Tourism in the Azores: ocean, whales, volcanoes, crater lakes

In the middle of the Atlantic Ocean lies a true paradise for travelers — the Azores. A place where volcanoes meet sapphire and emerald crater lakes, the ocean teems with graceful, melodic whales, and nature stuns with its vibrant, alive, and yet soothing beauty. Lush greenery and colorful hydrangeas work their magic here… You can climb the highest peak in Portugal — Mount Pico (2,351 m), swim in natural hot springs hidden in the forest, and watch giant whales majestically dive into the ocean depths.

With the KULUAR Club, every tour to the Azores becomes a true discovery! You'll walk through breathtaking landscapes, taste local cuisine cooked right on a geothermal vent beneath the earth, and even visit the only place in Europe where coffee is grown! The memories you make here will stay in your heart forever. Ready to go where nature speaks out loud? Then let’s go!

Travel Tips for the Azores: What to See and Visit on the Islands

So, what should you see in the Azores? Which islands should you visit, and which one is the most beautiful?

Let’s put it this way: every island in the Azorean archipelago has its own unique charm, but São Miguel and Faial are often considered the most picturesque.

São Miguel is the “green island,” known for its phenomenal crater lakes Sete Cidades and Lagoa do Fogo, the thermal springs of Furnas, and its stunning ocean views.

Faial is famous for its blooming hydrangeas, the iconic surviving lighthouse at Capelinhos, and the breathtaking view of the majestic Pico volcano.

If you're looking for the most dramatic landscapes, Pico Island, home to Portugal’s highest peak (2,351 m), is the clear favorite. And for the best hike in the Azores, we invite you to the central part of São Jorge Island! The Fajã do Norte Natural Park welcomes you with its evergreen, relict forest, home to rare plants found only in the Azores. Crystal-clear waterfalls grace the area, and ancient settlements still preserving the traditions of the island’s first inhabitants can be found on the lava deltas.

So, let’s begin with the highlights of São Miguel Island.

• The Sete Cidades area (Lagoa das Sete Cidades) lies in the western part of São Miguel Island. Legend has it that this mysterious place — whose name means “Seven Cities” — is tied to an ancient tale about hidden settlements. It is believed that these cities were concealed from the outside world, serving as a safe haven for their inhabitants and remaining invisible to outsiders. The surrounding landscape is lush and green, with rolling hills and a small picturesque village nestled right inside the crater.
• The island’s highest peak is Pico da Vara (1,103 m). Here, you’ll encounter a completely different landscape — a mysterious and fragrant coniferous forest where unique spruce trees grow, endemic to the Azores and found nowhere else on Earth. These trees are especially striking due to their deep red trunks, giving the forest an almost magical, living presence.

• Ponta da Ferraria — where you can swim in a unique “hot ocean.” This coastal lagoon blends a hot spring with the cool Atlantic, creating an incredible contrast of temperatures. It’s an unforgettable experience that absolutely deserves a spot on your Azores adventure!
• Lagoa do Fogo — the lake in the crater of an extinct volcano (Reserva Natural da Lagoa do Fogo). Lagoa do Fogo is the highest and largest lake on the island, stunning in its pristine beauty. Thanks to its unique biodiversity, the area is a protected nature reserve, home to numerous bird species, including migratory birds crossing the Atlantic. The volcano’s crater, part of the Água de Pau mountain range, spans several kilometers in diameter. Nestled inside it, at 575 meters above sea level, lies this picturesque “Lake of Fire.”
• The Furnas Valley (Área de Paisagem Protegida das Furnas) — famous for its geysers and 28 hot springs. Here, you’ll find a true natural spa complex in the heart of a volcanic paradise! Feel the Earth’s power beside steaming geysers, admire the magical “Salto do Rosal” (English Leap) waterfall in the enchanting Grená Park, and unwind in the thermal baths of Poça da Dona Beija, where iron-rich waters glow orange and stay at a soothing 40°C. And of course, don’t miss the legendary Terra Nostra Park, with its volcanic hot spring pool set among lush exotic gardens.

• Miradouro da Boca do Inferno is one of those places where reality feels painted. From this viewpoint, a breathtaking panorama unfolds — a fairytale landscape of the twin lakes, Lagoa Azul and Lagoa Verde, nestled within the crater of an ancient volcano. The deep blue and soft green waters shift in hue with the sunlight, creating the impression of a living canvas. Along the horizon, emerald hills roll like ocean waves, and below lie picturesque valleys wrapped in legends of ancient cities once hidden from the world. This place is pure magic — a masterpiece of nature!

What are the must-see places on Pico Island, and what can you do there?

• Visit the highest point in the Azores — Mount Pico. Rising 2,351 meters above sea level, it’s not only the tallest peak in the archipelago, but a true giant of the region. Its majestic silhouette commands attention from anywhere on the island. Pico also holds a unique geological distinction: it has the largest underwater base of any volcano, earning it a place in the Guinness World Records.
• Discover seven incredible crater lakes. This area feels like a fairytale land — rolling green meadows intertwined with surreal landscapes you won’t find anywhere else. Follow the “Donkey's Trail”, which winds through a national park of evergreen forests and leads to the Mistério viewpoint, a massive lava delta. Along the way, you’ll see vineyards growing in a completely unique way — protected by labyrinths of basalt stone walls. And don’t miss the chance to relax in the natural pool of São Roque.
• Experience whale and dolphin watching in their natural habitat in the town of Lajes do Pico. Hop on a boat and head straight into the ocean! You’ll not only hear the fascinating sounds these incredible creatures use to communicate, but also learn more about their behavior and social structures. With whale populations still under threat globally, this is a rare and meaningful opportunity — don’t miss it!

The town of Horta on Faial Island is a true magnet for travelers, yachtsmen, and all who seek the real romance of the ocean. It’s not just a port stop — it’s a place where history and adventure intertwine in a vivid kaleidoscope of impressions. The harbor here is covered in paintings left by sailors from around the world, who paint their emblems on the walls (for good luck before heading into the open ocean). And the legendary Peter Café Sport — an iconic bar with over a century of history — will not only treat you to signature dishes, but also offer the chance to hear incredible stories from travelers from all over the globe.

Caldeira is a true natural wonder, captivating with its power and beauty! This “young” volcano, only about 1,000 years old, boasts one of the largest craters in the Azores — with a diameter reaching 1.5 kilometers! A hike along the narrow rim of the caldera at an elevation of 1,050 meters will be a real adventure, offering breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views. From here, you can take in landscapes that include not only the crater itself, but also the neighboring islands of Pico and São Jorge. Majestic mountains, the vast Atlantic Ocean, and lush green vegetation make this one of the most unforgettable routes in the Azores!

Popular Highlights and Wild Locations of the Azores

Furnas Lagoon (Lagoa das Furnas). Here, you can see bubbling hot springs and try the famous local culinary delicacy — the traditional volcanic dish cozido — tender meat with vegetables slow-cooked in the hot earth for several hours, as well as eggs cooked in natural geysers.

The Cape of Faial Island is a must-see! Here, on a vast area of over 2.5 square kilometers, you can feel the power of nature shaped by a massive volcanic eruption in 1958. One of the most significant landmarks in this area is the 70-meter-high lighthouse, which has become a symbol of resilience — standing strong against the destructive force of the eruption. Right beneath the lighthouse, underground, there is a volcanology museum that houses unique documentary evidence of this natural catastrophe. Here, you can dive deeper into the history of this astounding event, experience the scale of volcanic power, and learn more about the nature of the Azorean islands.

The Church on São Miguel Island, built in the neo-Gothic style in 1882, is definitely worth visiting. It was constructed for the sick wife of a wealthy Azorean landowner and amateur botanist, José do Canto. Today, it is one of the most remarkable sites on the archipelago. Situated on the edge of a lake, the church looks stunning. Services are no longer held here, and the atmosphere of this ancient, forgotten, yet timeless structure prevails.

Active Holidays in the Azores: Kuluar Club Tours

Join Kuluar for a unique journey to the islands of Pico, São Jorge, and Faial — places that feel like Earth in its pristine form... You’ll experience 7 hiking trails, including a route around a massive caldera (diameter — 1500 m, depth — 400 m) and a walk through basalt labyrinths of vineyards, which are listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. If the weather is favorable, your main adventure will be climbing Mount Pico (6098 m from the ocean floor) — the highest peak in Portugal. You’ll also greet the dawn at the legendary Capelinhos Lighthouse and taste exquisite volcanic wine.

This trip is designed for comfort and unforgettable experiences! No unnecessary difficulties — a private transfer will take you to the start of each trail, and along the way, you’ll enjoy the stunning island views. After an active day, you’ll relax in cozy hotels, recharging for new discoveries. You’ll get to know the lives of the islanders, their history of survival in isolation, and modern initiatives to preserve the unique nature of the archipelago.

All hikes are done without backpacks! The tour is suitable for active people who enjoy spending lots of time outdoors. The difficulty of the trails is moderate, so no previous hiking experience is required.

What's next? The living, mighty, tireless ocean, whose breath you’ll feel throughout the entire journey... And also, the emerald peaks of underwater mountains, cascades of colorful flowers, charming waterfalls that take your breath away, gentle salty lagoons, lakes in volcanic craters shimmering in various shades, hot springs, and rivers with orange iron-rich water! All this awaits you on a hike through the Azores — the blooming heart of the Atlantic. This tour is definitely worth choosing if you want to embark on a series of scenic and easy hikes with the Kuluar club. Believe me, it’s like a part of the Macaronesian series. Just read the reviews to confirm this.

This trip is the perfect choice for those who seek a balance between active outdoor adventures amidst breathtaking nature and deep relaxation after fulfilling hikes. The program includes summit ascents, trails through pine forests, descents to volcanic lakes, as well as picnics, swimming in the ocean, waterfalls, and hot springs in the open air. Among the local delights — local wine, local tea (from the only plantation in Europe), and volcanic barbecue cooked right in the geysers!

Throughout the journey, you’ll stay in comfortable campgrounds with showers and Wi-Fi, where accommodation is available in tents, trailers, or wooden cabins (depending on the season). A vehicle will be at your disposal, allowing for radial day trips around São Miguel Island, uncovering even more natural wonders.

And if you want more — combine two unique Atlantic islands by joining a trip to Madeira and the Azores. The Island of Eternal Spring and São Miguel Island, where geysers erupt freely and lakes hide in volcanic craters. You’ll explore mountain trails, canyons, and enjoy rich hiking experiences. This is not just a tour — it will be a true adventure!

This route was developed by an experienced traveler and Portugal expert who knows all the secrets of these places.
She has created a well-balanced trek that will reveal stunning landscapes — not always easy, but always unforgettable! You’ll stay in different towns across the archipelago, choosing comfortable accommodations and immersing yourself in local culture during atmospheric gastro-evenings.

Experience what a real hike feels like — comfortable, thoughtfully planned, and full of vivid emotions.

Because if you're heading to the mountains — go with Kuluar!