Walking In The Azores
Portugal
Summary
It is hard to believe that the Azores are part of Europe. Born from
the immensity of the Atlantic Ocean, this lush, green, volcanic
archipelago is a far cry from its mainland government of Portugal.
Be it pocked with steep craters, a haven for wildlife or a place of
historic interest, each of the islands is unique and ideally explored
on foot. We visit the very best that these islands have to offer,
walking through UNESCO vineyards, lava plateaux (or 'fajas') and
sunken volcanoes.
16
8 DAYS
8 DAYS
TSZ
MIN AGE
FLIGHT INC.
LAND ONLY
TRIP CODE
At a glance
5 days walking; 1 free day
Walking on tracks and paths, some are
uneven
Altitude maximum 2351m (on optional
ascent of Mt. Pico), average 500m
Group normally 4 to 16, plus local
leader. Min age 16 yrs
7 nights hotels, all rooms en suite
All breakfasts, 5 lunches included
Highlights
Visit and explore four unique islands
Enjoy vineyards, volcanoes and hot
springs
Walk around the tranquil waters of
Lagoa do Fogo
Optional whale watching on the free
day
Portugal • Walking In The Azores
Page 1
The entries in bold at the end of each day indicate the meals
included.
Day 1 ‐ Start Ponta Delgada
Start Ponta Delgada.
Day 2 ‐ To Pico and Faial
After breakfast we transfer to the airport for a short flight to Pico
island. As you come in to land the imposing figure of Mount Pico,
Portugal's largest peak, dominates the landscape. Pico is also
known as the 'black island' due to the black volcanic earth which
is used to construct the walls of many of the UNESCO vinyards
that this island is famed for. After landing we then head out on
our first walking tour of the Santa Luzia Vineyards.
This is a moderate walking trip (activity level 3).
These moderately graded walks are either fairly easy medium‐
duration walks or harder, shorter walks. Walking hours stated are
given as approximates only. Timings stated exclude lunch and
photo stops and will vary depending on the pace of our group.
The paths we use are generally flat and well maintained but
some of the routes cross rougher terrain with longer ascents and
descents. Some of the paths are quite narrow with stony
underfoot and require walking in single file. On some occasions
you will be walking on more coarse volcanic rock, so it is advidsed
to be used to walking in more durable walking boots, especially
over these sections.
The area is also subject to rain and high winds at any time so it is
best to be prepared for this before you travel. On departures in
May and September, it is best to bring warm clothes in case of
colder weather.
Please note that the internal flights are included in the trip and
booked by Exodus. As inter‐island flighs are operated by small
planes with limited capacity, we can't guarantee that the whole
group will be allocated on the same flight. If alternative travel
arrangements are necessary, these will be notified and discussed
upon booking.
You may find our Fitness Training Guide a useful reference:
http://www.exodus.co.uk/assets/pdf/Exodus_WT_Fitness_Traini
ng_Guide.pdf
All ascents, descents and distances listed below have been
measured by our local partners or tour leaders. Please note that
different GPS measuring devices can give differing results
dependent on the barometric pressures at the time.
Measurements stated throughout these trips notes are given to
help you understand the types of terrain and distances you will
encounter.
Azorian vineyards are a sight to behold. Built as a means to
protect the precious vines from a battering of the harsh sea
winds, the result is row after row of black horseshoe shapes that
score the lush green coastline. What is more impressive is how
the vine grows on the ground and through volcanic rock, rather
than supported by a trellis though soil. There will be time to try
the wine in the Lagido de Santa Luzia where you will be
explained the typical ways of how wines and brandies are
produced on the island. We will then take a ferry across to the
neighbouring island of Faial where we check into our hotel in
Horta, our base for the next 3 days (approx. 3 hours walking,
distance 9km). (Breakfast, Lunch)
Day 3 ‐ Sao Jorge Island
From Horta's harbour we take a ferry to Sao Jorge Island or the
'Brown Island' (please note the ferry sailing times can take from
approx 1h40 minutes to approx 2h20 depending on the time of
year and can result in last minute schedule changes). This is by
far the longest day in the itinerary but is well worth it to visit the
forth island of the trip. Sao Jorge is a fascinating spearlike island
that cuts through the ocean with steepsided cliffs, however it is
the Fajas (low‐lying areas of lava that were formed from the
subsidence of the cliffs) that it is most famed for. Sao Jorge is
also well known throughout the Azores for producing some
delicious cheese, which is one of it's main exports. Shortly after
arrival in Velas we transfer to the start of the walking tour from
Caldeira do Santo Cristo to Faja dos Cubres. After arriving at Faja
dos Cubres we then take a transfer back to Velas and across the
channel back to Faial. (approx. 2.5 hours walking, distance
10km). (Breakfast, Lunch)
Day 4 ‐ Free day
As today is a free day you have the chance to try out many of the
other activities that the Azores have to offer. Apart from offering
some unique walking opportunities, the Azores is perhaps one of
the best places on the planet to spot whales and dolphins. There
are 80 species of whales and dolphins and 25 of them have been
sighted off the coast of the Azores, with the most common being
Sperm Whale. There is also the chance to spot Bottlenose
dolphin, Short‐finned pilot whale, Sei whales,
Portugal • Walking In The Azores
Atlantic spotted dolphin and the grail ‐ the Blue whale. If you
choose to go on an excursion, you will have the chance to
observe the behaviour of these cetaceans and learn more about
their habitat with the help of the knowledgeable local experts on
board. We should always respect their environment and
therefore during times of feeding or resting times, we avoid any
interference and maintain our distance. If you feel that you
would like to continue walking and have wondered what the view
would look like from the top of Portugal's largest mountain then
today is the perfect opportunity to attempt this. (Breakfast)
Day 5 ‐ Faial Island and Ponta Delgada
Today we explore the island we have been staying on for the last
two days. Faial is known as the 'blue island' because of the large
quantity of hydrangeas that bloom during the summer months.
The trail begins at the forest park or 'Trupes do Capelo' and
finishes at the Capelinhos Volcano. Rising forcefully from the sea
this volcano shows off just how dramatic nature can be. It's
unique formation has even earnt it the construction of a modern
interpretative centre which helps us understand not only this
volcano but the formation of the entire island. We then return to
Horta for a late lunch at Peter's Café Sport, a traditional resting
point for many sailors braving the Atlantic crossing. After lunch
you will be guided round one of the largest scrimshaw collections
in the world that shows the variations of designs with an art form
that was prolific during the whaling period. In the late afternoon
we transfer to the airport for our flight back to Ponta Delgada.
(approx. 2.5 hours walking, distance 7km). (Breakfast, Lunch)
Day 6 ‐ Sao Miguel
After breakfast we head into the lush centre of Sao Miguel to
Barrosa's mountain where we get a sense of why this island has
earned its nickname the 'green island'. Today's walk begins with a
short but steep uphill section and continues following a 'levada'
(small water channel) close to which you will find some well
preserved species of endemic Azorian flora. The highlight of this
walk is arriving at the viewpoint over the Lagoa do Fogo, one of
the most beautiful volcanic lakes in the entire Azores network.
We stop at Caldeira Velha waterfall for a well earned dip in its
warm waters, in the afternoon we drive to Sete Cidades, one of
the Seven Natural Wonders of Portugal. From Vista do Rei we are
rewarded with breathtaking views of tranquil lakes, blue
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hydrangeas bordering the crater rim that contrast with the steep
sides of the crater. (approx. 4 hours walking, distance 12km).
(Breakfast, Lunch)
Day 7 ‐ Sao Miguel
On the final day we head to Furnas where we walk around the
crater lake to volcanic vents, where food is cooked by the heat of
vents after it has been buried in sealed pots in the baking earth.
This traditional Azorian way of cooking is known as 'Cozido das
Caldeiras' and will be served for lunch. In the afternoon we head
into the Terra Nostra botanical gardens where we have time to
wander through and admire exotic flowers and trees from all
over the globe. Amongst the trees and bushes a series of
aquaducts leads thermal spring water to a pool in the centre of
the gardens, where for centries people have been bathing in its
medicinal waters. On the return to Ponta Delgada we stop off at
the tea plantations of Gorreana where we observe the
plantation, the factory and taste some of the local teas. (approx.
2 hours walking, distance 11km). (Breakfast, Lunch)
Day 8 ‐ End Ponta Delgada
End Ponta Delgada
During the week our nights are split between two fantastic 4‐star
hotels. In the heart of Ponta Delgada is the Hotel Marina
Atlantico. Right on the sea front, this new hotel is ideally located
to explore the capital of the Azores and offers a modern twist in
a traditional part of town. On Faial we use the excellent Hotel do
Canal. Affording spectacular views towards the neighbouring
island of Pico, this modern hotel sits just 100 metres from the
harbour and is the perfect place to relax after a day's walking in
and around the surrounding islands. Both hotels offer ensuite
rooms with free wifi.
Portugal • Walking In The Azores
Single Accommodation
Single rooms are available at a supplement of £350 (£295 in May)
Food
All breakfasts and 5 lunches are included. Breakfasts are buffet
style with a variety on offer including bread, jams, cereals, and
tea and coffee. Some of the lunches provided are pic‐nic style,
whilst others are taken at traditional restaurants where we can
sample some traditional dishes such as the Cozido das Coldeiras.
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 are catered for in the Azores, although menu choices
may be limited, as long as the hotels are advised in advance and
please inform us before departure of any special dietary
requests. If you follow a vegan diet you should expect that
variety of food may be limited whilst on this trip. As this kind of
diet is relatively uncommon in this region we cannot guarantee
that the hotels and restaurants will provide meals that have the
necessary variety to be considered satisfying when on a more
restricted diet.
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Azores enjoys a privileged climate with its temperate softened by
gentle influence of the Gulf Stream. Temperatures do not vary by
much and the average is 13 ºC in winter and 23ºC in summer.
Water temperatures varies a little oscillating between 17ºC and
24ºC. Whilst light clothing is recommended for summertime, it is
better to dress for cooler and damper weather for Spring and
Autumn. Winters are mild yet it often rains meaning waterproofs
and warm jackets are essential if travelling between November
to February.
8 days, normally depart London Sat, return Sat
Itinerary Start
The group flight from London is a daytime flight departing on Day
1 of the itinerary.
Flights from London
We normally use the scheduled services of SATA (depending on
availability). As flight timings and schedules change regularly we
recommend you call one of our specialist sales staff or your agent
to confirm up‐to‐date timings. Please note timings may change at
a later date and cannot be confirmed until approximately two
weeks before departure.
Transport
Internal flights during the trip are normally with SATA Air Azores.
Transport to and from the airport is by private minibus, which
will also transport baggage between hotels. Between some of the
islands we use the local ferry service.
UK Regional Flights
Please note transport for optional activities is not included but
will be of the same quality. Internal flights are in either 37 or 80‐
seater propeller planes and are included in the price of the trip,
also for Land Only clients. As the inter‐island flighs are operated
by small planes with limited capacity, we can't guarantee that
the whole group will be allocated on the same flight. If
alternative travel arrangements are necessary, these will be
notified and discussed upon booking.
The Flight Inclusive price is based on a London departure, but we
are happy to tailor this to your local or regional airport. Please
visit www.exodus.co.uk/regionaldepartures for a useful overview
of the options available, and contact our sales team for expert
advice.
If booking regional flights other than with Exodus, you must allow
a minimum connecting time (in addition to the international
check in time) of 1 hour at Gatwick, and 1½ hours at Heathrow;
this is longer than the official minimum, but baggage handling is
known to be subject to delays.
Airport Transfers
Airport transfers are included for those on the group flights.
Please note that transfers are not included for clients arriving on
any other flight, even if Exodus has booked it. Those arriving
from London on non‐group flights should read the airport transfer
section below for information on reaching the start point. Please
check with the Exodus office.
Portugal • Walking In The Azores
8 days, normally start Ponta Delgada Sat, end Ponta Delgada
Sat
Itinerary Start
Your trip normally starts at our accommodation in Ponta Delgada
in the evening of Day 1 of the itinerary. Details of how to reach
the start point are provided in the Final Joining Instructions ‐ sent
approximately two weeks before departure.
Airport Transfers
If you require airport transfers, you may (by prior arrangement
only) be able to join the group transfer. Transfers are arranged
to coincide with the arrival time of the group flight ‐ please check
the group flight details 2 weeks before departure. If you do not
take this transfer, or miss it, you must make your own way to the
joining point at your own expense.
In order to reach your first night accommodation from the airport
in Ponta Delgada, the easiest option is to take a taxi on arrival.
The hotel is about 5 kms away from the airport and the cost will
be approximately €12.
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Tourism can be a real help to local communities, providing
income, positive cultural exchanges and a financial incentive to
protect their natural environment. Ours is a 'total approach' to
Responsible Tourism, covering everything from the way we plan
and operate our trips to the practices of Exodus as a company.
Throughout this walking holiday we visit small cafes and
restaurants for drinks and food. All the staff employed by the
hotels and our local partner, including the guides, is local.
Packed lunches are purchased from family‐run or small shops so
our guests are directly contributing to their sustainability. This
small group tour has a maximum of 16 participants, meaning that
we have a low impact on the communities we visit and are able
to ensure that we do not disrupt or lead to the displacement of
local people.
This walking tour actively encourages guests to chat with local
people, visit local cafes and bars, purchase local produce, gifts
and crafts and discover what life is really like in these remote
Azorian communities.
For full details of our Responsible Tourism Policy please visit:
www.exodus.co.uk/responsible‐travel
Alternatively you can take a shuttle bus from the airport to Ponta
Delgada city centre. The hotel is just a few minutes walk from
the bus stop. If you'd like to reserve a private transfer, this can
also be arranged by Exodus prior to departure. Please contact us
for a quote.
Upon arrival at the hotel, advise reception you are part of the
Exodus group.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers will
be sent to you as part of our Final Joining Instructions. If you do
not receive these at least a week before departure, or require
them earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
Passports and Visas
All nationalities require a full passport that must be valid for 6
months beyond the intended length of stay. It is your
responsibility to have the correct personal documents and to
obtain your own visa, if one is necessary, in accordance with the
regulations of the country you are to visit. The information below
is primarily for UK passport holders, and other nationalities
should check with their travel agent or the relevant embassies.
We are not responsible for the actions of local immigration and
customs officials, whether at points of entry or otherwise, and
any subsequent effects.
Portugal • Walking In The Azores
Page 5
No visa required for UK passport holders.
ATM availability/Credit Card Acceptance/Travellers cheques
Visa regulations can change without notice: please check the
current regulations in good time to obtain a visa if one is
required.
There are cashpoints in both Ponta Helgada and Horta, whilst the
hotels also accept major credit cards.
Extra Expenses and Spending Money
Vaccinations and Health
Travel health can often be something people forget about before
going away, but a little preparation and knowledge can go a long
way to help you stay fit and healthy while abroad.
There are no specific health risks on this trip.
The above information can change at short notice; as we are not
qualified to answer all your questions about travel health we
strongly recommend you contact your Medical Professional or a
Travel Health Clinic at least 8 weeks prior to departure for up‐to‐
date information.
Insurance ‐ are you adequately covered?
You must have adequate travel insurance, and if you are joining
a trip which goes to high altitude, you must check that you are
covered up to the maximum altitude of the trip. If you are
resident in the UK we strongly recommend Exodus travel
insurance, which is specifically designed to cover all activities on
your trip.
Local Time
GMT ‐ 1 hour
Electricity
Standard European 2‐pin adapter required.
Group, Staff and Support
The group will generally be between 4 and 16 people. There will
be a local leader and drivers and local guides where needed.
You will have two leaders on this trip. One for the walks on Sao
Miguel and one for the walks whilst we stay in Pico.
The minimum age of clients on this trip is 16 years. Please note
that anyone aged under 18 must be accompanied by (and share
accommodation with) a parent or legal guardian.
Evening meals vary between €15 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 café: between €7 and
€12.
Optional Excursions (approximate costs, depending on group
sizes)
Ferry from Horta to Pico Island: €3.40 per person one way
Whale and dolphin watching: approx. €80. Prices include
transfers São Roque do Pico / Madalena Harbour / São Roque do
Pico with English Speaking guide; Whale watching in semi‐rigid
(zodiac boat) or catamaran with English Speaking Skipper &
Biologist and entrance in the Whalers' Museum.
Climbing Mount Pico: €175 (02‐03 persons). €108.30 (04‐07
persons). €86.10 (08‐10 persons). Prices include transport, guide
and pic‐nic lunch.
Swimming with dolphins: €40 per person (minimum 2 persons).
This takes place out in the open ocean where the dolphins are
completely wild. The process of choosing a pod to swim with can
sometimes take time as it is important to choose a pod that will
not become stressed with human interaction.
Swimming with Manta Rays: €178 per person for a full day
(minimum 6 persons)
Minimum for the activity to be confirmed: 6 people
Duration: full day
Swimming with Manta Rays is a snorkelling activity without a
cage. It is not necessary to bring diver's certificate.
Please note that all activities are weather dependent. Prices
published above are only approximate as they vary depending on
number of partecipants.
Tipping (leader and local staff)
Our local staff are paid well and fairly for their work with Exodus.
Most of our clients wish to give a tip to their guides in
appreciation of their help and friendliness. As a guideline we
recommend a contribution of approximately €15 per client per
leader. This, of course, is in no way compulsory and depends on
the service received.
Currency Information
The national currency of Portugal is the Euro (EUR), with an
exchange rate at the time of publication of approximately 1.2 to
the UK£ and 0.9 to the US$.
Exchange rates are correct at the time of publication.
Essential Equipment and Clothing
Comfortable sturdy walking boots
Small daypack and water bottle
Hat, sunglasses, sun lotion
Binoculars
Swimming costume
Portugal • Walking In The Azores
Waterproof shell jacket and trousers
Warm clothes (or layers are best) for Spring and Autumn
departures.
Optional items
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Exodus operates a 24 hour duty office for emergencies, which
can be contacted on 0044 (0)1582 640 045.
Every time that you travel abroad you should take the time to
read the warnings in the essential information in the brochure or
at www.exodus.co.uk/about‐exodus/essential‐information?
Walking Poles
Baggage and Baggage Allowance
At time of writing the standard weight limit for hold baggage on
the recommended international carrier for this trip is 20kg. We
recommend packing only one piece of checked baggage.
As advice about luggage allowances for both hand and hold
luggage is subject to change, we suggest you check the airline's
website for the latest information prior to your departure.
Don't forget to visit the Community area on our website. You can
view the range of Exodus videos and podcasts, read trip write‐ups
which have featured in the national media and take advantage
of some special deals on travel gear and equipment.
In the Community Travel Forum you'll find the Departure Lounge
where you can discuss your trip with fellow travellers before you
depart. When you get back from your holiday remember to
upload your images to the relevant trip page on our website. This
helps other people see what our holidays are really like and you'll
be entered automatically into our monthly photo competition.
To make full use of the Community you'll need to join My Exodus.
It's free, registration is simple and easy, so what are you waiting
for?
http://www.exodus.co.uk/community
In booking this trip you should be confident in your ability to
participate in all activities described in these Trip Notes. If you
have any doubt about your suitability you should call the Exodus
office and ask to speak to one of the experts on this itinerary.
Although our leaders are well trained to deal with different
capabilities, if they have any concerns about someone's ability to
safely partake in an activity, or their impact on other people's
enjoyment, we authorise them to take necessary action which, in
some circumstances, may involve asking someone to miss that
activity.
Although rarely enforced, by booking this trip you agree to
section 16 of our Booking Conditions which clearly states that our
leaders have the authority to do this. In these circumstances we
will ensure anyone sitting out is safely provided for and offered
alternative options where possible. Refunds will not be provided
for activities missed and customers may be liable for additional
costs incurred.
Full joining instructions including local emergency numbers, and
details of how to reach the start point, will be sent to you
approximately 2 to 3 weeks prior to departure. If you do not
receive these at least a week before departure, or require them
earlier please contact our office or your travel agent.
The information in these Trip Notes is given in good faith. Where
differences exist between the Trip Notes and our current
brochure or website, the Trip Notes supersede the brochure and
website. All holidays can be subject to unexpected changes; in
order to enjoy them you should be prepared to be flexible where
necessary. Occasionally, as stated in our brochure, it may not be
possible to follow the itinerary as planned. This may be for a
variety of reasons ‐ climatic, political, physical or other. In these
circumstances we will make the best possible alternative
arrangements that maintain the integrity of the original itinerary.
As fuel prices, airport taxes and exchange rates fluctuate, and
airlines manage their rates to match demand, it is proving harder
than ever to guarantee our Flight Inclusive prices. Although we
endeavour to keep our website as accurate as possible, daily
fluctuations mean that our Flight Inclusive price may be out of
date. For accurate prices we recommend that you contact one of
our Travel Experts, or your Travel Agent.
The UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) Travel Advice
Service advises British tourists on the potential dangers they
might experience when travelling overseas. We liaise closely with
them and adhere to their travel advice. For up‐to‐date advice on
all countries, please visit www.gov.uk/foreign‐travel‐advice.
Should there be any change to advice prior to or during travel,
we may have to cancel or curtail a tour at short notice, or re‐
route an itinerary part way through.
Prices and exchange rates were correct at the time of
publication. The most up‐to‐date prices can be found on the
Exodus website.
© Exodus Travels Ltd. ATOL 2582/FTO
1. Check availability
Go online to check availability, or contact us by phone or email.
2. Secure your place
You can provisionally hold a place on this trip, usually for
between three and seven days.
Portugal • Walking In The Azores
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3. Complete your booking and payment
When you're ready to book, go to www.exodus.co.uk for online
booking, book over the phone or you can complete a booking
form (available online or on request by calling us). We accept all
major credit and debit cards, or you can pay be cheque. Book
with confidence: Exodus is fully licensed and bonded as a tour
operator. We hold Air Traffic Organisers Licence (ATOL) number
2582 issued and bonded with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
We are also bonded to the International Air Transport Association
(IATA) and we are members of the Federation of Tour Operators
(FTO) and ABTA ‐ The Travel Association. This means you can
book your Exodus holiday with confidence, as all monies paid to
us for your trip are fully protected.
Edition No. MM 1 2017