Discover the best places to visit in the Portuguese islands with Azores Holidays. From Terceira’s breathtaking landscapes to São Miguel’s thrilling whale watching expedition, there’s something for everyone. Embark on a full-day jeep tour on Terceira Island, exploring stunning viewpoints, natural caves, and even indulging in a cheese tasting. Join an exciting whale watching adventure in São Miguel, spotting magnificent cetaceans like sperm whales and dolphins. Enjoy a leisurely van tour on São Jorge Island, marveling at volcanic cavities, ancient trails, and snorkeling in the vibrant underwater world. Immerse yourself in the captivating sights of Santa Maria, including white sand beaches and enchanting waterfalls. Experience the thrill of canyoneering in Flores Island, surrounded by its unique landscape. For the ultimate adventure, hike to the summit of Pico Mountain, the highest point in the Azores. Don’t miss out on these unforgettable Azores Holidays
Terceira
Full Day Jeep Tour – Terceira Island
Itinerary:
- Serra do Cume Viewpoint: Enjoy a spectacular view of the Patchwork, the division of agricultural fields in the Caldeira dos 5 Picos. Duration: 30 minutes.
- Algar do Carvao: Descend along the volcanic cone and explore the unique natural setting and fauna inside a volcanic cavity. Ticket: €8.00. Duration: 30 minutes.
- Monte Brasil: Visit an extinct volcano surrounded by 4 km of walls of the “Fortaleza de São João Baptista” and enjoy an incredible panoramic view over the city of Angra do Heroísmo. Duration: 40 minutes.
- Queijo Vaquinha: Experience a cheese tasting at the production site and savor the oldest cheese on Terceira Island. Duration: 30 minutes.
- Furnas do Enxofre: Explore the important and unique fumarolic field on Terceira Island, known as Furnas do Enxofre. Duration: 30 minutes.
- Lagoa Das Patas: Visit the Lagoa das Patas Forest Reserve, surrounded by beautiful azaleas, hydrangeas, and other shrubs and trees, with a stunning artificial lake. Duration: 30 minutes.
- Biscoitos Natural Pools: Enjoy swimming in the Biscoitos Natural Pools (Lava Rock). Duration: 1 hour.
Attractions visited during the Full Day Jeep Tour – Terceira Island:
- Cow cheese
- Mount Brazil
- Viewpoint of Serra do Cume
The price for the Full Day Jeep Tour – Terceira Island starts from €132.84 and the tour is organized by Azores Escape. For more information, you can read reviews, discover additional experiences, or contact Azores Escape on Tripadvisor.
On average, this experience will take approximately 5 hours.
What’s included in this trip:
- Traditional Snack
- All fees and taxes
- Waterproof jackets
- Walking sticks
- SOS Kit
- Entry/admission to Vaquinha Cheese
What’s not included:
- Caves Ticket
- Entry/admission to Algar do Carvao
Book your ticket to Full Day Jeep Tour in Terceira Island, Click Here.
São Miguel
Azores whale watching expedition tour
Experience an unforgettable whale watching adventure in the Azores, a renowned destination on the Atlantic marine migration route. Join our expert biologist guides and skilled observers for an exciting opportunity to spot magnificent cetaceans, including sperm whales and dolphins. Our fast and maneuverable RIB boat ensures a thrilling ride, equipped with life jackets and waterproof vests for your safety and comfort. The tour concludes with a visit to the volcanic islet of Vila Franca do Campo.
Age Range: 4-75, maximum 28 participants per group Duration: 3 hours Start Time: Check availability Digital Ticket Available Languages: German, Portuguese, English, Italian, French, Dutch, Spanish Animal Attraction
Highlights:
- Observe whales, dolphins, sea turtles, and more with expert biologist guides
- Benefit from inland lookouts directing the boat, maximizing your chances of encountering cetaceans
- Stay safe and comfortable with provided life vests and waterproof tops on our RIB boat
- Conclude the tour by admiring the enchanting “Princess Ring” islet (Vila Franca do Campo)
What’s Included:
- Knowledgeable marine life guide
- Experienced captain
- Zodiac RIB boat (accommodates 12 to 28 people)
- Waterproof top and life jacket
- Safety measures
- Entry/admission to São Miguel
What’s Not Included:
- Hotel round-trip transfer
- Personal water supply
Itinerary:
- Azores Whale Watching TERRA AZUL, Marina de, 4, 9680-187 Islands, Portugal Meet at Vila Franca do Campo Marina for check-in at the designated time. Begin your journey with a brief introduction to cetaceans, their local species, natural habitat, communication patterns, migration, species behavior, and safety guidelines on board. Join the guide and captain as you board the designated boat and venture out to sea. Our inland lookout will guide us via VHF radio, ensuring optimal routes for encountering marine fauna. Sperm whales, along with three other cetacean species and abundant marine biodiversity, can be observed year-round. As we approach these majestic creatures, the guide will provide insights, collect research data, and be available to answer any questions. Feel free to inquire!
Duration: 3 hours
- Islet of Vila Franca do Campo, Industrial Park of Vila Franca 500m Offshore, Vila Franca do Campo, Sao Miguel 9680-114 Portugal Upon returning to the marina, enjoy a leisurely cruise around the Anel da Princesa islet in Vila Franca do Campo. Get an up-close view of this volcanic wonder and its resident wildlife.
Join us for an extraordinary Azores whale watching experience, combining marine marvels and captivating landscapes. Book your adventure now!
Book your ticket to Whale Watching Expedition Tour in São Miguel, Click Here.
São Jorge
São Jorge Van Tour – Full day with activities
Embark on the perfect choice for those seeking comfort, safety, and a leisurely exploration of São Jorge Island. This full-day tour offers a comprehensive experience from Ponta dos Rosais to Ponta do Topo, guided by our certified experts. Delve into the island’s rich heritage, including a taste of the renowned São Jorge Cheese and coffee from Fajã dos Vimes, followed by a delightful included lunch at a local restaurant. Marvel at a 16th-century church, a volcano-spared tower, volcanic cavities, ancient trails leading to Fajãs, and diverse fauna and flora. Weather permitting, enjoy snorkeling at Poça de Simão Dias, equipped with fins and a mask provided by us, to witness the vibrant array of colorful fish. Our knowledgeable guide will also provide recommendations to tailor the tour to your preferences. Join a shared tour to enhance your experience.
Ages: 0-100, maximum 16 participants per group Duration: 8-12 hours Start Time: Check availability Digital Ticket Available Language: English
What’s Included:
- Accredited guide, who can also serve as the driver
- Personal accident insurance
- All fees and taxes
- Buffet/self-service lunch
- 1 drink with lunch (excluding bottled wine)
- Availability throughout the tour
- Visit to a local cafe in Fajã dos Vimes
- Snorkeling equipment (mask and fins)
- Entry/admission to Ponta dos Rosais
- Entry/admission to São Jorge
- Entry/admission to Casa do Parque de São Jorge
- Entrance/admission to Viewpoint to Faja do Ouvidor
- Entry/admission to Simão Dias Natural Pool
- Entry/admission to São Jorge
- Entrance/admission to Church of Santa Bárbara
- Entry/admission to Third
- Entry/admission to Ponta de São Jorge Lighthouse
Itinerary:
- Ponta dos Rosais, Sao Jorge Portugal Explore the natural monument of Ponta dos Rosais and Vigia da Baleia (Whale’s Watchtower).
Duration: 20 minutes
- Rosais, Rosais, Sao Jorge, Azores Discover Parque Florestal 7 Fontes (Seven Sources Forest Park).
Duration: 10 minutes
- Miradouro do Pico da Velha, 9800 Sao Jorge, Portugal Enjoy breathtaking views of the western side of São Jorge Island, overlooking Pico, Faial, Graciosa, and São Jorge.
Duration: 10 minutes
- Rosais, Rosais, Sao Jorge, Azores Marvel at the Fajã de João Dias viewpoint.
Duration: 20 minutes
- Casa do Parque de Sao Jorge, Estrada Regional, Velas, Sao Jorge 9800-132 Portugal Visit the Visitor Center at Casa do Parque de São Jorge.
Duration: 20 minutes
- Faja do Ouvidor Viewpoint, Norte Grande, Velas, Sao Jorge 9800-504 Portugal Experience the panoramic viewpoint overlooking one of São Jorge’s most emblematic Fajãs (coastal plains).
Duration: 10 minutes
- Simao Dias Natural Pool, Faja Ouvidor Faja Do Ouvidor, Sao Jorge 9800 Portugal Visit the highly acclaimed Simão Dias Natural Pool, where you can swim and explore the underwater world with provided snorkeling equipment.
Duration: 1 hour
- Restaurante Urzelina, Estrada Regional N 34, 9800-432 Urzelina, Portugal Indulge in a buffet lunch at Rest
Book your ticket to Van Tour in São Jorge – Full day, Click Here.
Santa Maria
Excursions / Van Tours / Sightseeing Tours
Immerse yourself in a captivating journey through extraordinary locations, including pristine white sand beaches and enchanting waterfalls, all within the oldest island in the Azores.
Age Range: 0-90 Duration: 8-9 hours Start Time: Check availability Digital Ticket Available Language: Portuguese, English
Includes:
- Choice of Meat or Fish dish, accompanied by a drink and coffee
- Entry/admission to Dalberto Pombo Environmental Interpretation Center
What’s Not Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
Itinerary:
- Dalberto Pombo Environmental Interpretation Centre, Rua Teofilo Braga 10, Vila do Porto, Santa Maria 9580-535 Portugal Visit the Dalberto Pombo Environmental Interpretation Center (CIADP), situated in the historic area of Vila do Porto. Delve into the legacy of naturalist Dalberto Pombo, a pioneer in studying the island’s geological and biological diversity. This interactive center aims to promote knowledge of the island’s natural heritage with an educational and scientific approach.
Duration: 1 hour
- Barreiro da Faneca, EN2-2 São Pedro, Vila do Porto, Santa Maria 9580 Portugal Explore the vast expanse of arid and clayey terrain known as Barreiro da Faneca. This unique semi-desert landscape, characterized by its reddish yellow color, is part of the geological unit called “Formação de Feteiras” and stands as a distinct feature in the Azores.
Duration: 30 minutes
- Ribeira do Maloas, Parish of Santo Espirito Vila do Porto, Santa Maria 9580 Portugal Witness the magnificent waterfall at Ribeira do Maloás, located in the Malbusca area. This waterfall flows over an extensive basaltic column outcrop, reaching heights of 15 to 20 meters and spanning approximately 220 meters. The captivating prismatic disjunction of basaltic columns is associated with a subaerial basaltic lava flow from the Pico Alto Volcanic Complex. The towering prisms, resembling the famous “Giant Causeway” in Ireland, create a unique volcanic structure.
Duration: 30 minutes
- Cascata do Aveiro, Lugar Do Aveiro – Maia Parish of Santo Espirito, Santa Maria 9580-222 Portugal Marvel at one of Portugal’s largest waterfalls, the majestic Cascata do Aveiro, standing tall at a height of one hundred meters. At the base of the waterfall lies a shallow lake, and a scenic spot on one of the banks provides an ideal location for a delightful picnic.
Duration: 30 minutes
Departure Information: Pick-up service available at Vila do Porto, Municipal Market, shop nº 9, TV. do Mercado 2, 9580 Vila do Porto, Portugal, Rua do Cotovelo, Mercado Municipal, Loja nº 9. Airports: Vila Do Porto Airport, Santa Maria Portugal Ports: Port of Vila do Porto Hotel pick-up service available. Please check our payment page for a list of included hotels.
Return Details: Returns to the original departure point
Time Needed for Excursions/Van Tours/Sightseeing: On average, this experience will take approximately 8 hours.
Price of Excursions/Van Tours/Sightseeing Tours: Price for Excursions/Van Tours/Sightseeing Tours starting from €109.34.
Book your ticket to Excursions, Van tour and more in Santa Maria Island, Click Here.
Flores
Canyoneering in the Lower Islets on Flores Island
Discover why the island of Flores is renowned worldwide for its exceptional canyoning opportunities. Don’t miss the chance to visit this island without embarking on this exhilarating activity.
Age Range: 10-75 Duration: 3 hours Start Time: Check availability Digital Ticket Available Language: Portuguese, English.
Includes:
- All fees and taxes
- Snacks
- Helmet, boots, and suit
Itinerary:
Prepare for the perfect adventure, whether you’re a first-time canyoning enthusiast or already have some experience. Navigate a captivating stream surrounded by a unique landscape, and embark on a thrilling route through a small canyon. This unmissable opportunity promises an unforgettable experience.
Number of Rappels: 6 Longest Rappel: 18 meters Accessibility: Easy/Moderate Activity Time: 4 hours Meeting Point: Casa do Povo de Ponta Delgada
Departure and Return:
Departure Information: Casa do Povo in Ponta Delgada das Flores, Terra Chã, Ilha das, 9970 Ponta Delgada, Portugal We will meet you at Casa do Povo in Ponta Delgada das Flores.
Return Details: Returns to the original departure point.
Book your ticket to Canyoneering in Flores Island, Click Here.
Pico
7-hour hike Pico and Piquinho Mountain 2351 meters
Join the most iconic and memorable adventure in the Azores. This experience is perfect for those in good physical condition, even without any mountaineering background. It’s a challenge that will leave a lasting impression on you. Let our experienced guide ensure your safety and motivation throughout the journey as you make the most of each moment. Discover the volcanoes and biodiversity of the Azores through this exhilarating adventure.
Ages: 12-65 Duration: 7 hours Start Time: Check availability Digital Ticket Available Languages: English, Italian, French, Spanish
Includes:
- All fees and taxes
- Personal insurance
- High-quality photographs and videos
- Professional and experienced guide
- Walking poles
What to Expect:
Delighted to invite you to join on this incredible adventure to the summit of Pico Mountain. This is the most iconic and extraordinary experience in the Azores, designed for those who are physically fit, even without prior mountaineering experience. Our official meeting point is Casa da Montanha at 1200 meters, where we will gather for a briefing with the entire group. We will ensure everyone has the necessary equipment for the climb and provide local insights before commencing our approximately 7-hour journey to 2351 meters and back. The official trail covers approximately 8km, entirely on volcanic rock, with an average slope of 30%, offering exciting elevation changes. It is essential for all participants to complete the initial part of the activity comfortably. Any significant deviation from the coordinated pace or lack of balance should be taken as warning signs, as the subsequent hours on Montanha do Pico will require coordination on uneven terrain. Participants above 60 years old or accompanied by children under 12 years old are not included in the regular groups and should request a private activity at a different price.
Departure Information: Mountain House, Caminho Florestal nº 9 Candelária, 9950-000 Madalena, Portugal The meeting point is Casa da Montanha, where we will register our ascent. At Casa da Montanha, we will gather as a group for a pre-ascent briefing and provide hiking poles for the climb. There is ample parking available if you arrive by car, and restroom facilities are accessible.
Return Details: Returns to the original departure point.
Book your ticket to the Hike in Pico Mountain, Click Here.
Faial
Half Day Tour – Faial Island
If you’re visiting Faial and want to explore the island’s most emblematic places, this tour is perfect for you! Experience the majestic Caldeira, the Capelinhos Volcano, and breathtaking viewpoints that offer privileged views of the neighboring islands, Pico, São Jorge, and Graciosa. Our team guarantees a high level of professionalism, positive attitude, and dedication to ensuring you have a unique and enjoyable experience.
Ages: 12-99 Maximum Group Size: 8 Duration: 3–4 hours Start Time: Check availability Digital Ticket Available Languages: Portuguese, English
What’s Included:
- Professional and experienced guide, native to Faial Island
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Round-trip transport to your hotel
- Bilingual guide (Portuguese and English)
What to Expect:
Stopping Point: Miradouro de Nossa Senhora da Conceicao, Variant to Estrada Regional N0 1-1a, Horta, Faial Island 9900-174 Portugal
From this location, admire the Monument of Nossa Senhora da Conceição and enjoy panoramic views of Horta’s historic center, Horta Bay, Praia do Almoxarife, neighboring Pico Island, and Portugal’s highest point, Pico Mountain. On clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of São Jorge and Graciosa islands. Undoubtedly, this is a place with a privileged view!
Duration: 10 minutes
Passing Through: Flamengos, Flamengos, Faial Island, Azores
As we make our way to Caldeira do Faial, enjoy excellent views of the entire Flamengos parish. This is the only parish on the island that isn’t surrounded by the sea, but rather by mountains and volcanoes.
Stopping Point: Caldeira, 10 km from Horta, Horta, Faial Island Portugal
Situated in the center of the island, Caldeira is Faial’s true landmark. It is one of the largest volcanic craters in the Azores and played a significant role in the island’s formation. With a diameter of approximately 2000 meters, a perimeter of seven kilometers, and a depth of 400 meters, it’s a remarkable natural wonder.
Duration: 25 minutes
Stopping Place: Capelinhos, Faial Island Portugal
This location boasts stunning volcanic beauty and stands as one of the most popular tourist attractions in the Azores. Immerse yourself in a lunar-like environment, surrounded by contrasting gray sands, green hills, and the vibrant blues of the sky and sea.
Duration: 40 minutes
Stopping Point: Miradouro Ponta Furada, National Road EN1-1A, Horta, Faial Island Portugal
Experience the coastal beauty of this place, where basalt meets the sea. Marvel at the various caves and geological formations that will undoubtedly captivate you.
Duration: 10 minutes
Departure and Return: Departure Information: Traveler pickup is available. We offer pickup anywhere in Horta or the parish of Flamengos. For other locations, please contact us in advance. Ports: Port of Horta Maritime Passenger Terminal, Av. April 25th, Horta, Portugal A hotel pickup service is available. Check the list of hotels on our payment page to see if your hotel is included in the collection points.
Return Details: Returns to the original departure point.
Book your ticket to Half day Tour in Faial Island, Click Here.
