Azores São Miguel: Full Day Hike and Snorkeling With a Local

The Azores archipelago, a hidden gem in the mid-Atlantic, beckons adventurers to explore its untamed beauty. And what better way to experience the stunning landscapes of São Miguel than through a full-day guided tour that combines the thrill of hiking and the serenity of snorkeling? This expertly curated adventure promises to immerse you in the island’s lush forests, volcanic wonders, and vibrant local culture, leaving you with memories that’ll linger long after you’ve returned home. So, get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey that’ll have you marveling at the natural splendor of this unique Portuguese destination.

Good To Know

• A full-day tour in Azores, Sao Miguel, that includes guided hiking and snorkeling at a volcanic beach, with a duration of 7 hours and a small group size up to 5 participants.
• The tour covers a 3-hour guided hike through a protected area, a 75-minute lunch break, and an optional 2-hour hike at Porto Formoso, followed by a visit to a stunning volcanic beach for snorkeling.
• The hiking experience involves exploring pristine forests with endemic flora and fauna, showcasing scenic views of cascading waterfalls and volcanic landscapes, suitable for various fitness levels.
• The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the natural and cultural wonders of Sao Miguel, with a focus on the island’s rich heritage.
• The tour includes pickup and drop-off, transportation, certified guide services, snorkeling gear, and complimentary parking fees, with flexible booking policies for a stress-free Azores adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This full-day tour offers an immersive experience, blending guided hiking through Azores’ lush forests and exhilarating snorkeling at a volcanic beach, all for the discounted price of $161.66 per person.

During this 7-hour adventure, you’ll explore the island’s breathtaking landscapes as part of a small group of up to 5 participants.

Along the way, your certified guide will share insights into the local flora, fauna, and geology, ensuring an enriching and educational journey.

With multilingual options available, this tour caters to a diverse audience, making it a must-try activity for anyone visiting São Miguel.

The best part? You can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Itinerary

The tour begins with a pickup from Fenais Da Ajuda, Azores, where you will embark on a guided hiking adventure through one of the island’s most beautiful forests.

During the 3-hour hike, the group will explore a protected area, learning about the local fauna, flora, and geology.

After the hike, guests will enjoy a 75-minute lunch break at a nearby local restaurant before an optional 2-hour hike at Porto Formoso.

The tour culminates with a visit to a stunning volcanic beach and pool, where participants can go snorkeling and enjoy the natural beauty of the Azores.

Throughout the day, the certified guide will share their knowledge and passion for this breathtaking destination.

Hiking Experience

Traversing the island’s pristine forests, the guided hike immerses adventurers in a captivating natural world teeming with endemic flora and fauna unique to the Azores.

Skilled guides share their deep knowledge, pointing out the distinctive laurel trees, vibrant hydrangeas, and the fascinating ‘biscoitos’ – ancient volcanic rock formations.

Hikers are awed by cascading waterfalls and sweeping vistas that showcase the island’s dramatic volcanic landscapes.

The moderate terrain is suitable for most fitness levels, allowing participants to fully enjoy the tranquil beauty of this protected area.

Adventurers leave with a newfound appreciation for the Azores’ natural wonders and a deeper connection to the island’s rich cultural heritage.

Guided Tour

Knowledgeable guides lead the way through the island’s most captivating landscapes, imparting their deep expertise on the natural and cultural wonders of São Miguel.

Hikers marvel at cascading waterfalls, dramatic volcanic formations, and vibrant endemic flora as the tour immerses them in the Azores’ protected natural treasures. The small group size ensures personalized attention and a chance to fully engage with the guide’s engaging commentary.

After the hike, guests enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local restaurant before heading to a volcanic beach or pool for an optional snorkeling session, where they can discover the island’s rich marine life.

This all-encompassing experience offers an unforgettable taste of São Miguel’s remarkable natural beauty.

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Lunch Break

After working up an appetite on the guided hike, guests can look forward to a relaxing lunch break at a local restaurant, where they’ll savor traditional Azorean cuisine and refuel for the afternoon’s snorkeling adventure.

The lunch stop offers a chance to sample the islands’ fresh seafood, hearty stews, and locally-sourced produce. Guests can expect:

• Mouth-watering dishes like cozido das Furnas, a slow-cooked meat and vegetable casserole

• Refreshing beverages like passionfruit juice or Azorean tea

• A convivial atmosphere as they dine alongside fellow adventurers

This midday respite allows everyone to recharge and soak in the local culture before continuing their exploration of São Miguel’s natural wonders.

Optional Activities

Why not stretch one’s legs further on an optional hike at Porto Formoso, where the tour allows an additional 2 hours to explore this picturesque volcanic landscape?

Guests can wander along coastal trails, admiring the rugged cliffs and serene beaches that dot this region of São Miguel. This optional extension offers a chance to delve deeper into the island’s natural beauty and uncover hidden gems beyond the main hiking route.

After the guided forest hike and lunch, those seeking more adventure can embark on this self-guided exploration, encountering lush vegetation, volcanic formations, and stunning ocean vistas.

It’s a chance to fully take in the Azorean outdoors and create personalized memories of this remarkable destination.

Inclusions

The tour package includes pickup and drop-off at one’s accommodation, ensuring a seamless start and end to the adventure.

Travelers can sit back in the air-conditioned vehicle as they’re transported to the Fenais Da Ajuda starting point.

A certified guide by the Regional Government of the Azores will lead the group, providing expert insights into the local fauna, flora, and geology throughout the hike.

Snorkeling gear is also provided, allowing guests to fully enjoy the volcanic beach/pool at the tour’s conclusion.

The experience offers:

• Complimentary parking fees and GST

• No upfront payment required to reserve a spot

• Flexibility to check availability for starting times and group size

This comprehensive package ensures a hassle-free and unforgettable day exploring the breathtaking natural wonders of Azores São Miguel.

Booking Information

Travelers can easily reserve their spot on this full-day adventure without upfront payment, allowing them to secure their place and finalize details closer to the tour date. Guests can conveniently check availability for preferred starting times and the number of participants, ensuring a seamless booking process. The tour operator’s flexible policies make it simple to plan this unforgettable Azores experience.

Booking Information
Reserve Now & Pay Later	Book your spot without upfront payment
Check Availability	For starting times and select participants and date
Flexible Policies	Simple to plan your Azores adventure
Easy Reservation	Secure your place and finalize details later
Convenient Process	Ensure a stress-free booking experience

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear?

Yes, you can bring your own snorkeling gear for this tour. The tour provides snorkeling gear, but allowing guests to use their own equipment gives them the flexibility to use gear they’re familiar with and comfortable using.

How Fit Do I Need to Be for the Hike?

The hike is suitable for almost all fitness levels, as it’s a guided tour with plenty of breaks. As long as you can walk for 3 hours, you’ll be able to comfortably enjoy the stunning scenery and nature along the way.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?

The tour has no minimum age requirement, making it suitable for adventurers of all ages. Families with children can explore the island’s stunning landscapes and enjoy the snorkeling activity together in this engaging small-group experience.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Optional Hiking Activity?

You can extend the duration of the optional hiking activity at Porto Formoso. However, the tour’s total duration will still be 7 hours, so you’ll need to adjust the time spent on other activities. The tour guide will be happy to accommodate your preferences.

Is There a Discount for Group Bookings?

Yes, there is a group discount available. The tour offers up to 20% off the full price of $202.07 per person when booking a small group of 5 or more participants, bringing the cost down to just $161.66 per person.

The Sum Up

Experience the natural wonders of São Miguel in the Azores on this guided adventure.

Hike through lush forests and volcanic landscapes, then unwind with a refreshing snorkeling session at a picturesque beach.

With a knowledgeable local guide and a small group, you’ll gain unique insights into the island’s captivating flora and fauna.

This unforgettable day promises to immerse you in the stunning beauty and rich culture of the Azores.

You can check if your dates are available here: