Portugal’s Azores: 9 Days of Whale Watching, Nature, and Culture
Traverse volcanic trails, lush valleys, and whale-filled seas on a 9-day Azores journey through Terceira and São Miguel.

Portugal
9 days / 8 nights
$2,880 /person
$2,880 /person
Your trip at a glance
Top Activities
Whale watching in the stunning seas of São Miguel, a world-renowned whale sanctuary
Hiking amidst geologic and geothermal wonders, from the eastern to western sides of São Miguel
Road-tripping throughout Terceira, with stops at a volcanic chamber, natural pool, and hiking trail
Experiencing Ponta Delgada through its Gothic churches, historic architecture, and local cuisine
Swimming in natural hot springs and tasting a volcanic-made stew in the the Furnas Valley
Bem-vindo a Portugal!
Hiking, Swimming, and Adventuring Around Terceira
The Green Island of São Miguel
Warm Waters and Iconic Treks of São Miguel West
Whale Watching and the Splendid Seas of São Miguel South
The Green Island of São Miguel

Overview
Today, you’ll broaden your understanding of the Azores and head to the archipelago’s greenest area: the volcanic island of São Miguel. Depending on your flight time, you can use this morning to explore new parts of Terceira, whether you want a final stroll through your favorite neighborhood or another view of the coast. Then, you’ll drive to the airport and drop off your car before boarding your plane to São Miguel, which should take less than an hour. Upon arrival at this sprawling, subtropical island, you’ll pick up your next rental car at the airport. Once you check in to your hotel — you’ll be staying at Nine Dots Azorean Art Boutique Hotel (or similar) — you can unpack and enjoy its amenities, as you’ll be here for the next few nights. Whenever you’re ready, head outside and stretch your legs on a walk through Ponta Delgada. Among the city’s most impressive buildings, São Sebastião Church boasts a manueline portal, indicative of the Gothic period. Don't miss the Nossa Senhora da Esperança convent and chapel or the Carlos Machado museum, either If you’re walking up an appetite, you also have the option to embark on a fun and delicious food crawl with a local tour guide. (Breakfast)
Highlights
Historic Center of Ponta Delgada
Another capital city of the Azores, Ponta Delgada welcomes tourists with Gothic architecture, arched gates, and, of course, plenty of natural beauty. São Miguel lays claim to the title of Green Island, and its capital city merges the best of that greenery with a lively dose of cultural attractions, delicious restaurants, and one-of-a-kind museums.
Guided Food Tour (optional)
There’s no better fast track to the heart of a city than through your stomach. This afternoon, you'll have the option to follow a local tour guide on an educational and delicious food tour. Exact stops and dishes vary between tours, but this activity will likely introduce you to local meats and cheeses, special market dishes, and, of course, the archipelago’s trademark volcanic wines. Are you hungry yet?
Accommodations
Nine Dots Azorean Art Boutique Hotel (or similar)
Nestled in a central, yet quiet, part of São Miguel, this charming hotel occupies a recently restored building of Portuguese acclaim. The building maintains beautiful elements of the archipelago’s traditional architecture, while embracing new ones inspired by the particularities of the city. Amenities include a picturesque indoor pool and spa, so you have plenty of chances to unwind after your adventures.
Location:
R. dos Mercadores 76, 9500-092 Ponta Delgada, Portugal
Phone:
+351296242579
Transportation
Drive to the Terceira airport and drop off your car at the rental service.
Terceira
Aerogare Civil das Lajes
When you land in São Miguel, pick up your new car from the rental service. You have a short drive of roughly 15 minutes before you reach Nine Dots Azorean Art Boutique Hotel (or similar): your accommodation for the next few nights.
São Miguel
São Miguel, Nine Dots Azorean Art Boutique Hotel (or similar)
How it works
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What's included
Included in the final price
- Roadbook with local tips and expert recommendations
- 24/7 on-the-ground support
- On-trip concierge service
- Personalized trip crafting
- COVID entry and exit information and assistance
- All activities, meals, tours, and experiences mentioned in the itinerary
- All transfers detailed in the itinerary
- Accommodations for eight nights, with breakfast included
Not included in the final price
- International arrival and departure flights
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Drinks, tips, and meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Anything else not mentioned or listed as optional in the itinerary