The Azores archipelago is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventures. São Miguel, the largest of the nine islands, is a prime example of this enchanting region. A full-day hike and snorkeling tour promises to immerse visitors in the island’s stunning landscapes and vibrant marine life, providing an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. With a guided exploration of the Fenais Da Ajuda trails and a refreshing snorkeling session in Capelas, this tour promises to unveil the true essence of São Miguel’s remarkable charm.
Key Points
- A full-day experience combining a guided hike in Fenais Da Ajuda and snorkeling in Capelas, São Miguel, Azores.
- Tour duration of 7 hours with a maximum of 5 participants, including pickup, drop-off, and a lunch break.
- Guided hike in Fenais Da Ajuda lasting 3 hours, with an optional 2-hour hike in Porto Formoso.
- 45-minute snorkeling activity in Capelas, led by multilingual tour guides.
- Delicious lunch, transportation, snorkeling gear, and other inclusions for a personalized and immersive experience.
Tour Overview
The tour offers a full-day experience blending a guided hike and snorkeling in the stunning landscapes of São Miguel, Azores.
Lasting 7 hours, the small-group tour is limited to 5 participants. Pickup and drop-off at your accommodation are included, along with a lunch break at a local restaurant.
The guided hike through Fenais Da Ajuda takes 3 hours, and an optional 2-hour hike in Porto Formoso is available. The snorkeling in Capelas lasts 45 minutes.
The guided hike through Fenais Da Ajuda takes 3 hours, and an optional 2-hour hike in Porto Formoso is available. The snorkeling in Capelas lasts 45 minutes.
Multilingual tour guides are on hand, and free cancellation is permitted up to 24 hours in advance.
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Itinerary Highlights
Pickup from the hotel lobby is scheduled 5 minutes prior to the tour’s start time.
The guided hiking tour takes place in Fenais Da Ajuda, lasting 3 hours.
After the hike, there’s a 75-minute lunch break at a local restaurant. Guests can also opt for an additional 2-hour hike in Porto Formoso.
The tour concludes with 45 minutes of snorkeling in Capelas.
Throughout the day, you will admire diverse landscapes, including waterfalls, forests, and coastal views.
The tour is led by a certified guide who can communicate in Portuguese, English, Italian, and Spanish.
Included in the Tour
The tour package includes a variety of amenities to enhance the overall experience.
Participants will enjoy a delicious lunch featuring starters, a main course, drinks, dessert, and coffee at a local restaurant.
Pickup and drop-off services are provided at the accommodation, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day.
The tour utilizes a comfortable, air-conditioned SUV for transportation.
A certified guide from the Regional Government of the Azores leads the activities, sharing their expertise.
Snorkeling gear is also included, allowing travelers to enjoy the underwater wonders.
Plus, parking fees and taxes are covered in the tour price.
What to Bring
Comfortable shoes and clothes are essential for the full-day hike and snorkeling adventure.
Bring a swimsuit and towel to prepare for the snorkeling portion.
Due to the unpredictable weather in the Azores, it’s wise to pack rain gear like a light jacket or poncho.
Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses can also be helpful for protection against the sun during the outdoor activities.
Plus, consider bringing a small backpack or daypack to carry your personal items throughout the day.
Staying prepared with the right gear will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience on this immersive tour.
More Great Tours NearbyPersonalized Experience
One of the standout features of this full-day tour is the personalized experience it offers.
The small-group size, capped at just 5 participants, ensures an intimate and tailored adventure. The certified guide, fluent in multiple languages, can curate the experience to suit each group’s interests and pace.
The small group size and multilingual guide allow for a personalized and adaptable adventure tailored to each group’s unique interests and pace.
Whether it’s exploring the hidden trails and waterfalls at your own rhythm or adjusting the schedule to accommodate special requests, the guide strives to create a memorable and immersive day for every traveler.
This level of personalization sets this Azorean adventure apart from more generic group tours.
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Pickup and Transportation
Your hotel or accommodation serves as the starting point for this immersive Azores adventure.
The tour begins with a prompt pickup in a premium, air-conditioned SUV. The driver and guide ensure you’re comfortably transported to the first hiking destination, Fenais Da Ajuda.
Along the way, you’ll appreciate the gorgeous scenery as the vehicle navigates the island’s winding roads.
After the hike, you’ll enjoy a leisurely lunch break at a local restaurant before continuing to the next activity, an optional visit to Porto Formoso.
The tour concludes with a snorkeling experience in Capelas, where you’ll be provided the necessary gear.
Guided Hiking Tour
After the comfortable pickup, the tour group makes its way to the first hiking destination – Fenais Da Ajuda.
Here, an experienced local guide leads the 3-hour hike through the lush, verdant landscapes. Guests can expect to admire stunning waterfalls, serene forests, and breathtaking coastal vistas along the trail.
The guide provides insightful commentary about the region’s history, flora, and fauna, ensuring an immersive and educational experience. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate attire are recommended for the moderate hike.
The guide offers insightful commentary on the region’s history, flora, and fauna, ensuring an immersive and educational hiking experience.
The guide’s multilingual capabilities allow for seamless communication, catering to the diverse backgrounds of the small group.
Snorkeling Adventure
Following the hiking portion of the tour, the group makes their way to Capelas for the snorkeling adventure. The clear, calm waters of Capelas provide an ideal setting for this activity.
The tour includes all necessary snorkeling gear, ensuring a comfortable and safe experience. Participants can expect to:
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Discover the vibrant marine life beneath the surface, including schools of colorful fish and curious sea creatures.
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Admire the dramatic underwater volcanic landscapes, formed by the Azores’ unique geological history.
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Enjoy the serene tranquility of floating effortlessly in the warm Atlantic waters.
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Emerge from the water with a newfound appreciation for the Azores’ diverse ecosystems.
Since You Asked
How Fit Do I Need to Be for the Hiking Portion?
The hiking portion requires a moderate fitness level. It’s a 3-hour guided hike, so participants should be able to walk for extended periods and handle some inclines. However, the pace is manageable for most able-bodied individuals.
Can I Bring My Own Snorkeling Gear Instead?
You can bring your own snorkeling gear if you prefer. The tour provides snorkeling equipment, but you’re welcome to use your own gear if it’s more comfortable for you.
Is There an Option to Do Just the Hiking or Snorkeling?
Yes, there’s an option to just do the hiking or snorkeling. The tour allows participants to choose either the full day experience or just the hiking or snorkeling activity, depending on their preferences.
What Is the Cancellation Policy if the Weather Is Poor?
The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund if the weather is poor and makes the activities unsafe or unenjoyable.
Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Small Group?
Yes, you can request a private tour instead of a small group. The tour provider offers customized private tours for an additional fee, allowing for a more personalized experience tailored to your preferences.
The Sum Up
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of São Miguel in the Azores with this full-day adventure. Hike through Fenais Da Ajuda, savor a local lunch, and dive into the waters of Capelas for a snorkeling experience. With personalized attention and all necessary gear provided, this tour offers an intimate and immersive way to discover the natural wonders of this stunning island destination.
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