São Miguel, the green island of the Azores between volcanoes and oceans
In the heart of the volcanic archipelago of the Azores, São Miguel reveals its turquoise lagoons and sulfurous fumaroles.
Duration
8 days
From
€2,500/pers.
Ideal seasons
May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Style
Stay
Comfort
Charm & Character
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
A private itinerary that can be customized according to your tastes and desires.
The volcanic archipelago of the Azores is part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve global network. Each of its nine islands, including São Miguel, is a protected earthly paradise, ideal for nature lovers, those seeking disconnection and adventure tourism.
This journey invites you to discover the island of São Miguel through its volcanic landscapes, its lagoons with striking colors, its thermal springs and its wild coastline, where nature reigns supreme. Through experiences, you will meet passionate individuals who will share with you the natural riches, traditions and unique flavors of the archipelago. Between hikes, whale and dolphin watching and moments of relaxation in natural hot waters, this immersion will reveal to you all the preserved beauty of the Azores.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1-2: Stage 1: Discovery of the Lagoon of the 7 Cities and the West Coast of São Miguel
An immersion in the preserved nature of São Miguel
Explore the West coast of the island and dive into spectacular landscapes, between lagoons, cliffs and exceptional panoramas.
Private experience: Jeep and walking exploration (duration 6h/6h30)
Accompanied by a passionate local guide, set off to discover the must-see sites and more secret places, away from the beaten path.
The emblematic lagoons :
Lagune das Sete Cidades, viewed from below and from the famous Mirador da Vista do Rei.
Lagune Rasa, lagune do Canario, lagunes das Empadadas, hidden gems of the island.
Panoramas and remarkable sites :
Town of Mosteiros, with typical charm.
Ferraria Lighthouse, facing the vastness of the ocean.
Mirador da Boca do Inferno, a spectacular viewpoint over the island.
Picnic with breathtaking views over lush nature.
Swimming in the heart of nature
If the mood strikes you, dive into the natural saltwater pools for a refreshing break.
This day will help you understand why São Miguel is nicknamed the Green Island!
Day 3-4: Stage 2: Exploration of the Central and Northern region of São Miguel
Exploration of the island's unique landscapes
Discover at your own pace the natural and cultural treasures of Central and Northern São Miguel:
Lagoa de Fogo, a must-see on the island.
Mirador de Pico de Barrosa, offering spectacular views over Lagoa de Fogo.
Historic town of Ribeira Grande, with remarkable architecture.
Relaxation at the thermal waters of Caldeira Velha
Enjoy a swim in these natural hot waters in the heart of nature.
Visit to Gorreana tea plantation
Discover one of Europe's oldest tea plantations still in operation.
Visit the factory and plantations.
Enjoy a tasting break with delicate flavors.
Day 5: Stage 3: Whale and Dolphin Watching and Discovery of Ponta Delgada
île São Miguel - Açores → Ponta Delgada
Guided experience: whale and dolphin watching (3 hours duration)
Embark from Vila Franca do Campo marina for a small group excursion to encounter the whales and dolphins that inhabit the waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
A unique experience, accompanied by an experienced biologist.
Explanations on the habits, behaviors and habitats of cetaceans.
Free exploration of Ponta Delgada
Explore at your own pace the charming city of Ponta Delgada :
Historic center, witness to its rich past.
Streets and gardens, perfect for a stroll.
Sumptuous buildings, reflections of its architectural heritage.
Day 6: Stage 4: Exploration of the volcanic area of Furnas and the islet of Vila Franca do Campo
Ponta Delgada → Vila Franca do Campo
Discovery of the sulfurous area of Furnas
Admire the volcanic fumaroles and active mini-craters, releasing sulfurous fumes in a striking landscape.
The famous Cozido de Furnas
Observe the preparation of this typical dish, a stew of meat and vegetables cooked underground for 7 hours in pots lowered and raised by rope.
Option: Taste the Cozido de Furnas in a local restaurant.
Relaxing swim in thermal waters
End the day with a moment of relaxation in the hot volcanic baths of Poça da Dona Beija.
Suggestion: stop at Vila Franca do Campo and discovery of its islet
On the way to Furnas, take a break at Vila Franca do Campo and contemplate the Vila Franca do Campo islet at sea, a protected natural area.
Possibility to go there by boat to enjoy swimming, diving or a kayaking session.
Day 7: Stage 5: Exploring the Northeast Coast of São Miguel
Vila Franca do Campo → île São Miguel - Açores
Guided Experience: Discovery of the Nordeste Coast by Jeep and on Foot (duration 6h/6h30)
Accompanied by an expert local guide, explore one of the most spectacular natural treasures of São Miguel.
Grandiose Landscapes and Lush Nature :
Verdant valleys and imposing mountains.
Impressive waterfalls and dense vegetation.
Breathtaking panoramic viewpoints.
Emblematic Sites to Discover :
Povoação and Faial da Terra, villages with authentic charm.
Viewpoints of Ponta da Madrugada and Ponta do Sossego, offering exceptional panoramas.
Other secret places, revealed by your guide.
Picnic break with local flavors, with a breathtaking view of the majestic beauty of the green island!
Day 8: End of the trip
Your journey to the heart of the verdant island of São Miguel comes to an end after a rejuvenating stay in the midst of breathtaking nature.
✈️ Departure from Lisbon, with unforgettable encounters, cultural discoveries and authentic flavors that marked this stay in your memory.
See you soon for a new adventure in Portugal!
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- Plane tickets
- Meals (lunches, picnics and dinners) not mentioned in the "included" section
- Entrance tickets for museums and suggested tourist sites
- Car rental options: electronic toll collection, additional driver
- Fuel and toll fees
- Zero Deductible Insurance for Car Rental
- Travel insurance / medical / repatriation
- Extras / Tips / Personal expenses
- Annual cancellation / trip interruption / baggage loss and assistance insurance
Included
- Accommodation in charming 3* & 4* hotels, in double room
- Breakfasts
- 2 Picnics
- Rental of an economy car for the entire stay
- Experiences
- 1 day of guided and private exploration of the West coast of São Miguel island - alternating Jeep and hiking - duration approximately 6h/6h30
- 1 Commented Whale Watching Cruise (3H)
- 1 day of guided and private exploration of the Northeast coast of São Miguel island - Discovery by Jeep and hiking - duration approximately 6h/6h30
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travellers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland and Canada travelling to Portugal for a tourist stay. As entry rules may change, we recommend that you verify this information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport and ID card
Portugal is a member state of the European Union and part of the Schengen area. Nationals of the EEA may enter Portugal with a valid passport or national identity card. The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Swiss and Canadian nationals must carry a valid passport for the entire duration of their stay.
Tourist stay without visa
Nationals of the European Economic Area and Switzerland benefit from free movement within the Schengen area and may stay in Portugal without time restrictions for tourism purposes.
Canadian nationals benefit from a visa exemption for tourist stays in the Schengen area. This exemption allows a stay of up to 90 days in any 180-day period across all Schengen countries.
The authorities may request:
an outbound travel document (return or onward flight),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay,
a travel insurance policy covering your stay period.
ETIAS (European travel authorisation)
Once it comes into effect, Canadian nationals will be required to obtain an ETIAS authorisation (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) before travelling to the Schengen area, including Portugal.
This electronic authorisation, valid for three years or until your passport expires, must be obtained online before departure. It is not required for nationals of the EEA and Switzerland.
We recommend that you verify the effective date of this system with the official authorities before your departure.
Travel with children
Minors must hold their own valid travel document (passport or ID card depending on nationality) covering the duration of the stay.
In some European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an exit authorisation may be required according to the regulations of their country of residence.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travellers concerned should contact the Portuguese embassy or consulate in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly advised to be insured for repatriation assistance and foreign medical expenses.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that suits you best:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer'Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend taking out one of these plans.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these formulas, the policy detailing all coverage and claim declaration procedures is available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with claim declaration procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout the duration of their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
Portugal is a member of the European Union and the Schengen area. You can travel there with a valid identity card or passport. The currency is the euro. No special formalities are required upon arrival. Please check the rules applicable to your nationality with the Portuguese consular authorities before booking your trip.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a bespoke quality trip, expect between 150 and 260 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transport and activities. International flights (100-350 euros return) are additional. Portugal offers excellent value for money in Europe.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We tailor each itinerary to suit your travel profile. For families, we prioritize relaxed pacing, family-friendly accommodations, engaging and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our local English-speaking guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, your budget and your dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until you reach the perfect version. You confirm and set off with complete peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your entire trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) coverage which protects 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your next trip to Portugal
Experience Designer, Portugal, based in Aveiro
Portugal reveals itself when you take the time to meet the people who bring it to life. It's these simple, sincere and passionate exchanges that I love to create for travelers.
— Emeline
