Azores: the Emerald Isles

Europe’s most exotic archipelago? You’re looking at it. 800 miles off the coast of Portugal, the Azores promises day after day of exceptional natural wonders. Don’t miss this

What's included

Accommodation in twin rooms
All activities mentioned on the itinerary
7 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners
Stay in hand-picked 3-4 star hotels
Private minibus
Arrival airport transfer
Experienced Pack Leader with you throughout the trip
Max 16 travellers per group

Flashpackers must provide evidence that they have purchased travel insurance for the duration of their adventure. Remember, flights aren't included and prices are based on sharing a twin room. If you'd like to upgrade to a single room, you can add this during the booking process or by contacting our Customer Experience team.

About your trip

800 miles off the coast of Portugal, these remote subtropical isles have remained largely under the radar, making them the perfect setting for an immersive Flash Pack adventure.

Hailed as the ‘Hawaii of Europe’ for their lush volcanic landscapes and temperate climate, the Azores are like nine tiny emeralds jutting out of the mid-Atlantic. Together with your group, you’ll spend eight days kayaking across sparkling crater lakes and soaking in steamy hot springs. You’ll visit one of the only tea plantations in Europe and sample Cozido das Caldeiras stew slow-cooked the traditional way inside a volcano. There’ll be whale watching and brunch with goats (yes, you read that right), a hands-on cooking class and guided meditation in the lush island forest.

In just eight days, you’ll discover a little slice of Portugal that’s a realm unto its own: a unique volcanic playground for a different kind of adventure.

An Azorean welcome

Touch down on São Miguel, the largest of these exotic isles, where a Flash Pack transfer will be waiting to transport you to your boutique hotel
Get to know your fellow Flashpackers over an authentic meal prepared in a traditional, Azorean way and raise a glass to your upcoming adventure

Cook up an island feast

Wake to sunshine and a sea breeze before taking part in a local-led island cooking class
Together with your passionate host, you’ll cook up a feast of Azorean dishes washed down by volcanic wine
Return to Ponta Delgada for a walking tour of the city. Stroll through the mosaic cobbled streets, lined with white and black basalt buildings

Kayak in a crater lagoon

Stop at Pico do Carvao viewpoint for a panoramic vista over the west of the island, discovering first-hand why Sao Miguel is nicknamed Ilha Verde (Green Island)
Kayak on the serene waters of Sete Cidades before lunch at the lakeside village
Visit a unique pineapple greenhouse. Introduced from Brazil in the 19th century, the tropical fruits are perfect for creating the island’s Ezequiel liqueur

A day with goats and whales

Start your day by visiting a goat farm in the island’s hinterland. Try your hand at milking, or simply cuddle up with the baby goats
Tuck into a typical local brunch: think crusty bread, fresh goat’s cheese and delicious fruit spreads
Up next? A whale-watching excursion. The Azores are visited by 24 species of cetaceans. Look out for sperm whales, pilot whales and pods of playful dolphins

Geothermal pools & a volcanic stew

Travel along the south coast, stopping at Franca do Campo to taste the famous Vila Franca pastry
Head to Furnas for lunch, located in the valley of a volcano. The earth here is so hot, locals slow-cook a stew called Cozido das Caldeiras a metre underground
Spend this afternoon at the nearby 18th-century Terra Nostra estate, before relaxing with a steamy soak in the mineral-rich hot spring

Forest meditation

Explore the rural east of the island. Take in the heart-stopping views at Ponta da Madrugada and Ponta do Sessego before lunch at a local restaurant
Meditate and deeply connect to the beauty of Ribeira dos Caldeirões natural park, whilst listening to the sounds of the cascading waterfall

Taste exotic tea

Stop by Europe’s only tea plantation, high up in the hills
Sip on organic green and black teas, learning how they are expertly combined with other plants and fragrances to create distinct, exotic flavors so unique to the Azores
Soak up the neatly manicured rows of tea plants and the flower-filled valleys beyond, before your final farewell dinner

Tchau, São Miguel

Your Azorean adventure has come to an end. It’s time to make your own way to the airport for your onward flight
Back home, reflect on your time in a part of Europe so many have yet to experience. A slice of perfect tranquility; you’ll carry a sense of peace with you for weeks to come. And when that starts to fade, it’s time for another adventure

Where you'll be staying

We often feature these unique hotels on this trip, with final options confirmed a month before departure. We work with these or similar hotels to ensure a stylish and comfortable stay every time.

Casa Hintze Ribeiro

A boutique hotel in Ponta Delgada’s historic centre, with chic interiors by Portuguese designer Nini Andrade Silva. Everything is in blue and beige, reflecting the colours of the Azores, from the striking geometric tiles and beautiful stone archways to the airy apartment-style rooms. This hotel will be used for our 20 May, 3 Aug, 24 Aug and 31 Aug 2024 trips.

Hotel Vila Galé Collection

Occupying the site of a former hospital, this sophisticated Ponta Delgada hotel is full of historic character with a grand sweeping staircase, high coved ceilings and ornate arched windows overlooking the monochrome courtyard pool. Check out the à la carte restaurant for its Azorean gastro menu. This hotel will be used for our 6 Apr, 28 Jun, 28 Sep, 5 Oct and 12 Oct 2024 trips.

Hotel Lince Azores

Space and light are the common theme of this contemporary 4-star hotel, a 10-minute walk from Ponta Delgada’s seafront promenade. The curve of white metal and glass stands out above the residential neighbourhood, with clean, bright interiors and an attractive spa and pool area. This hotel will be used for our 10 Jun, 15 Jul, 2 Sep and 21 Sep 2024 trips.

Adventure FAQs

Which airport do I need to fly in and out of? Plus airport code

Fly into and out of Aeroporto João Paulo II (PDL) in Ponta Delgada on the island of São Miguel.

What time should my flight arrive (time for the welcome meeting)?

Ideally before 2pm. The welcome meeting and dinner will be from 6pm onwards starting at the hotel, which is located approximately 20 minutes away from the airport.

What time should my flight depart on the last day?

There are no activities planned for the last day, so you can leave any time you wish.

Are airport transfers included?

If you arrive on Day 1 of your adventure, or you book pre-tour accommodation with us, your airport arrival transfer will be included. If you book alternative pre-tour accommodation or are arriving by another mode of transport you must arrange your own arrival transfer.

Arrival transfers are private to Flash Pack and will be in groups depending on flight times. Sometimes this means waiting in the airport for a short while until other flights have arrived.

We don’t offer a departure transfer as Flashpackers leave at different times of the day and many stay for extra nights. We will offer you support with finding a local taxi.

Are tips included?

Please note that tips are not included in the cost of this adventure. Suggested amounts per person are:

Pack Leader: 5-10 USD per day
Drivers: 2-3 USD per day
Local tips: tipping isn’t customary in the Azores, however if you wish to leave tips for restaurants, local guides, etc, your Pack Leader will be able to advise on suitable amounts.

All tips are at your discretion depending on what you feel comfortable with.

Do I need a visa?

Up-to-date visa and entry information can be found using our official partner, Sherpa, who can help you arrange a visa if needed.

You can also find essential travel advice – including security and local laws, as well as passport and visa information – on the government website of your home country:

UK residents: review the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice before your adventure.
US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice for important travel information.
Australian residents: check the Smart Traveler website for up-to-date travel advice.
Residents of other countries: refer to the travel advice provided by your own government or local consulate.

Please be aware that passport and visa requirements can change before departure, so it’s important to stay updated with the latest information.

What vaccinations and medication will I need?

While we are not medical professionals and cannot offer personalised medical advice, we want to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable adventure. Here are some tips to help you prepare.

1. Consult with a healthcare professional

We recommend scheduling an appointment with your travel nurse or doctor at least eight weeks before your adventure. This will give you ample time to receive any necessary vaccines or medications.

2. Up-to-date medical advice

UK residents: visit the NHS Fit For Travel website for the latest medical advice.
US residents: check the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for specialised health information.
Australian residents: refer to the Smart Traveler Health website for current medical advice.

3. Government travel advice

UK residents: review the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) Travel Advice before your adventure.
US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice for important travel information.
Australian residents: check the Smart Traveler website for up-to-date travel advice.

4. Medication tips

If you take prescription medication, ensure you bring enough to last the entire adventure, plus a few extra days in case of travel delays. Carry a copy of your prescription with you in case you need to visit a clinic while abroad.

We hope this information will help you prepare for a safe and healthy adventure.

How much should I budget per day for extras?

We recommend budgeting around 35 GBP per day.

What fitness levels do I need for this trip?

Overall, the trip is relatively relaxed so no real level of fitness is needed. The most strenuous activity is the kayaking on Day 3.

We recommend having a read through of the itinerary above, and getting in touch if you have specific questions on fitness.

Are whale sightings guaranteed?

While we can’t guarantee specific whale sightings due to the unpredictable nature of wildlife, our experienced guides will make every effort to provide an enriching experience. In the event of unfavourable weather on Day 4, the whale-watching activity may be rescheduled to Day 7 or an alternative day when conditions are more favourable.

What will the hotel rooms be like?

Room types might vary at the property in Ponta Delgada but we can guarantee all rooms are comfortable, characterful and in line with Flash Pack’s standard.

Will the itinerary change?

Due to their remote location in the middle of the Atlantic, weather in the Azores can be unpredictable – notoriously experiencing ‘four seasons in one day’. After periods of extended dry weather, waterfalls on the islands will be less impressive and might even dry up completely.

Please be aware that the itinerary, activities, and hotels are subject to change. These changes can happen with little notice due to availability, poor weather, seasonal changes, or other circumstances beyond our control – but we’ll always do our best to ensure it has little impact on your experience. From time to time, we may also make changes to your itinerary to try out new ideas and keep things fresh and exciting.

Similar trips

Sing up to our newsletter

Hear about our new adventures before anyone else

Hear about our new adventures before anyone else.

Be the first to hear about exclusive Flash Pack offers.

Access exciting competitions.

Receive weekly inspiration and travel stories from solos just like you.