Day 1 

After arriving in Ponta Delgada, settle into the stylish Azor Hotel before heading out to explore the historic heart of the city. Wander through atmospheric cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed buildings, passing the iconic Portas da Cidade and small gardens shaded by palms and flowering shrubs. Continue toward Forte de São Brás, the imposing 16th-century coastal fortress that has guarded the harbor for centuries, where maritime exhibits and sweeping Atlantic views offer an introduction to São Miguel’s seafaring heritage. As evening falls, enjoy dinner and live Fado music at Casa do Bacalhau, a welcoming restaurant celebrated for its comforting Azorean cod specialties and intimate ambiance. Along the waterfront and marina, keep an eye out for turnstones picking along the shoreline, flocks of gulls wheeling overhead, and, with a bit of luck, an unusual migratory shorebird stopping briefly in the islands.

Day 2 

The morning begins with a scenic drive into the volcanic landscapes of Sete Cidades, where steep green crater walls encircle the famous twin lakes—one shimmering blue, the other green beneath drifting Atlantic clouds. Around Lagoa Azul and the quieter Lagoa das Empadadas, the wetlands and forest edges provide excellent birdwatching opportunities, with Azores wood pigeons moving through the trees, common buzzards soaring overhead, and European robins darting among the undergrowth. Those wishing for a deeper immersion in the landscape can continue on foot to the Miradouro da Boca do Inferno, whose sweeping panoramic views over the caldera are among the most spectacular in the Azores. As evening settles in, dinner at Petiscaria “O Calheta” offers a relaxed conclusion to the day, with Mediterranean and Portuguese dishes served in a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Throughout the excursion, binoculars are invaluable for scanning reed beds and shorelines, where waterfowl, herons, and occasional migratory species often appear quietly against the volcanic scenery.

Day 3 

The journey continues to Nordeste, a quieter part of São Miguel known for its forests and bird habitats. After checking in at The Lince Nordeste Country and Nature Hotel, spend the day exploring the Reserva Florestal de Tronqueira, the main habitat of the Azores bullfinch, or priolo, a species found only in this region. Walking trails through Serra da Tronqueira and visits to the Centro Ambiental do Priolo provide insight into the island’s conservation efforts and the restoration of native laurel forests. In the evening, settle in for dinner at Poço Azul, where traditional Azorean dishes reflect the flavors and cooking traditions of the island.

Day 4 

Begin the day at the viewpoints of Ponta do Sossego and Ponta da Madrugada, where the rising sun illuminates the Atlantic and the cliffs of São Miguel's eastern coast. These headlands provide excellent opportunities for birdwatching, with Cory’s shearwaters gliding above the ocean and terns, kestrels, and finches frequently seen along the shoreline and surrounding vegetation. Later, explore the landscapes around Faial da Terra or Salto do Cavalo, either on a gentle hike or a scenic drive, keeping watch for raptors circling overhead and songbirds moving through the forests. As evening approaches, return to Nordeste and enjoy dinner at Cantinho do Cais, where the day's discoveries are complemented by fresh fish prepared in the local style.

Day 5 

The day begins with a drive to the Gorreana Tea Plantation, the oldest and only tea plantation in Europe. A tour of the factory provides insight into the island’s tea-making tradition, while a walk through the tea fields offers opportunities to spot blackbirds and wagtails among the rows of plants. After sampling several teas and enjoying a light lunch at the tea house, continue into the island’s interior for an afternoon of birdwatching around Lagoa do Fogo or Caldeira Velha. These habitats attract species such as common buzzards, grey wagtails, and Eurasian blackcaps. Later, travel to Ribeira Grande and check in at Hotel Verde Mar & SPA. The day concludes with dinner at Associação Agrícola de São Miguel, where locally raised Azorean beef takes center stage.

Day 6 

The morning begins with a drive to Furnas, passing farmland, forests, and the geothermal areas that have shaped life on São Miguel for centuries. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at Tony’s Restaurant, a long-established local favorite known for serving Cozido das Furnas, the traditional stew cooked underground using the heat of the earth. In the afternoon, continue to Praia dos Moinhos, where there is time to walk along the shore, watch for birds, or take a swim. Sandpipers and gulls are commonly seen here, and the occasional whimbrel may also appear along the water's edge. If time permits, make a stop at the Caldeiras das Furnas to observe the geothermal activity or visit Terra Nostra Gardens before returning to the Azor Hotel in Ponta Delgada for the final night of the journey.

Day 7 

If time permits before departure, begin the day with a walk through Jardim António Borges in Ponta Delgada or a visit to Ribeira dos Caldeirões Natural Park, where trails pass through areas of native vegetation and alongside streams and waterfalls. Afterwards, enjoy a final coffee while reviewing bird sightings from the week or picking up a few souvenirs to take home. When it is time to leave, transfer to João Paulo II Airport for your flight, bringing to a close a journey through the landscapes, wildlife, and communities of São Miguel.

Birds to Watch For in São Miguel

• Azores bullfinch (Pyrrhula murina) – critically endangered, Nordeste only

• Cory’s shearwater – best seen early morning or dusk near cliffs

• Eurasian whimbrel, Common tern, Grey heron, Buzzard, Blackcap

• Migratory waders (Aug–Oct): sandpipers, snipes, and plovers

Sustainable Travel Tips

• Travel by electric/hybrid rental car or shared shuttle when possible

• Support local and family-run businesses

• Carry reusable water bottles and cutlery

• Stay on marked trails in protected bird habitats

• Opt for birdwatching tours that follow ethical and low-impact guidelines