Explore the wild beauty of São Miguel Island on this 7-day Azores self-guided walking holiday, crafted for independent travelers who want the freedom to hike at their own pace - without sacrificing comfort, support, or authenticity.
Known as the “Green Island,” São Miguel is a dream destination for walking enthusiasts, offering a rich mix of volcanic landscapes, lush forests, crater lakes, hot springs, and dramatic coastlines. On this immersive Azores hiking trip, you'll enjoy curated daily routes that take you to the island’s most iconic trails - from the rim of the Sete Cidades caldeira to the pristine shores of Lagoa do Fogo and the waterfalls of Nordeste.
This supported experience includes handpicked charm accommodations, private airport and trailhead transfers, luggage transport, a detailed routebook with walking notes, and GPS tracks through the Live Love Hike app. While you walk independently, you’ll have our local team behind the scenes to make sure everything runs smoothly.
Along the way, you’ll have the chance to soak in thermal pools—both inland at Terra Nostra Gardens and oceanside at Ferraria—visit geothermal fields in Furnas, and taste the island’s unique Cozido, a traditional stew cooked underground by volcanic heat.
Day 1 – Arrival in São Miguel
Your Azores walking holiday begins with a private transfer from the airport to your hotel in Ponta Delgada, the vibrant capital of São Miguel. After settling in and being briefed by our local guides regarding your next week of hiking in the Azores, you are free to explore the cobbled streets, enjoy a seaside stroll, or relax at a local café.
Overnight in Ponta Delgada
Stay: Casa Hintze Ribeiro or Octant Azores (premium)
Day 2 – Hike the Sete Cidades Crater Rim - 12km, 200m elevation gain
Kick off your Azores self-guided walking holiday with one of the island’s most iconic hikes. After breakfast, transfer to Vista do Rei viewpoint to start your walk along the caldera rim of Sete Cidades. Marvel at the twin crater lakes — one blue, one green — and enjoy panoramic views over the volcanic landscape before descending into the peaceful village of Sete Cidades.
Overnight in Ponta Delgada
Stay: Casa Hintze Ribeiro or Octant Azores (premium)
Day 3 – Coastal Walk from Mosteiros to Ferraria - 12km, 350m elevation gain
Discover the wild northwest coast on today’s scenic trail. Hike from the charming village of Mosteiros along cliffs, lava rock formations, and black sand beaches toward the thermal ocean pool of Ferraria. A soak in this naturally heated sea pool is the perfect way to relax after your walk. This stretch is a favorite for those seeking dramatic views on their Azores hiking trip.
Overnight in Ponta Delgada
Stay: Casa Hintze Ribeiro or Octant Azores
Day 4 – Lagoa do Fogo Hike and Transfer to Furnas - 10km, 200m elevation gain
A must-do on any Azores hiking tour, today’s trail takes you into the heart of São Miguel. Hike through native forest and mountain paths to reach the wild and pristine shores of Lagoa do Fogo, a stunning crater lake protected as a natural reserve. After your hike, transfer to Furnas, the geothermal gem of the island.
Overnight in Furnas
Stay: Terra Nostra Garden Hotel (premium upgrade available)
Day 5 – Explore the Geothermal Valley of Furnas - 10km, 400m elevation gain
Enjoy a relaxed day in the volcanic valley of Furnas. This circular walk leads you around the Furnas Lake, past bubbling geysers, steaming fumaroles, and geothermal cooking pits. Don’t miss a dip in the iconic Terra Nostra thermal pool, followed by a traditional Cozido das Furnas — a meal slow-cooked underground by volcanic heat. This is a highlight for travelers on Azores self guided walking holidays.
Overnight in Furnas
Stay: Terra Nostra Garden Hotel
Day 6 – Hike to Waterfalls in Nordeste and Return to Ponta Delgada - 7.5km, 480m elevation gain (or optional short hike to Gorreana Tea plantation - 3.3km, 150mm elevation gain)
Today you’ll explore the lush, less-visited eastern region of São Miguel. Hike through dense forest to the beautiful Salto do Prego waterfall, passing old stone houses and watermills along the way. Optional stops at dramatic viewpoints like Ponta do Sossego or Ponta da Madrugada offer perfect photo opportunities. Optionally, you can visit Gorreana Tea Factory, the oldest tea plantation in Europe, open from 1883, and explore it's plantation on a short hike. Return to Ponta Delgada for after your final hike.
Overnight in Ponta Delgada
Stay: Casa Hintze Ribeiro or Octant Azores (premium)
Day 7 – Departure Day
Your Azores hiking holiday comes to a close. Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy a final coffee by the harbor or a morning stroll through Ponta Delgada before your private transfer to the airport. You’ll leave with unforgettable memories of crater lakes, coastal paths, and thermal springs.
This self-guided walking tour in the Azores features moderate terrain suited for intermediate hikers or active beginners with good fitness. Trails range from crater rims and mountain paths to coastal tracks and forested valleys, with daily hikes averaging 10 to 12 km and 200–400 meters of elevation gain. Surfaces vary from gravel and dirt paths to rocky or uneven sections, with minimal road walking. No technical skills are required, but sturdy hiking shoes and basic trail experience are, especially for the more rugged segments like Lagoa do Fogo and Sete Cidades.
Live Love Hike
Avenida Infante D. Henrique, 311
1950-421
Lisbon - Portugal
Monday to Friday
09AM to 06PM GMT
EUR: (+351) 217 590 365 - Call to the Portuguese national fixed network
US/CAN: +1 (917) 695-3350
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