The azores
Discover "The Hawaii of Europe" and experience nature
in its purest state
On the furthest outpost of Europe, lies a cluster of islands known around the world for their rugged, untouched beauty. The Azores are an archipelago of nine volcanic islands characterised by dramatic landscapes, fishing villages, and green pastures. Grouped into western, central, and eastern cluster groups, each island has its own geomorphological characteristics making the Azores a geologist's dream and a truly unique expedition destination.
Whilst we would love to show our teams everything these islands have to offer, we've selected some of the best activities as a way for students to dip their toes in what the Azores have to offer. With stunning views at every turn, ancient history to discover, and a unique relationship with nature to learn from, an expedition in the Azores will really give students a taste for the outdoors!
What are the highlights?
- Hike to the summit of Mount Pico, the highest peak in Portugal at 2351m, and taking in the breath-taking panoramic views. If it's a clear day, you'll even see beyond Pico's coastline!
- Join a boat tour to spot the Azores well known marine residents and seasonal visitors, such as common dolphins and humpback whales
- Head underground into the depths of Pico island itself and discover lava tubes created during past volcanic eruptions
- Explore the cobblestone streets of the capital, Ponta Delgada, on the main island of São Miguel
- Learn about the islands' history of commercial whaling and why the mindset of the locals has changed
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Day 1 - Arrival on São Miguel
Fly to São Miguel and transfer to Ponta Delgada, the capital of the Azores Archipelago. Spend the evening exploring this small city's cobblestone streets and admire its centuries-old architecture. Overnight in a local hostel.
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Day 2 - Pico and the vineyards
Transfer to the airport and take a short flight to the nearby island of Pico where your expedition will really begin. Travel to the coastal town of Madalena and set up camp. In the afternoon, prepare for your trek by taking a walk through the vineyards lining the coast south of Madalena. This is a great way to learn how life works alongside nature on the islands.
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Day 3 - Mount Pico
Travel inland from Madalena to Pico Mountain Hut and check in with the rangers to begin your trek. Mount Pico is a stratovolcano and the highest mountain in Portugal sitting proudly above the Atlantic at 2351m. The mountain is protected as a natural reserve and has a unique geographical, biological, and heritage richness. On the route to the summit, the team will pass many of these features, including the wishing circle where it is tradition to throw in a stone whilst making three wishes, clap, and say "obrigado Pico". On a clear day, teams will be rewarded with stunning views of the rest of the island, as well as the nearby islands of Faial and São Jorge. After taking in the view from thetop, descend to the mountain hut and return to the campsite in Madalena.
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Day 4 - Whales and lava tubes
In the morning, board a boat in Madalena port and begin your whale watching tour. The Azores are globally renowned for being a sanctuary for marine mammals all year round - with resident populations of common and bottlenose dolphins and a stop on the migratory route of many whale species. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled as moments on these tours can occur only once in a lifetime! Visit Gruta das Torres to explore some of island's lava tubes and return to Madalena.
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Day 5 - Return to São Miguel
After breakfast, pack up your camp in Madalena and prepare of your flight back to Ponta Delgada. There may be time before your flight to visit one of Pico's whale museums to learn more about the history of whaling before these magnificent animals became an important draw for tourism.
On arrival in Ponta Delgada, transfer to a local hostel and spend your last night in The Azores
celebrating everything you have achieved.
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Day 6 - Say goodbye to the Azores and return home
After breakfast, say goodbye to the islands and return to the UK.
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