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See our Activity Level Guidelines to check if this holiday is right for you
See our Activity Level Guidelines to check if this holiday is right for you
It is hard to believe the Azores are part of Europe. Born from the immensity of the Atlantic Ocean, this lush, green archipelago of volcanic islands is a far cry from continental Portugal. Each of the nine islands has its own characteristics, from steep craters to abundant wildlife to sites of historical interest. All, however, are best explored on foot. We visit three of the most interesting islands, walking through Unesco-listed vineyards, lava plateaux (or fajãs) and sunken volcanoes to showcase the Azores at their best.
Moderate: 3mph-4mph (5kph-6kph)
Terrain:Low altitude; good paths with some uneven terrain and steep ascents/descents
Altitude maximum: 7,713ft (2,351m) on optional ascent of Mount Pico; average: 1,640ft (500m)
Arrive at the hotel in Madalena, Pico, our base for the first three nights of the trip. Pico is known as the Black Island thanks to the black volcanic earth used to build walls on many of the UNESCO-listed vineyards. It is also home to the highest peak in Portugal, Mount Pico, which stands at 7,713ft (2,351m) and dominates the horizon.
Around 6:30pm, say olá to your tour leader and fellow travellers when we gather as a group for the first time to get to know one another and hear more about the journey ahead. Your leader then ensures a warm Portuguese welcome by arranging a group dinner at a local restaurant.
Want more time in Madalena? Speak to your sales representative about booking pre-tour accommodation.
Accommodation: Hotel Caravelas (or similar)
We start the week with a transfer to the central highlands of Pico, by Caminho das Lagoas, where we begin our hike. After following a dirt track, we take a path that leads close to the Cabeço do Mistério volcanic zone, formed in 1562-1564 during the longest volcanic eruption since people settled in the Azores. It’s common to encounter fog and mist in this zone, and amongst the dense vegetation we may come across endemic species such as the Azores spurge (Euphorbia stygiana).
Following the route, we begin our descent to Pico’s northern coast, passing through pastures and noticing how the vegetation increases in size as we descend. We continue towards the coast through a forest of acacia and Azores laurel in the Prainha Forest Park until we reach our destination for today, Baía das Canas, where it may be possible to have a short swim (weather conditions and time permitting).
Alternatively, today is the perfect opportunity to join an optional challenging trek to the top of Mount Pico. This is a very strenuous six-to-seven-hour climb, which will be led by a local mountain guide. The excursion must be booked in advance of the trip and is always subject to availability and favourable weather conditions (for further information please check the Extra Expenses & Spending Money section of the Trip Notes).
Accommodation: Hotel Caravelas (or similar)
In the morning, we embark on a largely coastal trail, notable for its scenic and cultural diversity, and which connects the village of Candelária to Areia Larga (part of Madalena town). This trail passes through an area protected by UNESCO for its unique vineyard culture and is one of the most emblematic features of the island. Azorean vineyards are a sight to behold. Built to protect the vines from the harsh sea winds, they amount to row after row of black horseshoe shapes that score the lush, green coastline. What is more impressive is how the vines grow on the ground and through volcanic rock, rather than supported by a trellis.
Our trail is rich in elements associated with vineyard culture such as rola-pipas (carved slopes to enable wine barrels to be slid along the ground to the waiting boats) and relheiras (tracks left by the wheels of ox carts). The path winds from the coast, then inland to circumnavigate hills, and back to the coast, with sections offering beautiful views over the vineyards and the islets of Madalena. We end by walking along the ocean-front until we reach Areia Larga.
In the afternoon, you have free time to explore – the perfect opportunity to go on a sea safari. The Azores is among the best places on the planet to spot whales and dolphins. There are 80 species of whale and dolphin and 25 of them have been sighted off the coast here, with sperm whale the most common. There is also the chance to spot bottle-nose dolphins, short-finned pilot whales, sei whales, Atlantic spotted dolphins and blue whales.
If you choose to go on an excursion, you have the chance to observe the behaviour of these wonderful creatures and learn more about their habitat with the help of the knowledgeable local experts on board. We observe strict protocols regarding interaction, always maintaining an appropriate distance. Moreover, during feeding and resting times, we avoid any interference with the natural habitat of the whales. Please note the whale-watching excursion must be booked in advance of your trip. Please speak to your sales representative for more details.
Accommodation: Hotel Caravelas (or similar)
This morning, we take a ferry (approximately one hour) to the fascinating island of São Jorge. Here, steep-sided cliffs seem to slice through the ocean and fajãs (low-lying areas of lava formed from the subsidence of the cliffs) attract visitors from far and wide. São Jorge is also well known throughout the Azores for producing delicious cheese, one of its main exports.
We start in the small village of São João, where we can admire the narrow streets and traditional houses. We then head inland and cross agricultural fields where crops such as grapes, corn and yam grow. As we continue, the farmland gives way to woods of firetree, Australian cheesewood and white wood. Looking back, we can enjoy views of Fajã de São João.
On our way to Lourais, the highest point of our walk, we cross the Ribeira do Salto stream, so named for the nearby waterfall that plunges into a pool. We continue our descent to Fajã dos Bodes and on towards Fajã dos Vimes, being sure to stop and enjoy the views across Pico and Faial islands.
Returning to the coast, we end today’s walk in Fajã dos Vimes, where it’s possible to taste a locally produced coffee or visit a handicraft workshop where traditional quilts are made (time permitting).
The coffee served at Café Nunes, in Fajã dos Vimes, is well known for having once been the only coffee produced in Europe. The owner of the café has a small coffee plantation behind his house, where the coffee is produced and prepared by his own family. The coffee is organic and has a unique texture and aroma. At the end of the walk, we transfer to our hotel on São Jorge, where we stay for two nights.
Accommodation: Hotel São Jorge Garden (or similar)
Today’s walk offers beautiful panoramic views of the northern coast of São Jorge, along with many points of geological and cultural interest. We begin the day close to Serra do Topo wind farm and head north on a path rich with native flora and birds – if we’re lucky, we may spot Eurasian whimbrels, São Miguel goldcrests and buzzards.
As we descend towards the northern coast, we pass an inviting waterfall where it’s possible to stop for a swim. We then come to the Caldeira de Santo Cristo Lake, a protected landscape and place of cultural and scenic interest. Known for the vast number of clams that inhabit the lake, it is an important resting place for resident species and migratory birds. Surfing and bodyboarding have also become popular here, as the lake lies directly next to the Atlantic Ocean.
We follow the coast northwest until we arrive at the scenic Fajã dos Cubres, near the church of Nossa Senhora de Lourdes. We transfer back to our accommodation on São Jorge in the afternoon.
Accommodation: Hotel São Jorge Garden (or similar)
This morning, we take a ferry (approximately 2hr 30min) to Faial, known as the Blue Island because of the myriad hydrangeas that bloom during summer. After arriving, we transfer to the island interior and the start of today’s hike, which goes to the volcanic ridge of Península do Cabeço, a site of geological interest with approximately 20 volcanic cones. We follow a path overlooking the coastal village of Praia do Norte, before descending to Furna Ruim, a 180ft (55m) deep lava cave. Continuing through a landscape of Azorean laurel trees and heather, we pass the impressive Algar do Caldeirão cave then take a stairway towards Cabeço do Canto, from which we will enjoy fantastic views of the Capelinhos Volcano. There may be time for an optional visit to the Interpretation Centre (entrance not included, dependent on our arrival time) to learn more about the volcanic eruptions of 1957-58, which changed the shape of Faial.
In the afternoon, we transfer to our hotel on Faial, our base for the last two nights of the trip.
Accommodation: Hotel Faial Garden/Hotel do Canal (or similar)
Upgrade to a sea-view room today – speak to your sales representative for more details
Our final walk in the Azores is an impressive circular hike around Faial’s iconic volcanic crater, Caldeira. Formed by several eruptions over the last 400,000 years, Caldeira is an important site of geological interest. We start the day’s walk at the principal viewpoint of Caldeira, taking a tunnel to the vast interior of Cabeço dos Trinta’s volcanic cone, now home to an abundance of natural vegetation including heather and holly. Returning to the trail, we follow a route that circumnavigates the crater, all the while taking in spectacular views into the crater on one side and marvellous coastal vistas on the other. Along the way, it’s possible to spot several endemic species including Azorean blueberry and Azorean angelica.
We return to our hotel in Faial and the rest of the day is free for you to spend as you wish.
Accommodation: Hotel Faial Garden/Hotel do Canal (or similar)
Upgrade to a sea-view room today – speak to your sales representative for more details
We enjoy our final breakfast of the tour before making our return journey home. If you’d prefer to spend a bit more time on the island, speak to your sales representative about extending your stay.
Saturday 09 May 2026 to Saturday 16 May 2026
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
USD 4200 (excl. flights)
Saturday 13 Jun 2026 to Saturday 20 Jun 2026
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
USD 4200 (excl. flights)
Book with USD 1050 deposit
Saturday 04 Jul 2026 to Saturday 11 Jul 2026
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
USD 4200 (excl. flights)
Book with USD 1050 deposit
Saturday 05 Sep 2026 to Saturday 12 Sep 2026
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
USD 4200 (excl. flights)
Book with USD 1050 deposit
Saturday 08 May 2027 to Saturday 15 May 2027
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
USD 4350 (excl. flights)
Book with USD 1087 deposit
Saturday 12 Jun 2027 to Saturday 19 Jun 2027
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
USD 4425 (excl. flights)
Book with USD 1106 deposit
Saturday 03 Jul 2027 to Saturday 10 Jul 2027
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
USD 4350 (excl. flights)
Book with USD 1087 deposit
Saturday 04 Sep 2027 to Saturday 11 Sep 2027
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
USD 4350 (excl. flights)
Book with USD 1087 deposit
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View Details
During our week in the Azores, we split our time between a trio of three- and four-star hotels. Below are the accommodations typically used on this walking adventure.
Upgrade to a sea-view room on Day 6 and Day 7 of the itinerary – speak to your sales representative for more details.
Pico: Hotel Caravelas (nights 1-3)
Begin the adventure at Hotel Caravelas, in the heart of Madalena town. This 137-room accommodation is a short walk from the bustling marina, but also has a lounger-lined outdoor pool should you wish to relax. There’s also a bar, which serves the local Pico wine, plus a sauna and gym.
São Jorge: Hotel São Jorge Garden (nights 4-5)
Spend two nights in this seafront property, which has spectacular views over the Atlantic to Mount Pico. It also has a swimming pool with sun loungers and is just a five-minute walk from the town centre, where you will find a selection of restaurants.
Faial: Hotel Faial Garden (nights 6-7)
For our final two nights, we either stay at Hotel do Canal or Hotel Faial Garden (above). Each has been chosen for its excellent location, warm welcome and comfortable rooms. When it’s time to unwind, Faial Garden has a swimming pool, while Do Canal has a sauna, Turkish bath, and Jacuzzi.
Worth knowing
This trip is rated Activity Level 3 (Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings, visit our Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip, please contact us.
Suitability: Moderate walks are either fairly easy, medium-duration walks or harder, shorter walks. Walking hours stated are given as guidance only. Timings stated exclude lunch and photo stops and vary depending on the group’s pace.
Routes: The paths we use are generally flat and well maintained; however, some routes cross rougher terrain with longer and steeper ascents and descents. Some paths are quite narrow and stony underfoot and require walking in single file. At times, you will walk on coarse volcanic rock, so it is advisable to be comfortable walking in more durable walking boots, which are recommended for this trip. Many of the walks involve descents due to the volcanic nature of the islands, so you should be confident in your ability to walk downhill, sometimes over uneven terrain, and experienced using walking poles. The last walk of the week is around a caldera. In sections, there is a steep drop to one side, so vertigo sufferers may prefer not to do this hike.
Mount Pico: If you decide to attempt the optional summit trek to Pico, please note this is challenging and involves 3,675ft (1,120m) of elevation gain. The terrain is uneven and rocky, so good walking boots are essential and walking poles are recommended. The maximum altitude reached on the optional ascent of Mount Pico is 7,713ft (2,351m), there is an overall average altitude of 1,640ft (500m).
Climate: The area is also subject to rain and high winds at any time. On departures in May and September, it is best to bring warm clothes in case of colder weather.
Itinerary: We may need to amend the walks depending on local weather conditions, which can change quickly.
Start hotel: Hotel Caravelas, R. Conselheiro Terra Pinheiro 3, 9950-329 Madalena
Phone: +351 292 628 550
Recommended arrival time: You can arrive at any time today. There will be a welcome briefing around 6:30pm this evening.
Airport: Pico Airport (PIX)
The start hotel is approximately 15 minutes’ drive from the airport. Your options for this journey are:
Take an Exodus transfer
Exodus provides one group arrival transfer from the airport, which is timed to coincide with the arrival of a chosen flight from London, UK. You may join this transfer at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the group arrival transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.
Make your own way
You can reach the start hotel easily by taxi. A cab from the airport costs about €20. On arrival at the hotel please make the reception staff aware that you are part of an Exodus group and they will have more details on meeting with your leader and group. If you would like further information on joining this trip, please speak to your sales representative.
There’s a group departure transfer to Horta Airport for customers who Exodus booked onto a chosen flight to London, UK. Please speak to your sales representative if you wish to join. If the group departure transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative transfer.
Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally do not need a visa to enter Portugal. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.
Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.
• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/europe/portugal
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/portugal
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/portugal/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Portugal.html
Breakfasts are buffet style with a variety on offer including bread, jams, cereals, and tea and coffee. The lunches provided are picnic style, either in the form of a lunch box or a buffet with local produce. In the evening, the leader will recommend local restaurants that serve traditional Azores food, which can be a selection of meat or fish with vegetables and potatoes or rice. Vegetarians can be accommodated in the Azores, although the choice at restaurants is limited. For other dietary requirements, it’s recommended to inform the restaurants/hotels in advance.
The Azores enjoys a privileged climate with the temperature softened by the gentle influence of the Gulf Stream. Temperatures do not vary much and the average is 13C (55F) in winter and 23C (73F) in summer. Water temperature varies a little, oscillating between 17C and 24C (63F and 75F). While light clothing is recommended for summer, it is better to dress for cooler and damper weather in spring and autumn. Winters are mild but it often rains, meaning waterproofs and warm jackets are essential if travelling between November and February.
As a certified B Corp, we’re on a mission to improve our social and environmental impact across all our adventures.
We do this through our innovative Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan.
This ‘nature positive’ approach is designed to help nature and communities thrive in harmony through practical solutions, such as reducing carbon and waste on our trips, supporting conservation projects through the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation, and rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller.
Visiting the Azores was honestly unforgettable. The scenery was next-level — black volcanic ash, vibrant green forests, and bright hydrangeas everywhere in July. We saw so many whales and dolphins, all really close to shore because the sea gets so deep so quickly – it’s one of the best places...
My favourite walk was on São Jorge. We started early, high up in the clouds, but luck was on our side — the skies cleared and we spent the rest of the hike descending under brilliant blue skies. Surrounded by blooming hydrangeas and vibrant greenery, the whole experience felt incredibly special, like stepping into a living painting.
Jorge Valerio was an amazing leader ! He was very inclusive and made the effort to circulate around the group throughout the trip which made everyone feel welcome and included. He listened to the groups needs regarding dietary requirements and tailor restaurant options so that we could all eat together.
Pack for all seasons in a day, we would have sunshine, then rain, then sunshine then wind. It's quite an unpredictable weather system, however it never drops below 15 degrees year round so is quite good for someone who hates the cold!
Fabulous week with an Amazing Guide
The old world preservation is fantastic
Jorge was a fabulous guide. Extremely knowledgeable and qualified. So attentive and considerate to all. He really enjoyed being with us and passing on his local knowledge! A multi talented well rounded young man who rolled out the red carpet for us !
Go! Hikes are all easy to moderate !
Highest acclaim for Jorge
A chance to explore 3 different Azorean islands. Good mix of inland and coastal walks varying from lush green vegetation to barren volcanic terrain.
Amazing whale watching trip with 3 different dolphin species plus sperm whales spotted. Absolute highlight was following a hump-backed whale on it's journey for about 15 minutes.
Jorge was a knowledgeable, relaxed and very friendly guide. This was his first outing with Exodus and he managed the needs, expectations and capabilities of a group with age range from 20-70+ very well. He was willing and able to adapt the itinerary to suit the group's preferences.
May weather varied by the hour and with altitude - be prepared for anything and everything each day. Consider arriving a few days early and /or staying on longer as the 6 days of the trip pass very quickly. We went to the main island of Sao Jorge as well and would recommend it.
Flights did not work - we missed our onward connection to Pico due to late flight from Heathrow and did not get to Pico until Sunday lunchtime instead of Saturday afternoon. This meant the time we did have on Pico was rushed to catch up. Most of those who went back at the end of the group trip also missed the return flight in Lisbon. Walk on day 2 not suitable and needs changing (as both Adam and Emma already know as they were there). General point for Exodus to consider re your environmental credentials: It is standard practice for hotels to provide plastic bottles of water (and often small juice cartons too) with packed lunches. This happened on both this trip and our trip to Puglia and Matera in March 2023. Exodus clients all carry refillable water bottles as per your instructions. I gave my unwanted drinks back but once handed out it is easy for people to keep and drink them. Not good.
A great hiking programme that showed off the 3 islands we visited at their best (with the exception of the hike on day 2 in the afternoon -I believe you already know about this and the hike has already been removed - it was a shame, as I think for...
A couple of moments, for me personally, finishing every hike, at times that wasn't easy! However with the encouragement and support of everyone it was possible. it hasn't put me off, I know where I need to improve and would go again. I particularly enjoyed the hike through to the waterfall and the opportunity to jump in/swim. Whale watching (whilst an add on to the walking holiday), was brilliant and good fun as a group activity).
Jorge was a great group leader, in that he really cared about everyone having a brilliant holiday. He did this by flexing/amending plans (which based on the scope of the group, I imagine wasn't easy at times.) He also shared his time with us all very generously, ensuring that we made the most of our time in each island, sharing tips on where to go etc. He also took time to share his love of music and play his hand drum, giving us the chance to get to know him. Lastly, he helped those of us that were struggling, gave tips on how to improve and encouraged me to stop and enjoy the moment!
Read through all the trip advice (including printing off the training plan/strength exercises), before commuting to the trip. It's easy to miss this and if followed would go a long way to being able to make the most of the trip, even for experienced hikers. Pack plenty of hiking clothes - it was very hot and sweaty!!
I fully appreciate it's my responsibility to be fit and able for the trip, however, I do think Exodus could do more to help people prepare/enjoy the trip. i.e. emphasis the fitness check; at the beginning of the trip, check in with everyone on this, ask about injuries etc. Perhaps do some warm up/cool down stretches on each trip. Be clearer on the itinerary about the details of each day: travel time, approximate walking time, meal time, free time. Again, I do appreciate that's always going to vary, however, a bit more of a guide would help everyone to understand what the day would entail. The flight to/from the UK was always too tight a timescale for connecting flights, I would rather pay more and have flights that allowed for some delay time.
Great holiday but should have been longer. Travellers for this trip need to be fit, prepared for steep climbs and humid weather, 'moderate' is not an accurate assessment of the walks. Admittedly 3 - 4mph is a bit of a give away, that said definitely a trip to repeat, this...
All of it, a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
Great personality, totally suited to working with people, a friend to all.
Read the small print, this is not for the faint hearted and the initial description does not really prepare you for what is to come - 'moderate / strenuous' would be more appropriate. Also prepare to acclimatise to humid conditions. Great holiday and to be thoroughly recommended.
Length of holiday needs to be extended, it is far too short.
The Azores are beautiful, especially if you go when the hydrangeas are looking good. This trip is a great way of seeing four islands but, since you stay in only two hotels, you’re not repacking all the time. The accommodation was very good. A smart hotel in Ponta Delgada and...
The hydrangeas on Sao Miguel and Sao Jorge. The lunch on Pico. The sunrises over Horta. The whale watching trip. Good chats on the walks.
Both leaders were enthusiastic, knowledgeable, good fun and looked after everyone.
In Ponta Delgada try to visit the Museu Carlos Machado/Jesuit College (great ecclesiastical art and church) and in Horta the Museum of Whaling (it’s so well done). The whale watching trip from Horta is great too. We saw several sperm whales. See the comment above about reserving a table for the evening meal. This is pretty easy as you're only staying in two towns, one of which you return to at the end of the week (Ponta Delgada - perhaps book Alcides for the last evening).
The ferry crossings were quite smooth and didn't cause problems for my wife who occasionally gets sea sick. We had a problem with one of our inter island flights but were rescued by the Exodus staff in the UK who spotted that there was a problem and liaised with the local agent to find a solution - thank you Robyn.
The weather wasn't very kind to us but we did get out walking on all the days. Bruno our guide was very good. His knowledge of the islands was excellent and he made every effort to tailor the walks to the group. He also adapted the program when we were...
Bruno was excellent
Take all your wet gear if you go in May, and some warm clothing. The Azores are very 'green' for a reason!
The accommodation in Horta was a little 'tired', and WiFi reception poor in some rooms. A decent length coastal walk would be nice. Most of our walks were through trees or quite tall shrubs, so not many views.
A really lovely trip to The Azores. A packed itinerary with whale and dolphin watching and exploring the island landscape, which is one of a kind! We saw tropical dolphins, playful bottle nosed and common dolphins and the small striped dolphins. Some played around the boat racing with us across...
The whales.
I have to tell you about the guide: Nuno Garcia. He is the nicest, most considerate and patient guide we have ever encountered. He was full of fun and always there to help anyone who needed it. He would stand at the harbour smiling and waving as we left to whale watch and he would be there ready with a smile and a wave when we returned. An excellent guide in every way.
Take a variety of clothing because the weather can be very changeable.
This is a short but packed easy walking trip guided by the brilliant knowledgeable and fun Bruno. From the lush heights overlooking lakes and craters to swimming in natural thermal pools to whale watching this trip has it all. Bruno’s enthusiasm for his country and love of his job meant...
There were many wonderful views and no one that absolutely stands out. Laughing with Bruno and the group is a great tonic
Bruno as already mentioned could not have been more interesting , engaging and fun. as a group leader He excelled in holding the group dynamics so that we had fun together but also walked at a pace which suited all.
Be prepared for a full on trip with little spare time or stops. That said, the walking though some longer but gentle uphill was paced well. The long ( 2 hours) down hill is challenging on the knees so would advise poles and decent rough terrain footwear. Take an additional small (folding variety backpack) to leave on the coach for swim wear. If prone to travel sickness take medication and be prepared to take it 2 hours before the late evening ferry trip ( 2 hour choppy trip)
I've been to Portugal before, and was looking forward to experiencing another aspect of this country. This was my first trip with Exodus, and it was very impressive, start to finish. The daily outings, meals together, hotel choices, etc. were A+. Each island was unique and physically beautiful. The walks...
It is hard to pick one moment - overall seeing how people have made these volcanic islands into beautiful locations is what impressed me.
Bruno was amazing! His knowledge and enthusiasm were infectious, and definitely made the trip above average.
The level of this trip was more difficult than I expected - it was trekking than walking. I'm a good walker, so distance wasn't an issue, but the terrain was often steep . One suggestion for the packing list: a towel is needed for the swimming opportunities.
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