Madeira & The Azores
Energetic pace with more physically demanding activity. Longer walking/hiking tours (more than 3 hours), over uneven and possibly rugged terrain. Expect some longer days. Varying altitudes with some steep ascents/descents. Capable of standing for extended periods of time. Some days may include 5–13 km of walking over the course of the day.
Depart for São Miguel Island, the largest island in the Azores Archipelago.
We arrive in São Miguel Island and transfer to the hotel. Tonight is our welcome dinner.
Today, we explore the western side of São Miguel Island, visiting the stunning volcanic crater of Sete Cidades. Known for its lush landscapes and twin lakes, Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul, this area offers breathtaking views. Two scenic walks of varying difficulty will be offered to explore the beauty of the caldera.
On our half-day city tour, we’ll wander through the charming, narrow streets of Ponta Delgada’s historic center, where the city’s rich history, maritime heritage, and Portuguese architectural influences come to life. After exploring these picturesque streets, we’ll indulge in a tasting of local wine and cheese, savoring the authentic flavors of the Azores!
Enjoy your leisure time in Ponta Delgada, where you can explore the charming town, unwind at the hotel, visit a local tea plantation, or venture to Mosteiros Beach for one of the most breathtaking sunsets on the entire island!
Today, you have the choice between two scenic hikes. The first takes you on a circular route through Faial de Terra, passing acacia forests, orchards, and historic villages, with a visit to the stunning Salto do Prego waterfall. The alternative route follows the Faial da Terra stream, crossing wooden bridges and forests of cryptomeria and incense trees, leading to the breathtaking Salto do Cagarrão waterfall.
Today, we visit Vila Franca do Campo, once São Miguel Island’s capital. We begin at the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden, where you can relax in thermal baths. For lunch, savor Cozido das Furnas, a traditional stew slow-cooked underground using geothermal heat. Afterward, enjoy panoramic views from the Pico do Ferro Viewpoint, overlooking one of the island’s largest calderas.
Today is your final chance to soak in the beauty of São Miguel Island, whether by exploring its lush landscapes, relaxing by the pool or visiting a tea factory.
We depart for Madeira Island for a 5-night-stay.
In the afternoon, we’ll hike along Pico do Arieiro and the Caminho Real do Monte, starting at Funchal Ecological Park. We’ll follow one of Madeira’s famous levadas, leading to Monte village, where stunning views await. We also walk the Caminho Real, a historic route once connecting Funchal to Monte.
Today, choose between two scenic hikes. The Vereda do Urzal starts in Fajã dos Cardos, an ancient path that once linked Madeira’s southern and northern coasts. It winds through the UNESCO listed Laurisilva Forest, offering panoramic mountain views. Alternatively, the Vereda do Burro isa gentler hike from Pico do Arieiro to Funchal Ecological Park, where you can enjoy high-altitude flora and stunning vistas of the Ribeira do Cidrão valleys.
You’ll have the choice between two scenic Levada walks, the first being the Levada dos Cedros, perched at an altitude of 1,000 meters. Built in the 17th-century, it stands as one of the island’s oldest Levadas. The second, is Levada do Alecrim, a trail that highlights some waterfalls, and ends at the Dona Beja Lagoon.
Today, we visit Cristo Rei, Machico City, and Canical village before embarking on the stunning Ponta de São Lourenço trail. This coastal hike offers breathtaking viewpoints along a rugged coastline. Classified as a Partial Nature Reserve due to its semi-arid climate and volcanic origins, it’s home to unique plants and diverse fauna.
We return home via Ponta Delgada.
You may cancel your tour up to 60 days prior to departure (90 days prior for tours requiring a visa, cruises or rail journeys) for any reason, and receive a full refund of your deposit / payment (less the $75 administration fee).
Cancellation & trip interruption insurance included!
Included in the cost of your tour is our Cancellation Insurance Policy, which provides coverage in case of emergency injury or illness (including Covid), right up to your date of departure (terms and conditions apply).
Our Manulife Out-of-Country Health Insurance Plan covers expenses related to Trip Interruption in case of emergency injury or illness. For tours within Canada, Senior Discovery Tours will cover such expenses (terms and conditions apply to all policies).
