Adventures in a Breathtaking Archipelago

Hiking in the Azores

Portugal

10 Days

From $7,395

Level 3

Moderate

Overview

    Book Online Download Itinerary

    Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

    Overview

    Welcome to an island-world of traditional villages, lake-filled calderas, and ancient vineyards—the Azores! On this volcanic archipelago just a five-hour flight from Boston, we explore four enchanting islands: Sâo Miguel, Faial, Sâo Jorge, and spectacular Pico, each with its own personality and terrain. We'll hike along crater rims, cross rugged moorlands above a deep blue sea, and follow ancient canadas (pathways) that link farms and villages. Complementing our hikes, we'll head out for whale watching, dine on catch-of-the-day fish at cozy local spots, and relish the unhurried pace of Azorean life. Our accommodations include a refurbished 16th century fort and an Art Deco hotel with thermally heated bathing pools.

    Arrive: São Miguel Island, Azores

    Depart: São Miguel Island, Azores

    Highlights

    • Hike and explore four lush volcanic islands, each with a unique culture and landscape
    • Taste Pico Island's white wines from age-old vineyards
    • Search for whales and dolphins in one of the world's largest whale sanctuaries
    • Stay in a converted 16th century fort and the Art Deco grandeur of Terra Nostra Garden Hotel

    Overview

      Book Online Download Itinerary

      Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

      Itinerary

      Download Itinerary Expand All Days
      On Sâo Miguel Island, we hike up to the twin crater lakes of Sete Cidades, one very blue (Lagoa Azul) and the other distinctly green (Lagoa Verde), then fly to Faial Island, famed as a stopping-off point for yachts on trans-Atlantic crossings. Our hike across the volcanic landscape brings us to Ponta dos Capelinhos for spectacular coastal views. In 1957, an eruption on Faial added almost a square mile to the western edge of the island.
      On Pico Island, crowned by a dormant 7,713-foot volcano, Portugal’s highest point, we explore vineyards where wines have been produced since the 17th century. Whale watching is one of our delights at the town of Lajes do Pico, once a whale-hunting hub and now a major whale-watching destination. While on Pico Island, we’ll offer the option of a challenging hike up to Picos’ summit. A ferry ride brings us to Sâo Jorge Island for a coastal hike following a panoramic trail from the charming Fajã dos Cubres to the pilgrimage church in Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo. São Jorge produces the best cheese of all the islands and we’ll visit a family creamery to sample some.
      Returning to Sâo Miguel Island, we explore the 19th century spa village of Furnas, nestled inside a huge caldera. For a final treat, we'll enjoy a traditional Azorean feast of cozido nas caldeiras (beef slow-roasted on geothermally heated stones). Depart on Day 10 via Ponta Delgada.

      Dates & Pricing

      Pricing below is per person and based on double occupancy. The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have. WT also has the most generous cancellation and transfer policies in the industry, we make it easy if you change your mind. Have a small group of your own? Take over an existing date or choose your own. You’ll have your own private guide–and the adventure–all to yourselves!

      Payment & Cancel Schedule

      At time of reservation: $600
      90 days prior to departure: Balance

      Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

      Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge!
      61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost
      46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost
      45 days or less: 100% of trip cost

      Included
      • Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader
      • Accommodations in hotels
      • All meals included except 1 dinner as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
      • A glass of wine or beer with dinner
      • All ground and internal air transportation, and baggage handling from meeting until departure
      • All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
      Not Included
      • Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
      • Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates
      • Optional gratuities to Trip Leaders or staff
      • Optional travel insurance
      • Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)

      Accommodations

      Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

      Hotel Talisman

      Ponta Delgada, Portugal

      Day 1 (1 night)

      With a great location in the center of town, near Ponta Delgada's cafes and historic churches, the Talisman is a historic 17th century building converted into a charming hotel. Guest rooms differ in size and shape, but most have views of the port. The hotel is decorated in an Art...

      Pousada Forte Hotel

      Horta, Portugal

      Days 2-3 (2 nights)

      The Pousada Forte is a restored fortress set along a promenade on Horta's port.  It offers comfortable rooms overlooking the harbor and a great swimming pool. The views of Pico Island are breathtaking.

      Hotel Caravelas

      Madalena, Portugal

      Days 4-5 (2 nights)

      The Caravelas offers clean, comfortable rooms with views of Faial Island and the harbor and a central location for the ferry. The hotel offers an excellent buffet breakfast.

      Hotel São Jorge Garden

      Velas, Portugal

      Days 6-7 (2 nights)

      The simple but comfortable Hotel S. Jorge Garden has guest rooms with panoramic views of Pico Island, a friendly bar, and a lovely saltwater swimming pool. In the evenings, guests can hear the sounds of the local Cory's shearwaters coming back to their colony to roost for the night.

      Terra Nostra Garden Hotel

      Furnas, Portugal

      Days 8-9 (2 nights)

      The historic Terra Nostra Garden Hotel, surrounded by calderas and thermal springs, is the perfect spot to enjoy São Miguel's natural geothermal wonders. You can step right out of your room and straight into the garden to relax in bubbling hot springs. The hotel is...

      Trip Leaders

      Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please click on their profiles below.

      Skye McDonald

      View Profile

      David Monteiro

      View Profile

      What the Trip is Like

      This trip is rated Level 3, Moderate, according to our trip grading system. You will need to be comfortable hiking up to 7 miles a day and being on your feet for 5 hours a day. With the exception of one day, there are no alternative hiking options, so you will need to be able to keep up with the moderate but steady hiking pace of the group. Trail conditions, weather, and the group's level of fitness can affect hiking times and pacing.

      Average Hiking Day
      • 6 miles
      • 3-4 hours
      • 800 feet gain and 1,200 feet loss
      Challenge Day
      • Day 6 - 5.5 miles, 4 hours, 2,300 feet gain, and 400 feet loss; includes 1.5 hours by ferry and 2 hours of driving
      Review Trip Level Details

      We'll hike along crater rims in a volcanic landscape, traverse rugged moorlands above a deep blue sea, and follow ancient canadas (pathways) that crisscross the islands linking farms and villages. Occasionally there are steeper paths and steps on the coastal walks, and the ground can be uneven with some sharp rocks. If there has been rain, it can be muddy and slippery. Hiking poles will be beneficial on many days. Many of the trails are on rocky and uneven ground, so it is important that your footwear is comfortable and has a good hiking sole. On non-hiking days, we'll still be on foot for many hours as we explore the towns and sites.

      The Azores have a subtropical maritime climate with mild temperatures throughout the year. In the summer, temperatures average between the mid-60s°F to the low 80s°F during the day and the 50s°F and 60s°F at night. It can be humid, and although it is usually sunny in the summer, clouds and rain is a very real possibility all year round—it is not uncommon for rain in the morning and sunshine in the afternoon. A light waterproof shell of a rain jacket and pants in your day pack are highly recommended for the short rainstorms that may pass us while hiking.

      Our accommodations include a refurbished 16th century fort, a 17th century townhouse, and an Art Deco hotel with geothermally heated bathing pools. Since they are in historic buildings, the rooms are not always of uniform or international size. Our leaders do their best to assign rooms in a fair way so that all participants experience an equal advantage throughout the trip as a whole. Single rooms can be requested but are not always available, due to the limited space in the hotels. If you prefer a single room, please make your request as early as possible.
      We'll enjoy the fresh and varied cuisine of the Azores which include many Portuguese specialties. The islands are known for excellent seafood, spicy stews, sweet desserts, and local wines from the island of Pico. Lunch will be picnic-style, at our hotel, or at one of the local restaurants. Dinner will be at our hotel or a local restaurant in town. Please note that in Europe, the dinner hour is considerably later than what it is in the US. We do our best to secure early reservations for our groups, but most often the evening meal will be at 7:30 pm.
      Our van will transport the group's luggage, so you only need to carry a daypack for items you need during the day (rain gear, sweater, camera, water bottle, etc.). Trip members are always free to skip a day's hike and travel to the next destination in the support vehicle (or remain at the hotel if we are not transferring that day). On one day, we will spend a few hours in a 16-seater RIB for whale watching. We will also take ferries between the islands and take various forms of transportation on each island.

      Client Testimonials

      "Beautiful place, unique and special. The hikes were challenging and rewarding."

      Carolyn S.

      Lone Tree, CO

      "This is one of the very finest of the 23 WT trips I've taken since 1986. The beauty and charm of the Azores, the great variety and quality of the hikes and experiences, and David Monteiro's superb leadership make this trip simply amazing."

      Joe N.

      Seattle, WA

      "The Azores offered a very interesting range of activities and experiences that exceeded my expectations. The hikes were all unique and enjoyable as were each of the islands that we visited."

      Sandy C.

      Seattle, WA

      Book your trip today

      Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

      Itinerary

      Submit the form below to download itinerary

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      Trip Levels

      With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

      Level 1 – Easiest

      Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

      Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

      Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

       

      Level 3 – Moderate

      Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

      Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

      Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

       

      Level 5 – Strenuous

      Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

      Level 6 – Very Strenuous

      Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

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In the event we need to make changes, the goal is to do most, if not all, activities during our time on each island.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":2,"DayTo":3,"Headline":"Sete Cidades Hike \/ Faial Island: Shearwater Colony, Levada Hike & Ponta dos Capelinhos","ActivityOverview":"Sete Cidades Hiking Details:","EstimatedLength":"5.5 miles, 2.5-3 hours, 400 feet ascent\/descent ","ActivityLevel":"Levada Hiking Details: ","ItinBlock":"We set out for an easy hike on the rim of the twin lakes of Sete Cidades, one very blue (Lagoa Azul) and the other distinctly green (Lagoa Verde). Views on our hike stretch the length of S&atilde;o Miguel, the largest island in the archipelago. An afternoon flight brings us to Faial, known as &ldquo;the blue island&rdquo; for its long rows of hydrangea hedges. In 1957, Faial erupted over the course of 18 months, adding almost a square mile to the western edge of the island. While we&rsquo;re here, we&rsquo;ll immerse ourselves in its volcanic story. After dinner at the hotel, we head to Castelo Branco, a rocky peninsula to observe thousands of Cory&rsquo;s shearwaters returning to land after a day foraging at sea. Another day is a hike to the youngest and westernmost point of Faial, where the massive volcanic eruption occurred in 1957. Before visiting the newest part of the island, we hike along a levada, or water channel, that contours the lush hillsides above the Geosite. The track alongside affords us fabulous coastal views, varied volcanic features, endemic vegetation, and the possibility to watch some of the island&rsquo;s birds, including the tiny goldcrest, which flits restlessly between branches, with often just the flash of its spiky, golden crownfeathers to be seen. After a picnic lunch we&rsquo;ll head to the Ponta dos Capelinhos, the volcanic formation formed in 1957, with its rocky barren features and white lighthouse. The lower part of the lighthouse remains buried by the eruptions. 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We have a &ldquo;moderate&rdquo; hike on the Caminho dos Burros (&ldquo;Path of the Donkeys&rdquo;). This old trail connects the north and south coast of the island and has fabulous views towards Pico Mountain and across the sea to the sharply defined ridgeline of S&atilde;o Jorge Island.Descending gently through scrub and woodland, we reach a wider track that takes us down to the Forest Nature Reserve of Misterio da Prainha, an ideal spot for our picnic. After lunch, we&rsquo;ll head to the Gruta das Torres (&ldquo;Grotto of Towers&rdquo;), near Madalena. Formed over 1,500 years ago, it is the biggest lava tube in all of Portugal. We&rsquo;ll don hard hats and carry lamps for an hour&rsquo;s guided tour exploring these intriguing lava tunnels. A &ldquo;strenuous&rdquo; option is a climb of Pico Mountain, a very steep climb to the summit at 7,713 feet and not to be taken lightly (we will not be able to do it if the weather conditions are poor). Another day we&rsquo;ll set out by RIB boat for whale-watching. Sperm whales as well as humpback, minke, pilot, fin, and blue whales are seen at different points in the year. Bottlenose, spotted, striped, common, and Risso&rsquo;s dolphins are also found here. Following lunch at a local restaurant, we&rsquo;ll visit the whaling museum, then make our way to the island&rsquo;s main wine-growing area. We&rsquo;ll be met at Czar, a local winery, where the owner will bring us into. On Day 4, we enjoy a delightful dinner in one of the best restaurants on Pico Island, with superb views toward Faial Island. Dinner is on your own on Day 5, and the Trip Leader will be happy to make recommendations.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":6,"DayTo":7,"Headline":"S\u00e3o Jorge Island: Cheese Tasting, Faj\u00e3 dos Cubres, Coffee Tasting & Hike","ActivityOverview":"Hiking Details:&nbsp;","EstimatedLength":"6.2 miles, 4.5-5 hours, ascent 1,400 feet, descent 1,400 feet","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"An early ferry ride brings us to Velas, the picturesque principal town on S&atilde;o Jorge Island. S&atilde;o Jorge is reputed to produce the best cheese of all the islands&mdash;in fact, there are more dairy cattle on this island than people! We check into our simple accommodation, Hotel S. Jorge Garden, then visit the island&rsquo;s only remaining family cheese producers who milk just 40 cows and we&rsquo;ll hear about their production, sample some of their much-prized &ldquo;Canada&rdquo; cheese. We&rsquo;ll have lunch and head to the northern coast for our hike from Faj&atilde; dos Cubres (&ldquo;Faj&atilde; of the Goldenrods&rdquo;), through the partly abandoned villages of Faj&atilde; dos Tijolos (&ldquo;Faj&atilde; of the Tiles&rdquo;) and Faj&atilde; do Belo (&ldquo;Faj&atilde; of Beauty&rdquo;) and into the pretty village of Faj&atilde; da Caldeira de Santo Cristo and its quaint white church. Another day on S&atilde;o Jorge Island begins with a stop at Caf&eacute; Nunes, where we&rsquo;ll meet our local guide and her family. Her father operates the largest commercial coffee plantation in Europe, producing Arabica beans for local consumption. We&rsquo;ll enjoy the earthy flavor of an espresso here before heading out on the trail. Our hike starts in Vimes, on the south coast following old, cobbled trails. Turning into the Faj&atilde; dos Bodes (&ldquo;Faj&atilde; of the Goats&rdquo;), we head steeply up to savor vistas over to the island of Pico and its iconic mountain as well as the rugged coastline of S&atilde;o Jorge before popping out into the village of Lourais. A steep descent (hiking poles are recommended) brings us down to Faj&atilde; de S&atilde;o Jo&atilde;o. This town has narrow, cobbled streets and a small fishing harbor. The only caf&eacute;, opposite the village church, is our final destination. Cold beers are on order after our demanding yet satisfying hike! Dinner on Day 6 is in a typical local restaurant. On Day 7, we&rsquo;ll enjoy dinner at a wonderful small restaurant with views over to Pico and Faial. All dishes are home-cooked using only local meat and fish, accompanied by organic vegetables and herbs grown in the owners&rsquo; garden.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":8,"DayTo":9,"Headline":"S\u00e3o Jorge \/ S\u00e3o Miguel Island: Furnas, Thermal Bath & Cozido","ActivityOverview":"Hiking Details:","EstimatedLength":"Lagao das Furnas: 2.5 miles, 1.5 hours, level ground Optional afternoon: 3 miles, 2 hours, 630 feet, 740 feet descent ","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"We start the day with a walk along the western peninsula of S&atilde;o Jorge to the old lighthouse at Rosais. After lunch in a local restaurant we fly back to S&atilde;o Miguel, where we are whisked off to the picturesque town of Furnas and our hotel, the Terra Nostra Garden Hotel, an Art Deco hotel dating to the 1930s and surrounded by a large 19th century garden with canals and lakes. If we arrive in the late afternoon, we&rsquo;ll take a stroll around the gardens, then enjoy the thermally heated pools, with their rich iron-red waters, a good way to soothe tired muscles. On our final full day, our explorations are based around the 19th century spa village of Furnas, nestled inside a huge caldera with many active fumaroles. Taking a short drive to a higher, water-filled caldera, we&rsquo;ll hike along the lake&rsquo;s pretty shoreline. Our hike&rsquo;s end coincides with a chance to see local restaurant owners coming to retrieve their cook pots buried in hot soil in the geothermally active area at the northern end of Furnas Lake. The famous cozido nas caldeiras, a traditional dish, is cooked in pots set in the geothermally heated soil. The large pots are carefully extracted by two men using long metal poles, then driven down the hill to be served up in Furnas as lunch and dinner. There is a choice in the afternoon, either to hike or to relax in the thermal pools and spa of the charming Terra Nostra Garden Hotel. If hiking, the guide will decide the most appropriate hike for those walking, as again, there is a choice: either a linear hike along the north coast with a possible swim in the sea, or a circular hike higher up among trees and along a river with waterfalls. Both are of similar length and time. Our Farewell Dinner at the Terra Nostra Garden Hotel is a treat&mdash;the traditional cozido meal, with mouth-watering flavors of tender meat (beef, pork, and chicken) and assorted rice and vegetables, and we pair it superbly with the deep red wines from Pico Island.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":1,"Dinner":1,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":10,"DayTo":10,"Headline":"Tea Plantation \/ Ponta Delgada \/ Departure","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"This morning we make a call at one of only two tea plantations in Europe. Ch&aacute; Porto Formoso is set on the north coast of S&atilde;o Miguel, where climate and soil conditions have allowed tea to thrive far from its native terrain in Asia. Tea production on S&atilde;o Miguel started at the end of the 19th century with seeds and techniques brought from China. Sitting out on the wooden veranda overlooking the neatly clipped tea bushes that sweep down toward the sea, we&rsquo;ll savor a cup! The teas produced here have an especially aromatic flavor and make a lasting memento of the islands to take home with you. We&rsquo;ll transfer to the city of Ponta Delgada, S&atilde;o Miguel&rsquo;s capital, for an early lunch and arrive at San Miguel Airport by 1:00 pm, in time for your international flight.<br><strong>An important note:<\/strong> The ferry and flight schedules in the Azores are not always available at the time we are planning our departures. While we have worked hard to make this itinerary as accurate as possible, we want you to be aware that the planned daily activities are subject to adjustment as necessary in the field, depending on conditions and schedules at the time. We will do our very best to follow this itinerary, but please bring your spirit of adventure and be aware that some changes may be necessary.","Breakfast":1,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":false},{"DayFrom":1,"DayTo":3,"Headline":"S\u00e2o Miguel Island \/ Faial Island","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"On S\u00e2o Miguel Island, we hike up to the twin crater lakes of Sete Cidades, one very blue (Lagoa Azul) and the other distinctly green (Lagoa Verde), then fly to Faial Island, famed as a stopping-off point for yachts on trans-Atlantic crossings. Our hike across the volcanic landscape brings us to Ponta dos Capelinhos for spectacular coastal views. In 1957, an eruption on Faial added almost a square mile to the western edge of the island.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":4,"DayTo":7,"Headline":"Pico Island \/ Wine Tasting \/ Whale Watching \/ S\u00e2o Jorge Island","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"On Pico Island, crowned by a dormant 7,713-foot volcano, Portugal&rsquo;s highest point, we explore vineyards where wines have been produced since the 17th century. Whale watching is one of our delights at the town of Lajes do Pico, once a whale-hunting hub and now a major whale-watching destination. While on Pico Island, we&rsquo;ll offer the option of a challenging hike up to Picos&rsquo; summit. A ferry ride brings us to S&acirc;o Jorge Island\nfor a coastal hike following a panoramic trail from the charming Faj&atilde; dos Cubres to the pilgrimage church in Faj&atilde; da Caldeira de Santo Cristo. S&atilde;o Jorge produces the best cheese of all the islands and we&rsquo;ll visit a family creamery to sample some.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true},{"DayFrom":8,"DayTo":10,"Headline":"S\u00e2o Miguel Island \/ Furnas \/ Ribeira Quente","ActivityOverview":"","EstimatedLength":"","ActivityLevel":"","ItinBlock":"Returning to S&acirc;o Miguel Island, we explore the 19th century spa village of Furnas, nestled inside a huge caldera. For a final treat, we'll enjoy a traditional Azorean feast of cozido nas caldeiras (beef slow-roasted on geothermally heated stones). Depart on Day 10 via Ponta Delgada.","Breakfast":0,"Lunch":0,"Dinner":0,"Overnight":"","Travel_Type":"","Quotation":"","Quotation_Attribution":"","Itinerary_Location":"","Latitude":"","Longitude":"","Brief":true}],"itinpdf":[{"ItinYear":"2024","docType":"1","FileName":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/hiking-in-the-azores-itinerary-2024.pdf"},{"ItinYear":"2024","docType":"2","FileName":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/portal\/hiking-in-the-azores-predeparture.pdf"}],"whattoexpect":[{}],"highlights":[{"DisplayOrder":1,"HighlightText":"","Description":"Hike and explore four lush volcanic islands, each with a unique culture and landscape","Image":"","VideoLink":"","ImageAltTag":"","image_id":39162,"caption":"","video_link":""},{"DisplayOrder":2,"HighlightText":"","Description":"Taste Pico Island&apos;s white wines from age-old 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She has worked as a Trip Leader in 35 countries since the millennium and lived in Germany, France, and Tanzania. &ldquo;Bringing understanding between peoples of very different cultures and backgrounds is one of the joys of being a Trip Leader, and of course, the chance to make friends around the world.&rdquo; Closer to home, she delights in sharing the glories of her native Scotland, and says that a good day scaling some of the beautiful Scottish mountains is hard to beat. Skye speaks German, French, beginners' Portuguese, and unusually, a smattering of Swahili from earlier years as a volunteer agricultural officer in Tanzania. Life continues to be an adventure for Skye, who has recently taken up bee-keeping, wild-water swimming, and scuba diving.","BioLong":" Skye McDonald lives in Scotland&apos;s Highland capital, Inverness. She has worked as a Trip Leader in 35 countries since the millennium and lived in Germany, France, and Tanzania. &ldquo;Bringing understanding between peoples of very different cultures and backgrounds is one of the joys of being a Trip Leader, and of course, the chance to make friends around the world.&rdquo; Closer to home, she delights in sharing the glories of her native Scotland, and says that a good day scaling some of the beautiful Scottish mountains is hard to beat. Skye speaks German, French, beginners' Portuguese, and unusually, a smattering of Swahili from earlier years as a volunteer agricultural officer in Tanzania. Life continues to be an adventure for Skye, who has recently taken up bee-keeping, wild-water swimming, and scuba diving."},{"GuideID":851138,"First_Name":"David","Last_Name":"Monteiro","BioShort":"David Monteiro was born in Mindelo, Cape Verde, an archipelago on the west coast of Africa, and moved to Portugal with his family when he was a child. After working as a CPA for more than 20 years, he felt the need for a change and began to lead hiking, mountain biking, and rock-climbing trips, all sports he had enjoyed since his childhood. When not guiding, David indulges in his passion for photography, literature, and history.","BioLong":"David Monteiro was born in Mindelo, Cape Verde, an archipelago on the west coast of Africa, and moved to Portugal with his family when he was a child. After working as a CPA for more than 20 years, he felt the need for a change and began to lead hiking, mountain biking, and rock climbing trips, all sports he had enjoyed since his childhood. When not guiding, David indulges in his passion for photography, literature, and history."}],"guestreviews":[{"GuestNames":"Carolyn S.","GuestLocation":"Lone Tree, CO","GuestReview":"Beautiful place, unique and special. The hikes were challenging and rewarding."},{"GuestNames":"Joe N.","GuestLocation":"Seattle, WA","GuestReview":"This is one of the very finest of the 23 WT trips I've taken since 1986. The beauty and charm of the Azores, the great variety and quality of the hikes and experiences, and David Monteiro's superb leadership make this trip simply amazing."},{"GuestNames":"Sandy C.","GuestLocation":"Seattle, WA","GuestReview":"The Azores offered a very interesting range of activities and experiences that exceeded my expectations. 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The hotel offers an excellent buffet breakfast.","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/10-hotel-caravelas-lobby-reception.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":72587,"ProductID":82415,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Hotel S\u00e3o Jorge Garden","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Velas","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":6,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"PropertyDescription":"<p>The simple but comfortable Hotel S. Jorge Garden has guest rooms with panoramic views of Pico Island, a friendly bar, and a lovely saltwater swimming pool. In the evenings, guests can hear the sounds of the local Cory's shearwaters coming back to their colony to roost for the night.<\/p>","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/10-hotel-sao-jorge-garden-exterior-pool.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":73195,"ProductID":83023,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Quinta da Magn&oacute;lia","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Velas","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":6,"Sequence":20,"Duration":2,"PropertyDescription":"","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false},{"VendorID":72588,"ProductID":82416,"SelectType":"Operational","ChoiceGroup":0,"ProductType":"Accommodation","Vendor":"Terra Nostra Garden Hotel","Address1":"","Address2":"","City":"Furnas","State":"","Postal":"","Product":"Standard Room","Day":8,"Sequence":10,"Duration":2,"PropertyDescription":"<p>The historic Terra Nostra Garden Hotel, surrounded by calderas and thermal springs, is the perfect spot to enjoy S&atilde;o Miguel's natural geothermal wonders. You can step right out of your room and straight into the garden to relax in bubbling hot springs. The hotel is sleek and modern, surrounded by vast gardens that date back to 1775.<\/p>","ItinBlock":"","VendorPhoto":"https:\/\/s3.us-west-1.wasabisys.com\/wildernesstravel\/vendors\/10-terra-nostra-garden-hotel-bedroom.jpg","ProductPhoto":"","OnRequest":"Option","Overhead":false,"BookingNotes":"","TicketSession":"","TicketTimeOfDay":"","TicketRound":"","TicketCategory":"","TicketDate":"","TicketLocation":"","NotTicketOnly":false,"Inactive":false}],"CustomFields":{"Custom_TC_Detailed_Itin_URL":"","Custom_Trip_Name_Addendum":"Adventure","Custom_Welcome_Letter_Addendum":"","Custom_Trip_Level_5":"","Custom_Welcome_Email_Send_List":"Extra Service Request Form","Custom_FI_Optional_Donation_Text":"","Custom_Final_Docs_Letter_Send_List":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Trip_Sales_Points":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_TP_Trip_Sales_Points":"","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Payment_Terms":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>In order to confirm your space on this trip, we require a first deposit of $600 per person, which is fully refundable up to 91 days prior to departure.<\/body>","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Region":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>Azores<div><br><\/div><\/body>","Custom_Sales_Email_-_Region_Sales_Points":"","Custom_Emergency_Evac_Insurance":"","Custom_Welcome_Letter_Reading_List":"<strong>Reading List:<\/strong> Elevate your travel experience by delving into this <a href=\"https:\/\/bookshop.org\/lists\/wilderness-travel-hiking-in-the-azores\">curated collection of books<\/a> tailored to your upcoming adventure.","Custom_Valid_Passport_Alternative":"","Custom_Visa":"","Custom_FB_Before_You_Go_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Before_You_Go_-_MISC_2":"","Custom_Luggage_Requirements":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-26T17:22:32 --><p><strong>LUGGAGE REQUIREMENTS: <\/strong>Please limit your luggage to one soft sided suitcase and a daypack (to carry a jacket or rain gear, water bottle, camera, and other items you want on the trail) as there is limited space in our van.<\/p>","Custom_Carry-On":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-26T17:22:51 --><p><strong>CARRY-ON: <\/strong>Valuable or essential items, such as well broken-in hiking boots, camera equipment, binoculars, prescription medications, and any paperwork required to enter the Azores, should be hand carried on your flights to avoid loss or damage. Due to possible flight delays or connection issues, we highly suggest that you pack a change of clothes, essentials, and hiking shoes in your carry-on, just in case of any misplaced luggage. If you are able to avoid checking a bag, that is best.<\/p>","Custom_Hiking_Poles":"<strong>HIKING POLES: <\/strong>If you choose to bring hiking poles, they must be packed in your checked luggage as they are not permitted in carry-on bags.","Custom_Daypack":"","Custom_Vaccination_Card":"","Custom_FB_Packing_Reminders_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Additional_Notes_-_MISC_1":"","Custom_FB_Additional_Notes_-_MISC_2":"","Custom_Arrival":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-05-01T17:08:13 --><p><strong>ARRIVING IN S&Atilde;O MIGUEL ISLAND<\/strong><br \/>Upon arrival at the Ponta Delgada Airport, taxis are readily available outside the terminal and the transfer cost into town is approximately &euro;10. There is also a bus that costs around &euro;2.<\/p><p>&nbsp;<\/p><p><br \/><strong>MEETING PLACE<\/strong><br \/>Your Trip Leader will meet you at 6:00 pm on Day 1 in the lobby of Hotel Talisman. After a trip briefing, we gather for a Welcome Dinner and toast the start of our Azorean adventure with wine from the island of Pico. Sa&uacute;de!<\/p>","Custom_Arrival-_Meeting_Place":"","Custom_Arrival_Transfer":"","Custom_Departure":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-26T17:23:37 --><p><strong>DEPARTING S&Atilde;O MIGUEL ISLAND<\/strong><br \/>There will be a group transfer from lunch at to the Ponta Delgada Airport at 1:00 pm on Day 10. For those spending additional time in Ponta Delgada, taxis can be taken from the restaurant to your hotel.<\/p>","Custom_Extra_Services":"","Custom_Contact_Information_for_Friends_and_Family":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-04-26T17:23:49 --><p>If friends or family wish to contact you during the trip, we encourage them to call, text, or email you directly. Another option is to reach you by calling the hotel (please see the enclosed Hotel List). If they are unable to reach you directly, please instruct them to call our office in Berkeley, California, and we will get a message to you as soon as possible. If they need to reach you outside of our office hours, we ask that they reach out to our Trip Leader (contact information is listed below) and also leave a message with our Berkeley office, so that we can follow up with our team on the ground.<\/p>","Custom_Outfitter_Contacts_Left":"","Custom_Outfitter_Contacts_Right":"","Custom_name_slug":"portugal-azores-islands-hiking-tour","Custom_Meta_Description":"Hike the Azores Islands, with its rich cultural heritage, volcanic landscape, and ancient villages.","Custom_List_Description":"Hike the Azores Islands, with its rich cultural heritage, volcanic landscape, and ancient villages.","Custom_Redirect":"","Custom_PJ_-_Best_Months":"","Custom_After_Dates":"","Custom_Trip_Web_Note":"","Custom_Title_Tag":"Azores Hiking & Walking Tour | S\u00e2o Miguel, Faial & Pico Islands","Custom_Before_Days":"","Custom_After_Days_Header_1":"","Custom_After_Days_Text_1":"","Custom_After_Days_Header_2":"","Custom_After_Days_Text_2":"","Custom_Choosing_Right_Trip_Office_Contact":"","Custom_About_WT_Expeditions":"","Custom_Arrival_-_Sales":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2022-12-13T10:48:17 --><p><strong>Suggested Airport: <\/strong>Ponta Delgada Airport (PDL) <br \/><strong>Suggested Date &amp; Time: <\/strong>The morning of Day 1 or anytime prior to Day 1<br \/><br \/><strong>Meeting Place:<\/strong> Your will meet your Trip Leader in the Lobby of the first hotel at 6:00 pm on Day 1. Upon arrival at the Ponta Delgada Airport, taxis are readily available outside the terminal and the transfer cost into town is approximately &euro;10. There is also a bus that costs around &euro;2.<\/p>","Custom_Departure_-_Sales":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2022-12-13T10:50:29 --><p><strong>Date &amp; Time: <\/strong>Day 10, anytime after 3:00 pm<br \/><strong>Suggested Airport:<\/strong> Ponta Delgada Airport (PDL)<br \/><br \/>Please do not book a departing flight leaving before 3:00 pm, as we begin our day on the other side of the island and have some scheduled activities and lunch before dropping the group at the airport at around 1:00 pm.<\/p>","Custom_International_Air_Travel":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2022-12-13T10:52:21 --><p>You are responsible for making your own arrangements for flights to and from the Azores.<br \/><br \/>There are many online consolidators for booking travel, but for more personal help arranging air transport, you can contact Exito Travel at 1-800-655-4053 in the US or 1-800-670-2605 in Canada. They are very adept at putting flight itineraries together, to even the most far-flung places. More information can be found on Exito's website at <a href=\"https:\/\/exitotravel.com\/\">www.exitotravel.com<\/a>.<br \/><br \/>Depending on your routing, it is necessary to depart from the US one or possibly two days prior to Day 1 of the trip itinerary. The name on your airline ticket must match the name on your passport exactly, and your passport must be valid for at least six months after your date of return to the US.<br \/><br \/><strong>Please do not purchase your tickets until you are confirmed on the trip. <\/strong>Once your tickets have been purchased, please send us a copy of your airline schedule. It is your responsibility to ensure your flight times coordinate with the arrival and departure logistics for this trip.<\/p>","Custom_Extra_Hotel_Nights":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2022-12-13T10:51:06 --><p>If you are arriving one or more days early, we can book extra nights for you at the group hotel in Ponta Delgada (an 'on your own' expense).<\/p>","Custom_Recommended_Hotels":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_1":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_1":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Header_2":"","Custom_A_and_D_Misc_-_Text_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_1":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_2":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_3":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_4":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Header_5":"","Custom_FAQ_-_Text_5":"","Custom_file_name":"hiking-in-the-azores","Custom_Passport":"A valid passport is required for your trip. Be sure to check the expiration date. Your passport must be valid for three months after your date of exit from Portugal. In addition, we recommend your passport have at least two completely blank visa pages for every country you will be visiting. It is very important that the blank pages say &#8220;Visas&#8221; at the top. The last few pages of your passport, which say &#8220;Amendments and Endorsements,&#8221; and the final page of your passport, which may not have a page number, are not considered to be legitimate visa pages. The service of adding pages for visas was discontinued as of January 1, 2016. You can request a new passport through <a href=\"http:\/\/travel.state.gov\/passport\">US Passport Services Office<\/a> or use a visa service agency, which can take care of your passport renewal and expedite the process, if needed. We recommend <a href=\"http:\/\/www.passportvisasexpress.com\/?affId=2120\">Passport Visas Express<\/a>. Be sure to allow sufficient time to acquire this before your trip. <br><br>It is very important to carry photocopies of your passport's photo page and any acquired visa pages for your trip (if applicable) in case your passport is lost or as an additional piece of identification, as well as two extra passport photos.","Custom_Visas_and_Entry_Notes":"US citizens do not need a visa for countries visited on this trip. If you are a citizen of any country other than the US, check with a local consulate for entry requirements.","Custom_Money":"The Euro is the official currency of Portugal. The most convenient way to obtain Euros is to use your debit card at ATMs. To use an ATM internationally, you must have a four-digit PIN. Major credit cards are accepted in most shops in cities and larger towns. If you plan to use your credit cards, inform your credit card company before your departure that you will be using the card abroad.","Custom_Tipping":"Tipping is completely discretionary, but over the years, clients have asked us for tipping guidelines to reward guides for outstanding service. We suggest a tip of $200 or more per trip member for each of the Trip Leaders, preferably in local currency. The Trip Leaders take care of gratuities for hotel and restaurant staff, and for local guides and drivers.","Custom_Food":"Please reach out to us directly to discuss any dietary restrictions or concerns you may have. We can easily make arrangements for most diets, but please keep in mind that certain cultural differences or logistical limitations can make it difficult or at times impossible to accommodate all requests. With this in mind, please inform us at least eight weeks before your trip if you have a special diet, and any food allergies in particular, so we can do our best to meet your needs.","Custom_Communications":"<strong>Telephone:<\/strong> The international dialing code for Portugal is 351. Please contact your cell phone company for specific instructions for international use.<br><strong><br>Email &amp; Internet Access:<\/strong> Internet access is available at all of our hotels, but connections may be intermittent and slow.","Custom_Electricity":"Europe has 220-volt current. Plugs usually have two or three prongs.","Custom_Laundry":"","Custom_Ship_Notes":"","Custom_Inoculations":"","Custom_International_Health":"","Custom_Malaria_Prevention":"","Custom_Staying_Healthy":"<html><body style='font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;'><\/html>","Custom_Getting_In_Shape":"We strongly urge you to train for your trip, as your enjoyment will be highly dependent on your level of fitness. The best training for a hike is to hike, especially over hills or rough terrain. Next best are running, swimming, bicycling, or other cardiovascular exercise. Stair climbing machines are excellent preparation for hiking uphill. Your feet should also be well prepared&mdash;make sure your hiking boots are sturdy, comfortable, and thoroughly broken-in.","Custom_Medical_Care":"No inoculations are required. However, it is easy to get a small cut, so a tetanus booster is strongly recommended (good for 10 years). If you take prescription medicines, be sure to bring enough for the duration of your trip.","Custom_Altitude_Considerations":"","Custom_Covid-19":"","Custom_Reading_List":"Elevate your travel experience by delving into this curated collection of books tailored to your upcoming adventure. They will not only entertain but also provide invaluable insights into the history, culture, cuisine, wildlife, mountain trails, or even folklore of the places you're about to explore. Discover the perfect companions for your journey ahead by <a href=\"https:\/\/bookshop.org\/lists\/wilderness-travel-hiking-in-the-azores\">following the link<\/a> or scanning the QR code.","Custom_Photography":"","Custom_Cultural_Considerations":"","Custom_Giving_Back":"","Custom_Enviromental_Concerns":"","Custom_Shopping_and_Souvenirs":"","Custom_Seasickness":"","Custom_Explore":"","Custom_Additional_Information":"","Custom_Essentials":"<ul><li>Air tickets (or E-tickets)<\/li><li>\nPassport<\/li><li>\nOne other picture ID, such as a driver's license<\/li><li>\nExpense money<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Luggage":"Although airline service to Europe is generally reliable, it is best to wear or carry your hiking boots with you on your flights in the event that your luggage is lost or delayed. Likewise, don't pack valuables, such as travel documents, camera gear, or prescription medicines in your checked luggage. <br><br><ul><li>Soft-sided suitcase<\/li><li>\nDaypack, large enough for a jacket or rain gear, water bottle, and items you want on the trail<\/li><li>\n(Optional) Small roll-up bag to carry home purchases<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Clothing":"<div>Dressing in layers is the best way to stay comfortable. We ask that you pack everything in one piece of luggage as this simplifies the transportation of luggage en route. You'll want a change of clothes for the evening, but nothing dressy is necessary. Casual wear is fine, and coats and ties are not required.<\/div> <br><br>In Europe, there are dress requirements to enter churches: Shorts (or skirts) should come to the knees, and shoulders should not be bare. Women can use a shawl or large scarf to cover bare shoulders; short-sleeved t-shirts are acceptable. The dress code applies to both men and women. <br><br>The clothing list below is provided as a guideline only: <br><ul><li>Lightweight rain gear, such as a Gore-Tex rain\/wind shell jacket with hood, and Gore-Tex rain\/wind pants<\/li><li>Fleece jacket or nano-puff jacket<\/li><li>Light fleece sweater or sweatshirt<\/li><li>Long-sleeved shirt. Quick-drying &#8220;travel&#8221; fabrics like nylon are recommended.<\/li><li>T-shirts or short-sleeved shirts<\/li><li>Hiking pants. Lightweight synthetic hiking pants are a practical choice. Jeans are not recommended because they can be hot and they take a long time to dry if they get wet.<\/li><li>Hiking shorts. Quick-drying fabrics are recommended.<\/li><li>Shade hat with a wide brim&mdash;preferably a waterproof one you can use as a rain hat as well<\/li><li>Sturdy medium to heavyweight hiking boots, well-broken in.<\/li><li>Tevas or walking shoes for sightseeing in towns<\/li><li>Warm hat and gloves<\/li><li>Hiking socks. Some people like thick Thorlo-type socks with padded toes\/heels, or an outer sock and synthetic liner sock.<\/li><li>Underwear\/sleepwear. Synthetics dry faster.<\/li><li>Swimsuit<\/li><li>Casual city\/hotel attire<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Hiking_Boots":"","Custom_Equipment":"<ul><li>\nReusable water bottle, one or two, 1 qt. capacity<\/li><li>\nCollapsible walking stick or trekking poles (highly recommended)<\/li><li>\nGood quality sunglasses with case. A spare pair of sunglasses is a good idea should your first pair be broken or lost.<\/li><li>\nFlashlight and extra batteries<\/li><li>\nRaincover for daypack (or rainproof dry bags for items in your daypack)<\/li><li>\nCamera, plus a waterproof cover for rain showers and during whale watching<\/li><li>\nStuff sacks or plastic bags to compartmentalize items, Ziploc-style bags to carry small items during the day<\/li><li>\nMoney belt or neck pouch. Always carry your passport, credit cards, and cash with you in a money belt or neck pouch tucked down inside your shirt or blouse.<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Personal_First_Aid":"Every trip member should bring a small kit for personal use. Your own experience will influence your choices.<br><br><ul><li>\nSunscreen SPF 30 or higher and lip balm with sunscreen. We recommend mineral-based sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide because they do not contain harsh chemicals that are harmful to the environment. Brands such as Honest Company, Badger, and Alba Botanica are found in most sporting goods stores and drugstores.<\/li><li>\nAspirin, ibuprofen, or Tylenol for muscle pain or headaches, Tylenol PM for sleep<\/li><li>\n\nAnti-seasickness medication for ferry crossings and whale-watching excursion; some travelers find medication such as Dramamine helpful.<\/li><li>\nBlister kit. Look for long-lasting gel-type bandages that you can apply directly on blisters, such as Band-Aid Advanced Healing Bandages or Curad Gel Multi-Day Bandages. &#8220;Liquid band-aids,&#8221; such as New-Skin, are useful because they dry rapidly to form a tough protective cover over a blister.<\/li><li>\nPrescription medications properly labeled<\/li><li>\nSpare contact lenses or spare prescription glasses<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Optional_Items":"<ul><li>Voltage converter and plug adapter for appliance use in hotels<\/li><li>\nCamera, spare batteries, memory cards<\/li><li>\nReading\/writing material<\/li><li>\nBandannas (many uses)<\/li><li>\nLightweight binoculars<\/li><li>\nTravel clock<\/li><li>\nSmall umbrella<\/li><li>\nLaundry soap for hand-washing clothes<\/li><li>\nWashcloth, if you like to use one (most European hotels do not provide them)<\/li><\/ul>","Custom_Prohibited_Items":"","Custom_When_to_Go":"","Custom_Children":"","Custom_Tag_Line":"Adventures in a Breathtaking Archipelago","Custom_Lodging":"9 nights hotels","Custom_Meals":"All meals included except 1 dinner","Custom_Difficulty":"8 hiking days on moderate trails (some steep sections), 3-5 hours a day, van support","Custom_Currency_Exchange_Rate":"Because the prices published for our program are set so far in advance of the trip dates, we are occasionally faced with exceptional cost increases and\/or currency fluctuations that affect the actual cost of running the trip. In most years, no price changes are necessary. However, we do reserve the right to raise or lower the trip price if there is a significant change in costs or exchange rates. If this is the case, your final invoice will reflect the difference in trip cost.","Custom_Fuel_Surcharge":"","Custom_Signing_Up_For_a_Trip_-_Email":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_This_Year":"","Custom_Optional_Hotel_Upgrades_-_Next_Year":"","Custom_Trip_Cost_Misc_Header":"","Custom_Trip_Cost_Misc_Text":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>This trip is rated <strong>Level 3, Moderate<\/strong>, according to our trip grading system. You will need to be comfortable hiking up to 7 miles a day and being on your feet for 5 hours a day. With the exception of one day, there are no alternative hiking options, so you will need to be able to keep up with the moderate but steady hiking pace of the group. Trail conditions, weather, and the group's level of fitness can affect hiking times and pacing. <strong><br><\/strong><strong><br><\/strong><strong>Average Hiking Day<\/strong><ul><li>6 miles<\/li><li>3-4 hours<\/li><li>800 feet gain and 1,200 feet loss<\/li><\/ul><strong>Challenge Day<\/strong><ul><li>Day 6 - 5.5 miles, 4 hours, 2,300 feet gain, and 400 feet loss; includes 1.5 hours by ferry and 2 hours of driving<\/li><\/ul><\/body>","Custom_Terrain":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body><p>We'll hike along crater rims in a volcanic landscape, traverse rugged moorlands above a deep blue sea, and follow ancient canadas (pathways) that crisscross the islands linking farms and villages. Occasionally there are steeper paths and steps on the coastal walks, and the ground can be uneven with some sharp rocks. If there has been rain, it can be muddy and slippery. Hiking poles will be beneficial on many days. Many of the trails are on rocky and uneven ground, so it is important that your footwear is comfortable and has a good hiking sole. On non-hiking days, we'll still be on foot for many hours as we explore the towns and sites.<\/p><\/body>","Custom_Getting_in_Shape":"","Custom_Weather":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body><p>The Azores have a subtropical maritime climate with mild temperatures throughout the year. In the summer, temperatures average between the mid-60s&deg;F to the low 80s&deg;F during the day and the 50s&deg;F and 60s&deg;F at night. It can be humid, and although it is usually sunny in the summer, clouds and rain is a very real possibility all year round&mdash;it is not uncommon for rain in the morning and sunshine in the afternoon. A light waterproof shell of a rain jacket and pants in your day pack are highly recommended for the short rainstorms that may pass us while hiking.<\/p><\/body>","Custom_Accommodations":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>Our accommodations include a refurbished 16th century fort, a 17th century townhouse, and an Art Deco hotel with geothermally heated bathing pools. Since they are in historic buildings, the rooms are not always of uniform or international size. Our leaders do their best to assign rooms in a fair way so that all participants experience an equal advantage throughout the trip as a whole. Single rooms can be requested but are not always available, due to the limited space in the hotels. If you prefer a single room, please make your request as early as possible.<\/body>","Custom_Cuisine":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>We'll enjoy the fresh and varied cuisine of the Azores which include many Portuguese specialties. The islands are known for excellent seafood, spicy stews, sweet desserts, and local wines from the island of Pico. Lunch will be picnic-style, at our hotel, or at one of the local restaurants. Dinner will be at our hotel or a local restaurant in town. Please note that in Europe, the dinner hour is considerably later than what it is in the US. We do our best to secure early reservations for our groups, but most often the evening meal will be at 7:30 pm.<\/body>","Custom_Transportation":"<meta charset=\"utf-8\"\/><body>Our van will transport the group's luggage, so you only need to carry a daypack for items you need during the day (rain gear, sweater, camera, water bottle, etc.). Trip members are always free to skip a day's hike and travel to the next destination in the support vehicle (or remain at the hotel if we are not transferring that day). On one day, we will spend a few hours in a 16-seater RIB for whale watching. We will also take ferries between the islands and take various forms of transportation on each island.<\/body>","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Header_1":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Text_1":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Header_2":"","Custom_What_the_Trip_is_Like_-_Text_2":"","Custom_Trip_Level_Note_1":"","Custom_Trip_Level_Note_2":"","System_Choosing_the_Right_Trip":"<p>Adventure travel often involves exotic destinations, unusual levels of physical exertion, or activities you may not have participated in previously. We work hard to help you choose the right trip for you, paying attention to your individual interests, abilities, and needs. If you have questions about the level of comfort or any of the activities described in this itinerary, please call Wilderness Travel at 1-800-368-2794 or email us at <a href=\"mailto:\/\/info@wildernesstravel.com\">info@wildernesstravel.com<\/a>.<\/p>","System_References":"<p>We&rsquo;d be happy to put you in touch with a past client that has traveled with us.<\/p>","System_Visit_Our_Website":"<p>At <a href=\"https:\/\/wildernesstravel.829dev.com\/\">www.wildernesstravel.com<\/a>, you can book your trip online or find out about added departures, last-minute deals, and one-time Limited Edition adventures that aren&rsquo;t listed in our catalog. You can also access our complete library of detailed itineraries filled with enticing photos and videos, read bios of our Trip Leaders, find descriptions of trip accommodations, and check real-time availability of any trips that interest you.<\/p>","System_Helpful_Links":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:52:03 --><p>Wilderness Travel has compiled a list of useful websites for travelers. Find the Toucan Club tab on the home page of our website and choose Helpful Links: <a href=\"http:\/\/wildernesstravel.829dev.com\/ toucan\/links\">www.wildernesstravel.com\/ toucan\/links<\/a>.<\/p>","System_About_New_Trips":"This is a new adventure and one that we are particularly excited about offering. However, as with all new departures, flexibility and a spirit of adventure are always appreciated! Activities are described in the itinerary but they can vary, sometimes considerably, depending on weather conditions, the group, and other factors.","System_About_Private_Journeys":"<p>Wilderness Travel Private Journeys are designed for people who want to travel with their own small private group, but who still want to experience the same superb itinerary design, great accommodations, and signature quality of Wilderness Travel's escorted group trips. These Private Journeys allow you to choose your own dates and your traveling companions&mdash;and enjoy the WT touch on all aspects of the journey.<\/p>","System_Limited_Edition_Adventures":"This is a Limited Edition adventure&mdash;which means a unique trip we've never run before or offer only every few years. Led by our most experienced Trip Leaders, these journeys often take place in remote destinations with only the most basic infrastructure for tourism. If you see a Limited Edition trip scheduled for this year, now is the time to sign up, as spaces fill very early and the trip may not be back for a while! Planned daily activities and actual timings may vary due to local conditions or the discretion of your Trip Leader&mdash;it is important to bring your spirit of adventure for these special exploratory journeys!","System_Social_Media":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:33:43 --><p><strong>SOCIAL MEDIA:<\/strong> We invite you to share your adventure with us on social media. Tag @wildernesstravel and we may even feature your content on our pages!<\/p>","System_If_You_Miss_Your_Flight":"<p><strong>IF YOU MISS YOUR FLIGHT<\/strong><br>If you miss your flight or are otherwise delayed, contact our Wilderness Travel office, as well as our local partners, with your new flight information. Refer to the Emergency Contact Information listed in this Final Bulletin.<\/p>","System_Valid_Passport":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-06-16T10:26:21 --><p><strong>VALID PASSPORT:<\/strong> Check that your passport is valid for at least six months from the last day of your trip, and that you have at least two blank pages for any necessary visa or entry and exit stamps.<\/p>","System_Insurance_Policy":"<p><strong>INSURANCE POLICY:<\/strong> If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan, you should have received an email confirmation of your policy. Please bring a digital or printed copy of this policy with you. If you cannot find your email confirmation, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com. If you have not purchased Travelex insurance already, you have the option to do so up to 24 hours prior to your departure.<\/p>","System_Covid-19_Travel_Requirements":"<p><strong>PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION<\/strong><strong>: <\/strong>Please review your Pre-Departure Information booklet included in this packet for important information regarding Wilderness Travel's COVID-19 protocols, packing lists, recommended reading, tipping, etc.<\/p>","System_Wilderness_Travel_Office":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:38:07 --><p>Our office in Berkeley, California can be reached at 510-558-2488, or by email at info@wildernesstravel.com. We are available during regular business hours (M-F, 8:30 am-5:00 pm, PST). <\/p>","System_ECI_Travel_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:38:31 --><p>If you have purchased the Travelex Travel Protection Plan through Wilderness Travel, please remember to bring your Confirmation of Coverages (COC) with you on the trip, including your Plan Number and important emergency contact information.<\/p><p>If you've purchased a travel protection plan on your own, we recommend that you bring a copy of your policy, including all coverages, with you on your trip.<\/p>","System_Face_Masks_and_Hand_Sanitizer":"","System_DidNotPurchase_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-02-28T12:27:44 --><p>Travel Insurance: We recommend that you purchase travel insurance for this trip. For your convenience, we offer Travelex travel protection. Please let us know if you would like us to add the Travelex Travel Protection Plan to this final invoice. You can learn more about the policy on our <a href=\"https:\/\/wildernesstravel.829dev.com\/toucan\/travel-insurance\">website<\/a>.<\/p>","System_Purchased_Insurance":"Please remember to bring a copy of your Travelex Confirmation of Coverage and State Specific Policy with you on your trip. You should have received an email directly from Travelex with these documents. If you need this email to be re-sent, please contact Travelex's Customer Solutions team at 844-877-1885 or e-mail customersolutions@travelexinsurance.com. <br><br><br>","System_COVID-19":"The Public Health Emergency for COVID-19 declared by the World Health Organization and the US Department of Health and Human Services expired in 2023. As of March 2024, we no longer require guests who exhibit cold or flu symptoms to test for COVID-19. Guests who test positive for COVID-19 will be required to follow local health protocols, wear a mask in group vehicles and during indoor activities for the remainder of the trip, and may be asked to dine separately. Any travel companion sharing a room with them will also be required to wear a mask at all times in the shared group vehicles for the remainder of the trip.<br><br>We encourage all travelers to actively monitor their own well-being and to use common-sense preventative measures such as regular handwashing (or use of hand sanitizer) and\/or wearing a face mask. If you are feeling sick, we encourage you to self-isolate and\/or wear a mask to protect your fellow travelers. Guests may be required to wear a mask if the Trip Leader believes the situation warrants it.<br><br>Leading up to the trip, we encourage you to do everything possible to stay healthy, including avoiding close contact with anyone displaying cold or flu symptoms and washing your hands often. As always, by traveling with Wilderness Travel, guests agree to be accountable for their own well-being. If you are worried about a fellow traveler's cold or flu-like symptoms, you may opt to wear a mask or distance yourself as needed. It's important to remember that there are inherent risks associated with travel and group settings.<br><br>These protocols will be reviewed and adjusted as guidance evolves. <br><br>","System_Photography":"<strong>Camera Recommendations<\/strong><br>With the many advances in digital technology, a simple compact digital camera or even your smartphone is capable of taking pictures suitable for the needs of most people. For higher quality images and the ability to use long lenses for closer wildlife pictures, a DSLR camera is well worthwhile, though heavier. Most digital cameras and phones have good video options, but you may want to consider a GoPro for a lightweight, waterproof option. Always practice ahead of time with new equipment and bring your manual with you. You may want to consider renting camera equipment for your trip from places such as <a href=\"https:\/\/www.lensrentals.com\/\">lensrentals.com<\/a>. This is an especially good idea for renting large zoom lenses that you may need for just one trip. Adding their extra insurance fee to cover expensive equipment is recommended. <br><strong><br>Camera Accessories<\/strong><br>We recommend bringing at least two large capacity memory cards or a small digital storage unit (or tablet) to back up your photos, freeing space on your memory cards. Don't forget to bring a battery charger and a backup battery so one is always charged and ready to use. For trips where you may be away from power sources for multiple days, consider looking into a solar-powered battery charger or buying additional backup batteries, and check that you have the appropriate adapter for the electrical outlets in your destination.<br><strong><br>Sharing Your Images<\/strong><br>We would love for you to share photos from your trip, and with your permission, may even use your photos in our marketing materials or on our photo blog. We request that you send us a small sample of your best images. Please email your photos to wtphotoblog@gmail.com or tag us @WildernessTravel on social media.<br><strong><br>Photography Etiquette<\/strong><br>When taking pictures of local people, be aware of cultural considerations. Approaching people with a warm smile and using polite gestures or simple phrases to ask permission to photograph them usually works well. It is always recommended to engage people in conversation before asking to photograph them, but if people do not wish to have their photo taken, please honor their requests. We urge travelers to avoid giving money in exchange for photo opportunities, which makes it harder for future travelers to have a meaningful personal interaction with local people. Please always heed your Trip Leader's guidelines for what is appropriate. ","System_Gear_Store":"To help you prepare for your next WT adventure, we've put together a great collection of top brands including Patagonia, Outdoor Research, Eagle Creek, and more at our WT Gear Store (<a href=\"https:\/\/wildernesstravel.newheadings.com\/\">wildernesstravel.newheadings.com<\/a>).","System_Questions?":"<p>Our Area Specialists are your single point of contact and would be happy to answer any questions about your trip!<br>800.368.2794 | 510.558.2488<\/p>","System_Pricing_Detail-Small_Group_Adventure":" <br><br>To offer the lowest possible cost, our trips are priced according to the number of participants on the trip. All costs are per person, based on double occupancy. If you wish to have a single room, you must pay the single supplement fee. Please note that Wilderness Travel staff, or guests of Wilderness Travel such as travel writers, photographers, or leaders-in-training, are not included in the tier pricing count.","System_Travel_Insurance":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-01-27T07:58:05 --><p>We highly recommend you purchase travel insurance. You can take advantage of a comprehensive Travel Protection Plan designed for Wilderness Travel by Travelex, or purchase other insurance on your own. See our website for details: <a href=\"http:\/\/wildernesstravel.829dev.com\/insurance\">www.wildernesstravel.com\/insurance<\/a><\/p>","System_Make_it_Your_Trip":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:44:18 --><p>The prices above are for the ready-to-book adventure outlined in this Detailed Itinerary, a popular option that has been handcrafted by our Area Specialists to include the best of every destination. While many travelers choose to book this tour as is, our Area Specialists are also happy to work with you to customize this Private Journey to suit your specific interests and style of travel. We can arrange for longer or shorter stays, offer hotel upgrades (see below for sample costs), or add an extension to additional places of interest. We can even add special activities or customize excursions depending on your interests. We invite you to contact us to discuss your options!<\/p>","System_Signing_up_for_a_Trip":"<!-- Generated by XStandard version 3.0.0.0 on 2023-03-29T11:44:42 --><p>Early reservations are recommended since accommodations often sell out far in advance. Please call 1-800-368-2794 and ask for our [Africa Manager] or email us at [africa@ wildernesstravel.com] with any questions that you may have about this trip. To reserve your Private Journey, we will need to know your preferred dates of travel. We will then check availability and send you a proposed itinerary with exact pricing for your adventure. We can typically hold a provisional booking for one week. At that time, we must collect your initial deposit or accommodations will be released. We accept Visa, Mastercard, or American Express card. Upon receipt of your deposit, we will send you a Welcome Packet that includes a letter of confirmation, Detailed Itinerary, Trip Application, Medical Form, and Pre-Departure Information Booklet with information to help you prepare for your adventure. Please see our Cancellations and Transfer Fee Schedule for specific payment information.<\/p>","System_Trip_Leaders":"<p>Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please visit <a href=\"https:\/\/wildernesstravel.829dev.com\/leaders\/\">wildernesstravel.com\/leaders<\/a>.<\/p>"},"terms":{"PaymentSchedule":"<p>At time of reservation: $600<br>90 days prior to departure: Balance<\/p>","CancelSchedule":"<p>Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge!<br>61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost<br>46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost<br>45 days or less: 100% of trip cost<br><\/p>"}}