From CAD $4,370
Guarantee
Small Group
Average
Rating
(9 reviews)
Experience Overview
It is hard to believe the Azores are part of Europe. Born from the immensity of the Atlantic Ocean, this lush, green archipelago of volcanic islands is a far cry from continental Portugal. Each of the nine islands has its own characteristics, from steep craters to abundant wildlife to sites of historical interest. All, however, are best explored on foot. We visit three of the most interesting islands, walking through Unesco-listed vineyards, lava plateaux (or fajãs) and sunken volcanoes to showcase the Azores at their best.
Profile
— Accommodation: 2 Superior nights (hotel), 5 Classic nights (hotel) — Six days with guided walking; one free morning — One tour leader for Pico, São Jorge and Faial islands — Travel by private bus/minivan and public ferries — Group normally 5 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 16
At a Glance
— Accommodation: 2 Superior nights (hotel), 5 Classic nights (hotel) — Six days with guided walking; one free morning — One tour leader for Pico, São Jorge and Faial islands — Travel by private bus/minivan and public ferries — Group normally 5 to 16, plus leader. Minimum age: 16
Trip For You
This trip is rated Activity Level 3 (Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings, visit our Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip, please contact us.
Suitability: Moderate walks are either fairly easy, medium-duration walks or harder, shorter walks. Walking hours stated are given as guidance only. Timings stated exclude lunch and photo stops and vary depending on the group's pace.
Routes: The paths we use are generally flat and well maintained; however, some routes cross rougher terrain with longer and steeper ascents and descents. Some paths are quite narrow and stony underfoot and require walking in single file. At times, you will walk on coarse volcanic rock, so it is advisable to be comfortable walking in more durable walking boots, which are recommended for this trip. Many of the walks involve descents due to the volcanic nature of the islands, so you should be confident in your ability to walk downhill, sometimes over uneven terrain, and experienced using walking poles. The last walk of the week is around a caldera. In sections, there is a steep drop to one side, so vertigo sufferers may prefer not to do this hike.
Mount Pico: If you decide to attempt the optional summit trek to Pico, please note this is challenging and involves 3,675ft (1,120m) of elevation gain. The terrain is uneven and rocky, so good walking boots are essential and walking poles are recommended. The maximum altitude reached on the optional ascent of Mount Pico is 7,713ft (2,351m), there is an overall average altitude of 1,640ft (500m).
Climate: The area is also subject to rain and high winds at any time. On departures in May and September, it is best to bring warm clothes in case of colder weather.
Itinerary: We may need to amend the walks depending on local weather conditions, which can change quickly.
Eating Drinking
Breakfasts are buffet style with a variety on offer including bread, jams, cereals, and tea and coffee. The lunches provided are picnic style, either in the form of a lunch box or a buffet with local produce. In the evening, the leader will recommend local restaurants that serve traditional Azores food, which can be a selection of meat or fish with vegetables and potatoes or rice. Vegetarians can be accommodated in the Azores, although the choice at restaurants is limited. For other dietary requirements, it's recommended to inform the restaurants/hotels in advance.
Transportation
Whenever possible, we use private minivans (up to nine seats) for transport on the islands. In some cases (on the smaller Azorean islands), minivans are not available so we use larger buses. Between the islands, we use the public ferry service. Please note, transport for optional activities is not included but will be of the same standard.
Joining Instructions
Key information
Start hotel: Hotel Caravelas, R. Conselheiro Terra Pinheiro 3, 9950-329 Madalena
Phone: +351 292 628 550
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing in the evening (usually at 6:30pm), but if you miss it the leader will update you separately
Airport: Pico Airport (PIX)
Getting to the start hotel
The start hotel is approximately 15 minutes’ drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
Make your own way
You can reach the start hotel easily by taxi. A cab from the airport costs about €20. On arrival at the hotel please make the reception staff aware that you are part of an Exodus group and they will have more details on meeting with your leader and group. If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
Catching your return flight
There’s a group departure transfer to Horta Airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Weather Information
The Azores enjoys a privileged climate with the temperature softened by the gentle influence of the Gulf Stream. Temperatures do not vary much and the average is 13C (55F) in winter and 23C (73F) in summer. Water temperature varies a little, oscillating between 17C and 24C (63F and 75F). While light clothing is recommended for summer, it is better to dress for cooler and damper weather in spring and autumn. Winters are mild but it often rains, meaning waterproofs and warm jackets are essential if travelling between November and February.
Spending Money
Evening meals vary between €12 for a simple dish (excluding seafood) to €30 per person for an upmarket restaurant. Prices also fluctuate a lot for a simple meal in a cafe: between €7 and €12.
Optional excursions - please note these must be booked in advance of your trip and for the Pico climb the cost is different based on the size of the group. Both excursions you could be booked with other members of the public. Speak to your sales representative for more information.
— Optional Pico climb on Day 2: £201 per person based on a group size of 1 or 2 passengers and £92 per person based on a group size of 3 passengers or more (transfers not included) — Whale and dolphin watching on Day 3: Approximately £70 per person
Tipping
Although optional, a tip for the leader at the end of the trip is greatly appreciated. As a guideline we recommend a starting point of €20-€25 per person for the guides.
Highlights
— Walk picturesque trails on an island-hopping adventure in the Azores — Discover the unique Pico vineyards, which grow close to the sea in volcanic soil — Gaze into the deep crater of Caldeira volcano on a circular walk around the rim — Take the opportunity to summit Mount Pico on an optional trek
Trip Details
Product Code: 4257
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: standard.
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: TSZ
Starts: Madalena, Pico island, Azores
Finishes: Madalena, Pico island, Azores
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Average
Includes
— All breakfasts and six lunches — All accommodation — All transport and listed activities — Tour leader throughout — Group arrival and departure transfers availableAccommodation
Hotels in the AzoresDuring our week in the Azores, we split our time between a trio of three- and four-star hotels. Below are the accommodations typically used on this walking adventure. Pico: Hotel Caravelas (nights 1-3) Begin the adventure at Hotel Caravelas, in the heart of Madalena town. This 137-room accommodation is a short walk from the bustling marina, but also has a lounger-lined outdoor pool should you wish to relax. There’s also a bar, which serves the local Pico wine, plus a sauna and gym. São Jorge: Hotel São Jorge Garden (nights 4-5) Spend two nights in this seafront property, which has spectacular views over the Atlantic to Mount Pico. It also has a swimming pool with sun loungers and is just a five-minute walk from the town centre, where you will find a selection of restaurants. Faial: Hotel Faial Garden (nights 6-7) Hotel Faial Garden is a tranquil haven in the coastal city of Horta. Head to the outdoor pool for a dip with mountain views. There’s also a comprehensive wellness hub with a Jacuzzi, sauna, Turkish bath and gym. Worth knowing Standard double rooms at Hotel Caravelas and Hotel São Jorge Garden have twin beds pushed together. There is a limited number of ‘true’ double rooms available for a supplement. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to secure a true double room.
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $4370 (CAD $546 /day)
Itinerary
Arrive at the hotel in Madalena, Pico, our base for the first three nights of the trip. Depending on when everyone arrives, there will be a welcome briefing either this evening or tomorrow morning. Pico is known as the Black Island thanks to the black volcanic earth used to build walls on many of the UNESCO-listed vineyards. It is also home to the highest peak in Portugal, Mount Pico, which stands at 7,713ft (2,351m) and dominates the horizon. Accommodation: Hotel Caravelas (or similar)
We start the week with a transfer to the central highlands of Pico, by Caminho das Lagoas, where we begin our hike. After following a dirt track, we take a path that leads close to the Cabeço do Mistério volcanic zone, formed in 1562-1564 during the longest volcanic eruption since people settled in the Azores. It's common to encounter fog and mist in this zone, and amongst the dense vegetation we may come across endemic species such as the Azores spurge (Euphorbia stygiana). Following the route, we begin our descent to Pico's northern coast, passing through pastures and noticing how the vegetation increases in size as we descend. We continue towards the coast through a forest of acacia and Azores laurel in the Prainha Forest Park until we reach our destination for today, Baía das Canas, where it may be possible to have a short swim (weather conditions and time permitting). Alternatively, today is the perfect opportunity to join an optional challenging trek to the top of Mount Pico. This is a very strenuous six-to-seven-hour climb, which will be led by a local mountain guide. The excursion must be booked in advance of the trip and is always subject to availability and favourable weather conditions (for further information please check the Extra Expenses & Spending Money section of the Trip Notes). Accommodation: Hotel Caravelas (or similar)
In the morning, we embark on a largely coastal trail, notable for its scenic and cultural diversity, and which connects the village of Candelária to Areia Larga (part of Madalena town). This trail passes through an area protected by UNESCO for its unique vineyard culture and is one of the most emblematic features of the island. Azorean vineyards are a sight to behold. Built to protect the vines from the harsh sea winds, they amount to row after row of black horseshoe shapes that score the lush, green coastline. What is more impressive is how the vines grow on the ground and through volcanic rock, rather than supported by a trellis. Our trail is rich in elements associated with vineyard culture such as rola-pipas (carved slopes to enable wine barrels to be slid along the ground to the waiting boats) and relheiras (tracks left by the wheels of ox carts). The path winds from the coast, then inland to circumnavigate hills, and back to the coast, with sections offering beautiful views over the vineyards and the islets of Madalena. We end by walking along the ocean-front until we reach Areia Larga. In the afternoon, you have free time to explore – the perfect opportunity to go on a sea safari. The Azores is among the best places on the planet to spot whales and dolphins. There are 80 species of whale and dolphin and 25 of them have been sighted off the coast here, with sperm whale the most common. There is also the chance to spot bottle-nose dolphins, short-finned pilot whales, sei whales, Atlantic spotted dolphins and blue whales. If you choose to go on an excursion, you have the chance to observe the behaviour of these wonderful creatures and learn more about their habitat with the help of the knowledgeable local experts on board. We observe strict protocols regarding interaction, always maintaining an appropriate distance. Moreover, during feeding and resting times, we avoid any interference with the natural habitat of the whales. Please note the whale-watching excursion must be booked in advance of your trip. Please speak to your sales representative for more details. Accommodation: Hotel Caravelas (or similar)
This morning, we take a ferry (approximately one hour) to the fascinating island of São Jorge. Here, steep-sided cliffs seem to slice through the ocean and fajãs (low-lying areas of lava formed from the subsidence of the cliffs) attract visitors from far and wide. São Jorge is also well known throughout the Azores for producing delicious cheese, one of its main exports. We start in the small village of São João, where we can admire the narrow streets and traditional houses. We then head inland and cross agricultural fields where crops such as grapes, corn and yam grow. As we continue, the farmland gives way to woods of firetree, Australian cheesewood and white wood. Looking back, we can enjoy views of Fajã de São João. On our way to Lourais, the highest point of our walk, we cross the Ribeira do Salto stream, so named for the nearby waterfall that plunges into a pool. We continue our descent to Fajã dos Bodes and on towards Fajã dos Vimes, being sure to stop and enjoy the views across Pico and Faial islands. Returning to the coast, we end today's walk in Fajã dos Vimes, where it's possible to taste a locally produced coffee or visit a handicraft workshop where traditional quilts are made (time permitting). The coffee served at Café Nunes, in Fajã dos Vimes, is well known for having once been the only coffee produced in Europe. The owner of the café has a small coffee plantation behind his house, where the coffee is produced and prepared by his own family. The coffee is organic and has a unique texture and aroma. At the end of the walk, we transfer to our hotel on São Jorge, where we stay for two nights. Accommodation: Hotel São Jorge Garden (or similar)
Today's walk offers beautiful panoramic views of the northern coast of São Jorge, along with many points of geological and cultural interest. We begin the day close to Serra do Topo wind farm and head north on a path rich with native flora and birds – if we're lucky, we may spot Eurasian whimbrels, São Miguel goldcrests and buzzards. As we descend towards the northern coast, we pass an inviting waterfall where it's possible to stop for a swim. We then come to the Caldeira de Santo Cristo Lake, a protected landscape and place of cultural and scenic interest. Known for the vast number of clams that inhabit the lake, it is an important resting place for resident species and migratory birds. Surfing and bodyboarding have also become popular here, as the lake lies directly next to the Atlantic Ocean. We follow the coast northwest until we arrive at the scenic Fajã dos Cubres, near the church of Nossa Senhora de Lourdes. We transfer back to our accommodation on São Jorge in the afternoon. Accommodation: Hotel São Jorge Garden (or similar)
This morning, we take a ferry (approximately 2hr 30min) to Faial, known as the Blue Island because of the myriad hydrangeas that bloom during summer. After arriving, we transfer to the island interior and the start of today’s hike, which goes to the volcanic ridge of Península do Cabeço, a site of geological interest with approximately 20 volcanic cones. We follow a path overlooking the coastal village of Praia do Norte, before descending to Furna Ruim, a 180ft (55m) deep lava cave. Continuing through a landscape of Azorean laurel trees and heather, we pass the impressive Algar do Caldeirão cave then take a stairway towards Cabeço do Canto, from which we will enjoy fantastic views of the Capelinhos Volcano. There may be time for an optional visit to the Interpretation Centre (entrance not included, dependent on our arrival time) to learn more about the volcanic eruptions of 1957-58, which changed the shape of Faial. In the afternoon, we transfer to our hotel on Faial, our base for the last two nights of the trip. Accommodation: Hotel Faial Garden (or similar)
Our final walk in the Azores is an impressive circular hike around Faial's iconic volcanic crater, Caldeira. Formed by several eruptions over the last 400,000 years, Caldeira is an important site of geological interest. We start the day's walk at the principal viewpoint of Caldeira, taking a tunnel to the vast interior of Cabeço dos Trinta's volcanic cone, now home to an abundance of natural vegetation including heather and holly. Returning to the trail, we follow a route that circumnavigates the crater, all the while taking in spectacular views into the crater on one side and marvellous coastal vistas on the other. Along the way, it's possible to spot several endemic species including Azorean blueberry and Azorean angelica. We return to our hotel in Faial and the rest of the day is free for you to spend as you wish. Accommodation: Hotel Faial Garden (or similar)
We enjoy our final breakfast of the tour before making our return journey home. If you’d prefer to spend a bit more time on the island, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
Similar Experiences
Tour Operator
Exodus Travel
It’s all about adventure That is what Exodus was founded upon 50 years ago, and what the company is still all about. Discovering countries, cultures, environments, cities, mountain ranges, deserts, coasts and jungles; exploring this amazing planet we all live on. At Exodus, we know what makes you tick when it comes to holidays. It’s a desire shared by so many others. A yearning to visit new places and come home with a real sense of what they’re all about. This means delving into local traditions, cultures, cuisine, lifestyles – anything that contributes to its unique identity. At the same time, we always remember that we are only guests. So we travel courteously and respectfully, in smaller groups to minimise our impact, to ensure that every Exodus holiday is a beneficial experience for everyone involved. This is a philosophy we take with us around the world, helping you reach some incredible destinations on 500 itineraries across over 90 separate countries. We also strive to provide as much flexibility and choice as we possibly can, making it simple for you to experience a very different holiday. Exodus started life on 4 February 1974 when two friends got together to provide an overland truck to travel to the Minaret of Jam, deep in the heart of the Hindu Kush, the most inaccessible of the world’s great monuments. See our history page for more details about how we began and how we have grown over the past 50 years. Never travelled with Exodus before? Visit our New to Exodus page for some useful, first-timer information.
In Business Since 1974
Reviews
Denise Konrad - Traveled, May 2024
Amazing Azores Fabulous week with an Amazing Guide Most Inspirational Moment The old world preservation is fantastic Thoughts on Group Leader Jorge was a fabulous guide. Extremely knowledgeable and qualified. So attentive and considerate to all. He really enjoyed being with us and passing on his local knowledge! A multi talented well rounded young man who rolled out the red carpet for us ! Advice for Potential Travellers Go! Hikes are all easy to moderate ! Suggestions Highest acclaim for Jorge
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/22/2024
Melvyn Tisbury - Traveled, May 2023
Azores May23 A chance to explore 3 different Azorean islands. Good mix of inland and coastal walks varying from lush green vegetation to barren volcanic terrain. Most Inspirational Moment Amazing whale watching trip with 3 different dolphin species plus sperm whales spotted. Absolute highlight was following a hump-backed whale on it's journey for about 15 minutes. Thoughts on Group Leader Jorge was a knowledgeable, relaxed and very friendly guide. This was his first outing with Exodus and he managed the needs, expectations and capabilities of a group with age range from 20-70+ very well. He was willing and able to adapt the itinerary to suit the group's preferences. Advice for Potential Travellers May weather varied by the hour and with altitude - be prepared for anything and everything each day. Consider arriving a few days early and /or staying on longer as the 6 days of the trip pass very quickly. We went to the main island of Sao Jorge as well and would recommend it. Suggestions Flights did not work - we missed our onward connection to Pico due to late flight from Heathrow and did not get to Pico until Sunday lunchtime instead of Saturday afternoon. This meant the time we did have on Pico was rushed to catch up. Most of those who went back at the end of the group trip also missed the return flight in Lisbon. Walk on day 2 not suitable and needs changing (as both Adam and Emma already know as they were there). General point for Exodus to consider re your environmental credentials: It is standard practice for hotels to provide plastic bottles of water (and often small juice cartons too) with packed lunches. This happened on both this trip and our trip to Puglia and Matera in March 2023. Exodus clients all carry refillable water bottles as per your instructions. I gave my unwanted drinks back but once handed out it is easy for people to keep and drink them. Not good.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/31/2023
Di Blackburn - Traveled, May 2023
Challenging, fun walking trip in the very beautiful Azores A great hiking programme that showed off the 3 islands we visited at their best (with the exception of the hike on day 2 in the afternoon -I believe you already know about this and the hike has already been removed – it was a shame, as I think for some, it caused some discomfort for later walks). The mix of islands, opportunity to walk/eat together as a group, was a great balance of activities. There was time on a coach/travel every day, however, that was an ok amount of travel, to ensure we got the best of our time there. The Azores are absolutely beautiful and I would recommend this holiday (with a few tweaks). Generally packed lunches were ok, some lovely picnics on part of the route. (one day was poor , the cheese sandwich day, would like to see that improved) Most Inspirational Moment A couple of moments, for me personally, finishing every hike, at times that wasn't easy! However with the encouragement and support of everyone it was possible. it hasn't put me off, I know where I need to improve and would go again. I particularly enjoyed the hike through to the waterfall and the opportunity to jump in/swim. Whale watching (whilst an add on to the walking holiday), was brilliant and good fun as a group activity). Thoughts on Group Leader Jorge was a great group leader, in that he really cared about everyone having a brilliant holiday. He did this by flexing/amending plans (which based on the scope of the group, I imagine wasn't easy at times.) He also shared his time with us all very generously, ensuring that we made the most of our time in each island, sharing tips on where to go etc. He also took time to share his love of music and play his hand drum, giving us the chance to get to know him. Lastly, he helped those of us that were struggling, gave tips on how to improve and encouraged me to stop and enjoy the moment! Advice for Potential Travellers Read through all the trip advice (including printing off the training plan/strength exercises), before commuting to the trip. It's easy to miss this and if followed would go a long way to being able to make the most of the trip, even for experienced hikers. Pack plenty of hiking clothes - it was very hot and sweaty!! Suggestions I fully appreciate it's my responsibility to be fit and able for the trip, however, I do think Exodus could do more to help people prepare/enjoy the trip. i.e. emphasis the fitness check; at the beginning of the trip, check in with everyone on this, ask about injuries etc. Perhaps do some warm up/cool down stretches on each trip. Be clearer on the itinerary about the details of each day: travel time, approximate walking time, meal time, free time. Again, I do appreciate that's always going to vary, however, a bit more of a guide would help everyone to understand what the day would entail. The flight to/from the UK was always too tight a timescale for connecting flights, I would rather pay more and have flights that allowed for some delay time.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/20/2023
Linda Robbie - Traveled, May 2023
Walking in the Azores Great holiday but should have been longer. Travellers for this trip need to be fit, prepared for steep climbs and humid weather, ‘moderate’ is not an accurate assessment of the walks. Admittedly 3 – 4mph is a bit of a give away, that said definitely a trip to repeat, this is a beautiful part of the world. Most Inspirational Moment All of it, a thoroughly enjoyable experience. Thoughts on Group Leader Great personality, totally suited to working with people, a friend to all. Advice for Potential Travellers Read the small print, this is not for the faint hearted and the initial description does not really prepare you for what is to come - 'moderate / strenuous' would be more appropriate. Also prepare to acclimatise to humid conditions. Great holiday and to be thoroughly recommended. Suggestions Length of holiday needs to be extended, it is far too short.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/23/2023
Nigel Turner - Traveled, July 2022
A great way of seeing four islands The Azores are beautiful, especially if you go when the hydrangeas are looking good. This trip is a great way of seeing four islands but, since you stay in only two hotels, you’re not repacking all the time. The accommodation was very good. A smart hotel in Ponta Delgada and a good enough hotel in Horta with each room having a balcony with amazing views of the harbour, Pico island and the sunrise. The breakfasts were pretty good and provided plenty of food before the walks. Both towns have plenty of interest and the nautical side of Horta is great. There were seven of us in the group plus our Sao Miguel guide (Tony) and our four islands guide (Filipe) both of whom were very good. We all got on well. If you’re fit and mobile, and strong enough going uphill and especially downhill, the walks are good exercise and not overly challenging. There’s plenty to see and photograph along the way and each walk is slightly different from the next. The group meals are the lunches with our guides having organised three picnics and three terrific restaurant lunches – local food in Sao Miguel and Pico and very good tuna in Peter’s Café on Faial. In the evenings we generally split into two or three smaller groups. Tip: it really pays off booking restaurants in advance. As The Azores are quite some way away, we decided to stay two weeks and so followed this trip with the self-guided ‘Cycling in the Azores’ on Terciera. So we ended up seeing five of the nine islands. Most Inspirational Moment The hydrangeas on Sao Miguel and Sao Jorge. The lunch on Pico. The sunrises over Horta. The whale watching trip. Good chats on the walks. Thoughts on Group Leader Both leaders were enthusiastic, knowledgeable, good fun and looked after everyone. Advice for Potential Travellers In Ponta Delgada try to visit the Museu Carlos Machado/Jesuit College (great ecclesiastical art and church) and in Horta the Museum of Whaling (it’s so well done). The whale watching trip from Horta is great too. We saw several sperm whales. See the comment above about reserving a table for the evening meal. This is pretty easy as you're only staying in two towns, one of which you return to at the end of the week (Ponta Delgada - perhaps book Alcides for the last evening). Suggestions The ferry crossings were quite smooth and didn't cause problems for my wife who occasionally gets sea sick. We had a problem with one of our inter island flights but were rescued by the Exodus staff in the UK who spotted that there was a problem and liaised with the local agent to find a solution - thank you Robyn.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 08/27/2022
Liz Atkinson - Traveled, May 2022
Sunshine, rain and an earthquake in the Azores The weather wasn’t very kind to us but we did get out walking on all the days. Bruno our guide was very good. His knowledge of the islands was excellent and he made every effort to tailor the walks to the group. He also adapted the program when we were unable to visit Sao Jorge because of the earthquake. Loved the botanical gardens and Lagoa do Fogo (although it was difficult to sit by the lake for very long because of the biting wind). I found the islands we visited very interesting. I didn’t go whale watching in Horta, instead went to the whaling museum (Porto Pim Whaling) and did the circular walk on the hill (Monte da Guia) behind it. Both were excellent alternatives. The food was very good and the hotels and various restaurants. The accommodation in Ponta Delgada was very good and an excellent location. Thoughts on Group Leader Bruno was excellent Advice for Potential Travellers Take all your wet gear if you go in May, and some warm clothing. The Azores are very 'green' for a reason! Suggestions The accommodation in Horta was a little 'tired', and WiFi reception poor in some rooms. A decent length coastal walk would be nice. Most of our walks were through trees or quite tall shrubs, so not many views.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/26/2022
Patricia Barnett - Traveled, June 2019
Truly Wonderful A really lovely trip to The Azores. A packed itinerary with whale and dolphin watching and exploring the island landscape, which is one of a kind! We saw tropical dolphins, playful bottle nosed and common dolphins and the small striped dolphins. Some played around the boat racing with us across the waves. We saw pilot whales and the magnificent sperm whales. It was a rigid inflatable boat so we were close to the water and it was both fun and exciting. Most Inspirational Moment The whales. Thoughts on Group Leader I have to tell you about the guide: Nuno Garcia. He is the nicest, most considerate and patient guide we have ever encountered. He was full of fun and always there to help anyone who needed it. He would stand at the harbour smiling and waving as we left to whale watch and he would be there ready with a smile and a wave when we returned. An excellent guide in every way. Advice for Potential Travellers Take a variety of clothing because the weather can be very changeable.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/13/2019
Esther Dawney-New - Traveled, May 2019
Lovely walks in varied and interesting locations This is a short but packed easy walking trip guided by the brilliant knowledgeable and fun Bruno. From the lush heights overlooking lakes and craters to swimming in natural thermal pools to whale watching this trip has it all. Bruno’s enthusiasm for his country and love of his job meant he was totally engaged with the group. He probably would have crammed more into the itinerary if time had allowed. The islands of the Azores are stunning and have to be walked to be fully appreciated . Most Inspirational Moment There were many wonderful views and no one that absolutely stands out. Laughing with Bruno and the group is a great tonic Thoughts on Group Leader Bruno as already mentioned could not have been more interesting , engaging and fun. as a group leader He excelled in holding the group dynamics so that we had fun together but also walked at a pace which suited all. Advice for Potential Travellers Be prepared for a full on trip with little spare time or stops. That said, the walking though some longer but gentle uphill was paced well. The long ( 2 hours) down hill is challenging on the knees so would advise poles and decent rough terrain footwear. Take an additional small (folding variety backpack) to leave on the coach for swim wear. If prone to travel sickness take medication and be prepared to take it 2 hours before the late evening ferry trip ( 2 hour choppy trip)
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/20/2016
Carolyn Greenberg - Traveled, May 2018
Wonderful week in the Azores I’ve been to Portugal before, and was looking forward to experiencing another aspect of this country. This was my first trip with Exodus, and it was very impressive, start to finish. The daily outings, meals together, hotel choices, etc. were A+. Each island was unique and physically beautiful. The walks took us to places off the beaten path, which was exactly why I selected this trip. Most Inspirational Moment It is hard to pick one moment - overall seeing how people have made these volcanic islands into beautiful locations is what impressed me. Thoughts on Group Leader Bruno was amazing! His knowledge and enthusiasm were infectious, and definitely made the trip above average. Advice for Potential Travellers The level of this trip was more difficult than I expected - it was trekking than walking. I'm a good walker, so distance wasn't an issue, but the terrain was often steep . One suggestion for the packing list: a towel is needed for the swimming opportunities.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/13/2018
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