Best Travel Guide The Azores | ArrivalGuides.com

The AzoresGuide was updated: 2026-04-15

Blue lakes bordered by flowers, dazzling views of the sea from high in the hills, and lush green landscapes of ancient volcanic craters – the nine islands of the Azores, situated in the middle of the Atlantic, just 4 hours from Boston and 2 hours from Lisbon by plane, are a paradise for nature-lovers. Choose a holiday on these beautiful islands and you’ll rediscover the peace of the countryside in a stunning and unspoilt natural environment.

Do & See

Natural wonders greet you at every corner in these otherworldly islands. The nine islands of the Azores are in fact some of the world's highest mountains, and most interesting volcanic formations. Lakes and rivers, forest reserves, natural and recreational parks, protected landscape areas, endemic flora and fauna, and rare ecosystems combine to provide endless possibilities for those who venture off the beaten path.

Capelinhos Volcano

This otherworldly landscape should be on every visitor's itinerary. In 1957, the Capelinhos volcano erupted, and did not stop for a year and a month. Inhabitants were forced to abandon the island, which now lies deserted. Climb the volcano with the help of the official guide service to experience this unique and startling natural wonder.

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Rocha Dos Bordões

Shaped by nature over thousands of years, Rocha Dos Bordoes is a geological formation consisting of basalt columns and several rivers which lead to a tranquil waterfall. Near its base are the so-called Aguas Quentes, cauldrons of boiling sulphurous water.

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Scuba Diving

Go scuba diving day or night, in sandy, rocky or mixed seabeds, in caves or shipwrecks. Different operators provide varying experiences for all levels, from beginner to professional. Snorkel to leisurely enjoy the abundant marine life of the archipelago’s crystal clear waters, or dive in to a stunning ocean.

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Lagoa Do Fogo

Located in the beautiful and green island of Sao Miguel, Lagoa do Fogo is the second largest lagoon on the Azores. Classified as a Natural Reserve, visitors marvel at the luscious beauty of this forest, which includes a caldeira - the walls of which reach up to 300m. Hikers should check out the "Lombadas Lagoa do Fogo" Trail to fully experience the fascinating array of flora and fauna characteristic of this geological phenomenon.

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Lagoa Das Sete Cidades

Sete Cidades Lagoon is the largest freshwater lake in the Azores, with a length of 4.2 km and a depth that reaches 33 meters. Declared one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal, it consists of two lakes - Lagoa Verde and Lagoa Azul (green lagoon and blue lagoon) - linked together and surrounded by a breathtaking scenery. Classified as Protected Landscape by Natura 2000, this natural wonder is surrounded by an extensive green area and beautiful rocky cliffs covered with trees and flowers.

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Algar Do Carvão

The island of Terceira features one of the most extraordinary volcanic formations - the Algar do Carvão, located within the Caldeira Guilherme Moniz and is accessible to visitors. Go inside this volcanic cone through an artificial tunnel and a staircase, and follow the route of the lava tube. The highlights are the underground lake and the volcanic-glass stalactites and stalagmites.

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Population:	245,374
Currency:	Euro, €1 = 100 cents
Emergency Numbers:	112
Newspapers:	Açoriano Oriental Diário Insular Expresso das Nove Ilha Maior A União
Opening Hours:	Monday to Friday 9am–12:30pm and 2pm–6:30pm. Saturday 9am–1pm. Most of the larger stores and retail outlets in the main tourist areas may remain open through lunch hours. Most shops are closed on Sundays. Shopping centres: Sunday to Thursday 10am–10pm. Friday and Saturday 10am–11pm. Banks: Monday to Friday 8:30am–3pm.
Tourist Information:	Information number: 1820