The best hikes in the Azores take you through emerald valleys, volcanic craters, black-sand beaches, and misty mountain peaks. Whether you’re a casual walker or an experienced trekker, the Azorean archipelago offers an unforgettable outdoor adventure.
Begin planning early and explore these carefully chosen guided hiking experiences and scenic stays to make the most of your trip.
This guide covers the most beautiful and varied trails across São Miguel, Pico, Faial, São Jorge, Terceira, and Flores—highlighting distances, difficulty levels, and insider tips to help you create the perfect hiking itinerary.
1. Why the Azores Are a Hiker’s Paradise
Shaped by volcanoes and softened by centuries of ocean winds, the Azores are a natural playground for walkers. Here’s why hikers keep coming back:
- Year-round greenery: Thanks to the Gulf Stream, the islands remain mild and lush in every season.
- Variety in one trip: Each island has its own hiking personality—coastal paths, dense forests, high volcanic cones.
- Well-marked official network: Portugal maintains dozens of signed and graded trails, from short family strolls to multi-day treks.
2. Best Hikes by Island
Below you’ll find some of the top-rated hikes across the main islands. Distances and times are approximate and can vary with weather.
São Miguel
- Sete Cidades Rim Trail
- Distance: 11 km round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Panoramic views over twin blue and green lakes, photogenic hydrangeas in spring.
- Tip: Start early for calm weather and fewer crowds.
- Lagoa do Fogo Loop
- Distance: 12 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Sweeping vistas over a pristine crater lake, rich birdlife.
- Tip: Can be misty; wait for a clear forecast.
- Salto do Prego Waterfall Trail
- Distance: 4 km
- Difficulty: Easy–moderate
- Highlights: Forest walk ending at a waterfall where you can dip your feet.
Pico
- Pico Mountain Summit Trek
- Distance: 7.5 km (up and down)
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Highlights: Climb Portugal’s highest point (2,351 m) for sunrise or sunset views.
- Tip: Go with a guide if you’re not used to steep volcanic terrain.
- Caminho dos Burros
- Distance: 9 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Lava fields and ocean panoramas.
- Tip: Ideal for families wanting a shorter adventure.
Faial
- Caldeira do Faial Crater Walk
- Distance: 8 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Walk the rim of a vast, green volcanic caldera.
- Tip: Best done clockwise for steadier footing.
- Capelinhos Volcano & Lighthouse Loop
- Distance: 5 km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: Lunar-like landscapes where a 1957 eruption created new land.
São Jorge
- Serra do Topo to Fajã dos Cubres
- Distance: 10 km
- Difficulty: Moderate–challenging
- Highlights: Waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and tranquil fajãs (coastal plains).
- Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo
- Distance: 8 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Secluded lagoon ideal for birdwatching and contemplation.
Terceira
- Misterios Negros Trail
- Distance: 5 km
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlights: Dense forest of endemic vegetation and lava formations.
- Serra do Cume Viewpoint Walk
- Distance: 3 km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: Iconic patchwork fields and wide Atlantic views.
Flores
- Poço da Ribeira do Ferreiro
- Distance: 3 km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: Multiple waterfalls cascading into emerald pools.
- Rocha dos Bordões Circuit
- Distance: 6 km
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: Towering basalt columns and sweeping Atlantic panoramas.
3. Choosing the Right Trail
The Azores’ official trail system classifies routes as easy, moderate, or challenging.
- Easy: Gentle terrain, suitable for families and beginners.
- Moderate: Steadier climbs, longer distances.
- Challenging: Steep ascents, technical footing—ideal for seasoned hikers.
Always check local weather, which can change dramatically in a single day.
4. Seasonal and Weather Tips
- Spring (April–June): Fresh blooms and fewer tourists—excellent for long hikes.
- Summer (July–August): Long daylight hours and warmer evenings. Bring sun protection.
- Autumn (September–October): Great for photography with rich colors and mild temperatures.
- Winter (November–March): Trails are quieter, but pack rain gear and waterproof boots.
For any season, layer your clothing and carry a lightweight waterproof jacket. A sturdy pair of hiking shoes is essential.
5. Planning Your Hiking Trip
Once you know which trails excite you, it’s time to plan logistics:
- Base towns: Ponta Delgada (São Miguel), Madalena (Pico), Velas (São Jorge), and Horta (Faial) give quick access to multiple trails.
- Transport: Car rental is the most flexible choice. For multi-island hikes, combine ferries and local flights.
- Guided tours: Perfect if you want expert trail knowledge, transport arrangements, or night climbs (like Pico at sunrise).
Before finalizing your itinerary, compare recommended accommodations and multi-day hiking packages to secure the best base near your favorite trails.
6. Gear and Safety Essentials
- Daypack (20–30 L) for water, snacks, and layers.
- Footwear with good grip for wet or uneven volcanic rock.
- Navigation: Official trail markers are reliable, but a GPS app is wise.
- Water & snacks: Bring enough for the full hike; natural springs are rare on some routes.
- Sun and rain protection year-round.
Always leave your route with someone or inform your accommodation if you plan longer or remote trails.
7. Sample Hiking Itineraries
3–4 Day Active Getaway (São Miguel Focus)
- Day 1: Sete Cidades Rim Trail
- Day 2: Lagoa do Fogo Loop
- Day 3: Salto do Prego and local hot springs
7–10 Day Multi-Island Adventure
- Days 1–3: São Miguel highlights
- Days 4–5: Fly to Pico, climb Pico Mountain, explore Caminho dos Burros
- Days 6–7: Ferry to Faial for Caldeira rim hike and Capelinhos
- Optional Days 8–10: São Jorge fajãs or Flores waterfalls
These itineraries can be reversed or extended depending on your pace and weather.
8. Hidden Gems for Dedicated Hikers
- Fajã da Caldeira de Santo Cristo at dawn, when mist hangs over the lagoon.
- Flores’ Rocha dos Bordões after rain, when waterfalls thunder dramatically.
- Pico’s lesser-known lava tube trails where lava once met the sea.
9. Conclusion
The Azores reward hikers with breathtaking scenery and unforgettable moments—from crater lakes glowing at sunrise to isolated coastal plateaus echoing with seabird calls. With routes for every ability, this guide to the best hikes in the Azores will help you design a trip that balances adventure and relaxation.
Pack well, plan ahead, and embrace the islands’ natural rhythms. Whether you choose gentle family trails or the challenging climb up Pico Mountain, the Azores will stay in your heart long after you leave.
Keep Exploring the Azores
Dive into more detailed guides to make the most of your trip:
- Azores Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know for an Atlantic Escape
- Best Hikes in the Azores: Trails for Every Level
- Whale & Dolphin Watching in the Azores: Complete Guide
- Island-Hopping in the Azores: Ferry vs Plane Guide
- Where to Stay in the Azores: Best Towns, Hotels & Unique Stays
- Best Time to Visit the Azores: Weather, Seasons & Travel Tips
- Best Azores Tours & Excursions: Top Experiences for Every Traveler
