Azores Adventures

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Introduction
Bathed in the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, the archipelago of the Azores rise up from around the mid Atlantic ridge to form a string of volcanic isles full of natural wonders. Portuguese and Spanish galleons first used these islands as a safe haven from pirates on their journeys to and from the Americas. We will spend our time on two islands, Sao Miguel and Terceira. They offer wonderful opportunities for discovery on foot to appreciate these diverse volcanic landscapes, colourful flora and amazing geothermal areas. The Azores have a healthy population of dolphins and whales who have made the clear, blue, fish-rich waters around the Azores their home. We stay in the well-located Sao Miguel Park Hotel in Ponta Delgada and the four-star Hotel do Caracol on Terceira, both of which have indoor and outdoor pools.

Tour Information
Dolphin & whale search
For the first half of the week we base ourselves in Ponta Delgada, the charming capital of the Azores. Renowned for its dramatic volcanic scenery - we enjoy a visit to the Lagoa de Furnas (a volcano crater) and the Terra Nostra Gardens where we have the opportunity to try the local 'Cozido' - lunch cooked by the geothermal properties of the earth. Weather permitting, on one of our days here we will go in search of dolphins and whales that feed in the rich waters around these stunning islands. We will also have plenty of free time to explore our beautiful surroundings, relax on the beach or you could choose to take to the water again to search for more whales and dolphins!

Exploring caves
A short flight will take us to the island of Terceira, with a gentle terrain of forested hills, red tiled villages and fertile farmland. Reminders of its more violent volcanic past are never far away however, none more so than at the remarkable Algar do Carvao. Here we explore subterranean caves reminiscent of scenes from Lord of the Rings! The rest of our time here will be left free for further explorations of this fascinating isle and the attractive town of Angra itself. We would recommend a great walk in the north of the island to Biscoitos, meaning 'biscuits', that perfectly describes the rough lava landscape. Natural pools have formed amongst the rocks where the sea crashes in - a favourite spot for an exhilarating swim.

Accommodation and Meals
7nts hotel; 7 breakfasts included.
Transport
Boat/Bus/Taxis/On foot.
Comments
Weather permitting, there is a good chance of seeing dolphins and whales, however, mother nature as it is, there are no guarantees of sightings. Our itinerary is deliberately left flexible to take best possible advantage of favourable weather conditions for the dolphin and whale watching trip. We regret that we are unable to offer refunds for any unused services.
Group Size
Approx. 12 to 16.
Tour Staff
Explore Leader, driver(s) plus boat crew.
Minimum Age
5 years.
Swimming
Both hotels have indoor and outdoor pools.

• SAO MIGUEL Volcanic lakes, tea
  plantations and the colonial grandeur of Ponta Delgada.
• WHALE WATCHING Full day boat trip in search of whales, dolphins and a myriad of other marine and bird life.
• TERCEIRA The captivating charms of
  Angra do Heroismo, the magical caves of Algar do Carvao and the stunning volcanic landscapes.

Day 1 Fly London/Ponta Delgada (Sao Miguel).

Day 2 to 4 On Sao Miguel: Full day excursion to Furnas and Fogo Lakes and full day boat trip (inc. lunch) in search of whales and dolphins.

Day 5 Fly Terceira, free afternoon to relax.

Day 6 & 7 On Terceira - half day excursion to Algar do Carvao: free time for optional walks and lava pools.

Day 8 Fly London.