velha or continue on toward the southern end of the island and the village of Ribeira Grande.
The lesser-known Areais area and its black-sand beaches make for a worthwhile swimming spot this afternoon. You'll also have the chance to stop into the only tea plantation in Europe, Gorreana. If you're still up for some more exploring, drive to the island's southern coast to experience the fishing village of Caloura and its pretty beaches, Populo and Baixa d'Areia. When you're ready, make your way to your base for the next two nights in Furnas, a town in the island's center known for its dramatic geothermal activity.
Day 4: Self-Guided Tour of Furnas, Explore Eastern São Miguel
Today, you'll discover the volcanic activity and geothermal center of Furnas. See smoking fumaroles (volcanic vents), burbling mud pits, and hot springs alongside the picturesque Terra Nostra Gardens and their blossoming hydrangeas. If you feel up for it, take a dip in the hot springs right in the garden or pop by Poça da Dona Beija, another nearby geothermal pool. As you make your way out of Furnas, don't forget to stop for a bird's-eye view of Lagoa das Furnas. If you're feeling extra adventurous, this is also a great time to schedule a break in your day's driving itinerary for an adventurous activity like canyoning.
There's only one place left that you haven't explored quite yet—the unspoiled eastern side of São Miguel. After a hearty lunch of the local geothermally-cooked stew, cozido das Furnas, drive toward the Ribeira dos Caldeirões Park and its' waterfalls. As you make your way back toward your base in Furnas, a few viewpoints are worth stopping at, including Ponta da Madrugada and the Ponta do Sossego. This section of the island also happens to be home to a laurisilva (laurel) forest. This is one of only a few subtropical rainforests left in Europe and makes for a great hike to witness its endangered beauty.
Day 5: Depart São Miguel
More Great Azores Itineraries
Looking for more inspiration for your trip to the Azores? Check out these other Azores itineraries, explore different ways to spend five days in the Azores, or discover the best time to visit the Azores.
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