5 Days in São Miguel: Nature and Photography Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to the Terra Nostra Park. This botanical garden is renowned for its lush greenery and thermal pools. Capture stunning photos of exotic plants and serene landscapes as you explore this natural wonder. Enjoy breakfast at Restaurante Terra Nostra, located within the park.

In the afternoon, take part in the Furnas Hot Springs Tour. This tour will guide you through various hot springs and geothermal sites in Furnas. The unique geothermal activity provides excellent photo opportunities, from bubbling mud pots to steaming fumaroles.

End your day with a relaxing visit to the Poça da Dona Beija. These thermal baths are perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. The warm waters are soothing, and the ambiance is tranquil. For dinner, head to Tony's Restaurant, famous for its traditional Cozido das Furnas.

Kick off your day with a trip to the breathtaking viewpoint at Miradouro da Vista do Rei. This spot offers panoramic views of Sete Cidades' twin lakes – one blue and one green – providing an ideal setting for landscape photography. Enjoy breakfast at O Alambique, located nearby.

In the afternoon, embark on the Sete Cidades Hiking Tour. This guided hike takes you through lush trails around Sete Cidades, offering numerous vantage points for capturing stunning photos of volcanic craters and verdant landscapes.

Wrap up your day by visiting the charming village of Sete Cidades itself. Stroll around its quaint streets and interact with locals to get a feel for Azorean culture. For dinner, dine at Lagoa Azul, which offers delicious local dishes with views over Lagoa Azul.

Start your day with a visit to the Salto do Prego Waterfall. This hidden gem is nestled in the lush forest of Nordeste and offers a serene setting for nature photography. The hike to the waterfall is relatively easy and provides ample opportunities to capture the beauty of São Miguel's natural landscapes. Enjoy breakfast at Casa de Pasto O Cardoso, known for its hearty meals and local charm.

In the afternoon, join the Nordeste Jeep Tour. This tour takes you off the beaten path, exploring remote areas of Nordeste that are often missed by regular tourists. You'll have the chance to photograph stunning coastal cliffs, verdant valleys, and traditional Azorean villages.

Conclude your day with a visit to the Farol do Arnel. This historic lighthouse offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, especially during sunset. The dramatic cliffs and crashing waves make for spectacular photographs. For dinner, dine at Restaurante Tronqueira, which offers delicious seafood dishes with a view of the ocean.

Caldeira Velha is your first stop today. This natural thermal pool is surrounded by lush vegetation and cascading waterfalls, providing a perfect spot for morning relaxation and photography. Enjoy breakfast at Café Com Sopas, known for its fresh pastries and coffee.

Ribeira Grande Walking Tour will take you through this charming town's historic streets and landmarks. Capture photos of traditional Azorean architecture, vibrant markets, and scenic river views as you explore Ribeira Grande's cultural heritage.

Santa Bárbara Beach is an ideal location to end your trip on a high note. The beach is famous for its black volcanic sand and stunning sunsets. Relax on the beach or take some final photographs as you reflect on your journey through São Miguel. For dinner, head to Quinta dos Sabores, renowned for its farm-to-table dining experience featuring fresh local ingredients.