Tour Overview
Explore São Miguel on a 10-day active journey through some of the most distinctive landscapes in the Azores Islands. This walking-focused itinerary combines volcanic peaks, crater lakes, forest trails, waterfalls and coastal scenery with a full-day Furnas experience and two leisure days in Ponta Delgada.
Hike toward Pico da Vara, the highest point on São Miguel, follow the trail to Lagoa do Fogo, and explore the lake-filled landscapes of Sete Cidades and Serra Devassa. Additional walking days take you through Faial da Terra and Sanguinho to Salto do Prego waterfall, as well as the north-coast landscapes around Ribeira Funda and Praia da Viola.
A scenic day in Furnas provides a change of pace with geothermal landscapes, hot springs, botanical gardens and the traditional cozido cooking area. The hiking sequence can be adjusted on request, and the itinerary also includes two free days for independent sightseeing, optional activities or relaxation.
10 Days • São Miguel Island • 5 Hiking Days + 1 Scenic Tour • 2 Leisure Days
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1 - São Miguel: Arrival
Arrive on São Miguel and transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to settle in, relax or begin exploring at your own pace.
Day 2 - Pico da Vara Hike (Approx. 7 Hours)
Venture into the highlands of Nordeste for a rewarding hike toward Pico da Vara, the highest point on São Miguel at approximately 1,103 meters. The route crosses rugged interior landscapes and high-elevation terrain before reaching the summit area, where broad views open across the eastern part of the island.
After the hike, visit Gorreana Tea Plantation for an introduction to São Miguel’s long tradition of tea cultivation before returning to your hotel.
Day 3 - Lagoa do Fogo Hike (Approx. 6 Hours)
Follow a scenic trail toward Lagoa do Fogo, one of São Miguel’s best-known volcanic lakes. The walk offers views across the island’s southern landscape, including Vila Franca do Campo and its offshore islet, before reaching the protected crater-lake environment.
Enjoy a picnic during the excursion and continue through the island’s lush vegetation and open landscapes. After the hike, stop at Caloura for an opportunity to swim, conditions permitting.
Day 4 - Furnas Scenic Experience (Approx. 8 Hours)
Enjoy a slower-paced day centered on the geothermal landscapes of Furnas. Explore the lake area, steaming fumaroles, mineral-rich hot springs and botanical surroundings that make Furnas one of São Miguel’s most distinctive destinations.
Learn about the traditional cozido, a regional dish cooked using natural volcanic heat, and enjoy time to experience the valley’s gardens and thermal atmosphere.
Day 5 - Sete Cidades & Serra Devassa Hike (Approx. 3 Hours)
Explore the western volcanic landscapes of São Miguel on a half-day hike through the Sete Cidades and Serra Devassa area. Walk through forested sections and past smaller crater lakes, including Lagoa das Éguas, Lagoa Rasa and Lagoa das Empadadas.
The route combines woodland scenery, volcanic terrain and elevated views across one of the island’s most recognizable lake regions.
Day 6 - Sanguinho & Salto do Prego Hike (Approx. 6 Hours)
Begin in Faial da Terra and follow the trail toward the historic settlement of Sanguinho before continuing to Salto do Prego waterfall. Dense vegetation, stream valleys and forest scenery characterize this part of southeastern São Miguel.
Enjoy time near the waterfall and a packed lunch before returning along the trail. The day also includes a brief visit to the historic town of Povoação.
Day 7 - Ribeira Funda & Praia da Viola Hike (Approx. 7 Hours)
Discover São Miguel’s north-coast scenery on a hike through Ribeira Funda and toward Praia da Viola. The route combines dense vegetation, streams, natural springs and traces of traditional rural life, including old watermills once used for grain processing.
Continue toward the secluded Praia da Viola, framed by steep coastal slopes, with additional views from the Tio Domingos lookout area.
Day 8 - Leisure Day
Take a day to rest and recharge. Explore Ponta Delgada, enjoy local restaurants and waterfront areas, or add optional activities for an additional charge.
Day 9 - Leisure Day
Your final full day is free for independent sightseeing, optional activities, shopping or revisiting favorite places on São Miguel. Additional activities can be arranged for an extra charge.
Day 10 - São Miguel: Departure
Transfer to the airport for your return flight.
Important Notes
- The sequence of hiking days can be changed on request.
- Hiking and excursion times shown are approximate.
- Trail routes and access may change because of weather, ground conditions or local restrictions.
- A picnic is included during the Lagoa do Fogo excursion on Day 3.
- A packed lunch is included during the Sanguinho and Salto do Prego excursion on Day 6.
- Optional activities on Days 8 and 9 are available for an additional charge.
- Arrival hotel transfer on Day 1 and airport transfer on Day 10 are included in the source itinerary.
