A travel experience like no other!
This sample itinerary was created by experts and is meant to inspire your next trip. It is ready to be customized to suit your interests, tastes and budget so you can connect with local cultures and experience authentic travel on your own terms and departing whenever you choose.
Starting from $3,942 per person*
*Please note: USD per person, double occupancy. Custom designed personal tour. Prices subject to change. KT
Overview
All aspects of your trip can be adjusted to your liking, whether its activities, hotels, duration of the trip and even places you’ll visit.
- Venture into the mid-Atlantic by boat in search of whales, dolphins, and seabirds.
- Marvel at stunning volcanic landscapes and pristine national parks.
- Get a glimpse of the traditional tea-making process at one of Europe’s few tea plantations.
- Explore isolated islands and UNESCO-protected sites with private guides.
- Stay at a handpicked selection of premium accommodations.
Itinerary
The Adventure Begins
This afternoon, enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.
Meet your private driver-guide for an airport transfer. For your added comfort, they will be waiting for you outside the customs area with a sign with your name on it, will assist with check-in at your hotel, and will walk you through your Azores travel documents.
Depart your hotel with a private vehicle with a driver-guide and head towards the most western part of the Island, where the Mountains and Lakes of ‘Sete Cidades’ are situated. Drive through the Southwest road, along the Coast through green pastures where cattle are grazing. Stop at the Belvedere of ‘Vista do Rei’, one of the most important panoramic spots of the Island, where the Blue and the Green Lakes, an enormous volcanic crater can be seen. Enjoy a hike along a section of the Cumeeiras walking trail, according to your specific activity level and interests, and keep your eyes open for exotic species of the Azorean flora. Afterwards you will travel back to the center of Sete Cidades Villages, and return to your hotel in Ponta Delgada.
Ponta Delgada • Azor Hotel
With a strong connection to the sea and nature, the beautiful Azor Hotel is an ideal starting point for discovering the Azores. Azor Hotel features 123 modern guestrooms with spectacular views over the sea and surrounding majestic landscapes. Situated next to the Ponta Delgado marina, the hotel features an abundance of amenities for a memorable stay. Indulge in Azorean gastronomy at À TERRA restaurant, take a refreshing dip in the panoramic outdoor swimming pool, or experience Azor Hotel’s wide selection of outdoor activities, adventures and local experiences. Beyond the grounds, the Azores host a number of activities not to be missed, such as geocaching, whale watching, bird-watching, scuba diving, hiking and canyoning. Experience a one-of-a-kind adventure at the Azor Hotel and immerse yourself in both nature and the local culture.
Room:
Standard Sea View
The Standard Sea View Rooms (376 ft²) feature a simple but sophisticated design, accented by shades of green and wood to reflect the nature of the island. Here you’ll enjoy views of the port of Ponta Delgada, watching the movement of the marina or the setting of the sun. Each guestroom comes fully equipped with wifi, air conditioning, hair dryer, bathrobe, kettle, coffee machine, TV, and minibar.
Just a Walk in the Park
Meet your private driver-guide at your hotel and depart on a discovery of Lagoa do Fogo and Ribeira Grande. Head toward Pico da Barrosa, where you’ll embark on a hilly hike of approximately 2-3 hours with a medium difficulty level. After a series of upwards and downwards elevation changes you’ll be rewarded with a gorgeous views of the shimmering Lagoa do Fogo. Back at your vehicle head towards the Caldeira Velha nature preserve, where you’ll enter the park and have the option to take a dip in the geothermal hot springs, set in a lush hideaway surrounded by ferns and a trickling waterfall. An included lunch will be provided at a local restaurant before continuing to the city of Ribeira Grande, where you’ll behold its beautiful baroque architecture from the 17th and 18th centuries. Return to your hotel at the end of the day.
Make your way to a pre-arranged local restaurant where a hand-selected sampling of local gastronomic products has been assembled for your dinner this evening. Drinks and dessert are also included. Bon appétit!
A Festive Feast
You will be picked up by your private driver-guide, and depart on a full day tour of Furnas, one of the largest communities in the Azores. Head first to Gorreana in the northern region where you’ll visit a tea factory and its plantations. A stop at Pico do Ferro viewpoint will also be made, where you can observe the most ancient volcanic crater, the Lagoa das Furnas. Next you will descend to the Furnas valley to Lagoa das Furnas, and have a chance to see how the famous dish “cozido das Furnas” is prepared. Enjoy an included lunch in a local restaurant before continuing on to the famous botanical garden Terra Nostra Park, where you’ll have the options to swim in the thermal pool or take a guided tour. Upon returning to your hotel, you will make a stop in Franca do Campo, the first capital of the island.
Sail the Seas
Meet your driver for a private airport transfer.
A flight is required to take you to your next destination, and not currently not included on your itinerary. Please contact your Destination Expert if you would like us to book the flight for you.
Meet your driver for a private airport transfer.
With a private pick up from your hotel, you’ll be transferred to the marina where you’ll board a captained boat for a half-day whale watching excursion. During this activity you’ll have the opportunity to watch some of the more than 25 cetacean species that can be found in the Azores. Although nature offers no guarantees, whales and dolphins are regularly seen on these outings, along with turtles, seabirds and other marine life. Before the boat trip, biologists will give you a briefing to explain which cetacean species can be observed, safety measures aboard, how to respect the animals, and rules of observation at sea as well as some historical facts. While at sea, all passengers are required to wear a life vest (except on the catamaran). Conclude with a return transfer to your hotel.
Note: this shared tour operates with a minimum of 6 total passengers.
Faial Island • Hotel Do Canal
On the seafront of the city of Horta on Faial Island, with stunning views of the Bay and the mountain of Pico, lies the Hotel Do Canal. The boutique hotel’s furnishings and décor are inspired by the water front; the marina, boats and seaplanes, telling the history of the island. The property offers several leisure facilities including a wellness area fitted with a Jacuzzi, steam bath, hairdresser, massage and gymnasium. The hotel restaurant and bar offers house specialties and refreshing cocktails for guests to enjoy.
Room:
Standard
Each of the cozy standard rooms offer a comfortable bed for a good night’s rest and all the amenities needed for a truly memorable stay. In-room facilities include air conditioning, a phone, cable and pay TV, a radio, a mini bar, a hair dryer and Wi-Fi (extra charges may apply).
Cultural Immersion
Depart your hotel with a private vehicle, and driver-guide for a tour through the town of Horta, unique on the Azores, because of its cosmopolitan yacht harbor, which is the encountering point of the yachts sailing from all over the world, in their transatlantic voyages. Stop at Espalamaca Belvedere to enjoy the view over Horta, the harbor and its surroundings. Head to the center of the island to visit Caldeira, a protected nature reserve with unique vegetation, offering one of the most beautiful landscapes on Faial. Continue on towards Ponta dos Capelinhos, a new land mass formed as a result of an off-shore volcanic eruption spanning 1957-1958, adding to the existing westernmost point of the island. Here you can bear witness to a landscape altered forever, with 300 homes and surrounding fields covered in ash. If desired, you can make an optional visit to the Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Center, built underground so as to not interfere with the natural landscape on the surface. Afterwards, return to your hotel.
sland Time
Meet your private driver-guide at the Madalena port and depart via public ferry on a full-day tour to Pico Island. Discover the Santa Luzia area, where its vineyard-covered landscape has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with unique wind-breaking stone walls that date back as far as the 15th century, built to protect thousands of small plots from wind and seawater. If desired, you’ll have the option to visit the Wine Museum housed in the former Carmo Convent, which will serve as background to the scenery you’ll be passing through in the Pico Island Vineyard Culture Landscape, namely in the coastal areas: Cais do Mourato, Cachorro, Lajido de Santa Luzia, Arcos and Cabrito. Head to the village Sao Roque, visiting the quaint center, and the Furnas de Santo Antonio Nature Reserve, a special protection zone where you’ll be able to admire the natural pools occurring in the volcanic rock. Embark on an hour-long guided circular walk through the Ladeira dos Moinhos route, learning about the flora and fauna of the area. Departing towards Vila das Lajes, enjoy a panoramic view from the Corre Agua lookout, gazing out to Sao Jorge island, Sao Roque, and Mount Pico. You’ll be treated to lunch at a local restaurant before continuing with a tour of the west side of the UNESCO-protected Pico Island Vineyard Culture Landscape. Return to Faial via public ferry. Please note, admissions (where desired) will be payable on the spot.
The Journey Continues…
Meet your driver for a private airport transfer.
A flight is required to take you to your next destination, and not currently not included on your itinerary. Please contact your Destination Expert if you would like us to book the flight for you.
Meet your driver for a private airport transfer.
Meet your private guide and set out on foot for a walking tour of Terceira’s Angra do Heroismo, recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. You’ll pass by key city sites like the 16th century Baroque-era Sao Goncalo Convent, the 17th century Palace Bettencourt, and the Se Cathedral of the Azores. Be sure to check out the marina, where you can trace with your eyes the old stone bridge that leads offshore to the stunning 16th century Sao Joao Batista Fortress, confidently perched atop a rocky promontory.
Terceira Island • Terceira Mar Hotel
With a breathtaking ocean view, Terceira Mar Hotel is a few steps from the historic city center of Angra do Heroísmo, classified by UNESCO as World Heritage. In resort style, Terceira Mar Hotel is a unique paradise: rightly located on Fanal Bay, overlooking a 16th century fortress and surrounded by a garden with a salt water infinity pool. Guests can enjoy regional and international cuisine at Monte Brasil Restaurant located on the ground floor of the hotel. The property also features a health club fitted with a fitness center, indoor heated pool, Jacuzzi, Turkish bath, sauna and massage. There is also a games room and outdoor pool for guests enjoyment.
Room:
Junior Suite
All junior suites provide a comfortable bed for a good night’s rest and private bathroom. Each one has been tastefully designed with your comfort in mind to ensure an unforgettable vacation. Room amenities include: air conditioning, direct dial phone, hair dryer, Wi-Fi and a mini bar.
See the Signature Sights in Style
Depart your hotel with a private vehicle and driver-guide towards Monte Brasil, passing by Angra do Heroismo, the Capital of the Island, classified by the UNESCO as World Heritage. Visit an Embroidery Factory, stop at Pico das Cruzinhas Belvedere, on the top of Monte Brasil, which offers the most beautiful view over the city, and take a stroll along its walking trail. Continuing your tour you will make stops in Ribeirinha, Serretinha, Porto Judeau, Salga, and Sao Sebastião to see the parish Gothic styled Church, which is one of the oldest of the Azores. A delightful lunch will be provided for you, served in a local restaurant. After lunch, continue through the inner road passing by Serra do Cume, which offers beautiful sights over Lages and the ocean. Depending on the day, you may be able to make an optional stop (payable on the spot) to explore the ancient lava tube Algar do Carvao, considered a geological nature reserve. On the way back you will make a stop at the Furnas do Enxofre volcano park, and the village of Biscoitos, before being transferred back to your hotel.
Bon Voyage
Meet your driver for a private airport transfer.
What's Included
- A fully customized itinerary based on your interests and schedule
- 24/7 in-destination support from our local office
- All accommodation stays, tours and transfers for scheduled activities are covered, unless otherwise listed in the itinerary
- A private driver for tours and transfers (in some countries our local private guides also act as your driver - your Destination Expert will discuss with you if applicable)
- Local private guides or shared tours that take you through your itinerary highlights and experiences, your final itinerary will confirm the type of tour
- A greeting at the airport or at your accommodation from one of our representatives – your expert will confirm your meet and greet location with you
- Breakfast each morning at your hotel, plus any meals indicated in the itinerary
- One suitcase and one carry-on per person for trip transfers
What’s not included
- Your international airfare – please do let your expert know if you’d like to receive pricing from our Air Team
- Travel insurance, which we offer and can be purchased after you’ve booked your tour
- Visas (unless noted)
- Tips for services and experiences
- Lunches, dinners and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), unless specified in the itinerary
- Excess baggage charges, and where applicable, baggage not included in your fare
- Personal charges such as laundry, phone calls, SIM cards or room service
- Early check-in or late check-out from hotels (unless otherwise specified)
- Additional sightseeing, activities and experiences outside of your itinerary
- Optional enhancements like room or flight upgrades, or local camera or video fees
- Passport fees, immunization costs, and local departure taxes (when applicable)
Ponta Delgada • Azor Hotel
With a strong connection to the sea and nature, the beautiful Azor Hotel is an ideal starting point for discovering the Azores. Azor Hotel features 123 modern guestrooms with spectacular views over the sea and surrounding majestic landscapes. Situated next to the Ponta Delgado marina, the hotel features an abundance of amenities for a memorable stay. Indulge in Azorean gastronomy at À TERRA restaurant, take a refreshing dip in the panoramic outdoor swimming pool, or experience Azor Hotel’s wide selection of outdoor activities, adventures and local experiences. Beyond the grounds, the Azores host a number of activities not to be missed, such as geocaching, whale watching, bird-watching, scuba diving, hiking and canyoning. Experience a one-of-a-kind adventure at the Azor Hotel and immerse yourself in both nature and the local culture.
Room:
Standard Sea View
The Standard Sea View Rooms (376 ft²) feature a simple but sophisticated design, accented by shades of green and wood to reflect the nature of the island. Here you’ll enjoy views of the port of Ponta Delgada, watching the movement of the marina or the setting of the sun. Each guestroom comes fully equipped with wifi, air conditioning, hair dryer, bathrobe, kettle, coffee machine, TV, and minibar.
Faial Island • Hotel Do Canal
On the seafront of the city of Horta on Faial Island, with stunning views of the Bay and the mountain of Pico, lies the Hotel Do Canal. The boutique hotel’s furnishings and décor are inspired by the water front; the marina, boats and seaplanes, telling the history of the island. The property offers several leisure facilities including a wellness area fitted with a Jacuzzi, steam bath, hairdresser, massage and gymnasium. The hotel restaurant and bar offers house specialties and refreshing cocktails for guests to enjoy.
Room:
Standard
Each of the cozy standard rooms offer a comfortable bed for a good night’s rest and all the amenities needed for a truly memorable stay. In-room facilities include air conditioning, a phone, cable and pay TV, a radio, a mini bar, a hair dryer and Wi-Fi (extra charges may apply).
Terceira Island • Terceira Mar Hotel
With a breathtaking ocean view, Terceira Mar Hotel is a few steps from the historic city center of Angra do Heroísmo, classified by UNESCO as World Heritage. In resort style, Terceira Mar Hotel is a unique paradise: rightly located on Fanal Bay, overlooking a 16th century fortress and surrounded by a garden with a salt water infinity pool. Guests can enjoy regional and international cuisine at Monte Brasil Restaurant located on the ground floor of the hotel. The property also features a health club fitted with a fitness center, indoor heated pool, Jacuzzi, Turkish bath, sauna and massage. There is also a games room and outdoor pool for guests enjoyment.
Room:
Junior Suite
All junior suites provide a comfortable bed for a good night’s rest and private bathroom. Each one has been tastefully designed with your comfort in mind to ensure an unforgettable vacation. Room amenities include: air conditioning, direct dial phone, hair dryer, Wi-Fi and a mini bar.
