Beautiful Azores
Portugal | May 5 - May 18, 2026

S
Susan C.
Manhattan, NY | Reviewed on May 21, 2026

Except for unsettled weather which necessitated rescheduling or canceling of planned activities the trip exceeded my expectations.

The islands of the Azores are stunningly beautiful- each in its own way as they are physically different from each other and the Azoreans are gracious, welcoming and friendly.
The local guides were knowledgeable, pleasant and eager to share their knowledge of their islands. This was especially true of our guides Paulo Camara and Felipe Ferreira both of whom had to improvise due to weather conditions which necessitated changes to the programs. (It should be noted that at present you are not able to walk through the lava tube struts das Torres.)

Paulo who was our guide on our first full day on Sao Miguel gave us tips on how to plan our subsequent days on Sao Miguel around the unsettled weather, suggested restaurants and alerted us to activities around the local feast which was taking place in Sao Miguel during our stay.
Felipe Ferreira of Terralta(Pico) obviously cares about the Azores and their future especially Pico and Faial. He has an easy but professional demeanor and managed to impart an amazing amount of information during our tour.

Many thanks to Hector, ESPÍRITU and kim-kim for an amazing experience.

Hotel Reviews
Marina Atlantico
Ponta Delgada

A modern hotel within walking distance of the Ponta Delgada city square. Breakfast is served in its lovely restaurant which overlooks the port.

Authenticity & Character
No improvement is necessary. It is a modern hotel like other modern hotels.
Location
It was within easy walking distance of the major attractions, restaurants and main square of Ponta Delgarda.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
The entire hotel was spotless and our room and the common areas were comfortably furnished.
Terceira Mar Hotel
Angra do Heroismo

This hotel has stunning grounds and views of Monte Brazil. You can also access a sea walk from the property grounds. It is a 10-15 minute walk from the center of Angra do Heroismo.

Authenticity & Character
Lovely modern hotel but lacks “character”.
Location
Beautiful views of Monte Brasil. About a 15 minute walk from city center.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Hotel Caravelas
Madalena

Location was great- within walking distance of the ferry terminal and town square of Madalena. The hotel was clean although a little “worn”. Free parking was a plus.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Furnas Valley Excursion: Crater Lake, Hot Springs & Tea Plantation
Furnas Valley Excursion: Crater Lake, Hot Springs & Tea Plantation
São Miguel Island
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Whale & Dolphin Watching in the Azore with Marine Biologists
Whale & Dolphin Watching in the Azore with Marine Biologists
São Miguel Island

Canceled

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Historic Angra do Heroísmo: A Guided City Walk
Historic Angra do Heroísmo: A Guided City Walk
Terceira Island

Our guide Francesca gave us a great introduction to the sites and history of Angra do Heroismo. She also provided suggestions for restaurants.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Terceira Cave Experience
Terceira Cave Experience
Terceira Island

Algae do Carvao is an experience that is not to be missed and for me was the highlight of the cave experience. Greta do Natal was interesting but overshadowed by Algae do Cavo. Our guide did not take us to either Serra do Cume or Biscoitos.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Pico Island 4x4 Adventure: Lagoons, Lava Caves & Volcanic Landscapes
Pico Island 4x4 Adventure: Lagoons, Lava Caves & Volcanic Landscapes
Pico Island

Felipe was a great guide! He appreciates the specialness of the Azores and imparted an amazing amount of information.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Hector Molina
Hector
Hector Molina
Local specialist in Madrid | Replied on May 21, 2026
Hi Susan,
Thank you so much for your kind words and for sharing your feedback. I’m truly happy to hear that the experience exceeded your expectations, even with the unpredictable weather.
It’s very important to us to hear about our travelers' experiences, especially to know that you had a great experience with the guides throughout the journey. It has been a real pleasure helping you plan this trip, and I’m delighted to know that you enjoyed each of the islands in the incredible Azores.
I...
Read more

Hi Susan,
Thank you so much for your kind words and for sharing your feedback. I’m truly happy to hear that the experience exceeded your expectations, even with the unpredictable weather.
It’s very important to us to hear about our travelers' experiences, especially to know that you had a great experience with the guides throughout the journey. It has been a real pleasure helping you plan this trip, and I’m delighted to know that you enjoyed each of the islands in the incredible Azores.
I hope to have the opportunity to help you again in the future with another unforgettable journey.
Best regards,
Héctor