Not sure where to start since everything about this experience was terrific!
I first started conversing with LLH in January to plan our Caminho adventure, and every step of the way they were excellent. They custom tailored an itinerary to meet our needs. And when we had to completely change dates after they already had everything booked, they could not have been more courteous and accommodating.
We were personally greeted by Daniel in Porto, who then drove us to our starting point in Baiona and provided a briefing of our itinerary. We were given a GPS device (which we didn’t need since their app worked perfectly) tee shirts, tote bags, water bottles and our Caminho passport books. Daniel assured us that on each day our bags would be transferred to the next location. I was honestly apprehensive at first, but my fears were unfounded as we had no issues whatsoever.
Each place booked for us was outstanding (we did the premium package). Accommodations were excellent, and food was outstanding. In short, absolutely everything was taken care of for us.
I recommend this outfitter highly. Daniel in particular was a pleasure to work with.
Azores Self-Guided Hiking Tour - Volcanic Trails and Hot Springs of São Miguel
Highlights
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.
Gallery
Day to day
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.
Map
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.
Tour options
Tour options
Tour prices
Group dates
Your group, your dates.
AT YOUR SERVICE
Our team is composed of Portuguese tour leaders and walking enthusiasts, in love with our country and proud to present the best landscapes, gastronomy, history, culture and experiences to anyone who chooses to ride in Portugal.
We are seasoned travelers and love the proximity and timeless feeling of exploring new turns, mountains, beaches and viewpoints on foot. Our passion is to share these feelings with you, so that you fall in love with Portugal as much as we are too.
Our team is composed of dedicated guides, making sure our guests’ walking holidays run smoothly and exceed their expectations.
After a great day outdoors, it's time to relax
We work with the best hotels and SPA's, to guarantee you full-access to great relaxing experiences and a good night's sleep after your hiking is done.
/ Access to the best SPAs;
/ Free time for sightseeing;
/ Experience adapted to your own pace and holiday style;
We strive to provide our guests with time to relax and immerse into the atmosphere, providing a balance between great activities and well deserved “me time” on your walking holidays Portugal!
WALKING HOLIDAYS FOR EVERY TYPE OF HIKER
While planning your holidays, our staff will contact you to ask for further details to better design a tour more suited to you. However, all our tours are built to adapt to groups with different hiking experience, having shorter and longer options. For "expert" hikers, we provide additional challenges. Or you are welsome to take a day off; we invite all our guests on our guided tours to simply hop into our vans if they want to enjoy a recovery day.
HIKER TYPES:
1 BEGINNER
/ I walk/hike on a regular basis, for fitness. I prefer rolling terrain but enjoy reaching my goals and enjoy an active lifestyle. I like to overcome some challenges, but mostly enjoy the landscapes and atmosphere, going out on hikes up to 2 or three hours.
You will get to hike at your own pace, in moderate distances and hop on our van if you so desire or challenge yourself when you feel comfortable! You’ll get to walk in a group with like-minded people and accompanied by our guides, discovering the best of Portugal
2 INTERMEDIATE
/ Hiking is a great part of my life, and I walk regularly. I am comfortable with hikes of 3 to 4 hours, or even more at a relatively strong pace. I like to be challenged and to surpass obstacles, so that I can explore more and discover the most beautiful places.
You will get to explore different riding experiences, from tougher climbs to walking along in great company. You’ll have time to enjoy the great landscapes, but also enjoy the descents and push yourself climbing those tough hills. You’ll enjoy the variety of terrain, and pushing a little harder to get off the beaten path.
3 EXPERT
/ I am an explorer by nature and understand I have to push myself to get to the top of the summit. I love to climb, hike and tackle big climbs to long, technical descents, especially the ones that allow me to push my limits and make long lasting memories. I love to spend the full day hiking.
You’ll get to hike the best Portuguese trails and push yourself as hard as you can, as at the end of the day, you know you’ll be able to rest and relax. Lead the pack and take on the special extra-challenges we have in store for you – try to keep up with our guides as you go for the extra mile just before your well deserved rest and massage at the hotel!
Walking holidays Portugal for all.
/ From 5 to 8 guests, 5% discount for guests;
/ From 9 to 12 guests, 7.5% discount for guests;
/ From 12 riders to 20 guests, 10% discount for guests;