The Azores are nine small islands in the centre of the immense Atlantic Ocean. Each of the islands is a small world, they all have traits in common, just as they all have particularities, although the friendliness of the inhabitants is multiplied by nine. In the immense blue Atlantic, in the cradle of mother nature, these pearls present their visitors with a panoply of adventures, and as you would expect, most of them are done in the wild. Stick around and get to know your adventure of tomorrow.
Walking Trails
The Azores has several footpaths that were once used by the inhabitants for their daily lives. They used these paths to cross from one village to another, accompanied by pack animals, the real helpers of fieldwork (horses, oxen, donkeys and mules). Besides, these paths were also used by populations to go to neighbouring festivals and to trade.
This network of stretches, nowadays rehabilitated and readapted, allows you to fully enjoy the landscapes of the Azores. With them, you have the opportunity to climb mountains, explore the endemic vegetation of the Azores, walk by the sea, discover wonderful waterfalls, walk through valleys and calderas, discover the craters of volcanoes that gave rise to the islands, among many other rewarding experiences.
Climb to Pico Mountain
You can climb to the highest point in Portugal and the third highest in Europe in the Azores. At 2351 metres altitude, Pico Mountain is the ultimate challenge for the more adventurous. You can climb during the day, at dawn or even stay overnight on its summit. We advise you to climb the mountain in the company of a mountain guide, as this is a challenge that requires some physical effort and therefore some security is necessary.
Bird Watching
The Azores archipelago is internationally recognised as a destination for birdwatching. Its position in the centre of the Atlantic Ocean allows the observation of many migratory species that often pass through the Azores due to migratory deviations caused by bad weather. Besides migratory birds, it is possible to see several endemic species and subspecies. Here you will find the perfect opportunity to spot birds in a natural landscape of great beauty.
Bike Tours
The bicycle presents itself as an ecological solution and an excellent means of exploration. Besides promoting a healthy and physically active lifestyle, this tool is perfect for exploring the Azores’ tourist attractions. There are several paths for bicycle tours with various levels of difficulty, either in the city or in nature. Paths that connect the highest mountains, the roads that surround the lagoons and fajãs, and the paths surrounded by endemic fauna and flora are a whole range of experiences that you should seek out.
Jeep Tours and Motor Vehicles
Exploring the nature of the Azores by 4×4 jeep, 4WD motorbike, buggy, scooter or electric vehicles has never been so much fun. Some of these vehicles are perfect for exploring the interior of the island through rougher paths that would be difficult to get around with any other means of transport.
Horse Riding
You can discover some of the best landscapes on the island, at a gallop or more serene, accompanied by a guide. If you are less experienced, you can take horseback riding lessons to get to know the animal and familiarise yourself with the activity. It is also possible to go on carriage or donkey rides.
Geotourism and Caving
You will find a panoply of geological manifestations in the Azores, integrating complex and fragile ecosystems, of great geological and tourist interest. It is possible to observe recent volcanic eruptions, as is the case of Ponta dos Capelinhos. You can also enter and explore the interior of several volcanic caves.
Golf
The Azores have great potential for the practice of this sport, due to the safety, tranquillity and nature that the destination offers. Besides, the climate of the region allows playing at any time of the year. At the moment there are 3 courses in the region: one in Terceira Island and two in São Miguel Island. These courses have adapted courses for beginners and for professionals.
Climbing and Rappelling
In the Azores, you can go climbing and rappeling, whether you are a beginner or an experienced climber. The activity can be done on small basalt rock cliffs, which are mostly located by the sea.
Canyoning
The fact that the Azores are of volcanic origin provides excellent conditions for canyoning. It is a sports and leisure activity that is based on descending watercourses, with these descents having steep slopes. The islands of Santa Maria, São Miguel, São Jorge, Flores, Terceira and Faial have excellent conditions for the practice of the sport, involving routes for the more experienced and also for beginners. It is a sport intimately associated with adventure and adrenaline.
Coasteering
The fact that the Azores are of volcanic origin allows you to get to know the coastal area of the islands in a fun way, and you can visit places that would otherwise be inaccessible. This activity consists of progressing along the rocky coast, interspersing various activities: jumping into the sea, climbing and swimming.
Paintball
Paintball is a game of team combat and is already starting to have a lot of adherence in the Azores islands. There are several companies that provide this type of service and rent you all the necessary material for the activity, without worries. Usually practised between two teams, this adventure sport brings adrenaline to the surface.
Health and Wellness
The Azores are a paradise destination for health and wellness tourism lovers. Its volcanic origin allows that there are several signs of secondary volcanic activity, and one of these signs are the hot iron water springs. These waters, besides having temperatures that can go up to 39º degrees, have therapeutic characteristics that alleviate various health problems. In São Miguel you can enjoy Termas da Ferraria, Caldeira Velha, Parque Terra Nostra, Poça Dona Beija and Termas das Caldeiras. In Graciosa you can relax in Termas do Carapacho.