The Azores, Portugal Private Tours

The following day, embark on a moderate hike towards Pico de Carvao with your expert guide. Pico de Carvao is a natural landmark boasting scenic views of Sao Miguel’s rolling hills, lush vegetation and stunning coastline. Along this trail, you will discover stunning lakes, the Muro das Nove Janelas ancient aqueduct, and Sete Cidades, a massive volcanic crater. You will also stop at the Vista do Rei viewpoint where you will find a magnificent landscape of the Azul and Verde Lakes. After a picnic lunch, continue to the west coast of the island where you will visit the village of Mosteiros, nearby natural pools, black sand beaches and Ferraria, a unique thermal pool. Return to your hotel to spend some time at leisure before enjoying a gourmet meal at a restaurant in town.

The next day, join your personal guide for a trek around the foothills of Lagoa das Furnas, a beautiful lake surrounded by forests, hot springs and fumaroles. Along the way, stop in the village of Furnas to try cozido das Furnas, a local speciality of meats and vegetables cooked in a cauldron which is lowered into volcanic vents in the ground. Later, visit the Terra Nostra Botanical Garden, which features an impressive diversity of plants and exotic trees. Spend the rest of the afternoon at your hotel before a delicious recommended dinner.

No luxury tour to the Azores would be complete without a private whale and dolphin watching tour as the area is known for boasting over 24 species of resident and migratory cetaceans. As you head out on your private boating excursion, you will learn about the biology and behavior of the different species you see and will have the opportunity to listen to their vocalizations using an underwater microphone. Return to your luxury hotel, stopping at Vigia da Queimada, a whale lookout point, on the way back. Spend the rest of the day relaxing at leisure.

End your private tour of the Azores with a full day of sightseeing and exploration of Pico Island with your personal guide. Highlights include the charming village of Criação Velha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique vineyards that are enclosed and protected by stone walls built from volcanic rocks; the Whaling Museum in Lajes where you will learn more about the significance of the industry to the Azores; a private trek which boasts incredible views of the historic vineyards, orchards and breathtaking landscapes; and the Azores Wine Company where you will enjoy a private wine and cheese tasting, as well as a delicious lunch. Then, return to your hotel to relax at leisure for the rest of the afternoon.

On the final morning of your private Portugal tour, take a private transfer to the airport where you will begin your journey home.