Contents
The archipelago lies in the Palearctic realm and has a unique biotic community that includes the Macaronesian subtropical laurissilva, with many endemic species of plants and animals. All islands have experienced volcanism during their geological history, with Late Holocene volcanism being recorded from Flores and Faial. From the beginning of the islands' settlement around the 15th century, there have been 28 registered volcanic eruptions (15 terrestrial and 13 submarine). São Jorge, Pico and Faial are collectively called Ilhas do Triângulo ('Islands of the Triangle').
Discover the best tips for Azores weather, inter-island ferries, top islands to visit, and more with your Azores local experts "It was an excellent trip! Every detail went according to plan. The hotels, the transportation, the tours. Literally EVERYTHING was perfect. I could not have been happier with my decision to use your company. " "We felt we had very good exposure to the best of both islands. We definitely hit the highlights, experienced the beauty of both islands and learned some history and culture along the way."
Middle season (shoulder season) is spring and fall — April, May, early June, and September, October — when the weather is cooler and it is less crowded; this is a very good time for hiking. High season is summer — late June, July, August — when the weather is warm and children are on school vacation. From lava-fashioned landscapes to wonder-inducing walks and whale watching, here are the top things to do across all nine islands in the Azores. Find practical guidance from our team of contributors around the world who bring their decades of first-hand travel experience to your next trip. The roads are well maintained so a better option is to rent a car from an agency like the excellent Azores Easy Rent who will pick up and drop off at your hotel or the airport.
Recent Events
Staying on Pico as your base means you only move accommodation once and still experience all three Triangle islands. In 7 days, stick to one island, ideally São Miguel or max 2 islands. In 14 days, the Triangle islands (Pico, Faial, São Jorge) plus São Miguel is an ideal combination. In 7 days, stick to one island, ideally São Miguel.
Pro Tips: All You Need to Know Before Going to the Azores
- I feel mindful about the future of the Azores as a tourist destination, because it’s such a fragile place that must be preserved properly.
- The surrounding landscape feels raw and untouched, like you’re walking through a freshly formed planet.
- One of the advantages of using public buses in the Azores is the opportunity to enjoy the scenic views along the routes.
- For those who enjoy a more active approach, renting bicycles allows you to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of the Azores and explore the islands’ hidden gems.
- Known for their stunning landscapes, unique biodiversity, and rich cultural heritage, the Azores attract travelers from around the world looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
The ferry is a great choice for the Triangle Group islands of Faial, Pico, and São Jorge, where distances are short and the crossings are part of the experience. The Atlantic weather around the Azores can be unpredictable, and ferry crossings are occasionally cancelled or delayed due to rough sea conditions. Seasonal summer services connect the central group islands including Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Faial, and Pico. Our local experts handle all inter-island logistics — flights, ferries, car hire, and accommodation — so you can focus on the experience. Our São Miguel, Flores and Corvo package handles all the logistics so you can explore without the hassle. Our Triangle Islands package takes care of everything so you can focus on the experience.
Hiking in the Azores: Best Trails Across All 9 Islands
On the upside, the Gulf Stream keeps sea temperatures at around 27°C in summer, which is warm for the North Atlantic. This is one of those underrated stops that most visitors skip and later regret. And whatever you do, leave the island you’re departing from for last in your itinerary.
Bringing a Car on Inter-Island Ferry Trips in the Azores
You could easily spend five action-packed days exploring the lush, photogenic landscape without getting bored. But most importantly, it’s packed with some of the Azores’ greatest hits. Let’s take a look at the unique character of each island, the local population, and how to get there. You’ll still get the epic views, just with fewer people and more affordable rates. Once you’re there, food and activities are pretty reasonable. Each island offers something different, so there’s no wrong choice.
This facility allows you to save and compare your favourite holidays, and even allows you to return to your selection at a later stage. Register here to receive regular email newsletters from the Sunvil Family, and be the first to hear about our latest news, holiday inspiration, special offers, events and competitions. Enquiries received after 12.00pm will be replied to within 24-hours (excluding Sundays).
You can get to São Miguel from almost all other island airports by plane, or by boat from Santa Maria and Terceira. Today, it’s a famous bar where all the sailors stop during their ocean crossings to quench their thirst. We were unable to hike up Pico due to adverse weather and wind conditions. It stands 2351 meters above sea level and offers a range of hiking trails. The Cella bar is a famous winery and restaurant, shaped like a wine barrel and offers the most exquisite dinners. A pair of pilot whales, which you can spot when whale watching in the Azores
Experience the vibrant cultural festivals of the Azores, including religious celebrations, folkloric events, and music festivals that showcase the rich heritage of the islands. The local population is welcoming to visitors. The best places to enjoy a mineral-enriched bath in São Miguel island. If you’re staying three days on Flores, give yourself some leeway and plan for two extra days of traveling time – don't book connecting flights for the same day you plan to arrive on or leave Flores. But there is room for less highbrow cultural manifestations, including the sarcasm-riddled song-and-dance shows called Bailinhos during Carnaval, and the live music and street parades during Sanjoaninas in June.
From leisurely coastal walks to challenging mountain hikes, there is a trail for everyone to enjoy. With an abundance of hiking trails and scenic walks, the archipelago offers a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The Azores have a network of cycling trails and designated bike-friendly roads, providing ample opportunities to explore the islands at a pace that suits you. Before setting off on your cycling adventure, it’s important to be prepared and ensure your safety. Some rental shops may even offer guided tours for those who want a more structured cycling experience.
The island is peaceful and offers a true escape from the hustle and bustle of the world. From here, the trail leads you to Algar do Caldeirão, and then to Cabeço do Canto, where you’ll enjoy views of the Capelinhos Volcano. Afterward, you’ll continue to the highest point of the trail, Cabeço Gordo, where you can enjoy spectacular views of Capelinhos Volcano and the island. The Caldeira Hiking Trail is a circular trail that allows you to explore the Natural Reserve of the Caldeira of Faial, a crater formed over 400,000 years ago. The Caminhos Velhos trail offers a challenging but azor rewarding hike starting from the village of Ribeirinha. The eruption in 1957 changed the island’s landscape dramatically, and the area is now a protected site.