Azores
The Amazing Azores: From Volcanoes to Vineyards
Program No. 22755RJ
Venture to the extraordinary volcanos of the Azores, and explore the islands’ dramatic lakes and craters. Join experts to learn the islands’ fascinating history of wine and whaling.
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800-454-5768
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Price will update based on selection
Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.
DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
Jun 12 - Jun 24, 2025
Starting at
6,499DATES
& starting prices
PRICES
May 1 - May 13, 2025
Starting at
6,789Jun 12 - Jun 24, 2025
Starting at
7,499Not seeing the date you're looking for?
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This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!
13 days
12 nights
28 meals
11B 10L 7D
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
5
Travel day, morning free in Horta, fly to Terceira Island
Angra do Heroismo
6
Orientation Walk of Angra; Biscoitos Rock Pools & Vineyards
Angra do Heroismo
8
Orientation Walk of Ponta Delgada, Pineapple farm
Ponta Delgada
10
Furnas Environmental Interpretation Center, TN Garden
Thermas de Furnas
11
Gorreana Tea Factory, The Fire Lake
Thermas de Furnas
12
Vila Franca do Campo, Ceramic Factory, Farewell dinner
Thermas de Furnas
13
Departure day
In Flight
At a Glance
Join local experts and fellow explorers as you discover the striking landscapes of the Azores — a stunning Portuguese archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Hear of its strategic importance in world communications and navigation between North America and Europe. Venture to the islands’ enormous volcanos and vast craters, and marvel at shimmering crater lakes and dramatic coastlines. Along the way, learn about the island’s exquisite vineyards, and trace the history of Azorean whaling. Finally, survey the centuries-old churches and bustling markets that form the lifeblood of the Azores.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking up to two miles daily over varied terrain. Elevations up to 3,000 feet.
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Learn about the extraordinary volcano on Pico Island, the highest mountain in Portugal.
- Explore the magnificent natural wonders of the legendary Sete Cidades — the “Seven Cities.”
- Marvel at Azorean flora at the Faial Botanical Garden.
General Notes
For 2024 departures this program includes round-trip airfare from Boston. Participants attending this program cannot book their own airfare, book airfare with deviations, or book airfare for back-to-back programs. Select dates of this program offer a longer version of this program to include the island of TERCEIRA; these dates include round-trip airfare from JFK and are ideal for anyone who wants to see more of the islands! Due to late arrival times into Boston and JFK, participants may have to overnight on their way home depending on their domestic flight schedules. For 2025, round-trip airfare from JFK is included, however, participants will be able to book air from alternate airports, book air with deviations or book air on their own.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Maria Gabriela Teves
Maria Gabriela Teves is a native of São Miguel in the Azores. She graduated as a professional leader in 1975 and has been working in the Azores with a focus on culture and tourism. Fluent in French and English, Mrs. Teves is very active in other areas related to her work such as cultural learning and orienting recent graduates from her university program. Among her areas of interest and learning is the multifaceted and complex botanics of the islands in their full floral diversity.
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Maria Gabriela Teves
View biography
Maria Gabriela Teves is a native of São Miguel in the Azores. She graduated as a professional leader in 1975 and has been working in the Azores with a focus on culture and tourism. Fluent in French and English, Mrs. Teves is very active in other areas related to her work such as cultural learning and orienting recent graduates from her university program. Among her areas of interest and learning is the multifaceted and complex botanics of the islands in their full floral diversity.
Nuno Garcia
View biography
Mr. Garcia has a bachelor degree in Modern Languages from the University of the Azores, and degree in World Heritage " Vineyards, History and Culture" by UNESCO for the Vineyards Landscape of Pico. He has been active as a multilingual leader since 2006, and is fully qualified for all the nine islands of the Archipelago since 2011. His main areas of interest and continuous study are History, Geology, Volcanology and the Flora of the Azores. He is also a private tutor in Languages and History.
Daniel James Edward Torres
View biography
Daniel Torres has worked with Road Scholar programs in the Azores since 2017. He started his professional career as a site coordinator in Barcelona in 1997 before going on to lead programs in Spain, Portugal, and Brazil. Born and raised in London, he moved to Rio de Janeiro at the age of 24 and worked for 14 years as a singer-songwriter, writing and recording music for Brazilian television and movie projects. Daniel is fluent in English and Portuguese and teaches English as a foreign language.
Carina Costa
View biography
Carina Costa earned a degree in Agronomy from the University of Azores in 2010. Inspired by her father, Chief Gardener at the Terra Nostra Park, she followed in his footsteps and joined the park team. She interned at the Ventnor Botanic Garden on the Isle of Wight (UK) and later obtained her Master’s degree in Agronomic Engineering. In 2019, she began work on her Ph.D. in Agronomic Sciences to expand knowledge of ornamental flora in the Azores. Carina has led Road Scholar groups since 2017.
Diogo Falcao
View biography
Diogo Falcao was born and raised on Terceira Island in the Azores. He moved to Portugal to attend university and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in tourism and heritage from the Instituto Politecnico de Leiria in 2009. His love for new cultures inspired him to spend time in the U.K. and Spain, where he became fluent in Spanish and English. With his passion for the Azores, Diogo works as a full time official guide. He has been working as a Road Scholar instructor since 2019.
Rita A. Martins
View biography
Dr. Rita Martins earned a degree in Geology from the University of Lisbon followed by a Master’s in Dynamic Geology. She moved to the Azores in 2003 as a geologist on a short-term contract. Fascinated by the Azores, she extended her stay, working on geothermal projects in the islands of Terceira and Sao Miguel. Since 2017, she has been the Senior Project Manager responsible for the exploration and exploitation of geothermal resources for power production. Dr. Martins has worked with Road Scholar groups since 2019.
Susana Goulart Costa
View biography
Susana Goulart Costa was born in Azores. She holds MA and a PhD degrees in history from the University of Azores. She is currently Head of the History, Philosophy and Arts Department at the University of Azores. She is a full researcher member of CHAM — Centre for the Humanities — an inter-university unit of the Faculdade de Ciências Sociais e Humanas, Universidade NOVA of Lisbon, and of the Universidade dos Açores. She has written books and articles about Azores history from the 15th to 20th centuries.
Suggested Reading List
(9 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
The Amazing Azores: From Volcanoes to Vineyards
Program Number: 22755
The Tenth Island:Finding Joy, Beauty, and Unexpected Love in the Azores
Paperback: 252 pages
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1503941310
Product dimensions:13.97 x 2.54 x 20.96 cm
Saudade
Paperback: 360 pages Language: English
ISBN-10: 0615982735 ISBN-13: 978-0615982731
Product Dimensions: 15.2 x 2.1 x 22.9 cm
Plants and flowers of the Azores
transklated by David Sayers (Author), Ben Fogle (Foreword)
Paperback – 1191 pages
The Azores, or Western Islands: A Political, Commercial and Geographical Account
ISBN-10: 1334250421 ISBN-13: 978-1334250422
Also Available on Amazon Kindle –
File Size: 1578 KB
Print Length: 364 pages
Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
Sold by: Amazon Media EU S.à r.l.
Language: English
ASIN: B009V5VUZE
History of the Azores
ISBN-10: 1511516097 ISBN-13: 978-1511516099
Product Dimensions: 15.2 x 1.2 x 22.9 cm
Azores: Nine Islands, One History
Paperback Language: English
ISBN-10: 0981933602 ISBN-13: 978-0981933603
Product Dimensions: 22.4 x 15 x 2.5 cm
Natural History of the Azores, or Western Islands-
Paperback: 371 pages Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402165293 ISBN-13: 978-1402165290
Product Dimensions: 13.3 x 2.1 x 21 cm
Baleia! The whalers of the Azores
Hardcover: 206 pages
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0370003845
ISBN-13: 978-0370003849
Product Dimensions: 21.4 x 14.4 x 3 cm
In Pursuit of Their Dreams: A History of Azorean Immigration to the USA
Paperback: 216 pages
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1933227192 ISBN-13: 978-1933227191
Product Dimensions: 15 x 1.5 x 22.1 cm
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
13 days
12 nights
What's Included
28 meals (
11B, 10L, 7D
)
2 expert-led lectures
28 expert-led field trips
2 flights during the program
1 hands-on experience
An experienced Group Leader
11 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
In Transit to Program
Location:
In Flight
Activity Note
Fly to Horta (HOR), Azores. Refer to your personal air itinerary for specific flight information.
Day
2
Orientation Walk of Horta, Welcome Meeting
Location:
Horta
Meals:
D
Stay:
Hotel do Canal
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving 5.3 miles/15 minutes to the hotel in Horta. Walking about 2 miles, approximately 1.5 hours (with stops and visits); cobblestone pavement.
Breakfast:
Breakfast not included on this day.
Morning:
Transfer from Horta airport to the hotel. NOTE: The Group Leader will be in the Hotel Lobby to meet and welcome participants arriving. He will confirm the timing and place of the introductory walk and the orientation session to be held this afternoon.Check-in after 3:00pm
Lunch:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to have what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Afternoon:
Meet your Group Leader in the hotel lobby to set out on a guided orientation walk through the town of Horta. Walk along the famous marina, passing by the iconic painted sea front walls, stopping enroute to visit the Horta Museum, home to a beautiful Fig Tree, Pith art collection and important items from the times of the trans-Atlantic flights and communication cables.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant
Evening:
The remainder of the evening is at leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Day
3
Capelinhos, Faial Botanical Garden
Location:
Horta
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hotel do Canal
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 44 miles, 2.5 hours, approximately up to 45 minutes at a time. Walking up to 2 miles, approximately 1.5 hours. Botanical Garden mostly level terrain with steps and an incline at entrance. Short walk from bus to Capelinhos Volcano Center. - steps or ramps to enter and exit the center.
Breakfast:
At hotel restaurant
Morning:
Meet in the hotel lobby and depart by bus to the most western tip of Faial Island for a guided visit of the Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Centre. Built underground, beneath the surviving lighthouse, you will learn about the eruption of 1957/58 and have some free time to explore the iconic ash covered landscape surrounding the center.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
After lunch, drive to the Faial Botanical Gardens, for a guided visit with a local expert and enjoy some free time to walk around the gardens and to visit their Orchidarium. After the visit, board the bus and return to your hotel.
Dinner:
Take a short walk from your hotel to a nearby restaurant, where you will “cook your own dinner”! Choose from a selection of fish and meats and cook on a hot lava basalt stone placed in front of each customer.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
4
Criaçao Velha vineyards of Pico , The Whaler’s Museum
Location:
Horta
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Hotel do Canal
Activity Note
Getting on/off ferry boat; 5 miles each way, 30 mins each way; Getting on/off bus; driving about 58 miles; approximately 3 hours; up to 45 mins at a time; Walking up to 1-2 miles; mostly level terrain
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
After an early breakfast, transfer to Horta ferry terminal for a 30-minute ferry ride to Pico Island, home to Mount Pico, the highest point in Portugal. Meet your bus and take a short drive to the vineyards at Criaçao Velha, classified as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO! Enjoy a guided visit through this stunning landscape and learn about the traditional agricultural and production method that make this island’s wines so unique. Continue to the town of Lajes, where you will have a guided visit of the Whaler’s Museum, before stopping at a local restaurant for lunch.
Lunch:
Lunch at a local restaurant
Afternoon:
After lunch, drive to the northern side of Pico Island to the village of Cachorro, with great views over the ocean and home to a natural rock formation in the shape of a dog. Stop for one final visit at the Wine Museum before catching the ferry back to Faial Island.
Dinner:
This evening you are free to discover some local restaurants as dinner is on your own (your Group Leader will be happy to provide recommendations if needed).
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning
Day
5
Travel day, morning free in Horta, fly to Terceira Island
Location:
Angra do Heroismo
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Zenite Boutique Hotel & Spa
Activity Note
Getting on/off an airplane carrying your on hand luggage. Flight to Terceira 30 minutes. Driving about 18 miles approximately 30 minutes to Hotel in Terceira.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Enjoy the morning free in the town of Horta before checking out of your rooms. Take this opportunity to hike around Monte de Guia located close by your hotel or take a short walk to the Porto Pim beach. Alternatively, you can visit some local museums or visit the local marina. Return to the hotel to check out before meeting in the hotel restaurant for lunch.
Lunch:
At the hotel.
Afternoon:
After lunch, board the bus and drive to Horta Airport for your flight to Terceira Island. Upon arrival, board your bus and transfer to your hotel for check-in.
Dinner:
Dinner at a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
6
Orientation Walk of Angra; Biscoitos Rock Pools & Vineyards
Location:
Angra do Heroismo
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Zenite Boutique Hotel & Spa
Activity Note
Getting on/off a bus; driving about 37 miles, approximately 30 minutes at a timeWalking up to 1-2 miles; approximately 2 hours (with stops and visits); mostly level terrain but some steeper parts in Angra, some steps, cobble stones, and uneven surfaces.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Meet in the hotel lobby to set out on an Orientation Walk of Angra do Heroísmo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through the beautiful gardens and appreciate the local architecture while learning about the historical and geographical importance of Terceira Island.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we drive to Biscoitos natural pools - weather and sea conditions allowing, we may have an opportunity to swim in the rock pools. We will then, take a short walk to visit the Materramenta Project a family-run initiative dedicated to wine production in the Biscoitos region of Terceira Island, Azores. The local volcanic stones protect the vines and contribute to the wine's distinctive characteristics. Enjoy a wine tasting paired with toasts, Azorean cheese, and homemade jam. Returning to the Hotel enjoy some free time before a Lecture on Geothermal resources on the Azores by a leading engineer of the Azores Geothermal program.
Dinner:
This evening you are free to discover some local restaurants as dinner is on your own (your Group Leader will be happy to provide recommendations if needed).
Evening:
At leisure. Prepare for check-out, transfer, and flight the next day.
Day
7
Monte Brasil, Coffee Plantation, American Military Village
Location:
Ponta Delgada
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hotel Marina Atlantico
Activity Note
Getting on/off bus, driving about 43 miles, approximately 2 hours, up to 30 mins at a time. Walking up to ½ mile, approximately ½ hour, Mostly level terrain, some steps and uneven surfaces. Getting on/off an airplane carrying your own hand luggage. Flight to Ponta Delgada (45 mins).
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Meet in the hotel lobby and depart by coach to the top of Monte Brasil, taking in some of the island’s best viewpoints over the town of Angra do Heroísmo below. Home to one of Portugal’s most important military fortresses, it is also the city’s natural park and a protected landscape. Drive to a local coffee plantation, and learn about the coffee production process, from growing to roasting. As the largest producer in the Azores and the only coffee producing country in Europe, the plantation is also a fully organic farm, growing a variety of exotic fruits. At the end of the guided visit, you will have an opportunity to taste some of the organic coffee at their onsite café, Coffee Cabana.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant
Afternoon:
After lunch, board your bus and head across the island towards the town of Praia da Vitoria where you will catch a flight to Ponta Delgada on Sao Miguel Island. Weather permitting, stop en-route at the Serra do Cume viewpoint before driving past the old abandoned military village, located behind the American Air Base at Lajes Airfield.
Dinner:
Coffee Station at the Hotel with soup, sandwiches, fruit and hot and cold drinks.
Evening:
At leisure
Day
8
Orientation Walk of Ponta Delgada, Pineapple farm
Location:
Ponta Delgada
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hotel Marina Atlantico
Activity Note
Getting on/off bus; Driving about 19 miles; approximately 1 hour; up to 25 mins at a time; Walking 1-2 miles; approximately 2 hours (with stops and visits); Mostly level terrain with some steps, cobble stones and uneven parts.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
After breakfast, meet your loal expert instructor in the hotel lobby and set out an Orientation Walk of Ponta Delgada. Learn about the history of the town as we view some of the most important landmarks, including the Chapel of Our Lady of Hope, the former Jesuit College and the City Gates. End the morning walk at a local restaurant where you will have lunch.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant
Afternoon:
After lunch, drive to the Ananases Arruda Pineapple Plantation for a guided field trip around the traditional whitewashed greenhouses, where you will learn about the two-year growth process that makes this local fruit so unique. Continue to the village of Capelas, where you will visit the Oficina Museu, a family home that has been converted into a unique museum, preserving items and traditions from days gone by.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure
Day
9
Morning Free in Ponta Delgada, Twin Lakes at Sete Cidades
Location:
Ponta Delgada
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Hotel Marina Atlantico
Activity Note
Getting on/off bus; driving about 50 miles; approximately 2 hours; up to 45 minutes at a time; Walking on mostly level terrain at viewpoints and for free time in the village of Sete Cidades.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Morning free.
Lunch:
At the hotel.
Afternoon:
Meet in the hotel lobby and depart by bus to the village of Sete Cidades, home to arguably one of the most famous landscapes of the Azores Islands. Weather permitting, stop at the iconic Vista do Rei (King’s View) viewpoint, before descending into the village below for some free time and an opportunity to see the famous Twin Lakes. Board the bus and return to Ponta Delgada.
Dinner:
This evening you are free to discover some local restaurants as dinner is on your own (your Group Leader will be happy to provide recommendations if needed).
Evening:
At leisure to prepare for tomorrow’s transfer to Furnas.
Day
10
Furnas Environmental Interpretation Center, TN Garden
Location:
Thermas de Furnas
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Terra Nostra Garden Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off bus; Driving about 29 miles; approximately 1 hour 30 minutes; up to 50 mins at a time; Walking 1-2 miles during guided visits and free time stops; Mostly level terrain, some cobble stones, some steps and uneven terrain, grass during garden walk.
Breakfast:
Breakfast at the hotel and checkout
Morning:
Depart the hotel by coach and drive to Furnas Lake to visit the CIAF (Furnas Environmental Interpretation Centre). Take a guided visit led by one of the center's experts, to learn about the important preservation work being done in the region. Take a short drive around the lake to visit the fumaroles and watch your Cozido lunch being retrieved from the earth below where it has been cooking for up to 6 hours in the volcanic steams. Continue by bus to the village of Furnas where you will taste the famous Azorean dish for lunch at your hotel.
Lunch:
At the hotel.
Afternoon:
After lunch, meet in the hotel lobby and set out on a guided visit of the Terra Nostra Garden. One of the local experts will lead you around the grounds, introducing the history of its creation and explaining the various endemic and introduced species growing in the garden. Return to the hotel and check in to your rooms. The remainder of the afternoon is free.
Dinner:
At the hotel bar.
Evening:
At leisure
Day
11
Gorreana Tea Factory, The Fire Lake
Location:
Thermas de Furnas
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Terra Nostra Garden Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off bus. Driving about 63 miles, approximately 2 ½ hours, up to 50 mins at a time. Walking on mostly level terrain during visits. Cobble stones, steps and some optional descents/ascents at Ribeira dos Caldeiroes.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
Meet in the hotel lobby and depart by motor coach to the Ribeira dos Caldeiroes Natural Park. Enjoy the stunning landscapes in this protected area of the island before driving to the famous Gorreana Tea Factory & Plantation. Owned by the same family for five generations, it is the only place in Europe that both grows and manufactures tea. Enjoy a guided visit of the factory, learning about the different types of tea and how they’re made, and take some free time to explore the plantation in the fields surrounding the property.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
After lunch, weather permitting, drive up to the Lagoa do Fogo (The Fire Lake), a crater lake within the Água de Pau Massif stratovolcano located in the center of the island and one of the most iconic viewpoints on the island.
Dinner:
This evening you are free to discover some local restaurants as dinner is on your own (your Group Leader will be happy to provide recommendations if needed).
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
12
Vila Franca do Campo, Ceramic Factory, Farewell dinner
Location:
Thermas de Furnas
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Terra Nostra Garden Hotel
Activity Note
Getting on/off bus; Driving about 47 miles; approximately 2 hours; up to 40 mins at a time; Walking on mostly level terrain during guided visits; Cobble stones, steps and uneven terrain possible during free time visits.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
After breakfast, board the bus and drive along the southern coast towards the village of Vila Franca do Campo, the first capital of Sao Miguel Island. Enjoy some free time to explore the local marina or to stroll along a black sand beach before driving to a local ceramic factory in the town of Lagoa for a guided visit. Continue towards the town of Ribeira Grande and enjoy some free time there to visit the local churches, square and gardens or to taste some of the traditional liqueurs and chocolates on the local high street.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
After lunch, return to the Terra Nostra Garden Hotel in Furnas. The rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy the hotel spa facilities and explore the surrounding area or to take a dip in the thermal pools! In the early evening, meet your Group Leader and fellow participants for a farewell meeting. This is an opportunity to share your experiences about the program and discuss details of the next day’s departure.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
13
Departure day
Location:
In Flight
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check out is at 11:00am! An airport transfer will be provided to all participants who purchased international air tickets with Road Scholar. Your Group Leader will advise on meeting times and places.
Breakfast:
At the hotel followed by checkout. The Group Leader will be at hand to confirm departure instructions.
Morning:
After breakfast time is at leisure. Checkout time is 11:00am. Transfers to airport and check-in to your flight. Your Group Leader will be at hand to assist and advise. This concludes our program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
Lunch:
This meal is not included on your program.
Afternoon:
Transfer to airport according to your flight time in the afternoon or evening and check-in to your flight.
Please select a day to update the map
Map details are not available for this location.
MEALS
28 Meals
11 Breakfasts
10 Lunches
7 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Nov 13, 2025 - Nov 25, 2025
- Feb 13, 2025 - Feb 25, 2025 (Horta to Thermas de Furnas)
- Mar 20, 2025 - Apr 01, 2025 (Horta to Thermas de Furnas)
- May 01, 2025 - May 13, 2025 (Horta to Thermas de Furnas)
- May 15, 2025 - May 27, 2025 (Horta to Thermas de Furnas)
- Jun 12, 2025 - Jun 24, 2025 (Horta to Thermas de Furnas)
- Jul 03, 2025 - Jul 15, 2025 (Horta to Thermas de Furnas)
- Oct 02, 2025 - Oct 14, 2025 (Horta to Thermas de Furnas)
- Oct 16, 2025 - Oct 28, 2025 (Horta to Thermas de Furnas)
- Nov 13, 2025 - Nov 25, 2025 (Horta to Thermas de Furnas)
Participant Reviews
Based on 36 Reviews
Sort By:
The amazing Azores is just that. Amazing! The islands are beautiful. The trip was well planned and organized. Each day was full of adventure and education. It was very relaxing to allow the group leader to take care of all the transportation and meals. This was one of the best vacations ever. Thank you to Road Scholar, we will be taking another trip with you.
— Review left November 19, 2024
Amazing Azores is exactly that, amazing!! The group leader, Daniel, is a huge asset to the program. His team of guides, restaurateurs, and site owners bring everything together for a great opportunity to be immersed in the Azorean culture and community!! Even the bus drivers were fabulous since navigating old cobbled streets and hills and curves can be super challenging with a big bus!! We learned, saw and experienced so much! The Azores is unique, I would encourage anyone wants to experience a warm and inviting community to sign up!!
— Review left November 8, 2024
The Amazing Azores was a fantastic trip! Learned so much about the history of the islands and the people. Great instructors and tour guides. I have a food allergy and they did their very best to accommodate me. The accommodations were very comfortable and within walking distance of the towns you were in. Beautiful scenic vistas await you!
— Review left September 27, 2024
The Azores are a very worthy destination with outstanding beauty, delicious food and wine, amazing flora and fauna and a commitment to sustainability which is notable. Our guides - Al, Carlos & Claudia - were excellent hosts with personal experiences and local insight that added to our adventures. The days are interesting, full and diverse. Highly recommended.
— Review left June 6, 2024
If you like PORTUGAL... you'll LOVE the AZORES, islands off the coast- geological wonderment, tropical oasis, panoramic beauty, outstanding food, wine and people!
— Review left May 20, 2024
Exploring the islands of Azores was amazing. History, Flora, Fauna were well presented. We had no idea that there was so much to see, learn and explore. Highly recommend this program.
— Review left May 16, 2024
Superb trip: great itinerary, wonderful leader, varied experience, just enought time at every stop.
— Review left May 11, 2024
The title of this program The Azores: Volcanoes to Vineyards just touches the surface of this outstanding program. We saw and learned about volcanoes and the Pico vineyards which were so beautiful and interesting, but we also learned about the culture and history of the islands. In addition, we visited museums about whaling, local artifacts and scrimshaw. We visited botanical gardens that showcased local and endemic plants, and we went to a tea plantation/factory and ceramics factory where we watched them create their products. It was all very fascinating. The food is also a highlight on this tour. We were given many local dishes which were all very delicious. Everyone working for Road Scholar from Daniel Torres, our leader, to the local guides, to the bus drivers, and all the wait staff in the restaurants were so kind, friendly and knowledgeable. It’s rare that everyone you encounter feels like a friend from the start. That’s a rare gift that they all had.
— Review left March 22, 2024
The Amazing Azores was aptly named. It was a fantastic trip to an incredible place that I knew nothing about. I learned a lot and will probably learn more on my own. Everyone should visit the Azores
— Review left March 21, 2024
This program is organized in a way that puts you at ease with the country and culture. All the leaders and guides are at the top of their game. Once you go there you will want to come back!
— Review left March 13, 2024
Great !
— Review left March 7, 2024
This program is outstanding! It's my 20th Road Scholar trip, and I found it to be one of the best. Due to illness of our group leader, we had a second leader assigned for the middle section of the experience and both were excellent, including a truly seamless handoff both times. The hotels were great and the guides also excellent. Truly a pleasure!
— Review left February 25, 2024
Very informative program and kept your interest. Even though l'm 80 program was not overly strenuous.
— Review left February 21, 2024
Interesting days and comfortable nights made this a lovely trip. Daniel, the group leader, was spectacular in his knowledge, caring, efficiency and sense of humor. The program would not have been as enjoyable without his leadership. We saw and did so many interesting things during our time in the Azores. Definitely a trip I would recommend to others.
— Review left November 16, 2023
The Amazing Azores was an absolute delight! Stunningly beautiful place, friendly people, great food, and fascinating history. This trip is a winner!
— Review left September 27, 2023
We were awed by the stunning natural beauty of the islands as well as the cobblestoned towns. Climate and weather were exquisite, and Daniel Torres was a fabulous group leader.
— Review left July 22, 2023
Awesome. So glad I chose this trip. The Extended version is a must.
The islands each have their own personality & the extended trip gives perspective.
Our group leader, Daniel, is the best ever . He is knowledgeable, organized, fun, & can
adjust activities brilliantly should there be bad weather or other hiccup.
Hotels & local guides exceeded expectations.
I highly recommend the extended Amazing Azores.
— Review left July 16, 2023
The Azores are a little piece of paradise. I don't think there is anyway to improve the "Amazing Azores" program. I was so glad to be on the extended trip as visiting the additional island certainly added to my overall experience.
— Review left July 14, 2023
On this trip, I learned the word “vast” isn’t enough. The coastlines and the volcanic vistas combined to make an unforgettable program.
— Review left April 29, 2023
The Amazing Azores. Do it!
— Review left April 24, 2023
The azores is like the Garden of Eden, lush with flowers, plants, trees, lakes, the ocean. a stunnig view where ever you were. there are lots of learning oppotunities on the trip. I knew almost nothing prior, and now i want to know more. Daniel and Gabriella were fantastic guides!!! the small group was a big plus, i got to talk with everyone. this was my first solo european trip, and it all went smoothly. the natural beauty here is outstanding!
— Review left April 24, 2023
A wonderful trip! However, a lot is packed into this week. I would have liked to have an extra 1 or two days in the Azores. I also would have liked time for a hike and a swim.
— Review left October 17, 2022
I made this adventure with my sister Marilynn Harned ;who by the way experienced her 60th Road Scholar adventure at the beautiful Azores. Upon first meeting our guide Altair Silva on Zoom ,prior to our trip ,he seemed warm, inviting, knowledgeable, friendly, reassuring and accessible. All which served each and everyone of us during this adventurous , educational and breathtaking trip. All the details where thought out and impeccably implemented ;even when dealing with unexpected occurrence's. Such as one of the travelers developing Covid on the excursion and the other dealing with a difficult traveler. Praises to Altair who handled it all with grace and expertise.
I especially enjoyed the lecture from Susana Goulard Costa and the tour of the Terra Nostra Garden with Carina Costa . Hotels, food, wine, companions and scenery magnificent. Too much to cover but loved it all. Thank you Road Scholar for once again giving us a trip of a lifetime.
— Review left May 31, 2022
An excellent program! Fantastic lecturers and leaders, great accommodations and food.
— Review left April 30, 2022
Wonderful overview of the highlights of these beautiful islands! I thoroughly enjoyed the diversity of the beautiful landscapes and learning about the history, pineapples, wine & volcanoes. Leader and local guides were all excellent. I hope to return during a future summer when the hydrangeas are in full bloom. Packing note: prepare for humidity.
— Review left October 26, 2021
I definitely learned why this program is titled, "The Amazing Azores: From Volcanoes to Vineyards." The program truly was amazing from the beauty of the three islands we visited to the amazing group leader Paulo and amazing guides Nuno and Gabriela. They went out of their way to ensure this program met and exceeded our expectations. I also was delighted we had such a fun group which just made this an even more amazing experience.
— Review left October 6, 2021
This trip far exceeded my hopes and expectations. The microgroup size enhanced interaction. Activities were varied and engaging. Leaders communicated well and kept our attention. The Azores and their people were stars! (In addition, the trip was exceedingly cost effective!)
— Review left September 25, 2021
I discovered a new area of the world and another culture. I enjoyed the beauty of nature and the warmth of new friendships.
— Review left November 28, 2019
Azores trip was terrific and well planned and executed. It's a short, wonderful eight days in a lush, beautiful country. Go!!
— Review left November 21, 2019
The program was more than I dreamed for my visit to three islands of the Azores. The Azores are beyond belief beautiful.
— Review left November 16, 2019
This was a wonderful trip - more than I expected. I enjoyed seeing more than one island since they are all unique. The accommodations, food and activities were wonderful as well. Staying at Terra Nostro was amazing and a highlight. I wish we had one more day there. As always, our guides and group leader were exceptional.
— Review left May 24, 2019
A beautiful overview of 3 islands....I'm looking forward to going back and spending extra time in villas that interested me, on my own, prior to taking another trip with roadscholar to mainland Portugal and/or Spain. The food was extraordinarily delectable expect to gain a few pounds :).
— Review left May 23, 2019
This was a great overall experience. The accommodations, the dinners and the field trips were well planned out. Daniel, the group leader was charming and professional and able to adjust the program as needed. Pedro and Nuno were on top of providing information as the day unfolded. IAnd, if you enjoy wine with your meals, this is the trip for you!
— Review left April 12, 2019
Great introduction to the Azores. The Leader and Instructors had so much to share with us. Hitting 3 islands gave us a lot of variety to enjoy.
— Review left March 22, 2019
The Azores are magical, the programs has a large variety of topics covered, on 3 islands. Great value!
— Review left March 22, 2019
This is a great program! Wonderful sights and excellent experiences! Recommend highly.
— Review left March 21, 2019
